Deuteronomy 17

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XVII.—We ought to honour the Lord with the best that we have—the best of our time and abilities, the best of our age and strength. But apostasy from the true religion to the worship of idols is extremely wicked and ruinous. It is necessary that the execution of malefactors be as public and solemn as possible, that others may hear and fear. But, in matters of life and death, nothing less than the clearest evidence should be admitted. Great care must be taken at once to maintain the just rights of subjects, and the lawful authority of magistrates: and we must obey, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. To rebel against the lawful orders of government, is to commit treason against the Majesty of heaven. But, in order to secure respect to their government, magistrates ought to be deliberately set up; they ought to avoid whatever gratifies their lust, or tends to corrupt them. God’s word should be the supreme standard of their determinations. Piety, prudence, humble condescension, and equity, should run through the whole of their conduct. No day should pass without reading of God’s word. The fear of God powerfully induces to an obedience to his commands. And the higher our station is, the more exemplary and humble our conversation ought to be. Religion is the best security of thrones, and every other honour: and, even in this world, there is a great reward in keeping God’s commandments