According to the Doctrine of Christ
Ignatius of Antioch's sermon calls for unity in Christ and adherence to His teachings as the foundation of faith.
Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the importance of unity among believers, highlighting that where there is division, anger, and hatred, God cannot dwell. He urges repentance and forgiveness, stressing the need to return to unity in Christ and communion with the bishop. Ignatius expresses his trust in the grace of Jesus Christ to deliver believers from wickedness and encourages them to act in accordance with the teachings of Christ, avoiding strife.
Text
I therefore did what belonged to me, as a man devoted to unity; adding this also, that where there is diversity of judgment, and wrath, and hatred, God does not dwell. To all them that repent, God grants forgiveness, if they with one consent return to the unity of Christ, and communion with the bishop. I trust to the grace of Jesus Christ, that He will free you from every bond of wickedness. I therefore exhort you that ye do nothing out of strife, but according to the doctrine of Christ.
For I have heard some saying, If I do not find the Gospel in the archives, I will not believe it. To such persons I say that my archives are Jesus Christ, to disobey whom is manifest destruction.
My authentic archives are His cross, and death, and resurrection, and the faith which bears on these things, by which I desire, through your prayers, to be justified. He who disbelieves the Gospel disbelieves everything along with it. For the archives ought not to be preferred to the Spirit. "It is hard to kick against the pricks; " it is hard to disbelieve Christ; it is hard to reject the preaching of the apostles.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - The importance of unity among believers - God's presence in unity versus diversity of judgment - The role of repentance in achieving unity
- II points: - The significance of communion with the bishop - Grace of Jesus Christ as a source of freedom from wickedness - Exhortation to act without strife
- III points: - The authenticity of the Gospel - Jesus Christ as the ultimate archive - The consequences of disbelief in the Gospel
- IV points: - The relationship between the Spirit and the archives - The challenge of rejecting Christ - The importance of apostolic preaching
Key Quotes
“To all them that repent, God grants forgiveness, if they with one consent return to the unity of Christ.” — Ignatius of Antioch
“My authentic archives are His cross, and death, and resurrection.” — Ignatius of Antioch
“It is hard to kick against the pricks; it is hard to disbelieve Christ.” — Ignatius of Antioch
Application Points
- Seek unity with fellow believers to experience God's presence.
- Embrace the teachings of Christ as the ultimate truth over worldly archives.
- Act in love and humility, avoiding strife in all interactions.