There was a time when these people would have been burned at the stake......some things just cry out for that kind of justice
Although what you say, and this is just my opinion, is that some of it was allowed by God or even used by God to mete out just punishments.
It's supposed to be from the top down, not necessarily lethal but as a medicinal means to cleanse the church. But what do I know? I just have an opinion is all.