A prospect of the primitive Christianity, as it was left by Christ to his Apostles, by the Apostles to their disciples Saint Polycarp and Holy Ignatius, both contemporaries with and disciples to the Holy Evangelist and Apostle Saint John whose lives follow in this short treatise, together with their famous epistles written to several churches / translated according to the best copies out of the original Greek into English, by Thomas Elborowe ...

The Epistles of Saint Ignatius.

To the Smyrneans.

Ignatius, who is also Theophorus, to the Church of God the Father, and of the be∣loved Jesus Christ, which hath obtained mercy in all Grace, replete with Faith and Love, failing in no good gift, most becoming God, and fruitful in holiness, which is at Smyrna in Asia, be very much joy in the im∣maculate Spirit by the Word of God.

I Glorifie the God Jesus Christ, who hath filled you with Wisdom. For I under∣stand that ye are perfected in an immove∣able faith, and are as persons fastened with nails to the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, both in flesh and in spirit; and well-ground∣ed in love by the bloud of Christ, having a

full assurance in our Lord; who was truly of the stock of David, according to the flesh; the Son of God according to the will and power of God, truly born of a Ʋirgin, baptized by John, that he might fulfil all righteousness, and who truly suffered for us in the flesh under Pontius Pilate and Herod the Tetrarch. From the fruit of whom we are, even from his divinely blessed Passion, that he might by his Resurrection lift up an ensign to all ages, to the Saints, and to all who do believe in him, whether they be Jews or Gentiles in one body of his Church. For he suffered all these things for us that we might be saved. And he truly suffered, as also he truly raised up himself; neither did he suffer onely in appearance, as some infi∣dels affirm, who themselves are onely in appearance, and according to their wisdom shall it happen unto them being incorporeal and daemoniacks. For I my self saw him in the flesh after his Resurrection, and do be∣lieve that he is risen. And when he came to those, who were with Peter, he said unto them, Take hold of me, handle me, and see me, for I am not an incorporeal spirit. And straightway they touched him, and believed in him being convinced by his flesh, and by his spirit. And hereupon they contemned

death, for they found themselves to be above it. And after his Resurrection he eat and drank with them as one in the flesh, though he was in spirit united to the Father. Touching these things (Beloved) I admonish you, however I know ye are already of this perswasion. I do it to preserve you from beasts in the shape of men, whom it is necessarie for you not to entertain, but to avoid as much as possible. Onely pray for them, if happily they may repent, which is a thing very difficult. But Jesus Christ, who is our true life, hath the power of this. But if these things were done by our Lord onely seemingly, then am I also seemingly in bonds. And why have I yielded up my self to be put to death? why to the fire, to the sword, to the beasts? but because to be nigh to the sword is to be nigh to God, and to be inclosed with beasts is to be compassed about with God. Only in the Name of Jesus Christ do I endure all things, that I may suffer with him, who is himself made a per∣fect man, and now strengtheneth me. Whom some ignorant men denie, but they are ra∣ther denied by him, being more the Preach∣ers of death than of truth; whom neither the Prophets have perswaded, nor the Law of Moses, nor yet the Gospel hitherto, nor those

suffrings of ours, which are according to man. For they are of the same mind con∣cerning us. But what would it advantage me, should any man speak in my praise, and yet blaspheme my Lord, denying him to have taken flesh upon him? For he, who confesseth not this, hath perfectly denied him, and puts him to death. But I am un∣willing to write down their infidel names; neither may I make any particular remem∣brance of them, until they shall happily re∣pent into a belief of the Passion, which is our Resurrection. Let no man be deceived. For if things in heaven, and the glory of An∣gels, and Rulers visible and invisible believe not in the bloud of Christ, it will be even un∣to them condemnation. He who receiveth it, may receive it. Let place puff up no man; for Faith and Charity is All, and nothing is to be preferred before them. But observe those who are otherwise opinioned of the grace of Jesus Christ, which came unto us, how contrary they are to the judgement of God. They have no regard at all of Charity, they neither care for the Widow, nor Orphan, nor any afflicted person be he bond or free, hungry or thirstie They absent themselves from the Eucharist and Prayer, because they will not confess the Eucharist to be the flesh

