All this is no more than the distinction, which everybody is
acquainted with, between MERE POWER and AUTHORITY: only instead of
being intended to express the difference between what is possible
and what is lawful in civil government, here it has been shown
applicable to the several principles in the mind of man. Thus that
principle by which we survey, and either approve or disapprove our
own heart, temper, and actions, is not only to be considered as what
is in its turn to have some influence--which may be said of every
passion, of the lowest appetites--but likewise as being superior, as
from its very nature manifestly claiming superiority over all
others, insomuch that you cannot form a notion of this faculty,
conscience, without taking in judgment, direction, superintendency.
This is a constituent part of the idea--that is, of the faculty
itself; and to preside and govern, from the very economy and
constitution of man, belongs to it. Had it strength, as it had
right; had it power, as it had manifest authority, it would
absolutely govern the world.

This gives us a further view of the nature of man; shows us what
course of life we were made for: not only that our real nature
leads us to be influenced in some degree by reflection and
conscience, but likewise in what degree we are to be influenced by
it, if we will fall in with, and act agreeably to, the constitution
of our nature: that this faculty was placed within to be our proper
governor, to direct and regulate all under principles, passions, and
motives of action. This is its right and office: thus sacred is
its authority. And how often soever men violate and rebelliously
refuse to submit to it, for supposed interest which they cannot
otherwise obtain, or for the sake of passion which they cannot