The Civil Government
We believe that because of the depravity of the human race, our good God has ordained kings, princes, and civil officers.1 God wants the world to be governed by laws and policies so that human lawlessness may be restrained and that everything may be conducted in good order among human beings.2 For that purpose God has placed the sword in the hands of the government, to punish evil people and protect the good.3
And the government's task is not limited to caring for and watching over the public domain but extends also to upholding the sacred ministry, with a view to removing and destroying all idolatry and false worship of the Antichrist; to promoting the kingdom of Jesus Christ; and to furthering the preaching of the gospel everywhere; to the end that God may be honored and served by everyone, as he requires in his Word.4
Moreover everyone, regardless of status, condition, or rank, must be subject to the government, and pay taxes,5 and hold its representatives in honor and respect, and obey them in all things that are not in conflict with God's Word,6 praying for them that the Lord may be willing to lead them in all their ways7 and that we may live a peaceful and quiet life in all piety and decency.8
And on this matter we denounce the Anabaptists and other seditious people, and in general all those who reject the higher powers and civil officers and would subvert justice, introduce common ownership of goods, and overturn the good order that God has established among human beings.9