The former suggested the means, the latter pointed out the objects of persecution.

The emperor was devoted to the worship of the gods, to the study of magic, and to the belief of oracles.

The prophets or philosophers, whom he revered as the favorites of Heaven, were frequently raised to the government of provinces, and admitted into his most secret councils.

They easily convinced him that the Christians had been indebted for their victories to their regular discipline, and that the weakness of polytheism had principally flowed from a want of union and subordination among the ministers of religion.

A system of government was therefore instituted, which was evidently copied from the policy of the church.