The Writings of the Apostolic Fathers

CHAP. XI.—_Request to them to send a messenger to Antioch._

SHORTER.

Your prayer has reached to the church which is at Antioch in Syria. Coming from that place bound with chains, most acceptable to God,[1301] I salute all; I who am not worthy to be styled from thence, inasmuch as I am the least of them. Nevertheless, according to the will of God, I have been thought worthy [of this honour], not that I have any sense[1302] [of having deserved it], but by the grace of God, which I wish may be perfectly given to me, that through your prayers I may attain to God. In order, therefore, that your work may be complete both on earth and in heaven, it is fitting that, for the honour of God, your church should elect some worthy delegate;[1303] so that he, journeying into Syria, may congratulate them that they are [now] at peace, and are restored to[1304] their proper greatness, and that their proper constitution[1305] has been re-established among them. It seems then to me a becoming thing, that you should send some one of your number with an epistle, so that, in company with them, he may rejoice[1306] over the tranquillity which, according to the will of God, they have obtained, and because that, through your prayers, they have now reached the harbour. As persons who are perfect, ye should also aim at[1307] those things which are perfect. For when ye are desirous to do well, God is also ready to assist you.

LONGER.

Your prayers have reached to the church of Antioch, and it is at peace. Coming from that place bound, I salute all; I who am not worthy to be styled from thence, inasmuch as I am the least of them. Nevertheless, according to the will of God, I have been thought worthy [of this honour], not that I have any sense[1308] [of having deserved it], but by the grace of God, which I wish may be perfectly given to me, that through your prayers I may attain to God. In order, therefore, that your work may be complete both on earth and in heaven, it is fitting that, for the honour of God, your church should elect some worthy delegate;[1309] so that he, journeying into Syria, may congratulate them that they are [now] at peace, and are restored to their proper greatness, and that their proper constitution[1310] has been re-established among them. What appears to me proper to be done is this, that you should send some one of your number with an epistle, so that, in company with them, he may rejoice over the tranquillity which, according to the will of God, they have obtained, and because that, through your prayers, I have secured Christ as a safe harbour. As persons who are perfect, ye should also aim at[1311] those things which are perfect. For when ye are desirous to do well, God is also ready to assist you.

CHAP. XII.—_Salutations._

SHORTER.

The love of the brethren at Troas salutes you; whence also I write to you by Burrhus, whom ye sent with me, together with the Ephesians, your brethren, and who has in all things refreshed me. And I would that all may imitate him, as being a pattern of a minister[1312] of God. Grace will reward him in all things. I salute your most worthy[1313] bishop, and your very venerable[1314] presbytery, and your deacons, my fellow-servants, and all of you individually, as well as generally, in the name of Jesus Christ, and in His flesh and blood, in His passion and resurrection, both corporeal and spiritual, in union with God and you.[1315] Grace, mercy, peace, and patience, be with you for evermore!

LONGER.

The love of your brethren at Troas salutes you; whence also I write to you by Burgus, whom ye sent with me, together with the Ephesians, your brethren, and who has in all things refreshed me. And I would that all may imitate him, as being a pattern of a minister of God. The grace of the Lord will reward him in all things. I salute your most worthy bishop Polycarp, and your venerable presbytery, and your Christ-bearing deacons, my fellow-servants, and all of you individually, as well as generally, in the name of Christ Jesus, and in His flesh and blood, in His passion and resurrection, both corporeal and spiritual, in union with God and you. Grace, mercy, peace, and patience, be with you in Christ for evermore!

_Conclusion._

SHORTER.

I salute the families of my brethren, with their wives and children, and the virgins who are called widows.[1316] Be ye strong, I pray, in the power of the Holy Ghost. Philo, who is with me, greets you. I salute the house of Tavias, and pray that it may be confirmed in faith and love, both corporeal and spiritual. I salute Alce, my well-beloved,[1317] and the incomparable Daphnus, and Eutecnus, and all by name. Fare ye well in the grace of God.

LONGER.

I salute the families of my brethren, with their wives and children, and those that are ever virgins, and the widows. Be ye strong, I pray, in the power of the Holy Ghost. Philo, my fellow-servant, who is with me, greets you. I salute the house of Tavias, and pray that it may be confirmed in faith and love, both corporeal and spiritual. I salute Alce, my well-beloved, and the incomparable Daphnus, and Eutecnus, and all by name. Fare ye well in the grace of God, and of our Lord Jesus Christ, being filled with the Holy Spirit, and divine and sacred wisdom.

Footnote 1230:

Literally, “holy-bearing.”

Footnote 1231:

Rom. i. 3.

