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  PRAY FOR THE CHURCH IN SYRIA
  by Ignatius of Antioch
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Summary: Ignatius encourages the listener to pray for the Church in
Syria, and to show love and support to its leaders, while also
expressing his own feelings of unworthiness.

Topics: "Church Unity", "Prayer Mercy"
Scripture References: John 10:11, Romans 1:11, Romans 9:16, 1 Corinthians 15:9, Ephesians 4:3

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DESCRIPTION
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Ignatius of Antioch reflects on the Church in Syria, entrusting it to
the Lord as its shepherd, who declares Himself as the good Shepherd. He
humbly acknowledges his unworthiness but expresses gratitude for the
mercy he has received to serve God. Ignatius sends his greetings to the
Churches that have welcomed him in the name of Jesus Christ, emphasizing
the unity and love among believers across different cities.

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CONTENT
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Remember in your prayers the Church which is in Syria, which, instead of
me, has now for its shepherd the Lord, who says, "I am the good
Shepherd."

And He alone will oversee it, as well as your love towards Him. But as
for me, I am ashamed to be counted one of them; for I am not worthy, as
being the very last of them, and one born out of due time.

But I have obtained mercy to be somebody, if I shall attain to God. My
spirit salutes you, and the love of the Churches which have received me
in the name of Jesus Christ, and not as a mere passerby. For even those
Churches which were not near to me in the way, have brought me forward,
city by city.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/ignatius-of-antioch/pray-for-the-church-in-syria/
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