Receiving the Word with humilty
Now then we see that God will have his word received with like humility when he sends men to declare his commandments, as if he himself were among them. The doctrine that is set forth in the name of God, ought to have as much authority [in the mouth of a man] as if all the Angels of Heaven came down to us, or as if God showed His majesty presently before our eyes. Yes and it is the thing wherein he will try the obedience of our faith. True it is that we ought to use good discretion when men speak. For if we should receive all that is put to us there should be no difference between liars and false prophets who seduce our souls and the true ministers of God. But if we have sure warrant that the thing which is bought us proceeds of God, it is certain that any who make any resistance in this case does not make war against a creature but manifestly withstand God, who will be heard when he speaks so by men and serves his turn by them as by his instrument. [John Calvin]
