Government and Rebellion A Sermon Delivered in the North Broad Street Presbyterian Church, Sunday Morning, April 28, 1861

"Government and Rebellion" by E. E. Adams is a passionate sermon delivered in 1861 that tackles the complex issues of governance, rebellion, and citizen duty during the onset of the Civil War. Through biblical teachings and historical examples, the sermon makes a strong case against rebelling against a fair government, highlighting what makes a government just and when resistance might be justifiable. Adams distinguishes between different forms of defiance, arguing that the ongoing conflict is an immoral uprising, not a legitimate revolution against oppression, fueled by the intention to protect the immoral institution of slavery. Adams urges his listeners, particularly Christians, to actively support and defend their government, viewing it as both a civic and spiritual responsibility to oppose those trying to destroy the country's ideals. With powerful words, Adams calls on his audience to be loyal and proactive, framing the war as a crucial fight, emphasizing the need to protect justice, order, and freedom during those uncertain times.