Though the devil is always opposed in will and endeavour to the will of God, he can do nothing without his permission and consent.
– Book 1, Chap 14, intro
It was a shrewd saying of a good old man, who when some one pertly asked in derision what God did before the world was created, answered he made a hell for the inquisitive (August. Confess., lib. 11 c. 12). This reproof, not less weighty than severe, should repress the tickling wantonness which urges many to indulge in vicious and hurtful speculation.
– Book 1, Chap 14, Sec 1