The Divine Original and Dignity of Government Asserted, Sermon

The Divine Original and Dignity of Government Asserted · Sermon

THE Divine Original AND DIGNITY OF Government Aſſerted; AND An Advantageous Proſpect of the RULERS Mortality Recommended.

A SERMON Preached before His Excellency the GOVERNOUR, the Honourable COUNCIL, and Aſſembly of the Province of the Maſſachuſetts-Bay, in New-England, May 31. 1710. The Day for the Election of Her MAJESTIES Council there.

By EBENEZER PEMBERTON Paſtor of a Church in Boſton, and Fellow of Harvard College in Camb.

BOSTON in N E. Printed by B Green. Sold by Samuel Gerriſh at his Shop in Corn hill. 1710.

PRINTED by Order of His Excellency the GOVERNOUR, at the Deſire of Her Majeſties Council.

Iſaac Addington, Secr. Boſton, Prim… June 1710.

p. 1An Election SERMON.

PSALM LXXXII. 6, 7.

I have ſaid, Ye are Gods: and all of you are Children of the moſt High: But ye ſhall Die like Men,—

IT is a divine as well as wiſe & juſt Remark, made by**Monſieur Paſchal. One of the greateſt Maſters of Thought in the Laſt Age, that Perſons of Quality and Character ought to have two Sets of thoughts, by which to regulate their Conduct: by the One they are to view themſelves in their State of diſtinguiſhing Elevation, which is not from Nature, but Arbitrary Eſtabliſhment; by the Other they are to take a proſpect of themſelves p. 2in their Natural Condition of Infirmity, and Equality with the reſt of Mankind. The bright Idea of their Dignity & Power muſt be temper'd with the more cloudy Idea of their Frailty: A Seperation of theſe will lead into groſs Illuſions, and betray into Errors fatal to themſelves, and their Dependents: But an happy Union of theſe will afford light to direct them in the bright tracts of Subſtantial Glory; and forcible arguments to engage them to ſuch a management, as ſhall be glorious to themſelves, and happy to the World. The former proſpect will take them off from the falſe ſcent of honour, and inſpire them with inflaming Incentives to the moſt noble Actions, which will adorn their Character; without the latter view they will be in the neareſt danger of being dazled with the Glare of Grandeur, and growing giddy by looking down from their State of Eminence upon thoſe beneath them: If the Great forget their Dignity they will under-act the vertues becoming their Figure; if they reflect not ſteadily on their Infirmity, they will over-act the powers of their Elevation.—Know thy ſelf is the p. 3firſt Leſſon in the School of Wiſdom, which becomes the Great and Honourable, as well as others, to learn: and theſe juſt Reflections both on their Excellency, and Frailty, will be found the firſt Elements of this Prudence. Theſe will prompt them ſo to act the part aſſigned them on the Stage of Life, that their External Condition may be found in Conjunction with the more valuable inherent Dignity of a vertuous Mind; that when Death ſhall ſhut up the preſent ſcene, a brighter ſcene of Glory may open upon them; and they appear with Superiour Characters on the Stage of true Glory and Immortality.

And theſe thoughts are not only proper for Men of Name & Power themſelves; but are inſtructive to ſuch as are under their Government: Theſe muſt view their Superiors in the Excellency of their Station, that they may pay them thoſe Regards due to the Impreſſions of Divine Majeſty, which they bear; yet they muſt behold them but as Gods, whoſe Dwelling is in fleſh, whoſe breath is in their Noſtrils, and may be ſoon Stopt; which will give check to a Spirit of flattery, regulate their Expectations p. 4from them, and make them diſclaim all undue confidences in the moſt dignify'd Wiſdom and Power on Earth.

Now, theſe two Set of Thoughts are in the moſt lively colours repreſented in the Words of our Text. I have ſaid ye are Gods, &c. but ye ſhall dy like men. Which, if I miſtake not, will afford us Reflections proper to the work of this Day; and in which every part of this Audience may have their Portion.

I hope there are none ſo vain as to imagine, that I appear this Day in this Awful Deſk, only to beat the Air, & play the Orator in an Artful Addreſs to our Rulers, either by way of Unmannerly Satyr, or fulſome Panegyrick; This would not well become the Solemnity of this Place, nor the Gravity of my Audience; and much leſs would it Suit my own Character; Nor may it be ſuppoſed that I am called forth to read a Lecture in Politicks before our Venerable Senators; for thus I ſhould go beyond my own Line, and boaſt of a falſe Gift. I deſire to keep in Mind what Place I ſtand in, In whoſe Name I Speak, what Critical Inſpection I am under, and what an Awful p. 5Account I muſt give in of my preſent Performance to our COMMON LORD and JUDGE; and under the commanding Awe of theſe thoughts, I ſhall endeavour to Speak; and muſt intreat my AUDIENCE, under the ſame Awe, to hear.

This Pſalm, of which our Text is part, is ſtiled a Pſalm of Aſaph: Not becauſe it was directed to Aſaph the Levite and Singer, which lived in the dayes of David, but as I apprehend becauſe it was penn'd by Aſaph, the Seer, who lived about the dayes of Hezekiah: The Rulers of which Day are Stigmatized by the Prophet Iſaiah,††Iſaiah 1, 10.Isa 1:10 as Rulers of Sodom. And this Conjecture is ſtrengthen'd by the judgment of**Dr. Pa…ick. a Great Maſter of Jewiſh Learning. The Pſalm is a warm Addreſs to thoſe that filled the Seats of Judgment; and is a loud Cry for Publick Juſtice; that truth and unbribed Judgment might Eſtabliſh their Tribunals: Here are adminiſtred the moſt pungent Rebukes for their Corruption, Male-Adminiſtrations, and Criminal Diſorders, whereby the foundations of the State were put out of courſe; and the p. 6main Pillars of Government ſapt; and Rulers are faithfully admoniſhed of the Duties of their Poſt, which God & Men expect of them. To render this addreſs the more forcible it is introduced with the Solemn thoughts of the Preſence, Preſidency, and Inſpection of the Great God over ſuch, as are Exalted to Place of Rule over men. v. 1. God ſtandeth in the Congregation of the Mighty; He Judgeth among the Gods: And that the Impreſſion of their Duty might be deep and durable, the bleſſed God who is the Only, and Supream Potentate of Heaven and Earth, is brought in as repreſenting to them, the beauty, luſtre and glory of their Character; ſo, giving them a dark Proſpect of the Land of Darkneſs to which they are haſtning, in a Solemn Memento of their Mortality, and that State Conſequent hereon, which certainly Expects them. I ſaid ye are Gods, &c. but ye ſhall dye like Men. In which we have a Conceſſion, and a ſerious Correction, or juſt Qualification of this Conceſſion.

Firſt, we have a Conceſſion concerning ſuch as are Exalted to Place of Rule and p. 7Power. I have ſaid ye are Gods; and all of you are Children of the Moſt High. In which we have two things obſervable.

1. The Inſtitution, or Divine Ordination of Civil Government: I ſaid ye are Gods:] I ſaid, i. e. God, who is the FOUNTAIN of all Honour and Power; I, who am KING of KINGS, the Supream LORD & MASTER of the World; whoſe Word is a Law not to be diſputed: I have ſaid, i. e. have ordained, conſtituted and appointed by my Sovereign Authority, and in my Supream Wiſdom. Tho' all men have the ſame Original, are of the ſame Make, and in many Articles ſtand upon the ſame level; yet I have appointed that there ſhall be ſome of a Superiour Character, advanced to Place, Power, and Dignity above others; I have made them Gods, and by my Inſtitution they muſt be treated as ſuch.

2. We have in this Conceſſion the Glorious Character that God Himſelf has put upon Civil Rulers: and their Character carries in it the moſt Sublime Ideas of State and Magnificence, Power and Dignity: They are Gods] Not by Nature p. 8or Eſſence, but by Office; Gods by Deputation, Analogy and Proportion. Elohim, which is a Name, given not only to the Supream Governour of the World, GOD over all Bleſſed for Ever, but alſo to Angels, thoſe Miniſters that do his Pleaſure, that attend the Throne of Majeſty above.—And all of them Sons of the Higheſt:] i.e. As Children bear the Name and Image of their Father; ſo theſe wear the Title and Name, bear the Image and Character of the Great GOD; and ſo are Sons of the moſt High, who has put ſomething of his Majeſty upon them, and by his Conſtitution raiſed them to a Condition of Exaltation like to the Angels of Heaven, thoſe Sons of God, who are the Supream Miniſters of his Kingdom.

Secondly, We have a Correction, or qualification of this Conceſſion. But ye ſhall die like Men.] In which we may obſerve two things.

1. The Correction it ſelf. Ye muſt Dy like Men.] In Power and Order they are raiſed above others; they are Petty Deities, but they are Mortal Ones; In a little time they will be diſmantled of all p. 9the viſible Enſigns of diſtinguiſhing Greatneſs, and retire off the the Stage of this World in a ſtate of Equality with the meaneſt. They dy like Men, i. e. like Other men, who are not thus Exalted: They dy like Men, i. e. as Creatures who are Endowed with Immortal, reaſonable Souls, accountable to the GOD that made them; they Dy as Men, and not Periſh like the Beaſts, whoſe ſpirit as well as body goes downwards; but as Men, whoſe Spirits at Death return to GOD that gave them; as Men, i. e. as Beings whoſe Bodies ſhall not always ly in the Duſt, but ſhall be redeem'd from Corruption; whoſe Fleſh and Spirit ſhall be again united in order to an aſſignment to an Eternal State, either of Bliſs or Miſery, by the Determination of the Judge of the World. So it points us not only to their Mortality, but alſo to that Judgment that follows upon Death, and the important Conſequents thereof.

2. We may obſerve the deſign of this Correction. Which is to Temper and Qualify the thoughts of the foregoing Conceſſion. The foregoing Character given p. 10of Rulers, might be well ſuſpected as drawn with Colours too bright, Strokes too bold, and in a Form too Divine; Now a Proſpect of their Mortality and conſequent Darkneſs is repreſented, as dark Shades, without which their Picture would not be full, Juſt and Natural; nor they repreſented in their compleat Figure, and native Complexion. This Darkneſs is as neceſſary, as the former Light to take a juſt View of them.

The very nature and deſign of this Correction, do's intimate the great Advantage and Propriety of having the Thoughts of the Dignity of Rulers temper'd and qualify'd with wiſe Reflections on their Mortality, and it's important Conſequents.

Now agreeably to what has been obſerved in both parts of our Text, there are four Significant Articles which demand our Conſideration, and ſhall be the Heads of my preſent Diſcourſe. As,

I. That the Original of Government among men is Divine, or from Heaven.

II. That GOD has Dignifyed Rulers among men with the Character and Style of Gods.

p. 11III. Tho' they are Gods, yet they are ſubject to Mortality, and the Conſequents of it.

IV. That it will be of Great Advantage to temper the thoughts of their Dignity, with juſt Reflections on their Expected Mortality and it's Conſequents.

Of theſe in their Order.

I. The Original of Government is Divine. It is from GOD, by his Soveraign Conſtitution and Appointment. I ſaid, Ye are Gods. It is not barely a Permiſſion of Divine Providence, but a Divine Inſtitution that there be Government in the World. It is no difficulty to diſtinguiſh between particular Forms of Government, and Government it ſelf; between the Perſons Exalted to Government, and the ſeveral Orders and Degrees of ſuch in a State, and that Power which is devolved on them: The former are of Humane Determination, and Appoinment; the latter of Divine Ordination.

The Species and Form of Civil Government in the World is Various: There is a Democracy, Ariſtocracy, Monarchy, p. 12and there is a mixture of theſe; where the Powers of Each are Limited, and brought to an happy Poiſe; where Power and Privilege are ſo twiſted together, and inlay'd in the Foundation of the Conſtitution, as not to bear a ſeperation without a mutual Deſtruction; Power cant be Exerciſed, but the Privileges of the Ruled muſt be Maintained; no… Privilege be Enjoyed, unleſs the Power of Rulers be Aſſerted and Supported. Now it cannot be ſay'd that This or the Other particular Species of Government is Inſtituted by GOD for this or that People. Nor is it ſuppoſeable that there is, or ever was, any State or Nation, that did inviolably, without ſome Alteration Eſſential, maintain the ſame Form of Government. To be ſure Iſrael, GOD's Favourite People, had not always the ſame Model of Government; nor did GOD, who was, in a diſtinguiſhing Style their King, Ever preſcribe them ſuch a Scheme of Rule, which they might on no terms Vary from. Athens, Sparta, and Rome, which in their Day appeared fixed in the full Centre of Light and Glory, ſuffer'd p. 13ſeveral Revolutions and Changes in the main Frame of their Adminiſtrations: Nor has the Form of Government in our Nation, been juſt the ſame from the beginning; which all muſt own that are not Strangers to our Engliſh Story. The Determination of what Particular Form ſhould take place in this or that Nation, has been left to the Wiſdom of the Nations; as long as the General deſign of Rule is provided for, and not Subverted. That Form which is moſt adapted for one People, may not be for another; Conſidering the various Cuſtoms, Tempers, Policies, Intereſts of Nations of Differing Climates.

But this notwithſtanding, that there muſt be Government is not from the bare Will of men, but from the Moſt High, who Ruleth in the Kingdoms of Men, and giveth it to whom ſo ever he will: He has put his Soveraign Sanction upon it; and made it a fixed Ordinance of Heaven, that there be a Rule over Men; The God of Iſrael has ſay'd it, and the Rock of Iſrael has ſpoken it.

