Power is not alluring to pure minds.

It is time enough, for the rightful purposes of civil government, for its officers to interfere [in the propagation of religious teachings] when principles break out into overt acts against peace and good order.

Perfect happiness, I believe, was never intended by the Deity to be the lot of one of his creatures in this world; but that he has very much put in our power the nearness of our approaches to it is what I have steadfastly believed.

Single acts of tyranny may be ascribed to the accidental opinion of the day; but a series of oppressions, begun at a distinguished period, and pursued unalterably through every change of ministers (adminstrators) too plainly proves a deliberate, systematic plan of reducing us to slavery.

If we are to guard against ignorance and remain free, it is the responsibility of every American to be informed.

The doctrines of Jesus are simple, and tend to all the happiness of man.

The advocate of religious freedom is to expect neither peace nor forgiveness from [the clergy].