[CHAP. IX. Of Several RELIGIONS.]
Concerning the several Religions, and several Opinions in Religions, which are like several Kinds and Sorts; the Question is,
Whether all Mankind could be perswaded to be of one Religion, or Opinion?
The opinion of the Minor part of my Thoughts, was, That all men might be perswaded.
And, the opinion of the Major part of my Thoughts, was, That Nature, being divisible and compoundable, and having Free-will, as well as Self-motion; and being Irregular, as well as Regular; as also, Variable, taking delight in variety; it was impossible for all Mankind to be of one Religion, or Opinion.
The opinion of the Minor part of my Thoughts, 246,$ was, That the Grace of GOD could perswade all Men to one Opinion.
The Major part of my Thoughts was of opinion, That GOD might decree or command Nature: but, to alter Nature's nature, could not be done, unless GOD, by his Decree, would annihilate this Nature, and create another Nature, and such a Nature as was not like this Nature: for, it is the nature of this Material Nature, to be Alterable; as also, to be Irregular, as well as Regular; and, being Regular, and Irregular, was a fit and proper Subject for GOD's Justice, and Mercies; Punishments, and Rewards.