There are Various Degrees and Orders p. 14of men Engaged in the Adminiſtrations of Rule; who have differing Styles and Powers under Various Limitations, and Each Degree have their proper Sphere to move and act in: And the wayes of Exalting men to the Seat of Government, whether Supream or Subordinate, have been differing: and none of theſe have a ſpecial immediate Stamp of Divinity upon them. However it is the Soveraign Pleaſure of Heaven that there ſhould be Order, Superiority and Rule in Civil Society's; and all Rulers of what Degree ſoever are Ordain'd of God.

This truth ſtands in the ſtrongeſt Point of Light in the Word of GOD; and will be Legible after all the attempts of any to Obſcure it. The unerring Oracles of Heaven has lay'd the Foundation of Civil Government firm in Divine Inſtitution. What ſhort of this can be intended in many places? Rom. 13. 6. The Powers that be, are Ordain'd of God. And there is no Power but of God. Has not God ſay'd, Prov. 8. 15. By me Kings Reign, and Princes Decree Juſtice? Why are Rulers called God▪s Miniſters? Rom. p. 1513. 4. Is it not a Command of Heaven? Deut. 16. 18. Judges and Officers ſhalt thou make thee in all thy Gates? Nothing ſurely ſhort of Divine Ordination could juſtify thoſe Apoſtolick Enforcements of Submiſſion to Rulers, not only for Wrath, but for Conſcience ſake; not barely for Man's, but for the Lord's ſake, Rom. 13. 5. 1 Pet. 2. 13. Were not the Original of Power from GOD, it could never be ſay'd, that he that reſiſteth the Power, reſiſteth the Ordinance of GOD, as, Rom 13. 2.

And this Inſtitution of Government, is founded on Reaſon; and GOD has done it in Infinite Wiſdom, and in Kindneſs to men. There would doubtleſs have been Order and Civil Subordination among men, had they ſtill walked in the bliſsful Shades of Paradiſe in their Native Light, Purity, and Glory. Sure we may be ſince the Apoſtaſy, there is Abſolute Neceſſity of Superiority, and Power in ſome, and Inferiority and Submiſſion as to others. He well underſtood the Nature of men, and of Humane Societies, that ſay'd, Nihil AEqualitate ipſa inequalius. That nothing is more unequal than Equality. p. 16Were there no Government, all Mankind would be Engaged in an Unnatural State of War. There could be nothing of Beauty, Proportion, Strength, Unity, Order in Societies: Liberty and Property would be Expoſed to fatal Invaſions. The Flood-gates of Luſts would be open, and a Deluge of Sin and Woe would Sweep away all that is pleaſant & deſireable in the World. Men would be like Fiſhes in the Sea, and as Beaſts in the Wilderneſs, the greater devour the leſs. Was it not a Terrible Day with Iſrael, when that Complaint was moaned out? There was no King in Iſrael, but every one did that which was right in his own Eyes. GOD by appointing Government has conſulted the good of the World. Leveliſm, is therefore an open Defiance to GOD, his Wiſdom and Will, as well as the Reaſon of Mankind. Thus we have ſeen the Divine Original of Government aſſerted: and this is no undue Complement to Government for GOD Himſelf has ſaid it: I ſaid ye are Gods. And ſo we come to the Second Article to be conſider'd, viz.

p. 17II. We are to conſider the Character and Title put upon Rulers. They are Gods & Children of the Moſt High: And it is not an Empty Name, but full both of Dignity & Duty. This Character aſſerted, and adorned by the vertues it leads to, will give us the moſt beautiful view of the Glory of Rulers; which they may purſue with the greateſt Stretch of all their Powers.

And if we would take a view of what of Glory and Duty is included in this Divine Character and Name, that GOD has put upon them; Let us Conſider three things, which ſeem Evidently intended, and pointed at in this Title, and under which the Glory of their Character is comprehended.

1. This Character intends that Rulers are Gods, as they are Gods Vice-gerents, and Deputies, and as they bear his viſible Image.

2. It Suggeſts that the Deſign of the Inſtitution of Civil Government is, That Rulers may be Gods to a People, i. e. Publick and great Bleſſings.

3. It Suggeſts that Rulers can only Aſſert the Dignity of their Character; p. 18and anſwer the End of their Inſtitution by Imitating the Bleſſed GOD, and making his Government, their Pattern, and Standard. Nothing leſs I think can be intended in this Title; and hardly any thing beyond, but what may be reduced under one or other of theſe Heads. Which we are now to Conſider.

I. Rulers are Gods, as they are GOD's Vicegerents, and bear his Viſible Image. Theſe ſtand in GOD's Place, repreſent his Perſon, and act by his Authority, and Commiſſion. The Power of the greateſt Potentate on Earth is not Inherent in him, but is a Derivative; and but a faint Beam of that Power which is in GOD in it's full force and Light, Eſſentially and Independently: For GOD is the Source and Original of all Power; there is no Power but what is derived from him, depends on him, is limited by him, and is ſubordinate to him, and accountable. GOD is the Supream Governour among the Nations; It is his Prerogative to Rule in the Kingdoms of Men; and has Right, as well as Might, to give them to whom he Pleaſes, to Set up, and Spurn down p. 19Rulers at Pleaſure; and when he pours Contempt upon Princes, cuts aſunder their Spirits, and is terrible to the Kings of the Earth, none can ſay to him what doſt thou? He has both Authority and Ability to Govern All by himſelf, without the Mediation of any Second Being; but he has choſen in wiſe Condeſcention to ſet up Men of the ſame Make and Infirmities with our ſelves, whoſe Terrors might not over-power us, to Act in his Name and Stead: All Government belongs Originally to GOD himſelf, but he has deputed & delegated Magiſtrates to act for him, and in Subordination to him; and to theſe his Subſtitutes he has Communicated Power and Judgment: By GOD††Prov. 8 16.Prov 8:16 Princes Rule, Nobles, and all the Judges of the Earth. The Throne they are Seated on is GOD's. 1 Chron. 29. 23. Solomon Sat upon the Throne of the LORD, as King. It is his Sword of Juſtice that they are Arm'd with, and muſt be Weilded for him, and in his Service. The Judgment is the LORD's. Deut. 1. 17.

It is vain indeed to pretend that this p. 20Power is derived immediately from GOD; but mediately in various ways according to the diverſe Conſtitutions of Kingdoms, and States: It may not be aſſerted that the particular Perſons on whom the Burden of Government is devolved, are of GOD's ſpecial Deſignation and Nomination: yet they hold under GOD, they are Gods ſubordinate to him whoſe Name is JEHOVAH; His Authority they are veſted with, and his Power they Exert in the diſcharge of the Duties of their Station. Theſe are the Shields of the Earth, and as ſuch belong to GOD. Pſal. 47 ult. Their Power and Work is GOD's. Hence Jehoſaphat from this Conſideration made his Charge to his Judges the more Solemn. 2 Chron. 19. 6. He ſay'd to the Judges; take heed what ye do: for ye Judge not for Man, but for the LORD, who is with you in the Judgment.

Again, Rulers as they are delegated by GOD, ſo they bear his Image, and the viſible Impreſs of his Glory and Greatneſs. There is not only an Inviſible and Spiritual Image of GOD, which conſiſts in Righteouſneſs and all the Graces of p. 21Holineſs: But there is an External and Viſible Image of GOD, which conſiſts in the External Characters of Glory, Power and Majeſty; which are impreſſed on ſuch, as are Exalted to Rule over men. Agreeably, Rulers are Living Images of the Great LORD of the World, whoſe Subſtitutes they are. A viſible Divine Glory is ſhed upon them; the bright Rays of Divine Greatneſs, and Power do incircle them: which Challenge Awe and Reverence from all about them; and the due apprehenſion hereof is enough to inſpire Rulers with the moſt Noble Reſolves to act in a becoming ſubordination to, and as may make an agreeable Repreſentation of GOD, with whom is Dominion and Fear.

By their Office, Authority and Power they Participate in a Degree of that Power, which all the Armies of Heaven ſtoop before; and hereby make diſtinguiſhing approaches to GOD, and bear ſome faint Reſemblance of him, who ſits on the Throne of Majeſty; tho' after all Infinite and Awful is the Diſtance. In this reſpect Rulers are Gods. And when p. 22theſe External Characters of Power and Greatneſs are found in Conjunction with the more Noble Characters of Inward Greatneſs, their Title will appear with a Diviner Luſtre, and their Authority more Awful and Influential. This is the firſt thing included in the Title given them.

2. This Title Suggeſts, the great. Deſign of the Inſtitution of Government among men, is that Rulers may be Gods to a People, i. e. Diffuſive Bleſſings to the Publick: When the Great LORD of the World is pleaſed to ſtyle himſelf the GOD of a Perſon or People, it certainly intends that He will Bleſs them, and Promote their Happineſs; Employ his Wiſdom, Power, Juſtice and Goodneſs with his other Perfections, for their Peace and Proſperity, Security, Protection and Glory. In conformity to this, Rulers are Gods, when they Employ their Authority, and Influence, act the Vertues and Powers of Government they are Endow'd with, for the Good and Happineſs of the People under their Conduct. To be great Bleſſings to Men is to be Gods to them. And ſuch have moſt of Divinity, true Majeſty and p. 23Glory, as diſpenſe the moſt benign and cheriſhing Influences upon all about them; and are moſt uſeful and ſerviceable to the true Intereſt of the State they ſtand related to. Power and Knowledge will not alone conſtitute a Divine Greatneſs; Theſe are found to a great degree in the moſt Malignant Beings, who are nothing but Oppoſition to the Nature, and Government of GOD. It is not a true Divine Greatneſs and Superiority to have more Power, Riches and Knowledge than others; but to Employ all theſe Advantages to do more Good to the World; and be greater bleſſings to thoſe under their Inſpection. Now Greatneſs appears with Advantage; ſuch are like the Great Light of Heaven which diſpenſes its Influences far and wide; they are as a Publick Fountain, whoſe waters flow down to all; and the whole People drink of them, and are refreſhed thereby; and every one will be ready to own the Character they bear, ſtile them Gods, and Children of the Higheſt.

And thus this Splended Title, given to Rulers, leads us to the Original deſign of their Inſtitution, which is the Publick Good. p. 24It tells us what the Governing deſign of Government ought to be in all acts of Power whether Legiſlative or Executive: What Bleſſings all Rulers ought to be, and Good Ones will be to a People. Their Power is deſigned but as††Rom. 13. 4.Rom 13:4 a Miniſtry under GOD, for the good of Men: That under their ſhadow they may have ſweet Repoſe, Lead Quiet and Peaceable Lives in all Godlineſs and Honeſty: They are to be the Guardians of their Religion and Property, their Liberties, Civil & Sacred: That in their Watchfulneſs, Care, and many Fatigues, their People may ſecurely ſit under their own Vines and Figtrees, take their Reſt, and enjoy their Lives, Eſtates, Friends, and innocent Pleaſures without Annoyance. That Rulers are to be the Guardian Angels of the State to Watch over, and Miniſter to it: As the Lights of the World to direct, warm and cheriſh all under their Influence; to be as the Foundations, and Pillars of a building; who are to preſerve the State from a Diſſolution.

The very Nature of things, and the Primary Intention of GOD in the Ordination p. 25of Civil Government, certainly points us to the general Happineſs & Proſperity, which Rulers ought to have in view. The true meaſure of Government we have agreeably laid down by the Spirit of GOD, 2 Sam. 23. 3. As a Rule over Men, which is thus deſcanted on by**Dr. Barnet. a Maſterly hand. It is a Rule, and not an Abſolute Dominion, or an Arbitrary Power, without Lawes and Meaſures; It is a Rule over Men, and not a Power like that, which we have over Beaſts, Rule ſuited to the Principles of Reaſon, to the Nature of Man, and the Ends of Civil Society; it is a Conduct over free and reaſonable Beings, who need indeed to be Governed, but ought not to be Broken by the force, and weight of Power.

It was never deſigned either by GOD or Men; that ſome ſhould be advanced to Power and Dignity, to raiſe their particular Glory, either in Oppoſition to, or Seperation from the happineſs of the Publick. Rulers have Power, but it is a limited Authority; limited by the Will of GOD, and Right Reaſon, by the General p. 26Rules of Government, and the particular Lawes Stated in a Land. Government was never ordained that Some men might have Advantage to be Beaſts of Prey, to the feebler part of Mankind; nor that Others ſhould be under a neceſſity of becoming Beaſts of Burden; for this would be ſubverſive of the very End of all Rule. Men enjoy the Name and Power of GOD, not to make themſelves Great and Terrible; to make any tremble but the Evil doer; not that they may have the Opportunity to ſatisfy the Ravenous Luſts of Dominion, Pride and Covetouſneſs: for thus they would bear the Character and Image, not of GOD, but of the Grand Enemy and Deſtroyer of Mankind. But the deſign of all the Power, Greatneſs, and Superiority communicated to them from GOD, is that they may approve themſelves Gods to the World, i. e. the Greateſt Benefactors. When Rulers anſwer therefore this Character, they will have no greater joy than to ſee their People flouriſh in Wealth, Strength and Peace; famous for all thoſe Vertues of Righteouſneſs, that Exalt a Nation: They will make the true Glory and Proſperity p. 27of their People their Laſt view in all their Adminiſtrations; and Eſteem it as their Own Glory; and with the moſt ſenſible refreſhment, in the moſt Noble and Divine ſenſe, partal… of the Publick happineſs, and of every part, as if the whole were their own Propriety. Such are Gods, and the Moſt High will own them his Children. This is the End of Government, & is the Second thing comprehended in the Divine Character put on them. We now come to the Third & Laſt thing included in this Title.

