Monday, October 3, 2022

day no. 16,051: bearing the sword... one way or the other

"The Emperor Trajan held not himself exempt from laws, neither desired he to be spared if he
became a tyrant; for in delivering the sword unto the great provost of the empire, he says unto
him: 'If I command as I should, use this sword for me: but if I do otherways, unsheathe it against me.'" -- Junius Brutus, Vindiciae Contra Tyrannos

A man under authority deserves defense from his subordinates, but a man out of control deserves to have his subordinates as his disciplinarians. Those who will not be under authority should not be allowed to remain in authority over others. Authorities are given the sword in order to be deacons of God's wrath, but if they, themselves, become rebellious, the sword should not only be taken from them, but turned against them.

Romans 13:4-5
For he (i.e. governing authority) is the minister ("deacon") of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister ("deacon") of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

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