Canon 24

1Commandment.

2Let there be a chief who commands the people and rebukes them by the cross, for we command and do not bind except with justice. If a priest defies them while they are innocent, let priests be appointed over him in justice. If they are unable to deal with him, let them send him to the bishop or the archbishop, who shall correct him justly. They shall not allow him to trespass against Christ’s sheep, whom he purchased with his precious blood. They shall not embitter them, lest they proceed to blaspheme God and deny his holy name.

3Let the faithful be good and endure oppression as is fitting, so that God may avenge them. Let the appointed official show no partiality in judgment among the people, and let his sentence take effect.

4Whoever justifies a wrongdoer because of what he gives, or wrongs an innocent person because of his weakness and poverty, shall be excommunicated and accursed. They shall regard him as nothing but an idolater. They shall deprive anyone who does this of his office and rebuke him for his wrongdoing. Do not let his episcopate frighten you.