3. It ſuggeſts that Rulers can only Aſſert the Dignity of their Character, and Anſwer the End of their Inſtitution, by Imitating the bleſſed GOD, and making his Government their Pattern and Standard. They muſt be God-like, in their Perſonal Endowments and Publick Managements. They muſt be Gods by reſembling the bleſſed GOD in the Perſonal Excellencies of their Minds, in thoſe Vertues & Graces, which are the Image of GOD on the Soul. External Dignity challenges Inherent Excellency: The greateſt Glory, Perfection, Beauty and Nobility, muſt conſiſt in a conformity p. 28to the Communicable Perfections, and Beauties of the Divine Nature; and the Participations of theſe Vertues, and Divine Characters, which are Propounded for the Reaſonable Creatures Imitation in his Manner and Meaſure. Without this Reſemblance they will foully ſlurr their Character, reproach Government, and render it Ridiculous: Folly ſet in great Dignity will make but an odd Figure; and afford a ſpectacle which will be rather hooted at, than reverenced and obey'd.

And as they are to Imitate GOD in the Sublime qualities of the Mind; ſo in their Adminiſtrations. Rulers muſt ſet GODS Government before them, and endeavour to Form themſelves in their whole Management by this perfect Model. Their Rule muſt be a Lively Emblem of the Beauty and Excellency, Perfection and Advantage of GODS Government.

Here it is neceſſary to obſerve, that GOD, tho' He be Lord Paramount of Heaven and Earth; and his Sovereignty unaccountable, being Infinite, Abſolute and Independent; yet He alwayes Exerciſes his Supream Authority according to the p. 29Rules of the moſt Conſummate Wiſdom, Spotleſs Righteouſneſs, Unblemiſh'd Integrity, and Diffuſive Goodneſs. He governs not by unaccountable Will, or inconſtant humour, which are imperfections his Nature can't ſuffer, but by Stable Meaſures, as may beſt ſuit the Nature and Circumſtances of his Subjects, and the Noble End of his Government.

Hence Rulers, of all Orders, ought to conform to and regulate themſelves in all their Adminiſtrations, by this Divine Standard. Their Government ſhould be a Tranſcript, and Viſible Image of the Divine Rule. And the more Exactly they conform to this Meaſure; the nearer they approach in their Rule over Men to the Divine Pattern; the brighter will be the Characters of Divine Glory reflected on them; This Imitation of GOD is neceſſary to Maintain the juſt honours of their Station, to anſwer the End of their Elevation, and the deſign of Government it ſelf. And here I ſhall mention a few Capital Articles, in which Rulers as Gods, are to Imitate the Glorious GOD: All which will be found Eſſential to the Character of Gods, imprinted on them. As,

p. 30I. As Gods they muſt be Wiſe and Skilfull. The Supream Governour of the World is the Only Wiſe GOD: 1 Tim. 6. 17. He is Wiſdom in the Abſtract: Prov 8. 14. Counſel is Mine, and Sound Wiſdom: I am Underſtanding. This Attribute appears with Surprizing brightneſs in the Government of the World. When the Methods of Providence are moſt Unſearchable, there is then Reaſon to cry out; Oh the depth! both of the Wiſdom and Knowledge of GOD! He fully underſtands the Nature, and Powers of all Creatures; all things in their ſeveral Relations and Dependencies, the fitneſs of Means to propounded Ends; and hence acts all things according to the Rules of the moſt Conſummate Wiſdom; and has in all Ages ſo turned the Wheels of Providence, as might ſuit the End of Government: & as became the infallible Conduct of Him, who is Great in Counſel, That is placed above on the THRONE.

In proprotion, Rulers on Earth are Gods, becauſe they are herein to reſemble the Eternal KING, the only Wiſe GOD; and muſt partake of his Wiſdom. This qualification Moſes gives of Rulers: Deut. 1. 13. p. 31Take ye Wiſe and Underſtanding Men. The want of Skill & Prudence in Rulers, will bring Government into Contempt: The End of Rule can't be attained, nor the Dignity of their Station ſupported. Blind Guides, unskilful Pilots are a Soleciſm in terms; & threaten no common miſchief to thoſe that are under their Conduct. It is condemned by the wife Socrates, as an Error too common in the World, yet moſt fatal to the good of it; that while ſeveral years are thought little enough to be ſpent in acquiring the ſkill of any Trade, how Mean and Mechanical ſo ever it may be; yet, in caſe of Publick Adminiſtrations of Government, which of all Profeſſions has moſt of Difficulty and Intricacy, every one is ready to think himſelf abundantly qualifyed; and ſuch, as are of very Indifferent improvements in Knowledge, are too often Exalted, and ſet in Places of Dignity. It is a judgment, bigg with many Woes, when††Iſaiah 3 3. 4.Isa 3:3Isa 3:4 God takes away the Prudent from a People, and gives them Children to be their Princes, and Babes to Rule over them. The wiſe Man Pronounces a Woe upon p. 32ſuch a People: Eccl. 10. 16. Woe unto thee, O Land, when thy King is a Child.

On the contrary, it is an happy Omen upon a Land, when Rulers are like the Heads of Iſſachar:††1 Chron. 12. 321 Chr 12:32 Men that had Underſtanding of the Times, to Know what Iſrael ought to do. ‖‖Ubi Praeſes fuerit Philoſophus, ibi Civitas Erit faelix▪That City, ſays a Wiſe Heathen, is happy, whoſe Governour is a Philoſopher, i. e. a Man of Wiſdom. And a greater Philoſopher has aſſured us, that by a Man of Underſtanding the State of a Land is prolonged, Prov. 28. 2. Such Rulers are ſingular bleſſings, which GOD, in love to a People, ſometimes bleſſes them with. Thus the Queen of Sheba pronounces Iſrael happy in the Wiſdom of ſolomon: 2 Chron. 9. 7. Happy are theſe thy Men, happy are theſe thy Servants, which ſtand continually before thee, and hear thy Wiſdom. This will render the Perſons of Rulers Venerable in the Eſteem of their People; and their Authority more forcible and awful.††1 King. 3. 28.1 Kgs 3:28 Thus all Iſrael feared Solomon, for they ſaw the Wiſdom of GOD was in him. All other Endowments, requiſite p. 33for Government, will be but of little, and uncertain uſe without Prudence. Zeal & Courage without ſkill to direct their influences, and temper their heat, will many times do more harm than good; they will either miſtake their object, or exceed in degree; which too often cauſes no ſmall confuſions. Integrity, and good Intention are not ſufficient to ſecure Government from contempt, nor the State from Ruine, without a Spirit of Judgment to direct the choice of proper Means for the Publick ſafety: This Skill and Prudence gives a luſtre to other Excellences that qualify Men for Government, and render them influential to the happineſs of a Common Wealth. It was Davids Glory, and Iſraels ſafety; that he was Wiſe as an Angel of GOD; and guided them by the Skilfulneſs of his hands, as well as according to the Integrity of his heart, Pſal. 78. 72.

It muſt be acknowledged, that the ſame degree of Wiſdom, nay the ſame kind of Knowledge, is not equally neceſſary to every Ruler: As there are different Degrees and Stations in Government; ſo Wiſdom has its ſeveral gradations; and is, p. 34as to Sort, and Degree, to be proportioned to the ſeveral Characters, and Offices that are ſuſtained: That Knowledge that may qualify for the Counſel Board, may not for the Tribunal of Juſtice: Superior Wiſdom is requiſite for a Superior Station in Government: Yet every Order of Rulers muſt have a due proportion of it.

Again, The State and Circumſtance of a People may be more perplexed, difficult, and intricate at one Day than an other; either by reaſon of the darkneſs and intricacy of Divine Providence, or the prevalency of evil humours among a People themſelves: and ſuch a day requires greater force and light of Underſtanding in Rulers: A Storm requires greater ſkill than a calm.

Thus the ſtile of Gods requires that Rulers reſemble GOD in this Divine Excellency, that they may maintain their Glory, and anſwer the End of their Creation. There muſt be Wiſdom to judge what Laws are proper to be made, and what Sanctions are proper to enforce them; there muſt be Wiſdom to underſtand the Publick Powers, and Private Rights and p. 35Privileges to be preſerved, and the Laws which are to be Executed: There is an happy Dexterity and Skill in governing, and adminiſtring the affairs of the Publick to the beſt advantage; which is a rare Talent, which Rulers are allow'd to Covet. This comprehends in it a ſuitable Knowlege of the complexion and humours of the People committed to their truſt; what Diſtempers they are moſt lyable to, and what Remedies moſt proper for them, and what the right Seaſons to make the Applications whether for Prevention, or after Remedy: There muſt be ſkill in the general Maxims of Government, and Prudence in a pertinent Application of theſe to Emergent caſes, that by an orderly conduct the great affairs & deſigns of a State, be carry…d on to an happy Concluſion: There is to this requiſite a Penetrating Sagacity to foreſee Publick dangers, & a ſeaſonable Precaution to guard againſt them: And for this End Rulers ſhould be men of deep Thought, good Experience, and of great Preſence of Mind; that they may not be ſhoved beyond their reaſon by any unexpected Emergencies; but that p. 36they may maintain their temper unſhockt, and well lay'd deſigns unbroken, what ever may aſſault them.

Thus, they that are Gods among Men muſt labour to partake of Divine Wiſdom, and reſemble GOD, who is wonderful in Counſel, and excellent in Working. Thus God-like was Joſeph, and Daniel; an Excellent Spirit, the Spirit of Wiſdom, like to GOD, was found in them; On the account of which they were raiſed to the firſt Seat of Government; Joſeph in Egypt, and Daniel in the Court of Babylon and Perſia. And when Rulers are deſtitute of this Excellency, their Dignity will be degraded, their Duty neglected, and will too well deſerve the Character given of Coniah, not Gods, but deſpiſed broken Idols; Veſſels, wherein is no pleaſure, Jer. 22. 28.

2. Rulers, as Gods, muſt be Righteous and Juſt in all their Adminiſtrations.

The Sceptre of GODS Throne is a Scepter of Righteouſneſs: Clouds & Darkneſs many times incircle the Throne of Heaven, yet RIGHTEOUSNESS and Judgment are always the Habitation thereof: For he is the Juſt GOD, and can do no p. 37wrong. And nothing can be more oppoſite to the Divine Government, than when Iniquity ſitteth in the Seat of Juſtice; and Oppreſſion is found in the Place of Judgment. Jehoſophat enforces his charge upon his Judges with the Conſideration of the Divine Righteouſneſs, & Impartiality. 2 Chron. 19. 6, 7. Take heed what you do, for ye judge not for Man, but for the Lord, who is with you in the judgment: Wherefore let the fear of the Lord be upon you: for there is no iniquity with the Lord God, nor Reſpect of Perſons, nor taking of Gifts.

Herein Rulers are to approve themſelves Gods. It is a Statute of the Great Law-giver of the World, that they which Rule over Men be Juſt, 2 Sam. 23. 3. Righteouſneſs is the Glory of GOD; and an Imitation of Him herein will be the honour of Rulers, and the happineſs of the Ruled. Knowledge without Juſtice will degenerate into Craft & Subtility, which can never be ſafe for the Publick: where Righteouſneſs is wanting, the deeper the Management, the more Pernicious the Power.

The Title of Gods, requires, that Rulers be like Job▪ that Great Man of the p. 38Eaſt, Job 29. 14. I put on Righteouſneſs, & it cloathed me: My judgment was a Robe & Diadem. This quality has conſecrated the Name of Ariſtides; and he is juſtly celebrated by the**Plutarch in vita Ariſtid. Hiſtorian, that when other great Men of the World, had aſſumed Names that carryed in them Power & Violence; as Thunderers, Conquerors, Deſtroyers of Cities, Hawks and Eagles, He aſſumed the more Kingly and Divine Appellation of Juſt. And the Hiſtorian, tho' an Heathen, well deſcants upon the Divine Excellency of Juſtice; and ſays, Juſtice makes ſuch as are in Power & Authority to lead the Life of a God; but the contrary that of a Beaſt. Herein therefore the Rule GOD has appointed over Men, ſhould be a fair Tranſcript of the Righteouſneſs & Equity of the Divine Adminiſtrations. Agreeably the Wiſdom of Heaven has taught us, that the Throne is Eſtabliſhed by Righteouſneſs, Prov. 16. 12. And GOD by the Prophet calls upon Rulers: Amos 5. 24. Let Judgment run down as waters, and Righteouſneſs as a mighty ſtream. Judgment run down as waters, Q D. p. 39That Rulers are to be Living Fountains of Juſtice among men, and Righteouſneſs muſt flow from them in their Adminiſtrations as naturally, fully, and freely as Streams from a Living Fountain, with Eaſe and Plenty, and for Univerſal uſe; where all may come and drink, and be refreſhed; Streams that will Water and Cheriſh all; guard and ſecure what ever is good among a People, and make it with their moiſture to thrive and flouriſh; and Righteouſneſs as a mighty Stream: as an unpaſſible River. So the Seventy read it, i. e. Let the Streams of Juſtice be ſo deep and wide that the biggeſt, boldeſt and moſt ſubtle Tranſgreſſors may deſpair to leap over, or ford them: But be ſtopt in their Career, and brought to a ſtand by them. As a Land flood, as ſome others Read it, which rolls down with irreſiſtible Rapidity, Strength and Violence, and bears away all Oppoſition before it: thus the Adminiſtrations of Juſtice muſt proceed with that Zeal, Reſolution and Force as to overcome all Impediments, Diſcouragements and Temptations, that Oppoſe. This would give a State the Reputation of a City of p. 40Righteouſneſs, and a Faithful City. Hence, this Character of Rulers requires that Righteouſneſs be the Girdle of their Loins: That they take care that Righteous Laws be Enacted, none but ſuch, and all ſuch, as are neceſſary for the Safety of the Religion & Liberties of a People: Juſtice muſt be Exerciſed in guarding the Laws with Righteous Penalties, from the Outrages and Inſults of the Sons of Belial: There muſt be Righteouſneſs in the Execution of the Laws, both in matters of Civil Juſtice, and Criminal: Rulers muſt be Juſt to GOD in maintaining His Right; to their own Characters, and to their People; Juſt to the Laws, and the Eſtabliſhed Conſtitution they are under; and Subordinate Rulers muſt be Juſt to their Prince, as well as to the whole Community, and every Member of it: They muſt take care that they do not Pervert Juſtice themſelves, nor ſuffer others under them to Pervert it, and turn Judgment into Wormwood; that GOD may not complain that He looked for Judgment, but behold Oppreſſion; for Righteouſneſs, but behold a Cry.

