Chapter XL

p. 246 Chapter XL.—Peter’s Answer.

In like manner Simon, by taking many passages from the Scriptures, seemed to show that God is subject to every infirmity.  And to this Peter said:  “Does he who is evil, and wholly wicked, love to accuse himself in the things in which he sins?  Answer me this.”  Then said Simon:  “He does not.”  Then said Peter:  “How, then, can God be evil and wicked, seeing that those evil things which have been commonly written regarding Him, have been added by His own will!”  Then said Simon:  “It may be that the charge against Him is written by another power, and not according to His choice.”  Then said Peter:  “Let us then, in the first place, inquire into this.  If, indeed, He has of His own will accused Himself, as you formerly acknowledged, then He is not wicked; but if it is done by another power, it must be inquired and investigated with all energy who hath subjected to all evils Him who alone is good.”