Choose a topic from Part 2A:
1. The effect of law is to make men good. For law is anordinance of reason; it is the function of such ordinance to directmen, through virtue, to their true end. If, however, the intentionof the lawgiver is not to direct men to their true goal, the lawdoes not tend to make mengood simply; it tends tomake men good only in the sense that they conform well with theintention of the law. Hence, a tyrannous law that aims at herdingmen into servile obedience, tends to make men good slaves.But after all, a tyrannous law is not a true law, for it is not inline with reason; it is not truly an ordinance of reason.
2. Law seeks to obtain its effect by directing those bound byit, and its requirements are expressed in four ways: permission,command, prohibition, penalty.
"God commands not impossibilities, but by commanding he suggests to you to do what you can, to ask for what is beyond your strength; and he helps you, that you may be able."
St Augustine
* * *
"Many words do not satisfy the soul; but a good life eases the mind and a clean conscience inspires great trust in God."
Thomas á Kempis
* * *
"God gives us some things, as the beginning of faith, even when we do not pray. Other things, such as perseverance, he has only provided for those who pray."
St Augustine
* * *