Hence their Adminiſtrations of juſtice p. 41muſt be with Impartiality; for this is Divine. This Charge Moſes gave to Rulers, Deut. 1. 17. Ye ſhall not reſpect Perſons in Judgment; but you ſhall hear the Small as well as the Great; You ſhall not be afraid of the face of Man, for the Judgment is GOD's. A Criminal Partiality in Rulers portends Ruine to a State. It becomes Rulers as Gods not to be ſwayed by Perſonal Favour or Prejudice, by Private Advantages, and Views. Friendſhip muſt not byaſs Rulers; but they muſt be like Levi know neither Father nor Mother, Brother nor Siſter in the cauſe of Juſtice. There is good Inſtruction in the Carriage of that Heathen, who upon his Advancement into Government, took a ſolemn Farewel of his Friends and Relations; intimating thereby that they muſt not expect from him any Regards in the Diſcharge of his Office, but what others ſhould have an equal Claim to. And it was a juſt Rebuke, that Rutilius a Noble Roman, gave to a particular Friend, who Reproach'd him for Breach of Friendſhip, in denying his Unjuſt Petition; viz. that he could with Eaſe bear the loſs of ſuch p. 42a Friend, whoſe Friendſhip was to be preſerved on ſuch hard Terms, as breaking through the Rules of Juſtice and Honour. To accept Perſons in Judgment is not good, Prov 24. 25. Rulers muſt not be lead out of the way of Juſt and Right, either by undue Favour to Friends, or unjuſt Prejudice againſt Enemies. There is alſo a Criminal Tenderneſs & Compaſſion to the Poor, as well as a Faulty Reſpect to the Rich, which is equally an Enemy to Juſtice, and muſt be avoided: The Small as well as Great are to be heard; yet the Small no more than Great to be Reſpected in their Cauſe.

Again, Rulers are not to be moved by Fear; they muſt not fear the Faces of men. Courage is a neceſſary Qualification in a Ruler. The Ballances of Juſtice ſhould be held ſteadily; but this can't be where Fear makes the Heart and Hand to tremble. They that are like Ephraim, Silly Doves, without an Heart, are a Reproach to Government; and can never maintain the Honour, nor diſcharge the Duties of their Character. The Sword of Juſtice in a Cowards Hand will never be, either a p. 43Protection to the Innocent, or Terror to the Guilty.

Again, As Gods they muſt not be influenced by Private Advantage: It is ungodlike for Rulers to Cry, Give, Give. It is inconſiſtent with the End of Rule, and will be a deep ſtain upon Government; when Juſtice is Bought and Sold: and Expoſes Rulers to the Rebukes of a Righteous GOD; for the Tabernacles of Bribery peculiarly ly open to the Devouring Flames of Heaven. And how unbecoming it will be ſuch, who bear the Name of GOD upon them thus to Proſtitute Juſtice! Thus Impartial ought Rulers to be in their Adminiſtrations. And it is but what the Reaſon of mankind approves of. And the Admonitions hereof were given by the Thebans, who were wont to pourtray their Rulers Blind and without Hands; Blind that they might not reſpect Perſons, and without Hands, that they might receive no Gifts; which the Wiſe man tells us will Blind the Eyes of the Wiſe.

Again, As Rulers muſt Adminiſter Juſtice with Impartiality, ſo they muſt Temper Juſtice with Lenity; for this is p. 44to be like GOD: Lenity to Particular Perſons, ſometimes may be a Publick Injury: yet ſometimes Mercy is Juſtice; and not to ſhow it would be an Injury. Extream Right is often Extream Wrong. Rulers may be overmuch Righteous; when Laws are interpreted in their utmoſt Rigour, and accordingly Executed, when there is a Latitude in the Law, and the End might be obtained by taking it in the moſt Favourable ſence; Mercy preſerveth the King, and upholds his Throne, Prov. 20. 28. All Laws muſt not, like Draco's be writ in Blood. Puniſhments muſt be proportioned to the Nature, and degree of Crimes. There are the Rods as well as Axes of Rulers. Thus it is Divine in Rulers to temper the ſeverity of Juſtice with Clemency: It is an Imitation of GOD; for Judgment is GOD's ſtrange Work; but Mercy is his Delight.

3. As Gods a Fatherly Affection, Tenderneſs and Compaſſion to their People muſt breathe forth in all their Adminiſtrations. This is the Character of GOD's Government over his People. In all their Affliction he is Afflicted for them: And when he is p. 45conſtrain'd to chaſtize them, it is with a Fathers hand and bowels.

And this will be the Glory of Gods on Earth, to bear ſuch a Paternal affection to a People as their Children. Of old the Rulers, among ſeveral Nations, gloryed in the Name of Fathers, as the moſt honourable Title that could be given them. Thus every King among the Philiſtines, upon their advancement aſſumed the appellation of Abimelech; the Engliſh of which is, the King my Father. Among the Romans, their Conſuls, Generals, and afterward their Emperors, were moſt ambitious of the Name of Fathers, as the brighteſt Title of Honour.**Vide Le Compte's Memoirs. And the beſt as well lateſt accounts of China tell us, that it is a ſtanding Maxim of that Government, that Kings are properly the Fathers of their People, and not Maſters placed in the Throne to be Served by Slaves: And this Idea of their Prince is ſo deeply imprinted in the Minds of all; that when any Panegyrick is made in praiſe of the Emperor, it is upon this head of his affection to his People; and form his Character not from p. 46his ſkill in War, and Politicks, but as he has approved himſelf a Father to them. And this well becomes the Character of all Rulers, if they would conform themſelves to the Divine. Their conduct muſt be gentle, ſuited to the Infirmities of the State. They muſt Sympathize with their People in all their difficulties, ſorrows; & ſenſibly reſent all the Evil they groan under; even when they ſuffer thro' their own default, and can't be perſwaded by Rulers from thoſe Meaſures that prove fatal to them: They muſt be tender of them when infected with evil humours, and the diſtempers of a perverſe Spirit. Their bowels of Compaſſion muſt peculiarly move towards them, when they are under deep Apoſtacies from God, and under terrible impreſſions of his Wrath, both in Temporal Judgments, & Spiritual Plagues. As the Head in the Natural body feels the uneaſy State of the whole and each Member; ſo theſe are to have a moſt ſenſible Share, in all the loſſes, reproaches, burdens & dangers, that annoy their People; & their tenderneſs muſt be Expreſt in taking the beſt meaſures for their Relief & Comfort.

p. 47This Paternal Affection appeared in Moſes, when GOD's Wrath was breaking in upon the Camp of Iſrael. So in David when the deſtroying Angel had made ſuch deſolations among the Tribes of his People. As Fathers Rulers muſt be like the Charitable Samaritan pour Wine and Oyl into the Wounds of their People, and bind them up: If once a Breach be made they muſt thruſt into the Gap; If the Plague be begun, they muſt haſten an Atonement: Thus like Job they muſt Comfort the Mourners. Thus they will reſemble GOD, who is full of Fatherly compaſſion; who Delivers the needy, the poor alſo, and him, that has no helper.

4. As Gods, they muſt render themſelves Worthy the Truſt and Confidence of their People. It is the Prerogative of the EVERLASTING ROCK, GOD ALSUFFICIENT, to deſerve the Abſolute dependence, and Intire confidence of the Rational Creature: And it is his Glory to be Stiled the GOD of hope, the Confidence of the Ends of the Earth; under the Shadow of whoſe wings men may with Security truſt; on whom they may devolve all their cares.

p. 48And both the Glory of Rulers, and the End of Government, require that thoſe that are appointed Gods on Earth reſemble GOD herein. The Roman Orator has Stated it as the Height of Glory to Merit that Eſteem and Reverence of Men, as to be truſted by them. That a People may with Satisfaction, in Subordination to GOD, commit their Lives, Liberties, Religion, and Eſtate to their Guardian-ſhip, and Patronage. Now beſides the Endowments already mentioned, there are more peculiarly three Qualifications in Rulers neceſſary to create, and conciliate this Eſteem and Confidence; in which they are to aſſert the Glory of their Character, and Imitate GOD: viz. Truth and Integrity, Diligence and Activity in their Poſt; and a Steady Conduct.

There is requiſite Truth and Integrity. It is one Eſſential Character of the Supream Being that He is a GOD of Truth, Deut. 32. 4. And Jethro makes it a neceſſary qualification for Magiſtrates, Exod. 18. 21. That they be Men of Truth. It was Davids commendation, that he led GOD's People according to the Integrity of his p. 49heart, Pſal. 78. ult. Without this, Knowledge, Policy and Power are not Vertues ſufficient to demand this Truſt and Confidence. Knowledge without this Integrity will render men ſuſpected; and power will render them only formidable; But Truth and Integrity will put a Divine luſtre upon both. It is a crocked Maxim in Politicks,**Qui neſcit diſſimulate, neſcit regnare. That the Art of Diſſimulation is Eſſential to the ſkill of Governing. On the contrary Rulers muſt have a Sacred regard to the Rules of Truth: There muſt be Truth in their Words, Promiſes, and Oaths; their Deportment without Diſguiſe; without the little Arts of Simulation or Diſſimulation; neither pretending what is not, nor concealing or diſguiſing what is. Men of falſehood bear the Image of the Father of Lies. But nothing ought to be more firm than the Truth and Word of Government. Such only are fit to Execute the Judgment of Truth in the Gates. This is to be like the Moſt High, the True GOD; Such only can Expect the confidence of a People: For falſehood, Hypocriſy p. 50and Deceit remove the foundations of Confidence.

Again, To gain this Truſt there is requiſite in Rulers Vigilance, Activity, and an Awaken'd Application to the duties of their Poſt. The GOD, and Governour of Iſrael does never ſlumber, nor is He ever weary or faint, but watches over his People night and day. A Pattern for ſuch, as Rule over Men. A Sluggard, who keeps his Arms folded, is unfit for Government. It is the Command of Heaven that Rulers rule with Diligence: and Attend Continually on this very thing: Rom. 12. 8 & 13. 6. To Rule is the Work of GOD, and his Work muſt not be done Negligently. It is the ſaying of the Firſt of the Grecian Poets,**Homer▪ Iliad … That a Publick Counſellour may not Sleep a whole night. While others Sleep Magiſtrates muſt Watch; while others are ſecure in their Cabin, theſe muſt be at the Helm all Weathers. They muſt be Vigilant to fore ſee Publick dangers, and Induſtrious to prevent them; to obſerve Advantages, and to improve them for the good of the Common-Wealth. p. 51They may not be ſlothful in buſineſs if worthy of the Confidence of a People. Sloth, Eaſe and Negligence in Rulers will as infallibly ruine a State, as evil deſigns. Slothful Rulers will give a looſe to the Reins of Government; the Sword of Juſtice will ruſt in the Scabbard, and be neither a Terror to Evil-doers, not an Encouragement to them that do well. Hence a drouſy and languiſhing Age not the fitteſt for Publick buſineſs: But that Age that is beſt for addreſs and diſpatch in Execution, and vigour as well as Sedateneſs in Counſel.

Again, A Steady Conduct in all their Adminiſtrations is neceſſary to create a Confidence. They muſt govern themſelves by unalterable principles, and fixed Rules, and not by unaccountable humours, or arbitrary will, which is lyable to the greateſt levity and inconſtancy. Rulers muſt not be Trimmers, or Time-ſervers; and vary according to the humours of the Giddy Populace, which are as variable as the Weather Glaſs. They are Foundations of a State, and therefore muſt be fixed, and not totter and ſhake: They are Pillars, p. 52and Pillars muſt not bend like the Oſyer, but ſtand unſhaken like the aged Oak; They are Lights that are ſet on High, and muſt approve themſelves fixed in their Orb, & move like the Sun, who as a Gyant runs his race, & nothing can turn him aſide. Theſe muſt ſuffer nothing to diſconcert them, or break their well digeſted meaſures: Neither fraud nor violence, neither flattery nor calumny muſt be able to warp them. That a People may know what to truſt to, and expect; and this is Divine; for GOD governs by fixed Rule.

Thus Rulers are by their Zeal for Truth, their Activity, Vigilance, and Steadineſs to create a Confidence in them; and their People will find their Perſons, and Intereſts ſafe under their Adminiſtration, and can ſecurely repoſe themſelves under their Shadow.