Footnote 1232:

Theodoret, in quoting this passage, reads, “the Godhead and power.”

Footnote 1233:

Matt. iii. 15.

Footnote 1234:

_i.e._ the cross, “fruit” being put for _Christ on the tree_.

Footnote 1235:

Isa. v. 26, xlix. 22.

Footnote 1236:

Col. i. 15.

Footnote 1237:

Rom. i. 3.

Footnote 1238:

Matt. iii. 15.

Footnote 1239:

Literally, “we are.”

Footnote 1240:

Or, “seeing that they are phantasmal and diabolical,” as some render; but the above is preferable.

Footnote 1241:

John i. 14.

Footnote 1242:

John ii. 19.

Footnote 1243:

John xii. 32.

Footnote 1244:

Prov. ix. 1.

Footnote 1245:

Num. xxi. 9; John iii. 14.

Footnote 1246:

Literally, “in the flesh.”

Footnote 1247:

Literally, “demon.” According to Jerome, this quotation is from the Gospel of the Nazarenes. Comp. Luke xxiv. 39.

Footnote 1248:

Literally, “above death.”

Footnote 1249:

Literally, “demon.” According to Jerome, this quotation is from the Gospel of the Nazarenes. Comp. Luke xxiv. 39.

Footnote 1250:

Luke xxiv. 39.

Footnote 1251:

John xx. 27.

Footnote 1252:

John xx. 28.

Footnote 1253:

Acts i. 11.

Footnote 1254:

Rev. i. 7.

Footnote 1255:

Zech. xii. 10.

Footnote 1256:

Or, “mark.”

Footnote 1257:

Comp. Rom. viii. 17.

Footnote 1258:

Comp. Phil. iv. 13.

Footnote 1259:

Or, “foolishly.”

Footnote 1260:

_i.e._ As they imagine Christ to have suffered only in appearance, so they believe that we suffer in vain.

Footnote 1261:

Literally, “a flesh-bearer.”

Footnote 1262:

Literally, “a death-bearer.”

Footnote 1263:

Literally, “a flesh-bearer.”

Footnote 1264:

Literally, “the glory of the angels.”

Footnote 1265:

Literally, “judgment is to them.”

Footnote 1266:

Matt. xix. 12.

Footnote 1267:

Literally, “the whole is.”

Footnote 1268:

Matt. xix. 12.

Footnote 1269:

Deut. vi. 5.

Footnote 1270:

John xvii. 31.

Footnote 1271:

John xiii. 34; Matt. xxii. 40.

Footnote 1272:

Theodoret, in quoting this passage, reads προσφορὰς, “offering.”

Footnote 1273:

Literally, “die disputing.”

Footnote 1274:

Literally, “to love.” Some think there is a reference to the _agapæ_, or _love-feasts_.

Footnote 1275:

The reading is περὶ in the one case, and μετά in the other, though the latter meaning seems preferable. Most of the MSS. of the longer recension read περί, as in the shorter.

Footnote 1276:

Literally, “perfected.”

Footnote 1277:

Literally, “drove Adam out of.”

Footnote 1278:

Zech. iii. 1.

Footnote 1279:

Luke xxii. 31.

Footnote 1280:

Eph. ii. 2.

Footnote 1281:

Luke xxii. 32.

Footnote 1282:

The reading is περὶ in the one case, and μετά in the other, though the latter meaning seems preferable. Most of the MSS. of the longer recension read περί, as in the shorter.

Footnote 1283:

Or, “command.”

Footnote 1284:

Or, “firm.”

Footnote 1285:

Or, “firm.”

Footnote 1286:

Or, “firm.”

Footnote 1287:

Some refer the words to the Lord’s Supper.

Footnote 1288:

Or, “finally.”

Footnote 1289:

Literally, “to know.”

Footnote 1290:

Ps. vi. 5.

Footnote 1291:

Isa. lxii. 11.

Footnote 1292:

Prov. xxiv. 21.

Footnote 1293:

Comp. Heb. x. 29.

Footnote 1294:

Or, “great.”

Footnote 1295:

Matt. x. 41.

Footnote 1296:

Or, “deacons.”

Footnote 1297:

Comp. Epistle of Ignatius to Ephesians, chap. xxi.; to Polycarp, chap. ii. vi.

Footnote 1298:

Or, “deacons.”

Footnote 1299:

2 Tim. i. 18.

Footnote 1300:

Comp. Epistle of Ignatius to Ephesians, chap. xxi.; to Polycarp, chap. ii. vi.

Footnote 1301:

Literally, “most becoming of God.”

Footnote 1302:

Or, “from any conscience.”