of our Saviour Jesus Christ, which suffered for our sins, and which the Father by his goodness raised from death to life. There∣fore contradicting this gift of God, and dis∣puting about it they die, but it would be better for them to Love it, that they may rise again. It is very convenient that ye ab∣stain from such persons, and that ye have no converse with them, neither privately, nor publikely. But that ye give heed unto the Prophets, and chiefly to the Gospel, wherein the Passion is made manifest unto us, and the Resurrection is completed. But avoid Divi∣sions as the beginning of evils. And be all of you observant of the Bishop, as Jesus Christ was observant of the Father; and observe the Presbyterie as the Apostles; and Reverence the Deacons as the command of God. Let no man presume to do any thing belonging to the Church without the Bi∣shop. And let that Eucharist onely be ac∣counted firm, which is either performed by the Bishop himself, or by his Licence. Where the Bishop shall appear, there let the multitude be, for where Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholique Church. It is neither lawful to baptize, nor to keep the Love-feast without the Bishop; but whatever he shall approve of, that is well-pleasing to God, that

so every thing, which is done, may be firm and established. Furthermore, it is a blessed thing to grow sober, and whilst we have opportunity, to return to God by repen∣tance. It is a becoming thing to know God and the Bishop. He, who honoureth the Bishop, is honoured of God; but he, who doth any thing without the Bishops approba∣tion, performs a service to the Devil. Therefore let all things abound among you in grace, for ye are worthy. Ye have every way refreshed me, and Jesus Christ will re∣fresh you. Ye have loved me both when I was absent, and present, God will requite you; and if ye patiently endure all things for his sake, ye shall enjoy him. Ye did well in that ye gave an honourable recepti∣on to Philon, Rheus, and Agathopus as the Ministers of God-Christ, who have accom∣panied me for the Word of God. They also give thanks unto the Lord for you. be∣cause ye have every way refreshed them. Nothing, which ye have done to them, shall be lost as to you. I could offer up this my spirit upon the service of your Souls, and upon the same account carry about these my bonds, which ye have neither despised, nor been ashamed of; neither will Jesus Christ the perfect faith be ashamed of you. Your

Prayer reached as far as to the Church which is in Antioch of Syria, from whence being carried a prisoner for God in most venerable bonds, I salute you all. And however I am not worthy of such an ho∣nour being the last that came thence, yet by the will of God I was accounted worthy, not from any thing which I know worthy in my self, but through his grace, which I pray may be perfectly bestowed upon me, that through your Prayers I may obtain God. And that your work may be perfected as well on earth as in heaven, it would be an honourable Service very much becoming your Church, which is worthy of God, to appoint some fit person for the honour of God, and to dispatch him into Syria, to con∣gratulate them for their restored peace, that they have again received their proper splendour, and that their little body is re∣established in such a way as is fit for them. Indeed it seems unto me a worthy work for you to send some person from amongst you with an Epistle to joyn in glory with them, for that tranquilitie, which is amongst them according to God, and that they are now come to the quiet haven through your Prayers. Being perfect your selves mind the things which are perfect. For if ye have but a

will to do good, God is ready to assist you. The Love of the Brethren, who are at Troas, saluteth you, whence also I write un∣to you by Burrus, whom ye sent along with me together with your Ephesian brethren, who hath refreshed me in all things. I wish all would become imitatours of him, who is the Exemplar of the Ministerie of God. Grace shall remunerate to him according to all that he hath done to me. I salute the Divine Bishop, and most venerable Presby∣tery, and the Deacons my fellow servants, and all in the name of Jesus Christ man by man, and together, both in his flesh and bloud, passion and resurrection, carnally and spiritually, in the name and unity of God and of you. Grace be unto you, and Mercy, and Peace, and Patience always. I salute the houses of my brethren, together with the women, children, virgins, and select widows. Be strong to me-ward in the power of the spirit. Philon, who is with me, salu∣teth you. I salute the house of Tavia, whom I pray that she may be established in Faith and Love both carnally and spiritually. I salute Alke a name to me very desireable. Farewel in the grace of God.

To the Smyrneans from Troas.

To POLYCARP.

Ignatius, who is also Theophorus, to Polycarp Bishop of the Church of the Smyrneans, who hath rather God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ for his Bishop, be very much joy.

HAving embraced thy judgement, which is according to God, founded as upon a rock and immoveable, I glory exceeding∣ly that I was accounted worthy of thy un∣blameable presence, which I would enjoy in God. I exhort thee by that grace where∣with thou art endued, that thou wouldest add unto thy race in admonishing all men that they may be saved. Justifie thy place by using all diligence both in a carnal and spiritual way. Be careful to preserve Unity, than which nothing is better. Support all as the Lord supporteth thee. Bear with all men in charitie as also thou dost. Find leisure to be constant in Prayers. Desire a larger understanding than yet thou hast. Be watchful, keeping in thy possession a vi∣gilant spirit. Converse with all man by man