5. As Gods, they muſt have the ſame Noble Deſigns and Purpoſes in View, that GOD has. They are by Office GOD's Miniſters, and it becomes the Eyes of Servants to be on the hand of their Maſters. And ought to carry on the ſame deſigns that GOD does in … Government; and p. 53ſtudy to form their Adminiſtrations hereto. GOD's Government tends to the good of the World; and is eſpecially deſign'd for the good of his Children, and therein the Exaltation of His Own Name. He has lay'd this Government on the Shoulders of His ONLY SON, who is the MAN upon the Throne above the Firmament, according to whoſe direction the Wheels and Living Creatures move below: Now GOD has made him Head over all things for the Church, Eph. 1. 22. He Rules Devils, that they may be reſtrained from Effecting their Malicious deſigns againſt the Church; He Sways the Empire over Good Angels, that they may Miniſter to his choſen Inheritance. Civil Rulers are to act under Chriſt, and Ultimately to aim at the ſame deſign, for which He has received All Power in Heaven and Earth: Their Government muſt be ſubordinated, and ſubſervient to his. It is the Wiſdom of Kings to fear, ſerve, and ſubmit to the Son: To carry on Croſs deſigns will incur the guilt of ſetting themſelves, and taking counſel againſt the LORD, and H… CHRIST. [Pſal. 2.] p. 54Hence Rulers muſt have an Inviolable regard to the Laws of GOD; and Employ all their Power to advance His Kingdom; to guard Religion from the aſſaults, and open Defiances of the Immoral, and Prophane. They ſhould maintain the juſt Honours GOD has put upon His Day, His Inſtitutions, and the Stewards of His Houſe. To neglect theſe deſigns is to betray them; and to betray them will be reſented as Treaſon and Rebellion againſt the Majeſty of Heaven. And hence the Fear of GOD is a neceſſary qualification for thoſe that are called to Rule over Men, 2 Sam. 23.3. This Fear of GOD is not to be only a Swaying Motive to their duty, but this Fear muſt be made the Rule of their Government, as well as Principle that acts them. And when they are poſſeſt of theſe Divine Principles, and Deſigns, and accordingly regulate the Exerciſe of their Power, they are God-like, and act as thoſe that Rule for GOD.

6. As Gods, they muſt ſet their People Good Examples. The Bleſſed GOD is the Pattern and Standard of all Perfection, in Conformity to whom the Perfection and p. 55Glory of Man his Subject does conſiſt: Hence we have theſe Precepts, To be Holy as He is Holy; to be Merciful as GOD is Merciful; and to be Followers, or Imitators of GOD as dear Children. Herein Rulers muſt maintain their Character, & approve themſelves Gods among men. They muſt be Conſpicuous Examples of Piety, Juſtice, Sobriety; of Zeal for the Glory of GOD, His Day, Houſe and Ordinances. Good Manners muſt not only be legible in their Laws, but alſo in their Lives. A Ruler is ſometimes called by GOD a Seal or Signet, and poſſibly one reaſon may be, becauſe what ever is ingraven on them will leave its impreſſion on their People: and therefore Rulers had need take care that they bear the Signature of undiſſembled Holineſs, that the Impreſſion on thoſe under them may be holy. Superiors by their Example give Lawes to men; Their vertuous Actions may do more to Reform a vicious Age, than all other Methods. The good Lives of ſuch carry Soverignty and Authority in them; they give Life, Light & Heat to Precept; they afford Motive and Incentive p. 56to the Vertuous; but reproach and upbraid the Vicious. Vertue in the Lives of men of Figure and Power appears with peculiar charms, and beauty: There is a lovely, attractive repreſentation of Religion when it ſhines in the Converſation of the Great. It now appears with beams of Greatneſs; and becomes more Viſible & Conſpicuous, and has a direct tendency to make laſting impreſſions on others. This will ſtrengthen the Authority of Rulers, and render their Adminiſtrations influential to all good deſigns. And the Honour of Government, the deſign of its Inſtitution can never be ſecure, unleſs they thus reſemble GOD.

On the other ſide, the Evil Examples of Rulers weaken the hands of Government, and ſpread a deadly Infection, which waſteth at noon day. Theſe make Vice reputable, and charming; give authority to it, take off the reſtraint of fear and ſhame, and render all Endeavours to ſuppreſs it feeble; and ſo harden the vile in their Evil wayes. The Evil Lives of men of Name and Figure are a Publick Invitation to others to follow them; and p. 57are as Authentick Paſports to all manner of Iniquity; and a profeſſed Patronage of Vice and Immorality. For as**Obſequij quoddam Genus Regis vitia imitari. La…tan. One of the Fathers obſerves, Subjects account it a proper part of their Submiſſion and Deference to Rulers to imitate their Vices: Hence we ſhall always find among the Iſraelites that Religion flouriſhed, or languiſh't according to the Diſpoſition & Practice of their Kings. And it is not to be wondered, if Magiſtrates are Rulers of Sodom, that thoſe under their Conduct be the People of Gomorrah. If a Ruler hearken to lies, all his Servants are wicked, Prov. 29. 12. Thus if Rulers be vertuous, they are as the Lights of the World, they will direct their People into the paths of Vertue and Glory; but if Vicious, they are like Baleful Comets, that ſpread Plague and Deſolations thro' a Land by their Malignant Influences. Upon the whole, we muſt conclude that ſuch as have the ſtile of Gods, ought, as GOD does, to ſet their People good Examples: Otherwiſe they will corrupt the beauty, ſtain the p. 58Honour, which GOD has put on them; and render themſelves unworthy of the Name of Gods.

Thus we have taken a view of what is included and pointed at in the Divine Title, that GOD has Characterized Civil Rulers by; which was the Second thing obſerved in the Text. We may proceed to the Third.

III. That tho' Rulers are Gods, yet they are lyable to Mortality, and the neceſſary Conſequents thereof, as Men. This truth is no Secret, but lyes open to the Obſervation of all; that to Eſſay an Elaborate Confirmation of it is needleſs: However, it can't be improper by a few hints to Endeavour to awaken a lively ſenſe hereof, that may affect the heart and life.

The Greateſt Men are but Spirits in Fleſh: They are of the ſame Make and Conſtitution with others; That Decree of Heaven, Heb. 9. 27. has the ſame aſpect upon them, as upon the meaneſt, and may not be diſanulled. They are born under the guilt of Sin, and the ſentence of Death; and they bring into the World with them p. 59the Seeds of Mortality; which will in a little time burſt a ſunder the bands by which the Soul and Body are held in Vit…l Union. They are obnoxious to the ſame Diſeaſes, Violences, and Caſualties, as Inferiors are; and the leaſt of theſe are ſufficient to ſtop their breath, and turn them to duſt. What Prerogatives they may lay claim to on other accounts; yet here they ſtand upon a Level. No External Quality, nor Perſonal Endowment can be any Security from the Arreſts of the King of Terrors.

Their Power can't over-awe, nor their Riches bribe Death. Where are all thoſe Sons of Fame, the Mighty, Rich and Honourable, we read of in Story! The Kings, and Princes that filled their houſes with Gold and Silver, and the Counſellours of the Earth! Are they not gone to Sleep in thoſe deſolate Places they built for themſelves! Are not all the Bright Stars of the Morning cover'd with the dark Cloud of Corruption! Where are thoſe Children of Pride & Oppreſſion, who made the Earth to tremble, ſhook Kingdoms, made the World as a Wilderneſs, and deſtroyed p. 60the Cities thereof! How are they fallen, their pomp brought down to the Grave, and become as weak as the meaneſt of their Vaſſals! The Worm is ſpread under them, and the Worm covers them. Again, Wiſdom and Policy cannot protect them from Mortality; for the Wiſe dy as well as the Fool. Courage will not; for Death cannot be Conquered but by that Prince of Life, who has triumphed over Death, and is the Life & the Reſurrection: So that after all their breath muſt go forth, and they return to Corruption.

As they are lyable to Death, ſo as Men they are lyable to the Conſequents of Mortality. Their Bodies will undergo the ſame Mortifying Changes and Corruption in the Land of Darkneſs, which the Bodies of others undergo. As Men, their Spirits when ſeperated from their Bodies, will not drop into a State of inactivity, inſenſibility; nor ſhall be arreſted with a Mortal Lethargy; but their Seperate Souls, will paſs into the Unſeen World of Unbodyed Spirits, and be ſubject to the Laws & Government, to the Work and Rewards of that World: They will during p. 61that State of Separation be either United to the Society of Angels and happy Souls, or be herded with the degraded Angels, and unhappy Spirits of dead men: they will, during this State of Death, either tremble at the fore-ſight of their re-union to their Ancient Bodies; or wait and long in this State of Expectancy for the Redemption of their Bodies. As Men, they are Accountable, as well as Mortal; and muſt appear before the Tribunal of GOD, who Reſpecteth not the Perſons of Princes: A State either of Immortal bleſs, or miſery Expects them after Death: So that as Men they are to dye, and have ſomething to fear, or hope for, beyond the Grave.

Thus Death and the inevitable Conſequents of it, have an equal Aſpect upon Rulers and Ruled. And what a terrible Rebuke is this to the preſent Pride and Grandeur of Gods on Earth? And what happy Influence might the juſt Contemplation hereof have to implant & nouriſh thoſe Seeds of Vertue, which may give them a bleſſed Proſpect of more Subſtantial, Weighty & Enduring Glories in that State, where there ſhall be no more Death! p. 62And this naturally leads us to the Fourth and laſt thing obſerved in our Text.

IV. That it will be of great Advantage to Temper & Qualify the thoughts of their Dignity, with juſt Reflections on their Expected Mortality, and its Conſequents.

Now the Advantage of theſe Reflections may be Conſidered both as to Rulers and Ruled.

I. It may be of great Advantage to Rulers; To Temper the thoughts of their Dignity with juſt Reflections on their Mortality, and its Conſequents. I ſhall mention here three Important Points.

As,

(1.) Theſe Reflections will teach Rulers not to over-rate and value their preſent Advantages of Honour, and Power over Men. It is of the laſt Conſequence to them that they do not Place too great a Price upon their preſent Circumſtances of Superiority: Now theſe thoughts will read them wiſe Leſſons of the Vanity of theſe things; and bring them under a full Conviction of the truth of the Pſalmiſts Concluſion: Pſal. 39 5. Surely every p. 63Man at his beſt Eſtate is altogether Vanity. That can't be very valuable to Immortal Beings, which is not durable; but in a little time will be loſt. And this is the caſe of the preſent Advantages which men Enjoy above others. Death cauſes all titles of Honour to burſt into Air and nothing as Empty bubbles. It diſarms the Great of all their Power, and they go naked into the other World. After all their Pomp and Parade on the ſtage of Life, they drop into their Graves, and nothing of all their Glory deſcends after them. Death wreſts the Sceptre out of the Monarchs hand, plucks the Crown from off his head, and turns his Glory into noiſome Putrefaction: and the very fore-thought of it will ſtain the Pride of all their Glory. Hence Right Reflections on their Mortality will ſuggeſt to ſuch as Sit at the upper End of the World, wiſer thoughts of their preſent State of Exaltation; and will teach them that there can be no true Greatneſs, but what is found in Conjunction with Immortalizing Goodneſs; and that without this inherent Greatneſs of Soul, their external advantages of Honour, Power, and Superiority p. 64will ſignify nothing; unleſs when abuſed, & prided in, to make their Account more terrible; and their Infamy and Shame more deep and inſufferable, when they ſhall be fixed in the Congregation of GOD's conquered Enemies.

(2.) Theſe Thoughts will be a Powerful Antidote againſt the Infection of thoſe Temptations, that threaten them in their Exalted Stations. Rulers have the ſame Luſts within them, as other men; and are beſet with much ſtronger Temptations to provoke and inflame theſe Luſts. Satan will be moſt buſy with ſuch to corrupt and pervert them; and their falls will give the Wrath and Malice of Hell a diſtinguiſhing Triumph. The World with its higheſt charms, and greateſt advantage to bewitch them: And as they have greater advantages than Others to purſue the moſt guilty gratifications; ſo they have fewer reſtraints, and leſs of obſtruction in their way. They have enough to ſhock and try the moſt Eſtabliſhed vertue. How many wayes are they tempted! And in danger of ſullying their Divine Character, by being lead to Pride and Vanity, Sloth and p. 65Luxury, Covetouſneſs and Oppreſſion. They need to keep the ſtricteſt guard, and lay the ſevereſt reſtraints upon themſelves, to ſecure them from their Spiritual dangers.

Now juſt Reflections on Death and its Conſequents will awaken in them ſuch thoughts, as will tend to check, and rein in thoſe luſts, that the charms of Greatneſs do excite. If they remember they muſt dye, how can they grow giddy, or be unreaſonably tranſported with the glittering Images of their preſent honours? Will not this thought damp the force of Temptations to Luxury and Senſuality; and cool them in the hot purſuit of forbidden pleaſures? What Appetite had Belſhazzar, when he ſaw and underſtood the hand writing on the Wall, to carry on the Revel, and compleat the debauch? This proſpect will pall the unhallowed Appetite of Dominion, and Gain; and will make them think what agonies and corvulſions the remembrance of gain gotten by Injuſtice and Oppreſſion, will cauſe in a dying hour; and what inflaming Items, the charge of Power, Riches, and Honour p. 66abuſed, and perverted, will be at that Impartial Tribunal they muſt ſtand before. Thus theſe Reflections will be of mighty force to abate the Edge of Temptation; and they will give them a juſter view of things, as they ſtand in the Light of the other World: Inſtructing them, that if they muſt dye, and be judged like men, then they may not live like Creatures, either of Prey or Pleaſure. And were theſe thoughts more frequently Entertained and Realized by the Superior part of the World, what a mighty protection would they be from thoſe threatning Evils, which if indulged, will debaſe their Character, cloud their Serenity of Conſcience, and lay their Souls waſte and deſolate.

