History Of Methodist Reform, Volume I - Media Sabda Org

the part of the people, is unjust and vicious in its nature. Property, is dominion held in right of power,
and if in the hands of a few, the balance of government is destroyed, by enabling them to control the
destiny of the whole. As it is the duty of every community, to support those, who are only called to
the administration of its affairs, so it is plainly a matter of right, that the will of the people, should
determine the necessary amount of supplies, and the mode of their assessment and collection.
Art. 19th. Punishments should never be inflicted in any community, except when strictly
necessary, and plainly called for by the public good; and in all cases, the affliction should be
according to law. All punishments, proceeding from the regular administration of constitutional law,
should be submitted to without resistance.
Art. 20th. The subjects of all governments, have a right to know the official acts and doings of
their agents and officers, and to demand their publication accordingly.
Art. 21st. The vindication of an injured people, in a contention for their rights, is furnished by the
shameful denial of their existence.
Art. 22d. Any movement by the oppressed, to recover their rights, will be resisted by those who
have oppressed them; but suffering and persecution, in a cause, which the love of God and man
requires, should be fearlessly met and resolutely borne.
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