as God shall inable thee. Like a complete Champion bear the infirmities of all, the more the labour is, the more is the gain. It is not so much for thy commendation to love eminent Disciples, as by thy Meekness to bring into subjection those who are more pernicious. Every wound is not healed with the same Plaister. Mitigate their Paroxysms by Embrocations. Be in all things wise as the Serpent, and harmless as the Dove. For this cause art thou carnal and spiritual, that thou mayest use a gentle hand in the managerie of those things, which are ma∣nifest to thee; praying that those things al∣so, which are concealed, may in time be made manifest, that so thou maist be de∣fective in nothing, but abounding in every grace. This very season calls upon thee to desire the fruition of God, as Governours of ships wait for the winds; and he, who is tossed with the waves, covets after the haven. Be watchful as a Champion of God; that which is deposited for thee, is incorruption and life eternal, of which also thou art per∣suaded. I would in all things freely offer up my self for thee, and these my bonds, which thou hast loved. Let not those per∣sons at all astonish thee, who seem to be persons worthy of Credit, and yet are

teachers of strange doctrines. Stand thou firm as an Anvil, which is beaten upon. It is the part of a gallant Champion to be stripped of his skin and yet to overcome. And in this respect it is necessary for us pa∣tiently to endure all things for God, that he may patiently bear with us. Be more dili∣gent than yet thou hast been; Consider the seasons, and wait for him, who is above season, not limited to time, invisible, yet for our sakes made visible, not capable of touch or suffering, yet suffering for us, and endu∣ring every manner of way for our sakes. Let not the widows be neglected, under God do thou take care of them. Let no∣thing be done without thy sentence, and do thou nothing without the sentence of God, that whatsoever thou dost may be esta∣blished. Let Congregations be gathered more frequently, and take the names of all persons. Let neither men nor maid-servants be despised by thee, neither suffer them to become proud, but let them be more and more servants to the glory of God, that so they may obtain a better freedom from God. Let them not love the common free∣dom, that they may not be found the ser∣vants of Concupiscence. Flee evil arts, but especially have no conferences about them.

Bespeak my sisters that they love the Lord Christ, and that they furnish their husbands with all necessaries both for their fleshly and spiritual estate. And in like manner admonish my brethren in the name of Jesus Christ to love their wives as the Lord loveth the Church. If a man can continue chast to the honour of the flesh of our Lord, let him remain so, but let him not glory. For if he glory in it, he will be destroy'd, and if he would be more taken notice of than the Bishop, he is corrupted. It is meet that they who marry and are given in marriage should be joyned together by the sentence of the Bishop, that so the marriage may be according to God, and not according to concupiscence. Let all things be done to the honour of God. Be mindful of the Bi∣shop, that God may be mindful of you. I could give my life for those persons who are subject to the Bishops, Presbyters, and Deacons, and wish that I may receive my part in God together with them. Labour together one for another, strive together, run together, suffer together, sleep together, awake together as the Stewards, Assessors, and Ministers of God. Do things pleasing to him, whom ye fight for, and whose souldiers ye are, from whom ye expect

your salarie. Let none among you be found a desertor of his Colours. Let your Baptism arm you, Faith be your helmet, Love your spear, Patience your whole armour, and your Works your gage, that ye may receive a reward worthy of you. Therefore bear patiently in meekness one with another, as God bears with you. Let me enjoy you always. But in that the Church, which is in Antioch of Syria, is at peace through your Prayers, as it is manifested to me, I was therefore the more cheerful, and intent upon the things of God without distraction, that by any means I may through sufferings en∣joy God, and be found your Disciple at the Resurrection. O Polycarp, most blessed of God, it becomes thee to gather together a Council most becoming God, and to appoint some worthy person, whom ye esteem high∣ly in love, whom ye look upon as a diligent man, fit to be called a Messenger of God; and that this honour be bestowed upon him, To go into Syria there to spread abroad your forward Charitie to the glory of Christ. A Christian hath no power over himself, but is to attend the things of God. When ye shall have dispatched this business, tho work shall be ascribed to God and to you. For I believe that through Grace ye are

prepared for so good a work pleasing to God; and knowing how compendiously ye are capable of truth, I have exhorted you in few Letters. But because I cannot write un∣to all the Churches, in regard I am suddenly to sail from Troas to Neapolis, as I am com∣manded; thou shalt write to those other Churches, who art possessed with the mind of God, that they do the same thing. That they, who are able, may send footposts, others Epistles by thy Messengers, that ye may all be glorified by an eternal work, as thou art worthy. I salute all by name, and the wife of Epitropus, with her whole house, and her childrens. I salute my beloved At∣talus; I salute him, who shall be accounted worthy to go into Syria; I pray that the grace which is in our God Jesus Christ, may be always with him. In whom do ye con∣tinue permanent in the Unitie and Visita∣tion of God. I salute Alke a name desire∣able to me. Farewel in the Lord.