Footnote 1303:

Literally, “God-ambassador.”

Footnote 1304:

Or, “have received.”

Footnote 1305:

Literally, “body.”

Footnote 1306:

Literally, “may glorify with them.”

Footnote 1307:

Or, “think of.”

Footnote 1308:

Or, “from any conscience.”

Footnote 1309:

Literally, “God-ambassador.”

Footnote 1310:

Literally, “body.”

Footnote 1311:

Or, “think of.”

Footnote 1312:

Or, “the ministry.”

Footnote 1313:

Literally, “worthy of God.”

Footnote 1314:

Literally, “most becoming of God.”

Footnote 1315:

Literally, “in the union of God and of you.”

Footnote 1316:

The _deaconesses_ seem to have been called _widows_.

Footnote 1317:

Literally, “the name desired of me.”

THE EPISTLE OF IGNATIUS TO POLYCARP.

SHORTER.

_Ignatius, who is also called Theophorus, to Polycarp, bishop of the church of the Smyrnæans, or rather, who has, as his own bishop, God the Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ: [wishes] abundance of happiness._

LONGER.

_Ignatius, bishop of Antioch, and a witness for Jesus Christ, to Polycarp, bishop of the church of the Smyrnæans, or rather, who has, as his own bishop, God the Father, and Jesus Christ: [wishes] abundance of happiness._

CHAP. I.—_Commendation and exhortation._

SHORTER.

Having obtained good proof that thy mind is fixed in God as upon an immoveable rock, I loudly glorify [His name] that I have been thought worthy [to behold] thy blameless face,[1318] which may I ever enjoy in God! I entreat thee, by the grace with which thou art clothed, to press forward in thy course, and to exhort all that they may be saved. Maintain thy position with all care, both in the flesh and spirit. Have a regard to preserve unity, than which nothing is better. Bear with all, even as the Lord does with thee. Support[1319] all in love, as also thou doest. Give thyself to prayer without ceasing.[1320] Implore additional understanding to what thou already hast. Be watchful, possessing a sleepless spirit. Speak to every man separately, as God enables thee.[1321] Bear the infirmities of all, as being a perfect athlete [in the Christian life]: where the labour is great, the gain is all the more.

LONGER.

Having obtained good proof that thy mind is fixed in God as upon an immoveable rock, I loudly glorify [His name] that I have been thought worthy to behold thy blameless face,[1322] which may I ever enjoy in God! I entreat thee, by the grace with which thou art clothed, to press forward in thy course, and to exhort all that they may be saved. Maintain thy position with all care, both in the flesh and spirit. Have a regard to preserve unity, than which nothing is better. Bear with all, even as the Lord does with thee. Support[1323] all in love, as also thou doest. Give thyself to prayer without ceasing.[1324] Implore additional understanding to what thou already hast. Be watchful, possessing a sleepless spirit. Speak to every man separately, as God enables thee.[1325] Bear the infirmities of all, as being a perfect athlete [in the Christian life], even as does the Lord of all. For says [the Scripture], “He Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.”[1326] Where the labour is great, the gain is all the more.

CHAP. II.—_Exhortations._

SHORTER.

If thou lovest the good disciples, no thanks are due to thee on that account; but rather seek by meekness to subdue the more troublesome. Every kind of wound is not healed with the same plaster. Mitigate violent attacks [of disease] by gentle applications.[1327] Be in all things “wise as a serpent, and harmless as a dove.”[1328] For this purpose thou art composed of both flesh and spirit, that thou mayest deal tenderly[1329] with those [evils] that present themselves visibly before thee. And as respects those that are not seen,[1330] pray that [God] would reveal them unto thee, in order that thou mayest be wanting in nothing, but mayest abound in every gift. The times call for thee, as pilots do for the winds, and as one tossed with tempest seeks for the haven, so that both thou [and those under thy care] may attain to God. Be sober as an athlete of God: the prize set before thee is immortality and eternal life, of which thou art also persuaded. In all things may my soul be for thine,[1331] and my bonds also, which thou hast loved.

LONGER.

If thou lovest the good disciples, no thanks are due to thee on that account; but rather seek by meekness to subdue the more troublesome. Every kind of wound is not healed with the same plaster. Mitigate violent attacks [of disease] by gentle applications.[1332] Be in all things “wise as a serpent, and harmless always as a dove.”[1333] For this purpose thou art composed of both soul and body, art both fleshly and spiritual, that thou mayest correct those [evils] that present themselves visibly before thee; and as respects those that are not seen, mayest pray that these should be revealed to thee, so that thou mayest be wanting in nothing, but mayest abound in every gift. The times call upon thee to pray. For as the wind aids the pilot of a ship, and as havens are advantageous for safety to a tempest-tossed vessel, so is also prayer to thee, in order that thou mayest attain to God. Be sober as an athlete of God, whose will is immortality and eternal life; of which thou art also persuaded. In all things may my soul be for thine,[1334] and my bonds also, which thou hast loved.