(3.) Theſe Thoughts of Mortality and its Conſequents will be moſt forcible Arguments and Motives to engage Rulers ſo to improve the Advantages of Honour and Power, as may give them the beſt proſpect of a State of Immortality. Authority, Riches and Power are great Advantages for Service, & infer the ſtrongeſt Obligations hereto, to honour GOD, and p. 67do good to the World. Thoſe of the higheſt Order in Government are but GOD's Stewards; their Power, Honour and Influence are Talents committed to them to Occupy, for their Great LORD, till HE come, when they muſt account for their improvement: They have not the Dominion but only the Diſpenſation of theſe, as their Maſters Goods. And theſe well improved will give them a joyous proſpect into the Eternal World; and will ſecure to them an Euge from their Lord and Judge. Now theſe Reflections on Death and its Conſequents tend to engage them to a Wiſe and Faithful improvement of theſe Talents committed to them: They will incite them to ſtudy ſuch a Management in their Places, as ſhall in the Review not Torment but Comfort them, when the Shadows of Death ſtretch over them. This Proſpect will make them value their ſtate of Diſtinction and Superiority, not by its preſent glittering Appearance, but by their greater Capacity for Service for GOD, his Kingdom and People. This will conſtrain them to think, what good they have Opportunity to do, that they p. 68may not neglect it; but get it done before Death periods their Seaſons of Improvement: It will inſpire them with the moſt noble purpoſes; that they may fill up their Places, and be Gods to the World while they live. In this way their Deathbeds will be Places of Inconceiveable refreſhment; and have confidence in their Appearance before the Son of Man: Their fidelity will fill all their Powers with the warmeſt Tranſports of joy in that Terrible day of the Lord: while at the ſame time the Kings of the Earth, the Great Men, the Rich, and Mighty Men, that have abuſed and not improved their Talents, ſhall ſtand Trembling before the Supream bar of CHRIST, over-powred with the Terrors of the LORD, from whoſe Wrath Rocks & Mountains can give no Protection. Oh! that they were thus Wiſe, that they underſtood this, that they would now conſider their latter End!

2. Theſe Reflections may be of Service and Advantage to Such as are under Government. And there are Two Leſſons of Wiſdom, which the Proſpect of Rulers Mortality will teach a People, more eſpecially. As,

p. 69(1.) Theſe Reflections on their Mortality will teach a People to make all favourable Allowances for the Infirmities, and Defects of their Rulers. And were this leſſon well learnt by a People it would be of no common advantage to them.

And are they Gods that muſt dye, ſurely then we are not to Expect from them that perfection of Wiſdom and Vertue in their Conduct, as if they were Immortal GOD's; Nor that freedom from Error and Miſmanagement as if they were Angels whoſe dwellings are not in fleſh, thoſe Sons of GOD, who are the Excellency of Divine Dignity, and the Excellency of Power, who always ſtand in the Preſence of GOD, and in his Light ſee Light: nor yet as if they were Unbody'd Spirits, who have left their Moral Infirmities with their Mortal Bodies here below. A State of Mortality beſpeaks a State of Sin, and Moral Infirmity: for Death is the puniſhment of Sin; and were all the Seeds of Sin purged out, Death would have no power over them. If then they muſt dy as other men; they have the ſame principles of Moral as well as Natural Corruption in them, as other p. 70men, no wonder then we many times ſee theſe ſprout forth in their preſent State of Mortality, and obſcure the Glory of their Conduct. It is not to be Expected that they ſhould move in their Sphere with that vigour, activity and regularity, as if they had put on Immortality, and their Bodies were Endow'd with that Purity, Power and Spirituality, which is to be Expected in the Reſurrection State. It is no wonder they are no more vigilant, ſteady and diligent in their work, ſince they are not Pure Spirits, nor Raiſed Saints, but are clogged with Bodies, endowed with Animal Appetites, Inclinations, & Wants, which are eſſential to their State of Mortality.

Theſe Thoughts ſhould diſpoſe us to cover the Infirmities of Rulers with a veil of Charity, and not like Cham diſcover their Nakedneſs: they will ſuggeſt that we muſt not rudely comment and criticiſe upon their Errors; but make all the favourable Allowances for the Imperfections, & the force of Temptations, that they are lyable to in their preſent ſtate; and not blaſpheme their Character, ſhould they not p. 71in every Article be proof againſt them: For then they muſt be more than Men, that muſt dye.

(2.) Theſe Thoughts will teach thoſe under Government, not to place undue Confidences in the beſt Rulers. We muſt not have that dependence on them, or expectations from them, which are due only to the Eternal, and Immutable GOD. What is man, whoſe breath is in his Noſtrils! Man who muſt dye, to be accounted of! Men of higheſt degree are not to be truſted to, for their Mortality tells us they are but a Lye. GOD Himſelf has given us that Admonition, Pſal. 146. 3, 4. Put not your truſt in Princes, nor in the Son of Man, in whom there is no help; his breath goeth forth, he returneth to his Earth, in that very day his thoughts periſh. Let them be never ſo excelling in Power, Wiſdom, and Goodneſs, never ſo full of good and great deſigns, yet Death comes, and puts an End to all; and then they can afford no help: when Death comes they can no longer cover us with their Shadow; no longer be Eyes to the blind, Feet to the lame, or Fathers to the Widow and Fatherleſs; for p. 72they are become weak as other men. This Conſideration ſhould make us renounce all undue Confidences in thoſe Rulers, that beſt deſerve the Character of Gods; leſt we place them in the Place of that GOD, who can never Change or Dye: And happy only are ſuch, as have the Immoveable Munition of Rocks for the place of their Defence; and have the Eternal GOD for their Refuge.

APPLICATION.

USE I. This teaches us the vaſt Difficulty of the Rulers Province. The moſt only fix their Eyes on their outward Splendors and Honours, and dream of nothing but Eaſe and Pleaſure, Grandeur in all its gay ſhews; but never think of that Duty, Work and Buſineſs of Government, which is attended with Difficulties as Great as their Dignity. Their Station is high, and no common ſupplies of Grace are neceſſary for the diſcharge of the Duties that belong to their Sphere. They are to act for GOD, in his Name, and ſo to Repreſent him as all that obſerve them may have more p. 73Worthy & Honourable thoughts of GOD, and his Government; and who is ſufficient for this! Eſpecially if it be conſidered how many things there are to weaken their hands, and render the burden of Government more inſupportable. There are their own Infirmities, and the ill Humours of their People; Murmurings, Jealouſies, Reproaches, and Diſcontents: Theſe made Moſes openly Proteſt before Iſrael that he was not not able to bear their Cumbrance, their Burden, and Strife. Deut. 1. 12. Sometimes a People are ſo out of frame that nothing, which is right can pleaſe them… and how difficult is the Rulers Province, when there is reaſon to ſay, as one among the Heathen of old, when he refuſed the place of a Magiſtrate, viz. That if he Ruled ill he ſhould offend the Gods; but if well the People. Under the beſt Circumſtances their Station is attended with uncommon Temptations from within, and without; that Faithfully to diſcharge the Duties thereof requires great degrees of Self-denyal, Patience, Humility; that they may act above the Corrupt influences of preſent Hopes and Fears; p. 74and under all act like GOD; as thoſe that bear his Image, & approve themſelves to be Gods to the world; and go on ſteady in that way maugre all Oppoſition. Hic Labor, hoc Opus eſt Under a juſt view of the Importance, Weight and Difficulty of this work of Government, it may not be wondred at, if the Olive-tree refuſes to leave her Fatneſs; and the Fig-tree her Sweetneſs, to Rule over the Trees of the Wood. Who would chooſe to quit their own ſweet Tranquility, and Eaſe for the reſtleſs Cares, and uneaſy Fatigues of Government? Rulers may well be tempted to ſay, as Iſa. 3. 7. I will not be an Healer to this People; or as Moſes, Send, O Lord, I pray thee by the hand of him whom thou wilt ſend, Exod. 4. 13. Their Station is ſo full of Duties and Difficulties, that Rulers are the proper Objects of our Prayers and Pity, and not our Envy.

USE II. Are Rulers Gods, then they muſt take care not to live below the Dignity of Men. It will be an indelible Reproach on thoſe that wear the Character of Gods, to degrade themſelves to the ſtate of p. 75Beaſts. And yet how patiently is this degradation undergone by many! Gods muſt not give a looſe to their Luſts; gratify their Criminal Appetites, and Inclinations; Luxury, Drunkenneſs and Wantonneſs muſt not be indulged, for theſe are Brutiſh, and transform them into Beaſts. And hence they muſt be avoided by Rulers; Gods by Office may not be leſs than Men. And when Luxury and Drunkenneſs are growing among a People; it would be well if Rulers would avoid, all approaches to it, and the leaſt appearances of it. It was a wholeſome Admonition that Lemuels Mother gave him, Prov. 31.4,5. It is not for Kings, O Lemuel, to drink Wine; nor for Princes Strong Drink; leſt they drink and forget the Law, and pervert Judgment. When Rulers are made Sick with Bottles of Wine; they will ſtretch out the hands with Scorners;††Hos. 7.5.Hos 7:5 and it bodes ill to a Land.‖‖Eccl. 10. 16, 17.Eccl 10:16Eccl 10:17 But Happy is that LAND, whoſe Rulers Eat and Drink in Seaſon, for Strength, and not for Drunkenneſs.

USE III. This tells us it is an awful Judgment upon a People, when they p. 76want ſuch, as are fit to Support the Character and Dignity of Gods; or when thoſe that are beſt Qualify'd are thro' Prejudice lay'd aſide. This is too often the melancholy State of a People. Sometimes tho' ſtrict ſearch be made for men to make up the Hedge round a People, and to ſtand in the Gap, none can be found: They have no ſtrong Rods for a Sceptre to Rule them, Sometimes thoſe that are beſt qualify'd by inward Ability's, and outward Circumſtances, are thro' a ſpirit of Prejudice and Partiality overlookt; and Voted unfit to Serve a People. The Rule of Elections many times is not, Merit, Capacity, and Integrity, but ſome other Conſiderations, that rather argue Perſons unfit than qualify'd for Service. Such, as have too much the Command of the Publick Voice, will have this Man prefer'd becauſe he is of the Right Party, as they call it, will Eſpouſe this or the other Intereſt, and oppoſe ſome others in Place, who right or wrong muſt be Oppoſed: ſuch an one is Voted of the right ſtamp; and is wonderfully accompliſhed for Rule, tho' wholly deſtitute of Wiſdom, Probity, and a true p. 77Genius for Government. On the other ſide, This & That Man muſt be lay'd aſide as Unqualify'd, only becauſe either his Brains were not caſt in the ſame Mould, and has not juſt the ſame ſet of Thoughts with ſome others, who would fain ſet up for the firſt Miniſters of State, and Maſters of Policy: theſe deſpair to carry on their own Private, Dark Deſigns by them; they can't make them their Tools, ſpeak thro' them, and act by them. And by this means it comes to paſs the moſt Worthy are rejected, and not improved; while the Unworthy, the Weak, the Halt and Blind are exalted; who are more fit to reſemble the Dumb, Deaf, and Blind Idols of the Heathen, which are Empty within, and are fit only to fill up an Empty ſpace; tho' Adored by the People, yet are uncapable of being Gods to them; than to reſemble the Li…ing JEHOVAH. Theſe can never aſſert the Honour of their Place, anſwer the End of the Ordination of Rule over men: and a People under the Management of ſuch, muſt without a miracle, be mean and deſpicable; the very Tail among the Nations round about. When therefore this p. 78is the caſe of a Land, it calls for the deepeſt Lamentation. The Diſeaſe of ſuch a People is next to Incurable.

USE IV. Hence, It it is a great Bleſſing to Enjoy Rulers that in a good meaſure do maintain the Dignity, & diſcharge the Duties, which become their Character; and a People thus Priviledged ought to be Thankful to GOD. Good Rulers are the moſt lively Emblems of GOD on Earth: They are the BREATH of a Peoples Noſtrils; the whole Common Wealth is as it were Breathing in them; and they as neceſſary to the Life and Well-being of the State; as Breath for the Continuance of Natural Life. Theſe are as David the Light of Iſrael, which cannot be quenched without bringing Darkneſs upon a whole Land: Such are the Glory of a Land; It is becauſe GOD loves a People, that he ſets ſuch in Authority over them. The Spirit of GOD has given us the moſt Lively Repreſentation of ſuch Rulers, 2 Sam. 23. 4. He ſhall be as the Light of the Morning, when the Sun riſeth; even a Morning without Clouds; as the tender Graſs ſpringing out of the p. 79Earth, by clear Shining after Rain. Theſe are the Glory of Humane Race: and the Ear that hears them, ſhall bleſs them; and the Eye that ſees them, ſhall bear a Teſtimony to them. When the Righteous are Exalted the City Rejoyceth, Prov. 11.10.