To Polycarp.

To the Ephesians.

Ignatius, who is also Theophorus, to the Church blessed in the greatness of God the Father with all fulness, praedetermined be∣fore ages to be ever permanent unto glory, immutable, united, elect by real sufferings, through the will of the Father and Jesus Christ our God. To the Church worthy of all blessedness which is in Ephesus of Asia, be very much joy in Jesus Christ, and in im∣maculate grace.

APproving of thy name in God highly beloved, which ye have possessed by a just title according to the faith and love, which is in Christ Jesus our Saviour, I ex∣hort you to continue followers of God, and that▪ being re-inlivened by the bloud of God, ye perfect that work which is so suitable to you. For ye heard that I was a prisoner from Syria for the common Name and Hope, and that I hoped through your Prayers that I should be inabled to fight with beasts at Rome, that so I might become through Martyrdom a Disciple of him, Who offered

up himself to God for us an oblation and sa∣crifice. I have compendiously apprehended your very numerous multitude in the name of God by Onesimus your Bishop in the flesh, whose charitie is beyond expression; whom I beseech you to love according to Jesus Christ, and all of you to be like unto him. Blessed be he, who hath bestowed so worthy a Bishop upon you, so worthy of him. And I pray that my fellow servant Burrus, who is your Deacon, every way blessed according to God, may continue to the honour of you and the Bishop. Crocus also, who is worthy of God and of you, whom I have received as the Exemplar of your Charity, hath refreshed me in all things, as the Father of Jesus Christ will also give refreshing unto him, and to Onesimus, and Burrus, and Euplus, and Fronton, in whom I have viewed you all in love. I would enjoy you always if I might be wor∣thy of it. Therefore it becomes you every way to glorifie Jesus Christ, who glorifies you; that being perfected and knit up in one and the same subjection, and being of one mind and one judgement, ye may all speak the same thing, and being subject to the Bishop and the Presbytery, may be sancti∣fied in all things. I do not give commands

to you as if I my self was a person consider∣able; for though I am a Prisoner for his Name, yet am I not perfected in Christ Jesus. For now I begin to be a Disciple, and speak to you as my fellow teachers. For it is meet that I should be admonished by you in faith, instruction, patience, and long suffe∣rance. But in regard my charity towards you would not suffer me to be silent, I have therefore taken the first hold of this oppor∣tunity to exhort you to concur in the judge∣ment of God. As Jesus Christ himself, who is our incomparable life, did follow the judgement of his Father, and the Bishops de∣signed to the ends of the earth follow the judgement of Jesus Christ. Therefore it is a comely thing for you to concur in the judgement of the Bishop as also ye do; for your Presbytery most worthy of praise, and of God is so adapted to the Bishop, as strings are fitted to the harp, in so much that Jesus Christ is celebrated through your Unanimity and Agreement in love. Ye are all made up man by man into one Chorus, and keeping the Melodie of God, which is Ʋnitie, ye shall with one voyce glorifie the Father by Jesus Christ, that he may also hear you, and acknowledge you by what you do to be the members of his Son. So that it is profitable

for you to continue in immaculate Unitie, that ye may always be partakers of God. If I in so short a time have gained so great a conformableness in manners with your Bi∣shop, which is spiritual, and not after the manner of men; how can I estimate of your happiness, who are continually united to him, as the Church to Jesus Christ, and Jesus Christ to the Father, that all things may be consonant in unity. Let no man be de∣ceived. If any man is not within the Altar, he is deprived of the bread of God. For if the Prayer of one or two is so effectual, how much more effectual is the Prayer of the Bishop, and all the Church? He there∣fore, that will not come into one place, (or joyn with the Congregation) is a proud man, and hath separated himself, and it is written, That God resisteth the proud. Therefore let us endeavour to be in subjection to the Bi∣shop, that so we may be God's Subjects. And if any man take notice that the Bishop holds his peace, let him fear and reverence him so much the more; for we ought to receive him, whom the Master of the Family hath sent to govern his House, as we should re∣ceive the Master himself, who sent him. Therefore it is evident that we ought to re∣spect the Bishop as the Lord himself. But