CHAP. III.—_Exhortations._

SHORTER.

Let not those who seem worthy of credit, but teach strange doctrines,[1335] fill thee with apprehension. Stand firm, as does an anvil which is beaten. It is the part of a noble[1336] athlete to be wounded, and yet to conquer. And especially, we ought to bear all things for the sake of God, that He also may bear with us. Be ever becoming more zealous than what thou art. Weigh carefully the times. Look for Him who is above all time, eternal and invisible, yet who became visible for our sakes; impalpable and impassible, yet who became passible on our account; and who in every kind of way suffered for our sakes.

LONGER.

Let not those who seem worthy of credit, but teach strange doctrines,[1337] fill thee with apprehension. Stand firm, as does an anvil which is beaten. It is the part of a noble[1338] athlete to be wounded, and yet to conquer. And especially we ought to bear all things for the sake of God, that He also may bear with us, and bring us into His kingdom. Add more and more to thy diligence; run thy race with increasing energy; weigh carefully the times. Whilst thou art here, be a conqueror; for here is the course, and there are the crowns. Look for Christ, the Son of God; who was before time, yet appeared in time; who was invisible by nature, yet visible in the flesh; who was impalpable, and could not be touched, as being without a body, but for our sakes became such, might be touched and handled in the body; who was impassible as God, but became passible for our sakes as man; and who in every kind of way suffered for our sakes.

CHAP. IV.—_Exhortations._

SHORTER.

Let not widows be neglected. Be thou, after the Lord, their protector[1339] and friend. Let nothing be done without thy consent; neither do thou anything without the approval of God, which indeed thou dost not, inasmuch as thou art stedfast. Let your assembling together be of frequent[1340] occurrence: seek after all by name.[1341] Do not despise either male or female slaves, yet neither let them be puffed up with conceit, but rather let them submit themselves[1342] the more, for the glory of God, that they may obtain from God a better liberty. Let them not long to be set free [from slavery] at the public expense, that they be not found slaves to their own desires.

LONGER.

Let not the widows be neglected. Be thou, after the Lord, their protector and friend. Let nothing be done without thy consent; neither do thou anything without the approval of God, which indeed thou doest not. Be thou stedfast. Let your assembling together be of frequent[1343] occurrence: seek after all by name.[1344] Do not despise either male or female slaves, yet neither let them be puffed up with conceit, but rather let them submit themselves[1345] the more, for the glory of God, that they may obtain from God a better liberty. Let them not wish to be set free [from slavery] at the public expense, that they be not found slaves to their own desires.

CHAP. V.—_The duties of husbands and wives._

SHORTER.

Flee evil arts; but all the more discourse in public regarding them.[1346] Speak to my sisters, that they love the Lord, and be satisfied with their husbands both in the flesh and spirit. In like manner also, exhort my brethren, in the name of Jesus Christ, that they love their wives, even as the Lord the church.[1347] If any one can continue in a state of purity,[1348] to the honour of Him who is Lord of the flesh,[1349] let him so remain without boasting. If he begins to boast, he is undone; and if he reckon himself greater than the bishop, he is ruined. But it becomes both men and women who marry, to form their union with the approval of the bishop, that their marriage may be according to God, and not after their own lust. Let all things be done to the honour of God.[1350]

LONGER.

Flee evil arts; but all the more discourse in public regarding them. Speak to my sisters, that they love the Lord, and be satisfied with their husbands both in the flesh and spirit. In like manner also, exhort my brethren, in the name of Jesus Christ, that they love their wives, even as the Lord the church. If any one can continue in a state of purity,[1351] to the honour of the flesh of the Lord, let him so remain without boasting. If he shall boast, he is undone; and if he seeks to be more prominent[1352] than the bishop, he is ruined. But it becomes both men and women who marry, to form their union with the approval of the bishop, that their marriage may be according to the Lord, and not after their own lust. Let all things be done to the honour of God.[1353]

CHAP. VI.—_The duties of the Christian flock._

SHORTER.

