Examine then, and see if He be not the dispenser of kingdoms, who is Lord at once of the world which is ruled, and of man himself who rules; if He have not ordained the changes of dynasties, with their appointed seasons, who was before all time, and made the world a body of times; if the rise and the fall of states are not the work of Him, under whose sovereignty the human race once existed without states at all.
Interpretation
This quote suggests that a divine power governs the rise and fall of kingdoms and human affairs.
Tertullian's quote emphasizes the belief that God is the ultimate authority behind the establishment and dissolution of empires and human endeavors. It reflects on the nature of sovereignty, suggesting that all political changes occur under divine orchestration, reminding humanity of a higher power that transcends temporal governance and influences the very fabric of civilization itself.
In practice
During a speech on governance, one might quote Tertullian to emphasize the role of divine intervention in political matters.
Whatever is born is the work of God. So whatever is plastered on, is the devil's work.... How unworthy of the Christian name it is to wear a fictitious face - you on whom simplicity in every form is enjoined! You, to whom lying with the tongue is not lawful, are lying in appearance.
Nature soaks every evil with either fear or shame.
For it is really better for us not to know a thing, because [God] has not revealed it to us, than to know it according to man’s wisdom, because he has been bold enough to assume it.
The first reaction to truth is hatred.
We say, and we say openly, and while ye torture us, mangled and gory we cry out, "We worship God through Christ!" Believe Him a man: it is through Him and in Him that God willeth Himself to be known and worshipped.
Against Him those women sin who torment their skin with potions, stain their cheeks with rouge and extend the line of their eyes with black coloring. Doubtless they are dissatisfied with God's plastic skill. In their own persons they convict and censure the Artificer of all things.
Whether you sniff it smoke it eat it or shove it up your ass the result is the same: addiction.
He was determined to discover the underlying logic behind the universe. Which was going to be hard, because there wasn't one.
Secrecy involves a tension which, at the moment of revelation, finds its release.
Terrorism fuels itself from all kinds of illicit trafficking: drugs, weapons, human beings.
Understand that thoughts are thoughts. If they are unreasonable, reason with them, even if you have no reason left. You are the observer of your mind, not its victim.
...that in our state one man was to do one job, and the job he was naturally most suited for .. And further, we have often heard and often said that justice consists of minding your own business and not interfering with other people.
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