Onesimus doth himself very much commend your good Order, which is according to God; for ye all live according to truth, and there is no heresie amongst you, neither do ye hear any but Jesus Christ speaking ac∣cording to truth. Some indeed by an evil deceit have accustomed themselves to carry about his Name, but they do things unwor∣thy of God, and these ye ought to shun as beasts. For they are like mad dogs biting unawares, whom ye ought to avoid, and have a special eye upon, being persons very hard to be cured. There is one Physitian fleshly, and spiritual, begotten, and unbe∣gotten, God made in the flesh, and the true life in death, both of Mary and of God, first passible, and then impassible. Let no man seduce you, as ye are not yet seduced, being wholly of God. For so long as there is no contention amongst you, which may be hurtful to you, ye live according to God. I am made as an Off-scouring for you, and as a Purgatorie expiation for you Ephesians fa∣mous to ages. Carnal men cannot do spi∣ritual things, nor spiritual men do the things which are carnal; neither can Faith do the things of Infidelitie, nor Infidelitie the things of Faith. But those very things, which ye do as carnal men, are spiritual, so long as ye

do all things according to Jesus Christ. I have known some passing from those parts, who held an evil doctrine, but ye would not suffer them to sow their seeds amongst you, but stopped your ears against them, that ye might receive none of the doctrine sowed by them. For ye are Stones of the Father's Temple, prepared for the building of God the Father, carried up on high by the Engine of Jesus Christ, which is his Cross, by the Cord of the holy Spirit. But Faith is your Guide, and Charity your Way, which leads unto God. Ye are all therefore Fellow∣travellers, carrying about with you God and the Temple, Christ and Sanctitie, being in all things beautified according to the com∣mands of Jesus Christ, in whom I am ex∣ceedingly rejoyced, being vouchsafed so great a dignitie as to converse with you in writing, and to joy together with you, who live according to the other life, and love no∣thing but onely God. Pray also without ceasing for other men, for there is hope of their repentance, that they also may attain God. Admonish them, and let them be wrought upon by your works to become your Disciples. Oppose your meekness to their anger, and whilst they boast of great things, do ye mind the things of humility.

Pray for them who speak evil of you, keeping your selves firm in the faith against their errour. Be mild how morose soever they are; neither be hasty to requite them according to their own examples. Let us be found their Brethren by our mild carriage towards them, and endeavour to be the followers of the Lord. Though some among you may be injured, defrauded, despised, yet let no one amongst you be found an Herb of the devil. Keep your selves in all Puritie and Temperance both in flesh and spirit through Jesus Christ. The last times are come; Therefore let us reverence and fear the long-sufferance of God, that it be not our condemnation. For either let us fear the wrath to come, or love the present grace. One of the two is onely to be found in Je∣sus Christ, that we may live indeed. No∣thing can become us without this; for this I bear about my bonds, which are as spiritual Pearls, through which by your Prayers I may rise again. And let me always be par∣taker of your Prayers, that I may be found in the lot of those Ephesian Christians, who were ever of the same mind with the Apo∣stles, through the power of Jesus Christ. I know who I am, and to whom I write. I am a condemned person, but ye have ob∣tained

mercy. I am under danger, but ye are established; Ye are the Passover of those who are killed for God, being the Fellow-ministers of sanctified Paul, who was martyred, worthily blessed, under whose feet I would be found, that I may enjoy God; who in a whole Epistle makes men∣tion of you in Jesus Christ. Make hast therefore to meet together more frequently to the Eucharist of God and to glorie. For when ye often come together into one place the powers of Satan are rendred fru∣strate; and his enmitie is destroyed through your Unity of Faith. Nothing is better than peace, by which all hostilitie of heavenly and earthly powers is made void. None of these things are conceal'd from you, if ye hold perfectly that Faith and Love in Jesus Christ, which are the beginning and end of life. For Faith is the beginning, Love is the end; these two united are of God, and all other things tending to Honestie do wait upon these. No man, who hath covenanted into the faith, committeth sin, nor doth he hate another who is possess'd of Charitie. The tree is known by its fruit; and they, who have solemnly engaged to be Christians, shall be seen by the works they do. For it is not now the work of an Engagement,

but it is through the power of Faith, if a man be found to the end. It is better to be silent and to be; than to speak and not to be. It is a good thing to teach, if a man do as well as teach. There is therefore one teacher, who spake, and it was done, and the things also, which he did in silence, are wor∣thy of the Father. He, who is truly possess'd of the word of Jesus, can hear also his si∣lence, that he may be perfect, that he may do according to what he speaks, and be known according to those things wherein he is silent. Nothing is hid from the Lord, but our very secrets are nigh unto him. Therefore let us do all things as having him dwelling in us; that we may be his Temples, and he may be our God in us; for whatever is shall be made manifest to us, and there∣fore do we justly love him. Erre not (my brethren.) They who are destroyers of houses shall not inherit the Kingdom of God. Therefore if they are dead, who act such things according to the flesh; how much more is it death for any man by an evil doctrine to corrupt the faith of God, for which Jesus Christ was crucified? Such a one being defiled shall go into the un∣quenchable fire, and so shall he who hears him. For this cause the Lord received the

