power but from God, and those that are, are ordained of God, Therefore, he that resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God; and they that resist, purchase to themselves damnation. Wherefore be subject of necessity, not only for wrath, but also for conscience ' sake. Render therefore to all men their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor' (Rom. xiii. 1-7). — Examples: Jesus and the first Christians. David towards Saul (1 Kings xxiv, 7).
18. How do we sin against our Civil Rulers?
1. By hatred and contempt; 2. By reviling and blaspheming them; 3. By refusing to pay the taxes due to them; 4. By resistance and rebellion; and 5. By any sort of treason, violence, or conspiracy, against our Government and country.
Of those 'who despise dominion, and blaspheme majesty,' the Apostle St. Jude says: 'These are murmurers, full of complaints, walking according to their own desires, and their mouth speaketh proud things, admiring persons for gain's sake' (Jude 8 and 16).
19. When are parents, superiors, and sovereigns not to be obeyed?
When they command anything unlawful before God.
*We ought to obey God rather than men' (Acts vii. 29). — Examples: Joseph in the house of Putiphar; Susanna; the three Young Men at Babylon; the seven Machabees; the Apostles before the Council.
20. How should young people behave towards the aged?
Young people should treat the aged respectfully, listen to their good advice, and, as far as possible, lighten the burden of their old age.
'Rise up before the hoary head, and honor the person of the aged man, and fear the Lord thy God' (Levit. xix. 32).
Application. Hearken now to your parents, teachers, Pastors, etc., and follow them, 'Lest thou mourn at the last, and say: Why have I hated instruction, and my heart consented not to reproof, and have not heard the voice of them that taught me. and have not inclined my ear to masters?' (Prov. v. 11-13).
