Congratulate the Inhabitants of Antioch on the Close of the Persecution
Ignatius encourages the Church of Antioch to elect a bishop to act as an ambassador of God, demonstrating their zeal and bringing glory to Christ.
Ignatius of Antioch urges the Church at Antioch to elect a bishop to represent them and bring peace to the Church. He emphasizes the importance of unity and glorifying God through coming together. Ignatius encourages them to be zealous in their ministry, assuring them that they will receive glory in Christ for their efforts. He reminds them that other Churches have also sent leaders to support one another, highlighting the interconnectedness of the body of Christ.
Text
Since, according to your prayers, and the compassion which ye feel in Christ Jesus, it is reported to me that the Church which is at Antioch in Syria possesses peace, it will become you, as a Church of God, to elect a bishop to act as the ambassador of God [for you] to [the brethren] there, that it may be granted them to meet together, and to glorify the name of God. Blessed is he in Christ Jesus, who shall be deemed worthy of such a ministry; and if ye be zealous [in this matter], ye shall receive glory in Christ.
And if ye are willing, it is not altogether beyond your power to do this, for the sake of God; as also the nearest Churches have sent, in some cases bishops, and in others presbyters and deacons.
Sermon Outline
- The Church of Antioch's Peace
- The Need for a Bishop
- The Importance of Zeal
- Zeal is necessary for the election of a worthy bishop
- This zeal will bring glory to Christ
Key Quotes
“Blessed is he in Christ Jesus, who shall be deemed worthy of such a ministry;” — Ignatius of Antioch
“And if ye be zealous [in this matter], ye shall receive glory in Christ.” — Ignatius of Antioch
“it is reported to me that the Church which is at Antioch in Syria possesses peace” — Ignatius of Antioch
Application Points
- The Church of Antioch should demonstrate its willingness to elect a worthy bishop.
- Zeal is necessary for the election of a bishop, which will bring glory to Christ.
- The Church can learn from the example of the nearest Churches, which have sent bishops, presbyters, and deacons.