Caution Against False Doctrines
We must be cautious of false doctrines and live according to the truth of Jesus Christ, who has pleased God the Father.
Ignatius of Antioch warns against being deceived by strange doctrines, fables, and endless genealogies, emphasizing the need to embrace the newness found in Christ. He highlights that living by the Jewish law denies the grace received through Jesus Christ. The prophets of old lived in anticipation of Christ, being persecuted for their faith in the one Almighty God revealed through Jesus Christ, His Son.
Text
Be not deceived with strange doctrines, "nor give heed to fables and endless genealogies," and things in which the Jews make their boast. "Old things are passed away: behold, all things have become new." For if we still live according to the Jewish law, and the circumcision of the flesh, we deny that we have received grace. For the divinest prophets lived according to Jesus Christ.
On this account also they were persecuted, being inspired by grace to fully convince the unbelieving that there is one God, the Almighty, who has manifested Himself by Jesus Christ His Son, who is His Word, not spoken, but essential. For He is not the voice of an articulate utterance, but a substance begotten by divine power, who has in all things pleased Him that sent Him.
Sermon Outline
- Caution Against False Doctrines
- The Supremacy of Jesus Christ
- The Nature of Jesus Christ
- The Prophets' Example
- The Persecution of the Faithful
Key Quotes
“Old things are passed away: behold, all things have become new.” — Ignatius of Antioch
“For if we still live according to the Jewish law, and the circumcision of the flesh, we deny that we have received grace.” — Ignatius of Antioch
Application Points
- We must be willing to let go of our old ways and live according to the new life in Christ.
- We must not rely on our own efforts, but on the grace of God, to live a life pleasing to Him.