What Reaſon then have the Britiſh Kingdoms and Dominions to Triumph in the Divine Favour! That GOD has Exalted to the Throne a QUEEN, who is the Refuge of the Diſtreſſed both at HOME and Abroad; the Powerful Aſſertor not only of the Liberties Civil and Sacred of Her own People, but alſo of the Common Rights of Mankind in generous Compaſſion to Oppreſſed Neighbours; under whoſe Shadow our Nations at Home ſecurely Sit, and Enjoy their moſt Valuable Bleſſings; and we in theſe Diſtant Provinces moſt ſenſibly Feel, and are Cheriſh'd with the Benign Influences of Her Light, Favour and Conduct. The Glory of Her Reign has been indeed Shaded by the Dark Lines of a Bloody War, Engaged in not from Choice, but Neceſſity both of Juſtice and Mercy, yet has been to a Miracle Brighten'd with the Smiles of Heaven, in a Series of p. 80Victories, and Triumphs, as will be ſcarce Credible to Poſterity. Let Her Greatneſs, and Glory Encreaſe; Let the Secrecy of the Divine Preſence be always Her Pavilion; Let Her Perſon, and Government be Preſerved by Tutelar Angels from Dark Practices, and Open Violences; Let the Crown long Flouriſh on Her Sacred Head, to the Terror of Her Enemies; and to the Security, Joy, and Triumph of all the Friends of Zion; And be late Tranſlated to that Throne above that will not Totter, and that Crown that ſhall never Fade away.

May I not add without ſuſpicion of Flattery? that the preſent Government which is immediately over us in this Province, ought to be eſteem'd as a Favour of Heaven, which challenges a Tribute of Gratitude, and Praiſe? Is it not a great Favour to a People to have ſuch in Rule over them, as they have reaſon to believe, notwithſtanding all their Infirmities, mainly to deſire, aim at, and endeavour the Publick Good; and to approve themſelves God's to them? Is it not a Rich Bleſſing that we do not ſee men of infamous Luſts, whoſe Lives are the laſt Defiance to all that p. 81is Sacred, and Divine, to Religion, Common Honeſty and Sobriety, openly wallowing in the groſſeſt Pollutions of Senſuality: Is it not a Valuable Bleſſing, that we do not ſee ſuch Madneſs and Folly ſet in great Dignity over us, which would make Vice Reputable? Is it not a Priviledge, that our Zion has ſome of her own Sons to take her by the Hand, who cannot but have a peculiar Tenderneſs for her? And of ſuch we ſee this Day the firſt Chair of Government, the Council Table, and the Seats of Judgment filled: May GOD long continue the Bleſſing. And if any, either thro' Stupidity, or Malignity, will not ſee, or not acknowledge the Smiles of Divine Providence on theſe accounts; I wiſh they be never made to feel by doleful Experience, the vaſt Difference of being Protected and Refreſh'd under the Shadow of the ſpreading Vine, and being Scratcht and Torn by the Bramble.

USE V. This teaches us the Duty of a People to their Rulers; viz. To treat them according to the Dignity of that Character and Title, that GOD has dignify'd them with.

p. 82A Tribute of Honour, Reverence, and Dutiful Regards is their undoubted due from their People. Regard them as GOD's Deligates, and Viceroys; as Arm'd with his Power, and Engag'd in his Service for your Good; as Living Images of the Immortal KING of Glory. Honour them for GOD Himſelf has put Honour upon them. Do all you can properly to Support their Dignity, and Maintain their Character: For it can never go well with a People, when Government is brought into Contempt. Government has ſomething too Divine in it to be inſulted, and rudely treated. You can't deſpiſe their Authority, but you muſt deſpiſe GOD himſelf; and ſpit on his Image; which He will certainly reſent. And it becomes a People to remember that they are Mortal, and Accountable as well as their Rulers. Let your regards therefore to Rulers be anſwerable to that Condition GOD has placed them in; and as may agree with thoſe Beams of Divinity, with which they ſhine. Do all that you may to Encourage them in their Work which is Difficult & moſt Important. Own GOD's Name, Image, and Superſcription, that they p. 83bear, and do nothing to Deface them.

Hence, All Murmurings, Diſcontents, Evil Surmiſings and Jealouſies, all Seeds of Faction & Sedition muſt be ſuppreſſed with the greateſt care among a People. If Rulers are Gods, they are not to be Reviled, Blaſphemed, Arraigned and Condemned by every Haughty, Inſolent, and Diſcontented Spirit. To be Murmurers, and to ſpeak Evil of Dignities, are Evils of a black Character in the Word of GOD; and may not be Play'd with. And yet how common are theſe Evils! And how many Corrupt Principles are too frequently found among a People, which lead to theſe! Some are prompted to foment Jealouſies of Rulers, that they may be Popular, or that they may be thought Perſons of a deeper Reach, and quicker Sight than others; and therefore pretend to ſee evil Deſigns at the bottom of Publick Adminiſtrations, that their Blind Neighbours are not aware of. Sometimes they deny Government it's juſt Honours, becauſe, they imagine, they are not regarded, as their Merit calls for: Some are ſo full of themſelves, and ſo giddy with the Contemplation of their own ſuppoſed Excellencies, p. 84that they think they have a Right to impoſe their Schemes as Perfect Models of Prudence, and that their Phanſy's ought to be Entertain'd as infallible Oracles, and that it will never be well with State and Church till it be ſo. Their actions declare their ſenſe that they are the Men, and that Wiſdom will Dye with them; and that with their Bolt too ſoon ſhot, they can out-ſhoot all about them. Hence if their Thoughts are not Entertained with a deep Silence, profound Reverence, and be not made the Publick Rule; they Vote themſelves Deſpiſed, and Affronted, & the Publick Betray'd & Ruined. And hence ariſe Diſcontents, Jealouſies, & hard Cenſuring of Rulers: Hence the Errors of Government are needleſly Expoſed, and unkindly Deſcanted on, and oftentimes Errors only ſuppoſed are Bruited about as real and certain: Nay their Laudable actions inſideouſly repreſented to their diſadvantage. Thus the Gods are too often Reviled, and evilly Entreated. Brethren, theſe things ought not to be ſo: Our Religion will not allow it. GOD was angry with Aaron and Miriam, tho' p. 85Perſons of Character themſelves, for ſpeaking againſt his Servant Moſes.

Again, If Rulers are Gods, then their Character demands Submiſſion and Obedience from a People. The Dignity and Authority of their Station calls for it; and both Law and Goſpel require it as their due. Rebellion and Diſobedience againſt GOD's Vice-gerents in the Lawful Execution of their Office is Rebellion againſt GOD himſelf in the laſt reſult. And agreeably we are to be Obedient to Civil Government, not only for Wrath but for Conſcience ſake.

I am not Ignorant to what an extravagant heighth the Doctrine of Submiſſion to Rulers has been carry'd by ſome; and I wiſh I could ſee no danger of the Contrary Extream of depreſſing it to a meer Nullity. Extreams on both hands are to be avoided; for both are dangerous to a State. The One may Expoſe a People to the Oppreſſions of Sullen Tyranny; the Other to the Confuſions of Lawleſs Anarchy: The One Subjects a State to the rigorous Impoſitions of a Deſpotick Power, Paramount to all Law, Reaſon and Conſcience, the Other lays it open p. 86to the Wild Humors of an Ungovern'd Multitude; to the Fury, Madneſs and Noiſe of the People.

Doubtleſs GOD has not left a State without a Regular Remedy to Save it ſelf, when the Fundamental Conſtitution of a People is Overturned; their Laws and Liberties, Religion and Properties are openly Invaded, and ready to be made a Publick Sacrifice. But on the other ſide, it is beyond me to imagine that the GOD of Order has ever inveſted any men of a Private Station, who can with a Nodd inflame and raiſe the Multitude, with a Lawful Power, on pretence of Publick Miſmanagements, to Embroyl the State, and Overturn the Foundations of Government.

I am neither Afraid, nor Aſham'd to ſay, I ſhould be glad to ſee the Doctrine of Submiſſion to Rulers, in it's Juſt and Undoubted Meaſures, better Stated and Qualify'd on all ſides, than ever yet I have ſeen it: and when ever that ſhall be done, ſure I am, that theſe following Admonitions, and Precepts will not be found Apocryphal, but Apoſtolical and Divine; Rom. 12. 1, 2. Let every Soul be ſubject to the Higher p. 87Powers, &c. Who ever reſiſteth the Power, reſiſteth the Ordinance of GOD, &c. Be Subject not only for Wrath, but Conſcience ſake, Ver. 5. So, 1 Pet. 2. 13,14,15. Submit your ſelves to every Ordinance of Man, for the LORD's ſake; whether it be to the King as Supream, or unto Governours, as unto them that are ſent by Him, for a Puniſhment to Evil doers, and for the Praiſe of them that do Well. For ſo is the Will of GOD. And, Mat. 22. 21. Render unto Caeſar the things that are Caeſars, &c. And it is made part of the Charge of a Goſpel Miniſter to put their Flock in mind to be Subject to Principalities and Powers, and to Obey Magiſtrates, Tit. 3. 1. Theſe are Chriſtian Duties, and men had need to ſee their Obligation to them Cancell'd, before they are made matter of Banter and Ridicule. Without Diſpute, thro' a forgetfulneſs of theſe Precepts, many dark Intreagues againſt a well form'd Government are frequently carry'd on by men of Secret and Ill Deſigns: Of which I ſhall only ſay, O my Soul! Enter thou not into their Secrets, unto their Aſſembly mine Honour be thou not United.

p. 88USE VI. Our Text gives Divine Counſel to ſuch as have the Liberty and Power of Nominating & Electing Perſons to Place of Rule over men. And the Advice is that there be a due regard had to ſuch as are beſt Qualify'd to Support the Character of Gods, and to Reſemble the Bleſſed GOD in their Adminiſtrations. This Rule is to be obſerved in Communicating Power of any kind or degree, and in what ever way it is derived to others. Commiſſions of Peace, and War are not to be given of Courſe, or made matters of pure Complement; but an Eye is to be had to the Qualifications of men to be Authorized; that they be ſuch as will improve aright the Power committed to them; and be as Gods in their Station.

But I ſhall only Conſider this Rule as it may be Serviceable to direct the Elections of this Day. The Liberty and Priviledge of the preſent Election is very great, if rightly uſed; and I Pray GOD we may never be Taught the Value of it, by its Loſs.

Let thoſe that are immediately concern'd in the Electing Perſons this Day to be of p. 89Her MAJESTY'S Council in this Province to conſider the Character that has been open'd before them. You are, Honourable Gentlemen, highly Intruſted by GOD with a great Opportunity to Serve HIM, your QUEEN and Countrey; You are under the accurate Obſervation of GOD, and this People, how you uſe your preſent Power; and it is well worthy your tho't, that it is a Talent you muſt account for, when you become Inſtances of Mortality. Here is a ſafe Rule before you, by which you may proceed with Honour & Safety. And the Rule is, that your Voices be given to ſuch, as ſhall be moſt fit to Aſſert their Dignity, Support their Character, & Promote the End of Government, the Good of the People: To ſuch, as are of the beſt Port, Influence, Life and Activity, Courage and Reſolution, Knowledge and Juſtice, and of known Piety to GOD, and approved Loyalty to the QUEEN. For theſe will be moſt fit to act the part aſſign'd them to the Honour of Government, and the Publick Good. Elections muſt not be made by Perſonal Favour. None muſt be Choſen, nor Overlook…, barely becauſe p. 90cauſe they are Friends to theſe, or Enemies to thoſe. Be not led in your Choice by ſecret ſuggeſtions in a Corner, where one man may be Canonized, and a better Reprobated: But be governed by the Known Characters of men, that are generally approved of. This was the ancient Rule,††… Take men known among your Tribes. Take men, not of Licence, but of indiſputable Vertue; who ſeem to Live in all their Relations under a realizing View of Death and the Eternal Judgment: Men who beſt underſtand the Religious and Civil Intereſts of their People; who are Governed not by Narrow & Selfiſh Principles, but by a Publick Generous Spirit; who know how to deſerve the Publick Applauſe, and how to deſpiſe it, and can be content to bear the ill Will of a People, if they may but do them Good. In a word, they muſt be men ſenſible of the Sufferings, Mourning over the Degeneracies of this People, and their Fleſh & Heart trembling at the Tokens of Divine Wrath upon them. Theſe will be beſt Qualify'd for the Dignity, and Faithful to the Duty of Government: Moſt likely to be Images p. 91of GOD, whoſe Name is imprinted on them. Theſe GOD will approve of; will be an Honour to their Place, and a Glory to the Land. It this Rule be obſerved, we ſhall this Day have an happy Preſage that GOD has not withdrawn his Preſence nor Glory from us.

