Ye Are Initiated Into the Mysteries of the Gospel
This sermon is a heartfelt message from Ignatius of Antioch to the saints, encouraging them to persevere in their faith and highlighting the significance of Paul's influence in the Gospel.
Ignatius of Antioch, in his letter, acknowledges his own insignificance and imminent danger, contrasting it with the mercy and establishment in Christ of his audience. He humbly considers himself the least among those who have suffered for Christ, from Abel to himself. He encourages his audience to follow the example of Paul, the holy martyr, and expresses his desire to be found at the feet of Jesus Christ alongside all the saints. Ignatius assures them of Jesus' constant prayers for them.
Text
I know both who I am, and to whom I write. I am the very insignificant Ignatius, who have my lot with those who are exposed to danger and condemnation. But ye have been the objects of mercy, and are established in Christ. I am one delivered over [to death], but the least of all those that have been cut off for the sake of Christ, "from the blood of righteous Abel" to the blood of Ignatius.
Ye are initiated into the mysteries of the Gospel with Paul, the holy, the martyred, inasmuch as he was "a chosen vessel; " at whose feet may I be found, and at the feet of the rest of the saints, when I shall attain to Jesus Christ, who is always mindful of you in His prayers.
Sermon Outline
- Introduction
- Speaker's Suffering
- Paul's Influence
- Paul as a Holy and Martyred Apostle
- Paul's Role in the Gospel
Key Quotes
“I am one delivered over [to death], but the least of all those that have been cut off for the sake of Christ, 'from the blood of righteous Abel' to the blood of Ignatius.” — Ignatius of Antioch
“at whose feet may I be found, and at the feet of the rest of the saints, when I shall attain to Jesus Christ, who is always mindful of you in His prayers.” — Ignatius of Antioch
Application Points
- We can learn from Ignatius' humility and courage in the face of death, and strive to emulate his faithfulness to Christ.
- The sermon reminds us of the importance of perseverance in our faith journey, even in the midst of suffering.
- We are encouraged to look up to Paul as a holy and martyred apostle who played a crucial role in the Gospel, and to seek to follow his example.