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The triumph of the cross

Chapter 59: INTRODUCTION. METHOD OBSERVED THROUGHOUT THIS BOOK.
By Girolamo Savonarola
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About This Book

A four-part theological apologetic that defends core Christian doctrines through philosophical argument and scriptural exposition. The first section presents proofs for God’s existence, attributes, providence, and the soul’s immortality. The second argues that Christian faith coheres with truth and reason. The third examines central mysteries, asserting they are not intrinsically impossible nor contrary to rational thought. The fourth affirms the truth of Christian teaching while rebutting the claims and errors of rival philosophers, pagan practices, followers of other religions, and assorted heretical positions, combining intellectual argumentation with pastoral intent to instruct and vindicate the faith.

BOOK IV.

INTRODUCTION.
METHOD OBSERVED THROUGHOUT THIS BOOK.

Would that all men were sincerely zealous in the pursuit of truth. It would then be far easier to open their eyes to perceive it, for their intellect tending towards it, as to its perfection, would readily incline to embrace it. Indeed some men are so strongly attracted to truth, that they utter it even against their will.

The knowledge of a thing leads to the knowledge of its opposite; for instance, if we know the right side we shall know the left; and if we know what is true, we shall easily know what is false. And, although truth is at constant war with falsehood, nevertheless, he that draws nigh to truth, will ever be victorious. Therefore, when different and contrary opinions prevail among men, that opinion may be held to be most probably true which is supported by the soundest reasoning. Now, as there exists much discord amongst men on matters of religion, and the arguments in favour of Christianity are much stronger than those that can be advanced in support of any other form of belief, Christianity must indubitably be the true religion. This is the point which we shall undertake in this Book to prove, first in general, and then in particular.