The Transmission of Epistles
St. Polycarp of Smyrna writes to inform the recipient about the transmission of Ignatius' Epistles and to request their assistance in carrying Ignatius' letter to Syria.
St. Polycarp of Smyrna writes a letter to the recipients, expressing his intention to fulfill their request of carrying a letter to Syria if the opportunity arises. He mentions sending the Epistles of Ignatius to them for their benefit, as they focus on faith, patience, and edification in the Lord. Polycarp asks for any additional information about Ignatius and his companions. He recommends Crescens to them, praising his blameless character, and asks for his sister to be respected upon her arrival. The letter concludes with a blessing of safety in the Lord Jesus Christ and a wish for grace upon all.
Text
Both you and Ignatius wrote to me, that if any one went [from this] into Syria, he should carry your letter with him; which request I will attend to if I find a fitting opportunity, either personally, or through some other acting for me, that your desire may be fulfilled.
The Epistles of Ignatius written by him to us, and all the rest [of his Epistles] which we have by us, we have sent to you, as you requested. They are subjoined to this Epistle, and by them ye may be greatly profited; for they treat of faith and patience, and all things that tend to edification in our Lord. Any more certain information you may have obtained respecting both Ignatius himself, and those that were with him, have the goodness to make known to us.
These things I have written to you by Crescens, whom up to the present time I have recommended unto you, and do now recommend. For he has acted blamelessly among us, and I believe also among you. Moreover, ye will hold his sister in esteem when she comes to you. Be ye safe in the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with you all. Amen.
Sermon Outline
- Introduction
- Transmission of Ignatius' Epistles
- Request for information about Ignatius and his companions
- Recommendation of Crescens
- Conclusion
- Wish for the recipient's safety
- Closing blessing
Key Quotes
“They treat of faith and patience, and all things that tend to edification in our Lord.” — St. Polycarp of Smyrna
“Be ye safe in the Lord Jesus Christ.” — St. Polycarp of Smyrna
“Grace be with you all.” — St. Polycarp of Smyrna
Application Points
- We should be willing to assist others in carrying out their requests, especially if it involves spreading the message of faith and patience.
- We should strive to act blamelessly in our communities and be recommended by others.
- We should prioritize our safety in Christ and seek to edify others through our actions and words.