USE VII. The Conſideration of our Text will ſuggeſt Divine Counſel to all Orders and Degrees of Men in Government, by which to Regulate their Conduct in their Publick Capacity. Since the Great LORD of the World has Honoured you with his Stile, Name and ſome Rayes of his Power, by all the Rules of Equity, Decency & Honour, you are obliged to Act up to the Dignity of your Character, Form your ſelves in your Adminiſtrations after the Example of the Divine Rule, and ſo approve your ſelves Gods. Your Countrey has a juſt Claim to all that Care, Tenderneſs Protection, and Comfort, which may render them Safe under your Wings, and you truly Venerable in their Eyes. Your Title calls for a Superiority in all that is Good and Vertuous, in proportion to your Superiority p. 92in Name and Power; and it is vain for any to expect to Maintain the Honour of their State of Exaltation, without that Real Majeſty, and Excellency diſplayed in their Managements, which will command the Reverence, Love and Eſteem of all about them. GOD, who has to an obſervable degree Cloathed you with his own Honour, expects that on no terms you Betray it, but Aſſert it, by a GOD-like Diſcharge of that great Truſt committed to you. The admonition given to Titus, a Ruler in the Church of GOD; is with equal Force applicable to Rulers in the State, Tit. 2. 15. Let no man Deſpiſe thee. Thus if you will anſwer your Character, you muſt let no man Deſpiſe you: i. e. Do nothing that ſhall deſerve Contempt, that ſhall ſlur your Names, and proſtitute your Honour; nothing that ſhall weaken your Authority, deſtroy that Reverence that is due to the Dignity of your Place, or that may make others Entertain Mean and Deſpicable thoughts of you. For otherwiſe you will invite Floods of Contempt, and Open Indignities, which will be to GOD's Diſhonour as well as yours. But on the Contrary, p. 93let thoſe Divine Vertues ſhine in your Conduct, that ſhall render your Perſons Venerable and Amiable, Command Reverence and Awe, and make the Glory of your Name appear with untarniſhed Luſtre. This is the Counſel of Heaven. And to render it more influential, it may be more Particularly directed,

I. In the firſt Place, Let this Counſel of Heaven be Addreſſed with all Dutiful Submiſſion to YOUR EXCELLENCY, whom GOD, and our Gracious QUEEN, has Seated at the Head of our Gods, in the firſt Chair of Dignity and Power over this Province. Your Excellency's Commands together with the Deſires of your Honourable Council, have Order'd me into this awful Deſk at this time. And will you ſuffer me, SIR, In the Name of that GOD, whoſe Character you bear, as to Aſſert the Dignity of your Station, and demand your Right to the Honour and Duty of this People, and the Tribute of their Prayers and Thanksgivings; ſo with all Humility to Suggeſt, that GOD's Honour is greatly concerned, p. 94and bound up with yours, and by Maintaining your Real Excellency and Dignity as the Chief among our Gods, you will do great Honour and Service to that GOD whoſe Repreſentative you are; that by your Wiſe, Juſt, Impartial, and Compaſſionate Adminiſtrations, you will give us a Lively Picture of the Divine Government: That in your Example, we may ſee what a Beautiful Figure the Powers of Government, when found in Conjunction with the Vertues of a diſtinguiſhing Prudence and Integrity, will make; and may be forced to acknowledge that the Glory of ſuch a Rule over Men may be view'd not barely in a Lifeleſs Picture and Abſtracted Idea, but in Reality and Life being Exemplify'd in your Conduct. Thus you will approve your Self, in a qualify'd ſenſe, a God, i. e. a Diffuſive Bleſſing to your People; and your Name will be as a Precious Oyntment, the Perfume whereof will reach far and wide; and will be tranſmitted with bright Characters of Honour to Late Poſterity. What are Statues & Triumphal Arches, when compared with theſe Superior Marks of Honour but Deſpicable Baubles?

p. 95GOD has called you, SIR, to the Heim in the moſt Stormy and Dark Day that ever paſt over this Province: When we never more needed a Perſon of uncommon Sagacity, Addreſs, Application and Diſpatch, to Steer us ſafe through the many Perplexities and Involvements of a Long and Bloody War. And we truſt it was in Love to our Zion, that GOD has appointed One of her own Sons at ſuch a time to take her by the Hand, and Comfort her. The State of this Afflicted and Sinful People you are Placed over muſt needs render your Difficulties Many and Great, and your Burden Heavy: We ſympathize with you, and out Prayers are Night and Day beſieging the Throne of Grace on your account. It is the Work of GOD you are Engaged in; be Encouraged in it, and let not your Heart Faint what ever Hardſhips you may Encounter; GOD will obſerve all the Patience, Self-denyal that ſhall be Exerciſed for his Service and his Peoples Good; He will be with you in your Faithful Adminiſtrations, and your Labours will not be found in Vain.

And may you always be under Heaven's p. 96Propitious Conduct, to Direct and Succeed your Adminiſtrations: May the Bleſſings of the Celebrated Joſeph deſcend upon you; Your Bow abide in Strength, the Arms of your Hands be ſtrengthned by the Hands of the Mighty GOD of Jacob; Even by the GOD of thy Father who ſhall Help thee, and by the Almighty, who ſhall Bleſs thee: May you be Honoured with more Enlarged Meaſures of His SPIRIT, that you may Shine in your Exalted Orb with Brighter and Brighter Beams of Divine Grace, Excellency and Glory; that when Mortality ſhall overtake you, which you have dayly Admonitions of in your Bodily Infirmities, you may have an Euge from the SON of GOD, Your Maſter and Judge; and may joyn the Bright Throng of Elohim, Angels and the Spirits of Juſt Men, that incircle the Throne of GOD and the LAMB with Proſtration and Praiſe.

II. Let this word of Counſel from GOD be Addreſt to the whole GENERAL ASSEMBLY: The Bleſſed GOD, who is a GREAT KING, and whoſe Name is Dreadful, does Expect and Require that p. 97you Study to ſhew your ſelves Worthy of that Name, with which you are dignify'd. As you are Gods by Office, labour to be Gods by Analogy, reaching after the neareſt conformity to GOD, and the exacteſt imitation of Him, in your Publick Capacities; by which alone you will be able to ſecure and illuſtrate the Glory of your Title, and approve your ſelves not only in Name, but in Truth Gods on Earth. GOD Himſelf has called you Gods; but thoſe that are not ſkilful, thoughtful, vigilant and active to promote the Publick Safety and Happineſs, are not Gods, but dead Idols. The Name inſcribed on you is to give Rules and Meaſures, Life and Force to your Conſultations for the Publick Weal. And there never was a day, that called for a more full Exerciſe of your Wiſdom, Righteouſneſs, Vigilancy and Courage in their higheſt improvements, than this, in which you are called to be the Saviours of this People. The bleeding State of this Land, languiſhing under Sin and Judgment cannot but ſtir up your Paternal bowels, and quicken your Counſels and Endeavours for its Safety. Be then humbly intreated by p. 98your juſt regards for your own Honour, and GOD's Glory; by your Love and Tenderneſs for your People, to approve your ſelves Miniſters of GOD for our Good.

And there are two comprehenſive Articles, in which you may approve your ſelves Worthy of the Character of our Gods.

(1.) You will Aſſert your Dignity by Exerting your Powers to free the Land from thoſe Sins, which are the Reproach of a People. It is beyond queſtion that there are many groſs Sins found among us, by which Heaven is Defy'd and the Land Polluted. Not only Spiritual Iniquities, as Pride, Hatred, Malice, Envyings, Unbelief, and the Spirit of the World; but alſo open Abominations, and groſs Immoralities, which do by a natural Cauſality, as well as moral Influence, cauſe the Crown to fall from our heads. Chriſt's Ambaſſadors can do little to reſtrain many of theſe bold Tranſgreſſors. They may cry aloud and not ſpare, but theſe ſtop their Ears like the deaf Adder. They are too much of an Adamantine temper and make to be h…wen by the Prophets. They p. 99are like the Leviathan, proof againſt all the Arrows taken out of the quiver of GOD's Word; the Sword of the Spirit cannot pierce thro' their Scales. We may warn them from GOD, and Set the Terrors of the Eternal Judgment before them, but theſe are at preſent inviſible and diſtant things, which their Infidel Senſes have no reſentment of. There is but little hope to reform ſuch, unleſs you can make the Sword of Juſtice to reach them. And poſſibly tho' they fear not the Wrath of the Inviſible GOD, yet they may be made to fear the Wrath of our Viſible Gods, when like a Roaring Lyon it threatens to devour them. This therefore calls for your Care, and Courage.

Is not our Land deluged with Intemperance and Drunkneſs? And is not the Contagion of this Sin ſpread far and wide in Spite of all Remedies hitherto applyed, and as the Deſtruction, not only walketh in darkneſs, but waſteth at Noon day? Is there not too juſt a Complaint thro' our Towns, That the Aſſemblings of the People whether for Civil Tranſactions, Military Exerciſes, nay for Religion on p. 100Lecture days, End in Intemperate Drinking and Debauchery? And what will be the End of theſe things?

Again, Are not the Cryes of Injuſtice, and Diſhoneſty in our dealings, Evils moſt Scandalous to our Profeſſion, yet loud in the Ears of GOD, and of all that tremble at his Anger? Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no Phyſitian there? Why then is not the health of this People recovered? Have there not been proper Bills, brought forward once and again, by the Motion and Encouragement of his Excellency our Governour, which have hitherto been ſtrangled in the birth? And can any good Account be given of them? May there not be many things done by this Honourable Court to Save us from theſe deſtroying Evils? May not Laws be brought forward which are further neceſſary; and care taken for their Execution, that their Edge may on no pretence be rebated, that Iniquity may be forced to ſneak and hide its guilty head, if not fully reformed? This Work belongs to you, Our Fathers; be wiſe and reſolute herein, and GOD will be with you.

p. 101Suffer me here to add, That it is Obvious that the Province is in great Danger by thoſe Frauds and Forgeries committed upon out Bills of Publick Credit: And may it not be worthy your Conſideration, whether ſome more terrible Puniſhment, than our Laws have yet provided, may not be Eſtabliſht to Reſtrain ſuch inſolent Sons of Fraud and Violence? What Policy will allow of I may not determine; but I am well ſatisfy'd that the Crime is of ſo deep a Malignity, that Conſcience and Religion will not forbid the Laſt and Heavieſt Puniſhment.

(2.) You will Aſſert your Dignity, by doing what you can to maintain the Honour and Glory of CHRIST's Kingdom among us. You are appointed by GOD as Guardians of the Religion, as well as Civil Liberties of his People. Your Character obliges you to Exert your Power for the Protection, Preſervation, and Glory of his Kingdom.

Allow me Liberty to hint at a few things neceſſary to this End.

It is requiſite to the Glory of CHRIST's Kingdom, that Schools for Liberal Education p. 102be Supported and Cheriſh'd. Without this we may Expect the Revolution of the Barbarous Age. We have good Laws in Force for this Deſign; but are they not Openly Eluded and Play'd with!

The Honour of CHRIST's Kingdom requires that the Miniſtry be honourably Supported: But by a criminal neglect hereof how are they brought into contempt? their gifts dampt, and under little growth and improvement, being forced to sp… too much of that time in the Field to get their bread, which is due to their Studies? Are not their Allowances generally Inſufficient; and theſe too often unjuſtly with-held? And may you not find a Remedy for this Grievance?

Again, if CHRIST's Kingdom be kept up in its Glory, our Pulpits muſt be guarded from the Ignorant, and Diſſolute; the confident Boaſter, and the heady Impoſtor. And this is to be deſpaired of unleſs a due Tryal of the Candidates of the Miniſtry be Eſtabliſht by your Authority.

p. 103The Laſt hint ſhall be, that our Church Government muſt be Strengthen'd, if the Kingdom of CHRIST be preſerved in it's Viſible Glory. This Government is much Enfeebled; and one cauſe is becauſe there is not a more Publick Regular & Cloſe Union between Particular Churches. Something to remedy this has been by a Venerable Synod Propounded under the Head of the Conſociation of Churches in a Vicinity: And ſome Propoſals have Lately been made, to bring that Synodical Determination into Practice, by the Body of our Miniſters; but nothing has been Effected through Weakneſs of our Church State: the Propoſals themſelves have been miſrepreſented, and Prophanely deſcanted on, and the Body of our Miniſters inſulted, and Blaſphemed by ſome of the Sons of Corah.

Let me here take Liberty to Offer to the Conſideration of our Fathers in Government, whether the Convening a Synod by your Authority at this Day to Conſider what Remedy's may be Apply'd to theſe p. 104and other Diſtempers which our Church State is Enfeebled by, may not be more than a Prudential, a Preſent Duty. The Uſe & Neceſſity of SYNODS for Reformation, has been Aſſerted through all Ages of the Church. Can there be a more Favourable Opportunity for Calling a Synod Expected, than under the Preſent Adminiſtration, and before ſome of our moſt Ancient Worthy's in the Miniſtry are Tranſlated to a Better World? If a Synod be not a ſufficient Remedy for the Evils our Churches Labour of; or the Remedy be thought as Dangerous as the Diſeaſe; what Darkneſs, Confuſion, and Diſorder may we not Fear will ſoon overtake us?

If you are reſolved to appears as Gods for us, you have Power to do much for this People on theſe accounts: You have now an Opportunity in your Hands. And if GOD ſpirit you for your Work, and make you Inſtrumental to Lengthen out our Tranquility; Uncommon Honours will be decreed you in Both Worlds. Tho' you muſt Dy like Men, yet you ſhall Riſe and p. 105Live like the Angels of GOD. You are now ſtyled Gods, and if you Maintain the Glory of your Character, and Reſemble GOD, you ſhall not be Degraded in the Next Life; You ſhall be found Worthy to ſtand before the SON OF MAN at his Appearance and Kingdom; Worthy of that World and the Reſurrection.

To Conclude, Let the Whole Body of this People be perſwaded to approve themſelves Worthy of ſuch Rulers, by aſpiring after an holy Conformity to, and Imitation of GOD. What remains! But that we lift up our hearts to GOD in Heaven, that He would give us ſuch Rulers to go in and out before us. And if GOD will Anſwer us, and make our Rulers, and this People to be GOD like, we ſhall be a happy People. The Mountains will bring forth Peace, and the little Hills Righteouſneſs: Our Land ſhall not be called Deſolate, nor Forſaken; for the Glory of the LORD ſhall ariſe upon it. GOD Himſelf will ariſe and Save us: And we ſhall have Reaſon to ſend our p. 106Praiſes on high, and Sing with the Church; As, Pſal. 72. 18, 19. Bleſſed be the Lord God, the God of Iſrael, who only doth Wondrous Things: And Bleſſed be His Glorious Name for Ever; and let the whole Earth be filled with His Glory. AMEN, and AMEN.

FINIS.

End of the text · Ebenezer Pemberton, The Divine Original and Dignity of Government Asserted (1710)