Give ye[1354] heed to the bishop, that God also may give heed to you. My soul be for theirs[1355] that are submissive to the bishop, to the presbyters, and to the deacons, and may my portion be along with them in God! Labour together with one another; strive in company together; run together; suffer together; sleep together; and awake together, as the stewards, and associates,[1356] and servants of God. Please ye Him under whom ye fight, and from whom ye receive your wages. Let none of you be found a deserter. Let your baptism endure as your arms; your faith as your helmet; your love as your spear; your patience as a complete panoply. Let your works be the charge[1357] assigned to you, that ye may receive a worthy recompense. Be long-suffering, therefore, with one another, in meekness, as God is towards you. May I have joy of you for ever![1358]

LONGER.

Give ye[1359] heed to the bishop, that God also may give heed to you. My soul be for theirs[1360] that are submissive to the bishop, to the presbytery, and to the deacons: may I have my portion with them from God! Labour together with one another; strive in company together; run together; suffer together; sleep together; and awake together, as the stewards, and associates,[1361] and servants of God. Please ye Him under whom ye fight, and from whom ye shall receive your wages. Let none of you be found a deserter. Let your baptism endure as your arms; your faith as your helmet; your love as your spear; your patience as a complete panoply. Let your works be the charge assigned to you, that you may obtain for them a most worthy[1362] recompense. Be long-suffering, therefore, with one another, in meekness, and God shall be so with you. May I have joy of you for ever!

CHAP. VII.—_Request that Polycarp would send a messenger to Antioch._

SHORTER.

Seeing that the church which is at Antioch in Syria is, as report has informed me, at peace, through your prayers, I also am the more encouraged, resting without anxiety in God,[1363] if indeed by means of suffering I may attain to God, so that, through your prayers, I may be found a disciple [of Christ].[1364] It is fitting, O Polycarp, most blessed in God, to assemble a very solemn[1365] council, and to elect one whom you greatly love, and know to be a man of activity, who may be designated the messenger of God;[1366] and to bestow on him this honour that he may go into Syria, and glorify your ever active love to the praise of Christ. A Christian has not power over himself, but must always be ready for[1367] the service of God. Now, this work is both God’s and yours, when ye shall have completed it to His glory.[1368] For I trust that, through grace, ye are prepared for every good work pertaining to God. Knowing, therefore, your energetic love of the truth, I have exhorted you by this brief epistle.

LONGER.

Seeing that the church which is at Antioch in Syria is, as report has informed me, at peace, through your prayers, I also am the more encouraged, resting without anxiety in God,[1369] if indeed by means of suffering I may attain to God, so that, through your prayers, I may be found a disciple [of Christ]. It is fitting, O Polycarp, most blessed in God, to assemble a very solemn[1370] council, and to elect one whom you greatly love, and know to be a man of activity, who may be designated the messenger of God;[1371] and to bestow on him the honour of going into Syria, so that, going into Syria, he may glorify your ever active love to the praise of God. A Christian has not power over himself, but must always be ready for[1372] the service of God. Now, this work is both God’s and yours, when ye shall have completed it. For I trust that, through grace, ye are prepared for every good work pertaining to God. Knowing your energetic love of the truth, I have exhorted you by this brief epistle.

CHAP. VIII.—_Let other churches also send to Antioch._

SHORTER.

Inasmuch as I have not been able to write to all the churches, because I must suddenly sail from Troas to Neapolis, as the will[1373] [of the emperor] enjoins, [I beg that] thou, as being acquainted with the purpose[1374] of God, wilt write to the adjacent churches, that they also may act in like manner, such as are able to do so sending messengers,[1375] and the others transmitting letters through those persons who are sent by thee, that thou[1376] mayest be glorified by a work[1377] which shall be remembered for ever, as indeed thou art worthy to be. I salute all by name, and in particular the wife of Epitropus, with all her house and children. I salute Attalus, my beloved. I salute him who shall be deemed worthy to go [from you] into Syria. Grace shall be with him for ever, and with Polycarp that sends him. I pray for your happiness for ever in our God, Jesus Christ, by whom continue ye in the unity and under the protection of God.[1378] I salute Alce, my dearly beloved.[1379] Fare ye well in the Lord.

LONGER.

Inasmuch, therefore, as I have not been able to write to all churches, because I must suddenly sail from Troas to Neapolis, as the will[1380] [of the emperor] enjoins, [I beg that] thou, as being acquainted with the purpose[1381] of God, wilt write to the adjacent churches, that they also may act in like manner, such as are able to do so sending messengers, and the others transmitting letters through those persons who are sent by thee, that thou mayest be glorified by a work[1382] which shall be remembered for ever, as indeed thou art worthy to be. I salute all by name, and in particular the wife of Epitropus, with all her house and children. I salute Attalus, my beloved. I salute him who shall be deemed worthy to go [from you] into Syria. Grace shall be with him for ever, and with Polycarp that sends him. I pray for your happiness for ever in our God, Jesus Christ, by whom continue ye in the unity and under the protection of God. I salute Alce, my dearly beloved[1383] Amen. Grace [be with you]. Fare ye well in the Lord.

