Chapter
XLV.—Use of the Foregoing Discussions.
It appears, then, that these speculations also have been
sufficiently explained by us. But since I think that I have
omitted no opinion found in this earthly and grovelling Wisdom, I
perceive that the solicitude
expended by us on these subjects has not been useless. For we
observe that our discourse has been serviceable not only for a
refutation of heresies, but also in reference to those who entertain
these opinions. Now these, when they encounter the extreme care
evinced by us, will even be struck with admiration of our earnestness,
and will not despise our industry and condemn Christians as fools when
they discern the opinions to which they themselves have stupidly
accorded their belief. And furthermore, those who, desirous of
learning, addict themselves to the truth, will be assisted by our
discourse to become, when they have learned the fundamental principles
of the heresies, more intelligent not only for the easy refutation of
those who have attempted to deceive them, but that also, when they have
ascertained the avowed opinions of the wise men, and have been made
acquainted with them, that they shall neither be confused by them as
ignorant persons would, nor become the dupes of certain individuals
acting as if from some authority; nay, more than this, they shall be on
their guard against those that are allowing themselves to become
victims to these delusions.