A30570:112
The excellency of holy courage in evil times by Jeremiah Burroughs
The excellency of holy courage in evil times by Jeremiah Burroughs ; published by Thomas Goodwin ... [et al.]
London: printed by Peter Cole and Edward Cole, 1661
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
3. And Thirdly. None do fear authority in so good a manner; they do it willingly and cheerfully, not by force, but as being the will of God they should do it; it is agreeable to the disposition of their souls for to do it. Naturally, no man would be under another, but it is agreeable to grace to be so, and therefore no such subjects, as those that are Godly, if it be rightly considered.
3. And Thirdly. None do feare authority in so good a manner; they do it willingly and cheerefully, not by force, but as being the will of God they should do it; it is agreeable to the disposition of their souls for to do it. Naturally, no man would be under another, but it is agreeable to grace to be so, and therefore no such subjects, as those that are Godly, if it be rightly considered.
It hath been a scandal cast upon Religion in all ages that they did contemn authority, and did not give that fear that was due to authority. As Pharaoh said, they would rebel against him; and so they said in Nehemiahs time Just in Martyr and Tertullian, were fain to make apologies for the Christians in this particular, to convince them, that none were more obedient to authority then they.
It hath been a scandal cast upon Religion in all ages that they did contemne authority, and did not give that feare that was due to authority. As Pharoah said, they would rebell against him; and so they said in Nehemiahs time Just in Martyr and Tertullian, were fain to make apologies for the Christians in this particular, to convince them, that none were more obedient to authority then they.
Tertullian hath a notable expression in his apology. What is the reason you do not count us obedient to authority? because we will not worship Idols, and pray to the Idols for your Governors? yet we pray to the True God for your Governors. Like men in these days, because they will not yield their Consciences prostrate to authority, and seek the honour of it in an unlawful way, therefore they are not subject to them, when as, none are so truly subject unto men, as those that are obedient unto God.