The Reformers, and Knox as their secretary and historian, had now reached a very difficult and delicate point in their labours.

Their purpose was, not by any means to secure toleration and freedom of conscience, but to extirpate the religion to which they were opposed.

It was the religion by law existing, the creed of "Authority," of the Regent and of the King and Queen whom she represented.

The position of the Congregation was therefore essentially that of rebels, and, in the state of opinion at the period, to be rebels was to be self-condemned.

In the eyes of Calvin and the learned of the Genevan Church, kings were the Lord's appointed, and the Gospel must not be supported by the sword.