Cyrillus Hierosolymitanus
The sermon explores Cyril of Jerusalem's teachings on predestination and the role of the Holy Spirit in the sanctification of the elect.
John Gill discusses the teachings of Cyril of Jerusalem regarding predestination and election, emphasizing that there are distinct elect individuals chosen by God. He highlights Cyril's assertion that the elect will be gathered by angels and will not be mixed with enemies, illustrating the divine selection process. Gill also notes Cyril's acknowledgment of the Holy Spirit's role in sanctifying those written in the book of life, affirming the connection between God's choice, Christ's redemption, and the Spirit's sanctification.
Text
The
CAUSE OF GOD AND TRUTH.
Part 4
Chapter 1--Of Predestination
Section 14--Cyrillus Hierosol Ymitanus. A.D. 370.
Cyril, bishop of Jerusalem, died A.D. 386.[1] There is but little to be collected out of his writings concerning predestination and election. He signifies, that there are some who are elect, distinct from others, when he says,[2] that "the elect may not be mixed together, with enemies, he (Christ) will send his angels with a great trumpet, and they shall gather his elect from the four winds: he did not despise one Lot, should he despise many righteous? Come ye blessed of my Father, will he say to them who shall then be carried in the chariots of clouds, and shall be gathered by the angels." And in another place,[3] he says, "the Holy Spirit is the greatest power, it is something divine and unsearchable; for it lives and is rational, sanctifying through Christ, ton upo Theou gegrammenon a patnon, all those who are written by God;" that is, in the book of life, or are chosen by God; which agrees with our doctrine, that all those who are chosen by the Father, and are redeemed by the Son, are sanctified by the Spirit.
ENDNOTES:
[1] Dallaei Apolog. 795.
[2] Cyril. Catech. 15, sect. 10, p. 216, 217.
[3] Ibid. Catech. 16, p. 224.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Introduction to Cyril of Jerusalem - Historical context of his writings - Significance of his teachings on predestination
- II points: - Understanding the concept of election - Distinction between the elect and the non-elect - Biblical references supporting election
- III points: - Role of the Holy Spirit in sanctification - Connection between election and redemption - Implications for believers today
- IV points: - Cyril's view on divine power - The unsearchable nature of God's will - Encouragement for faith in God's plan
Key Quotes
“the elect may not be mixed together, with enemies, he (Christ) will send his angels with a great trumpet, and they shall gather his elect from the four winds.” — John Gill
“the Holy Spirit is the greatest power, it is something divine and unsearchable; for it lives and is rational, sanctifying through Christ.” — John Gill
Application Points
- Reflect on the significance of being chosen by God and what it means for your faith.
- Embrace the role of the Holy Spirit in your life as a guide and sanctifier.
- Consider the importance of community among believers as the elect of God.