A62049:67
Men are gods, or, The dignity of magistracy, and the duty of the magistrate…
Men are gods, or, The dignity of magistracy, and the duty of the magistrate as it was presented in a sermon at the assize holden at Hertford for that county on August 2, 1653 / by George Swinnocke ...
London: printed by R.W. for Nevil Simmons, 1660
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.
Secondly, their dignity appeareth (and in this they resemble God also) in giving Laws to others. Magistrates have power to enact laws for the encouraging of virtue, and discouraging of vice,1 for the preservation of peace among their people. Zanchy saith There are three offices of the Magistrate, whereof one is to ordain laws for the worship of God, and the welfare of men.
Secondly, their dignity appeareth (and in this they resemble God also) in giving Laws to others. Magistrates have power to enact laws for the encouraging of vertue, and discouraging of vice,1 for the preservation of peace among their people. Zanchy saith There are three offices of the Magistrate, whereof one is to ordain laws for the worship of God, and the welfare of men.
- 1This is a Godlike privilege, Isa 33.21. to make laws for men, to prescribe what creatures shall do; and what they shall forbear. Zanch. de Magistrat.This is a Godlike priviledge, Isa 33.21. to make laws for men, to prescribe what creatures shall do; and what they shall forbear. Zanch. de Magistrat.
There is indeed one Supreme and absolute Lawgiver, James 4.12. whose will and word must be the rule of others laws. Besides in spirituals, none can give laws to bind the conscience but God, Isa. 33.21. In that sense, The Lord is our Judge, the Lord is our Law-giver; but in external policy the Laws of men are to be observed. And they have power to make such laws as are suitable unto, and convenient for the wealth and safety of their Dominions.