Panthenosia: The Composition of All Dissensions

in which it was destined to pass into our worlds; although we have hitherto received it weak, the Savior has nevertheless never permitted it to perish in us to such a degree that we did not maintain a correct judgment, not only regarding other matters, but especially regarding these two first principles. Now, indeed, who—because of the difference in certain intermediate truths—would wish to repel from the human assembly those who together grasp or believe that there is a God, and that He is a rewarder? For this faith is the only thing necessary for those who approach. For as they progress, the other axioms will become known. Let us rejoice, therefore, O Sons, Brothers, Fathers, daughters, sisters, mothers, in this one thing: that the Turks, Jews, Christians, Heretics, Pagans, and all the nations of the world both believe that God exists, and all either possess or seek Jesus. For the whole world believes that He is, and that He is a rewarder to those who believe. Furthermore, so that truths common to all, elicited from the nature of God and the condition of created nature, may be proposed and received by the whole world without any prevarication, we shall first ponder exactly these three: God, Nature, and Salvation. Nor is there any need to follow that abyss of writing which is dispersed in innumerable volumes of nature and grace: but only to presuppose those absolute truths which, regarding the rationale of eternal truth, are necessary for the judgment of all.