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Election sermons -- Massachusetts Books

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Ezra S. (Ezra Stiles) Gannett

The Religion of Politics
 A Sermon Delivered Before His Excellency John Davis, Governor, His Honor George Hull, Lieutenant Governor, The Honorable Council, And The Legislature Of Massachusetts, At The Annual Election, January 5, 1842.

"The Religion of Politics" by Ezra S. Gannett is a sermon delivered in early 19th century America, specifically in 1842. This work falls under the category of religious discourse and the analysis of political ethics. The sermon addresses the intertwining of religion and politics, arguing for the essential role of religious principles guiding political action among both citizens and governmental leaders. In this sermon, Gannett elaborates on the necessity for individuals engaged in political life to apply their religious convictions to their civic duties. He asserts that morality and political action should not be separate; rather, they must be harmonized so that each citizen acts with integrity, love, and a sense of responsibility before God. Throughout the text, Gannett explores the implications of faith in public service, emphasizing that true patriotism must be grounded in virtue and accountability. He calls for a political climate where decisions reflect moral consciousness and respect for every individual's rights and dignity, ultimately unifying religious observance and political engagement as vital to the nation's integrity.

James Walker

A Sermon Delivered before His Excellency Levi Lincoln, Governor, His Honor Thomas L. Winthrop, Lieutenant Governor, the Hon. Council, the Senate, and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, on the day of General Election, May 28, 1828

"A Sermon Delivered before His Excellency Levi Lincoln, Governor, His Honor Thomas L. Winthrop Lieutenant Governor, the Hon. Council, the Senate, and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, on the Day of General Election, May 28, 1828" by James Walker is a religious discourse presented as a sermon, likely written in the early 19th century. This book addresses the moral responsibilities of citizens in a democratic society, emphasizing the importance of character and integrity in public office. In this sermon, James Walker reflects on the significant role that the electorate plays in determining the quality of its leaders, cautions against the influence of bad public figures on societal morals, and stresses that the private character of individuals deeply affects their public effectiveness. He articulates the challenging climate of political factions and the risks of electing leaders based on popularity rather than merit. Walker underscores the legacy of virtuous leadership in American history, particularly during the nation's formative years, and he calls for a return to principles of honesty and capability in governance, while also imploring listeners to maintain vigilance in preserving the values of their democracy.

Mark Hopkins

A Sermon, Delivered Before His Excellency Edward Everett, Governor, His Honor George Hull, Lieutenant Governor, the Honorable Council, and the Legislature of Massachusetts, on the Anniversary Election, January 2, 1839

"A Sermon, Delivered Before His Excellency Edward Everett, Governor, His Honor George Hull, Lieutenant Governor, the Honorable Council, and the Legislature of Massachusetts, on the Anniversary Election, January 2, 1839" by Mark Hopkins, D.D. is a religious sermon delivered in the early 19th century. The work takes a reflective look at the relationship between divine authority and human governance, asserting that individuals should prioritize obedience to God over compliance to human laws. The text expresses a strong theme of moral responsibility and the nature of civil liberty within the context of faith. In the sermon, Hopkins explores the idea that human laws and governments are necessary for societal cohesion but are fundamentally inferior to the divine laws established by God. He argues that true moral perfection is achieved through obedience to divine principles, which are intended to guide human behavior towards individual and social fulfillment. The sermon emphasizes that governments derive their authority from God and must align their laws with divine justice. Hopkins warns against the tyranny of power that seeks to dominate the moral conscience, asserting the importance of a free conscience governed by faith. He concludes by urging political leaders to recognize their duty to uphold God's laws, ensuring that their governance is imbued with moral integrity for the common good.

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