Footnote 1318:

_i.e._ to make personal acquaintance with one esteemed so highly.

Footnote 1319:

Or, “tolerate.”

Footnote 1320:

Comp. 1 Thess. v. 17.

Footnote 1321:

Some read, “according to thy practice.”

Footnote 1322:

_i.e._ to make personal acquaintance with one esteemed so highly.

Footnote 1323:

Or, “tolerate.”

Footnote 1324:

Comp. 1 Thess. v. 17.

Footnote 1325:

Some read, “according to thy practice.”

Footnote 1326:

Matt. viii. 17.

Footnote 1327:

Literally, “paroxysms by embrocations.”

Footnote 1328:

Matt. x. 16.

Footnote 1329:

Literally, “flatter.”

Footnote 1330:

Some refer this to the mysteries of God, and others to things yet future.

Footnote 1331:

Comp. Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians, chap. xxi. etc.

Footnote 1332:

Literally, “paroxysms by embrocations.”

Footnote 1333:

Matt. x. 16.

Footnote 1334:

Comp. Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians, chap. xxi. etc.

Footnote 1335:

Comp. 1 Tim. i. 3, vi. 3.

Footnote 1336:

Literally, “great.”

Footnote 1337:

Comp. 1 Tim. i. 3, vi. 3.

Footnote 1338:

Literally, “great.”

Footnote 1339:

The word in the original (φροντιστὴς) denotes one who _thinks_ or _cares_ for another.

Footnote 1340:

Some refer the words to more _frequent_ meetings, and others to these meetings being more numerous; no comparison is necessarily implied.

Footnote 1341:

_i.e._ so as to bring them out to the public assembly.

Footnote 1342:

Or, “act the part of slaves.”

Footnote 1343:

Some refer the words to more _frequent_ meetings, and others to these meetings being more numerous; no comparison is necessarily implied.

Footnote 1344:

_i.e._ so as to bring them out to the public assembly.

Footnote 1345:

Or, “act the part of slaves.”

Footnote 1346:

Some insert μὴ, and render, “rather do not even speak of them.”

Footnote 1347:

Eph. v. 25.

Footnote 1348:

_i.e._ in celibacy.

Footnote 1349:

Some render, “to the honour of the flesh of the Lord,” as in the longer recension.

Footnote 1350:

Comp. 1 Cor. x. 31.

Footnote 1351:

_i.e._ in celibacy.

Footnote 1352:

Literally, “if he be known beyond the bishop.”

Footnote 1353:

Comp. 1 Cor. x. 31.

Footnote 1354:

As this epistle, though sent to the bishop, was meant to be read to the people, Ignatius here directly addresses them.

Footnote 1355:

Comp. chap. ii. etc.

Footnote 1356:

Or, “assessors.”

Footnote 1357:

A military reference, simply implying the idea of faithful effort leading to future reward.

Footnote 1358:

Comp. Ignatius’ Epistle to the Ephesians, chap. ii.

Footnote 1359:

As this epistle, though sent to the bishop, was meant to be read to the people, Ignatius here directly addresses them.

Footnote 1360:

Comp. chap. ii. etc.

Footnote 1361:

Or, “assessors.”

Footnote 1362:

Literally, “worthy of God.”

Footnote 1363:

Literally, “in freedom from care of God.”

Footnote 1364:

Some read, “in the resurrection.”

Footnote 1365:

Literally, “most befitting God.”

Footnote 1366:

Literally, “God-runner.”

Footnote 1367:

Literally, “at leisure for.”

Footnote 1368:

Literally, “to Him.”

Footnote 1369:

Literally, “in freedom from care of God.”

Footnote 1370:

Literally, “most befitting God.”

Footnote 1371:

Literally, “God-runner.”

Footnote 1372:

Literally, “at leisure for.”

Footnote 1373:

Some suppose the reference to be to the soldiers, or perhaps to God Himself.

Footnote 1374:

Or, “as possessed of the judgment.”

Footnote 1375:

Literally, “men on foot.”

Footnote 1376:

Some have the plural “ye” here.

Footnote 1377:

Literally, “an eternal work.”

Footnote 1378:

Some propose to read, “and of the bishop.”

Footnote 1379:

Literally, “name desired by me.”

Footnote 1380:

Some suppose the reference to be to the soldiers, or perhaps to God Himself.

