But that we may not appear to build our assertions on subjects of such importance and difficulty on the ground of inference alone, or to require the assent of our hearers to what is only conjectural, let us see whether we can obtain any declarations from holy Scripture, by the authority of which these positions may be more credibly maintained. And, firstly, we shall adduce what holy Scripture contains regarding wicked powers; we shall next continue our investigation with regard to the others, as the Lord shall be pleased to enlighten us, that in matters of such difficulty we may ascertain what is nearest to the truth, or what ought to be our opinions agreeably to the standard of religion. (Book I, Chapter 5, Part 4)

Scripture offers the collected wisdom of 25 centuries and aspects of oral tradition at least twice as long.

It is a wisdom regarding the relationship of God with creation and between God and specific men and women.

Through history, story, and poetry scripture shows us how and why this relationship can be complicated or advanced.

The image is of St. Matthew and the Angel by Carvaggio.