In a word, the peculiar principles of Christianity literally obeyed, would entirely subvert from its foundations every political society now existing.

If this assertion is doubted, let the doubter read the works of the early Fathers, and he will see that their morality is totally incompatible with the preservation and prosperity of a state.
He will see according to Lactantius, and others, that "no Christian can lawfully be a soldier." That according to Justin, "no Christian can be a magistrate." That according to Chrysostom, "no Christian ought to be a merchant" And that according to several, "no Christian ought t study." In fine, joining these maxims together with those of the New Testament, it will follow, that a Christian, who as he is commanded, aims at perfection, is a useless member of the community, useless to his family, and to all around him.

He is an idle dreamer, who thinks of nothing but futurity; who has nothing in common with the interests of the world, and according to Tertullian "has no other business but to get out of it as quietly as possible." Let us hearken to Esebius of Caesarea, and we shall abundantly discover the truth of what has been said.
"The manner of life, (says he,) of the Christian church, surpasses our present nature, and the common life of men.

It seeks neither marriage, nor children, nor riches.

In fine, it is entirely a stranger to human modes of living.