unction upon his head, that he might breathe into his Church incorruption. Be not an∣noynted with the doctrine of the prince of this world, which hath an ill odour; neither let him lead you captive from the life, which is set before you. Why are we not all wise having received the knowledge of God, that is, Jesus Christ? Why are we foolishly de∣stroyed, being ignorant of that Grace, which the Lord hath truly sent amongst us? My spirit is the Off-scouring of the Cross, which is a scandal to unbelievers but to us Salva∣tion and Life eternal. Where is the wise? where is the disputer? where is the boasting of wise men so called? For our God Jesus Christ was conceived by Mary according to the Oeconomie of God, of the seed of David by the holy Ghost, who was born and baptized, that he might through sufferings cleanse the water. And the Virginity of Mary, the Child born of her, and the Death of the Lord, were hid from the prince of this world, being three crying Mysteries yet wrought up by God in silence. How came he then to be manifested to ages? A Star in Heaven appeared, which out-shined all the other stars, and the light of it was ineffable, and the Noveltie of it did contain a strange∣ness in it. All the other stars together with

the Sun and Moon were a Chorus to this Star, which did carry in it a brightness and splendour above them all. The world was troubled about it, to find out how this New-Star should appear amongst the other stars so unlike unto them; hereupon all Magick was dissolved, and every bond of wickedness dis-appeared, ignorance was taken away, the old kingdom was de∣stroyed, when God appeared as man for the renewing of Life eternal. But that, which was perfect with God, took a beginning, and thereupon all things worked together to bring about the destruction of death. If Jesus Christ through your Prayers shall make me worthy, and it be his will, in a se∣cond little Book, which I am about to write unto you, I will lay open unto you how I began my Oeconomie in the New man Je∣sus Christ, both in his Faith, Love, Passion and Resurrection, and I shall the rather do this, if the Lord shall reveal it unto me. Because all of you man by man through the grace of his Name concur together in Je∣sus Christ, of the stock of David, accord∣ing to the flesh, the son of man, and the Son of God; and ye are all obedient to the Bi∣shop, and to the Presbyterie with an undi∣vided mind, breaking one bread, which is

the Medicine of Immortalitie, an Antidote against death preserving to Life eternal in Jesus Christ. I could give my life for you, and for him whom ye have sent to Smyrna for the honour of God; whence also I write unto you, giving thanks unto the Lord, loving both Polycarp and you. Remember me as Jesus Christ also remembers you. Pray for the Church which is in Syria; whence I am led away a Prisoner unto Rome, being the last of the faithful there, if I may be accounted worthy to be found to the honour of God. Farewel in God the Father, and in Jesus Christ our common hope.

To the Ephesians.

To the Magnesians.

Ignatius, who is also Theophorus, to the Church blessed in the Grace of God the Father, through Jesus Christ our Saviour, which is at Magnesia neer to Maeander, which I salute in him, and wish it very much joy in God the Father and in Je∣sus Christ.

KNowing your most excellent Order of Love, which is according to God, I joyfully made it my choice to speak unto you in the faith of Jesus Christ. For being accounted worthly of the Name most be∣coming God in these bonds, wherein I car∣ry it about, I celebrate the Churches, pray∣ing that they may be united in the flesh and spirit of Jesus Christ, who is our endless life, by Faith and Love, before which nothing is preferred; but chiefly of Jesus and the Father, through whom having patiently en∣dured every injury from the prince of this world, and escaping them we shall enjoy God. For I was accounted worthy to see you by Damas your Divine Bishop, and

the worthy Presbyters, Bassus and Apollo∣nius, and Sotion the Deacon my Fellow∣servant, whom I would enjoy, because he is subject to the Bishop as to the Grace of God, and to the Presbyterie as to the Law of Je∣sus Christ. And it becomes you not to make any use to your selves of the age of the Bi∣shop, but to give him all Reverence, accord∣ing to the power of God the Father▪ (as I have known holy Presbyters) not presu∣ming upon that juvenile order which ap∣pears, but as wise men in God, concurring with him; yet not with him, but with the Father of Jesus Christ the Bishop of all. Therefore for his honour, who wills it, it is meet we perform obedience without hy∣pocrisie. For a man doth not deceive this Bishop, whom we see, but puts a fallacie upon him who is invisible. This is not spoken in reference to the flesh, but to God, who knoweth secrets. Therefore it is meet not onely to be called Christians, but to be so. For some indeed there are, who own the Bishop in name, but do all things without him. Such men appear to me to be men of no good Conscience, because they hold meetings not established by commandment. All works have some end, two are pro∣pounded, Death and Life, and every man