Footnote 1381:

Or, “as possessed of the judgment.”

Footnote 1382:

Literally, “an eternal work.”

Footnote 1383:

Literally, “name desired by me.”

THE EPISTLES OF IGNATIUS AFTER THE SYRIAC VERSION.

INTRODUCTORY NOTICE.

Some account of the discovery of the Syriac version of the Ignatian Epistles has been already given (p. 141). We have simply to add here a brief description of the MSS. from which the Syriac text has been printed. That which is named α by Cureton, contains only the Epistle to Polycarp, and exhibits the text of that epistle which, after him, we have followed. He fixes its age somewhere in the first half of the sixth century, or before the year 550. The second MS., which Cureton refers to as β, is assigned by him to the seventh or eighth century. It contains the three Epistles of Ignatius, and furnishes the text here followed in the Epistles to the Ephesians and Romans. The third MS., which Cureton quotes as γ, has no date, but, as he tells us, “belonged to the collection acquired by Moses of Nisibis in A.D. 931, and was written apparently about three or four centuries earlier.” It contains the three epistles to Polycarp, the Ephesians, and the Romans. The text of all these MSS. is in several passages manifestly corrupt, and the translators appear at times to have mistaken the meaning of the Greek original.

THE EPISTLE OF IGNATIUS TO POLYCARP.[1384]

_Ignatius, who is [also called] Theophorus, to Polycarp, bishop of Smyrna, or rather, who has as his own bishop God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ: [wishes] abundance of happiness._

CHAP. I.

Because thy mind is acceptable to me, inasmuch as it is established in God, as on a rock which is immoveable, I glorify God the more exceedingly that I have been counted worthy of [seeing] thy face, which I longed after in God. Now I beseech thee, by the grace with which thou art clothed, to add [speed] to thy course, and that thou ever pray for all men that they may be saved, and that thou demand[1385] things which are befitting, with all assiduity both of the flesh and spirit. Be studious of unity, than which nothing is more precious. Bear with all men, even as our Lord beareth with thee. Show patience[1386] with all men in love, as [indeed] thou doest. Be stedfast in prayer. Ask for more understanding than that which thou [already] hast. Be watchful, as possessing a spirit which sleepeth not. Speak with every man according to the will of God. Bear the infirmities of all men as a perfect athlete; for where the labour is great, the gain is also great.

CHAP. II.

If thou lovest the good disciples only, thou hast no grace; [but] rather subdue those that are evil by gentleness. All [sorts of] wounds are not healed by the same medicine. Mitigate [the pain of] cutting[1387] by tenderness. Be wise as the serpent in everything, and innocent, with respect to those things which are requisite, even as the dove. For this reason thou art [composed] of both flesh and spirit, that thou mayest entice[1388] those things which are visible before thy face, and mayest ask, as to those which are concealed from thee, that they [too] may be revealed to thee, in order that thou be deficient in nothing, and mayest abound in all gifts. The time demands, even as a pilot does a ship, and as one who stands exposed to the tempest does a haven, that thou shouldst be worthy of God. Be thou watchful as an athlete of God. That which is promised to us is life eternal, which cannot be corrupted, of which things thou art also persuaded. In everything I will be instead[1389] of thy soul, and my bonds which thou hast loved.

CHAP. III.

Let not those who seem to be somewhat, and teach strange doctrines, strike thee with apprehension; but stand thou in the truth, as an athlete[1390] who is smitten, for it is [the part] of a great athlete to be smitten, and [yet] conquer. More especially is it fitting that we should bear everything for the sake of God, that He also may bear us. Be [still] more diligent than thou yet art. Be discerning of the times. Look for Him that is above the times, Him who has no times, Him who is invisible, Him who for our sakes became visible, Him who is impalpable, Him who is impassible, Him who for our sakes suffered, Him who endured everything in every form for our sakes.

CHAP. IV.

Let not the widows be overlooked; on account of[1391] our Lord be thou their guardian, and let nothing be done without thy will; also do thou nothing without the will of God, as indeed thou doest not. Stand rightly. Let there be frequent[1392] assemblies: ask every man [to them] by his name. Despise not slaves, either male or female; but neither let them be contemptuous, but let them labour the more as for the glory of God, that they may be counted worthy of a more precious freedom, which is of God. Let them not desire to be set free out of the common [fund], lest they be found the slaves of lusts.

CHAP. V.

