Mixt contemplations in better times by Thomas Fuller ...

XXIV. Alike but contrary.

I Observe in Scripture, that Power to do some deeds is a sufficient Au∣thority to do them. Thus Sampson's Power to pluck down the two Funda∣mental Pillars of Dagon's Temple, was authority enough for him to doe it.

Eliah's Power to make fire to come at his call on the two Captains was au∣thority enough to do it, because such deeds were above the strength, sta∣ture & standard of human proportion.

However hence it doth not follow that it is lawfull for a private man with Axes and Hammers to beat down a Christian Church, because Sampson pluckt down Dagon's Tem∣ple; nor doth it follow that men may burn their brethren with fagot and fire, because Eliah called for fire from heaven; These being acts not miracu∣lous but mischievous; & no might from heaven, but meer malice from Hell,

required for the atchieving thereof.

Here it is hard to say, which of these two things have done most mischief in England; Publick persons having Private soules and Narrow hearts, consulting their own ease and advantage, or private persons having vast designes to invade publick im∣ployments. This is most sure that be∣twixt them both they have almost undone the most flourishing Church and State in the Christian world.