shall go to his proper place. As there are two sorts of Coyn, one of God, another of the world, and each Coyn hath its proper stamp set upon it. Infidels have the stamp of this world; Believers in love have the stamp of God the Father by Jesus Christ, whose life cannot be in us, unless we can through him voluntarily die into his Passion. But seeing I have in the persons prescribed taken a view of your whole multitude in Faith and Love, I admonish you to do all things in the unanimity of God; your Bi∣shop being President over you in the place of God, and the Presbyters in place of the Council of the Apostles, and the Deacons most pleasant to me, having the Diaconie of Jesus Christ committed to them, who was with the Father before ages, and in the end appeared. Having therefore all received manners like unto God, reverence one an∣other, and let no man defraud his neigh∣bour according to the flesh, but love one another always in Jesus Christ. Let nothing be amongst you, which may possibly divide you, but be united to the Bishop, and to those who are Presidents over you, accord∣ing to the Type and Doctrine of incor∣ruption. Therefore as the Lord being uni∣ted to him did nothing without the Father,

neither by himself, nor by the Apostles; so neither do ye act any thing without the Bishop, and the Presbyters. Neither attempt any thing upon your own account how∣ever reasonable it may appear unto you. When ye come together into one place, let there be One Prayer, One Supplication, one mind, one hope in Love and in imma∣culate joy. There is one Jesus Christ than whom nothing is better. Therefore all con∣cur together as into the Temple of God, as to one Altar, to one Jesus Christ, who came from one Father, and being one is returned to him. Be not deceived by strange opini∣ons, nor old fables, which are unprofitable. For if we still live according to the Law and Judaism, we confess that Grace is not re∣ceived. For the most divine Prophets lived according to Jesus Christ; and therefore they were persecuted, being inspired by his Grace, that they might work a perswasion in those, who were not perswaded, that there is one God, who manifested himself by Je∣sus Christ his Son, who is his eternal Word, not coming forth from Silence, who in all things pleased him that sent him. There∣fore if they, who were conversant in the works of old time, came to the Newness of Hope, not Sabbatizing any longer, but li∣ving

according to the Dominical life of that day, whereon our life did rise again through him, and through his death (whom some deny;) through which mysterie we have received both to Believe, and also to endure with Patience, that we may be found the Disciples of Jesus Christ our onely Master; how shall we be able to live without him, whom the Prophets, being his Disciples, looked for in Spirit as their Master? and because they justly expected him, he, when he was come, raised them from the dead. Therefore let not us be insensible of his Goodness; for if he should retribute to us according to what we do, we should cease to be. Therefore being made his Disciples let us learn to live like Christians. For he, who is called by any other name than this, is not of God. Therefore put away from you the evil leaven, which is old and cor∣rupt, and be ye changed into the New Leaven, which is Jesus Christ. Be ye season∣ed in him, that none of you be corrupted; for ye shall be disproved by your savour. It is an absurd thing to profess Jesus Christ, and yet to Judaize; for Christianism hath not believed into Judaism, but Judaism into Christianism, that every tongue believing might be gathered unto God. But these

things (my Beloved;) not because I have known any of you to be such, but because, though I am lesser then you, I would have you to be preserved, that ye may not fall in∣to the snares of a vain opinion, but may have a full assurance in the Nativity, Passion, and Resurrection, effected in that season when Pontius Pilate was governour, all truly and firmly accomplished by Jesus Christ our hope, from which hope may none of you be perverted. I would every way enjoy you, if I may be worthy; for though I am in bonds, yet am I not to be compared to one of you, who are at libertie. I know ye are not puffed up, for ye have Jesus Christ among you. And I know the more I praise you, it doth but shame you so much the more, as it is written, The just man is an accuser of himself. Make it your endeavour to be confirmed in the determinations of the Lord and the Apostles, that whatever ye do may be prosperous both in flesh and spi∣rit, Faith and Love, in the Son, and in the Father, and in the Spirit, in the beginning and the end, together with your most vene∣rable Bishop, and your Presbyterie, which is as a spiritual Crown decently platted, and the Deacons, who are according to God▪ Be subject to the Bishop, and one to another,

as Jesus Christ to the Father according to the flesh, and the Apostles to Christ and to the Father, and the Spirit, that there may be unitie both carnal and spiritual. Know∣ing that ye are full of God, I have exhorted you but in few words. Remember me in your Prayers, that I may obtain God; and that Church which is in Syria, from whence I am not worthy to be called. For I very much want your Prayer united in God, and your Love, that the Church, which is in Syria, may be accounted worthy to be wa∣tered by your Church. The Ephesians from Smyrna salute you (whence also I write un∣to you) being present to the glorie of God, as also ye are; who have refreshed me in all things together with Polycarp the Bishop of the Smyrneans. The other Churches also salute you in the honour of Jesus Christ. Be strong in the concord of God, being possessed with a discerning Spirit, which is Jesus Christ.

