Disputation XII: On Simony

SINCE the gifts and benefits of God are conferred on us freely, it is justly held an abomination to seek base gain from them; for the Divine goodness wills that what we have received freely, we should likewise give freely, nor does it suffer that, while we are enriched by its beneficent bounty, we should exact anything from others who know how to use the talents given them. Hence D. Peter first repelled, with the sharpest rebuke, Simon Magus attempting this crime with horrible daring: act. 8. thy money be with thee unto perdition, because thou hast thought the gift of God to be possessed for money; doubtless because that which surpasses all price is unworthy to be claimed for a price.