Flee wicked arts; but all the more discourse regarding them. Speak to my sisters, that they love in our Lord, and that their husbands be sufficient for them in the flesh and spirit. Then, again, charge my brethren in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that they love their wives, as our Lord His church. If any man is able in power to continue in purity,[1393] to the honour of the flesh of our Lord, let him continue so without boasting; if he boasts, he is undone; if he become known apart from the bishop, he has destroyed himself.[1394] It is becoming, therefore, to men and women who marry, that they marry with the counsel of the bishop, that the marriage may be in our Lord, and not in lust. Let everything, therefore, be [done] for the honour of God.

CHAP. VI.

Look ye to the bishop, that God also may look upon you. I will be instead of the souls of those who are subject to the bishop, and the presbyters, and the deacons; with them may I have a portion in the presence of God! Labour together with one another, act as athletes[1395] together, run together, suffer together, sleep together, rise together. As stewards of God, and of His household,[1396] and His servants, please Him and serve Him, that ye may receive from Him the wages [promised]. Let none of you be rebellious. Let your baptism be to you as armour, and faith as a spear, and love as a helmet, and patience as a panoply. Let your treasures be your good works, that ye may receive the gift of God, as is just. Let your spirit be long-suffering towards each other with meekness, even as God [is] towards you. As for me, I rejoice in you at all times.

CHAP. VII.

The Christian has not power over himself, but is [ever] ready to be subject to God.[1397]

CHAP. VIII.

I salute him who is reckoned worthy to go to Antioch in my stead, as I commanded thee.

Footnote 1384:

The inscription varies in each of the three Syriac MSS., being in the first, “The Epistle of my lord Ignatius the bishop;” in the second, “The Epistle of Ignatius;” and in the third, “The Epistle of Ignatius, bishop of Antioch.”

Footnote 1385:

For “vindicate thy place” in the Greek.

Footnote 1386:

Literally, “draw out thy spirit.”

Footnote 1387:

Cureton observes, as one alternative here, that “the Syrian translator seems to have read παράξυσμα for παροξυσμοὺς.”

Footnote 1388:

Or, “flatter,” probably meaning to “deal gently with.”

Footnote 1389:

Thus the Syriac renders ἀντίψυχον in the Greek.

Footnote 1390:

The Greek has ἄκμων, “an anvil.”

Footnote 1391:

The Greek has μετά, “after.”

Footnote 1392:

Or, “constant,” “regular.”

Footnote 1393:

_i.e._ “in celibacy.”

Footnote 1394:

Or, “corrupted himself.”

Footnote 1395:

Literally, “make the contest.”

Footnote 1396:

Literally, “sons of His house.”

Footnote 1397:

These are the only parts of chaps. vii. and viii. in the Greek that are represented in the Syriac.

THE SECOND EPISTLE OF IGNATIUS: TO THE EPHESIANS.[1398]

_Ignatius, who is [also called] Theophorus, to the church which is blessed in the greatness of God the Father, and perfected; to her who was selected[1399] from eternity, that she might be at all times for glory, which abideth, and is unchangeable, and is perfected and chosen in the purpose of truth by the will of the Father of Jesus Christ our God; to her who is worthy of happiness; to her who is at Ephesus, in Jesus Christ, in joy which is unblameable: [wishes] abundance of happiness_.

CHAP. I.

Inasmuch as your name, which is greatly beloved, is acceptable to me in God, [your name] which ye have acquired by nature, through a right and just will, and also by the faith and love of Jesus Christ our Saviour, and ye are imitators of God, and are fervent in the blood of God, and have speedily completed a work congenial to you; [for] when ye heard that I was bound,[1400] so as to be able to do nothing for the sake of the common name and hope (and I hope, through your prayers, that I may be devoured by beasts at Rome, so that by means of this of which I have been accounted worthy, I may be endowed with strength to be a disciple of God), ye were diligent to come and see me. Seeing, then, that we have become acquainted with your multitude[1401] in the name of God, by Onesimus, who is your bishop, in love which is unutterable, whom I pray that ye love in Jesus Christ our Lord, and that all of you imitate his example;[1402] for blessed is He who has given you such a bishop, even as ye deserve [to have].[1403]

CHAP. III.[1404]

But inasmuch as love does not permit me to be silent in regard to you, on this account I have been forward to entreat of you that ye would be diligent in the will of God.

CHAP. VIII.[1405]

For, so long as there is not implanted in you any one lust which is able to torment you, behold, ye live in God. I rejoice in you, and offer supplication[1406] on account of you, Ephesians, a church which is renowned in all ages. For those who are carnal are not able to do spiritual things, nor those that are spiritual carnal things; in like manner as neither can faith [do] those things which are foreign to faith, nor want of faith [do] what belongs to faith. For those things which ye have done in the flesh, even these are spiritual, because ye have done everything in Jesus Christ.