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  THE TRANSMISSION OF EPISTLES
  by St. Polycarp of Smyrna
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Summary: St. Polycarp of Smyrna writes to inform the recipient about the
transmission of Ignatius' Epistles and to request their assistance in
carrying Ignatius' letter to Syria.

Topics: "Early Church", "Christian Letters"
Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 16:17, Philippians 4:7, 1 Thessalonians 5:25, Hebrews 13:22, 2 John 1:3

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DESCRIPTION
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St. Polycarp of Smyrna writes a letter to the recipients, expressing his
intention to fulfill their request of carrying a letter to Syria if the
opportunity arises. He mentions sending the Epistles of Ignatius to them
for their benefit, as they focus on faith, patience, and edification in
the Lord. Polycarp asks for any additional information about Ignatius
and his companions. He recommends Crescens to them, praising his
blameless character, and asks for his sister to be respected upon her
arrival. The letter concludes with a blessing of safety in the Lord
Jesus Christ and a wish for grace upon all.

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CONTENT
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Both you and Ignatius wrote to me, that if any one went [from this] into
Syria, he should carry your letter with him; which request I will attend
to if I find a fitting opportunity, either personally, or through some
other acting for me, that your desire may be fulfilled.

The Epistles of Ignatius written by him to us, and all the rest [of his
Epistles] which we have by us, we have sent to you, as you requested.
They are subjoined to this Epistle, and by them ye may be greatly
profited; for they treat of faith and patience, and all things that tend
to edification in our Lord. Any more certain information you may have
obtained respecting both Ignatius himself, and those that were with him,
have the goodness to make known to us.

These things I have written to you by Crescens, whom up to the present
time I have recommended unto you, and do now recommend. For he has acted
blamelessly among us, and I believe also among you. Moreover, ye will
hold his sister in esteem when she comes to you. Be ye safe in the Lord
Jesus Christ. Grace be with you all. Amen.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/st-polycarp-of-smyrna/the-transmission-of-epistles/
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