Institutes of the Christian Religion
Book III, Chapter XIX
OF CHRISTIAN LIBERTY

Institutes of the Christian Religion
Book IV, Chap. XX
OF CIVIL GOVERNMENT

Sections.

1. Last part of the whole work, relating to the institution of Civil Government. The consideration of it necessary,
   1. To refute the Anabaptists.
   2. To refute the flatterers of princes.
   3. To excite our gratitude to God.
   Civil government not opposed to Christian liberty. 
   Civil government to be distinguished from the spiritual kingdom of Christ.
2. Objections of the Anabaptists,
   1. That civil government is unworthy of a Christian man.
   2. That it is diametrically repugnant to the Christian profession. Answer.
3. The answer confirmed. Discourse reduced to three heads,
   1. Of Laws.
   2. Of Magistrates.
   3. Of the People.

4. The Magistrates

   The office of Magistrates approved by God.
   1. They are called Gods.
   2. They are ordained by the wisdom of God. Examples of pious Magistrates.
5. Civil government appointed by God for Jews, not Christians. This objection answered.
6. Divine appointment of Magistrates. Effect which this ought to have on Magistrates themselves.
7. This consideration should repress the fury of the Anabaptists.
8. Three forms of civil government, Monarchy, Aristocracy, Democracy. 
   Impossible absolutely to say which is best.
9. Of the duty of Magistrates. Their first care the preservation of the Christian religion and true piety. This proved.
10. Objections of Anabaptists to this view. These answered.
11. Lawfulness of War.
12. Objection that the lawfulness of War is not taught in Scripture. Answer.
13. Right of exacting tribute and raising revenues.