Scripture Verse

Render…unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s. Matthew 22:21

Introduction

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Isaac Watts (1674–1748)

Words: Is­aac Watts, Hymns and Spi­ri­tu­al Songs 1707–09, Book 2, num­ber 149. Hon­or to ma­gis­trates; or Gov­ern­ment from God.

Music: St. Anne Will­iam Croft, 1708 (🔊 pdf nwc).

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William Croft (1678–1727)

Lyrics

Eternal sovereign of the sky,
And Lord of all below;
We mortals to Thy majesty
Our first obedience owe.

Our souls adore Thy throne supreme,
And bless Thy providence,
For magistrates of meaner name,
Our glo­ry and defense.

The crowns of British princes shine
With rays above the rest,
Where laws and liberties combine
To make the nation blessed.

Kingdoms on firm foundations stand,
While virtue finds reward;
And sinners perish from the land
By justice and the sword.

Let Cæsar’s due be ever paid
To Cæsar and his throne;
But consciences and souls were made
To be the Lord’s alone.