To the Magnesians.

To the Philadelphians.

Ignatius, who is also Theophorus, to the Church of God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, which is in Philadelphia of Asia; which hath obtained mercy, is settled in the concord of God, rejoycing in the Pas∣sion of our Lord indiscernably, and fully assured of his Resurrection in all mercy; which I salute in the bloud of Jesus Christ, for she is my eternal and permanent joy, chiefly if they continue united with the Bi∣shop, and the Presbyters with him, and the Deacons manifested to be according to the Sentence of Jesus Christ, whom he hath firmly established according to his own will by his holy Spirit.

WHich Bishop I have known to have obtained the Ministerie for the com∣mon good, not by himself, nor by men, nor out of vain-glorie, but by the love of God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, whose mild temper I have been amazed at, for by his silence he can do more than they who

speak vain things. For ye are as harmoni∣ously agreeing in commands, as the harp and the strings. Therefore my Soul blesseth that sentence of his, which is according to God, knowing that it is vertuous and per∣fect, and that he cannot be moved, nor pro∣voked to anger, being in all the meekness of the Living God. Being therefore the chil∣dren of light and truth, flie division, evil doctrines. Where the Pastour is do ye as sheep follow him; for many wolves, who seem worthy of credit, do by an evil de∣lectation lead captive persons running to God, but through your unitie they shall have no place. Depart from evil herbs, which Jesus Christ doth not cultivate, for they are not the Plantation of the Father. Not that I have found any Division amongst you, but a Resining us from the Dreggs. So many as are of God, and of Jesus Christ are with the Bishop, and so many Penitents as come over into the Unitie of the Church, shall be of God, that they may live according to Jesus Christ. My brethren, be not deceived. If any man follows him, who is the maker of Schism, he is no inheritour of the Kingdom of God If any man walks about in a strange opinion, he is not conformable to the Passi∣on. Let it be your endeavour therefore to

use one Eucharist; for there is One flesh of our Lord Jesus Christ, and one Cup for the Unitie of his bloud, One Altar, as One Bishop with the Presbyterie and Deacons my fellow servants, that whatever ye do, ye may do according to God. My brethren, I am very much poured out in Love towards you, and exceedingly rejoycing strengthen you, yet not I, but Jesus Christ, for whom I am in bonds, and therefore am the more affraid, because I am not yet taken out of the world. But your Prayer to God will perfect me, that I may obtain that Lot to which I was chosen, flying to the Gospel as to the flesh of Jesus, and to the Apostles as to the Presbyterie of the Church: We love also the Prophets, because they preached the Gospel, and did hope in him, and expect him; in whom al∣so believing they were saved in the Unitie of Jesus Christ, being holy men worthy to be beloved, and most worthy of admiration, born witness of by Jesus Christ, being his Martyrs, and numbred up together in the Gospel of the common hope. But if any man preach Judaism to you, hear him not. For it is better to hear Christianism from one circumcised, than Judaism from one uncircumcised. But if both of them speak not of Jesus Christ, they are to me as Pillars

and Monuments of dead men, whereon the names of men onely are written. Flie therefore evil arts, and the frauds of the prince of this world, lest being troubled with his opinion ye be weakned in charitie. Be all of you made up into one with an undi∣vided heart; I thank my God that I have a good Conscience as concerning you, and that no man hath wherof to glory, either privately or publikely, that I have been bur∣densom to any either in little or much. And I beseech all to whom I have spoken, that they possess not this as a Testimonie. And although some would seduce me ac∣cording to the flesh, yet my spirit, which is from God, is not seduced. He knows whence it comes, and whither it goes, and is a re∣proover of secrets. I have cried in the midst of you, I have spoken it with a loftie voice, Attend unto the Bishop, and the Presbyterie, and the Deacons. And though some have suspected me to have spoken these things as foreknowing the Division of some; yet he is my witness, for whom I am a Prisoner, that I have not been taught it by man, but the Spirit preached it, saying these things, Do nothing without the Bishop. Keep your flesh as the Temple of God. Love Ʋnitie. Flie di∣visions. Be ye followers of Jesus Christ as

he himself is of the Father. Therefore I did what was proper for me as a man per∣fected unto Unitie. But where there is di∣vision and wrath God dwelleth not. There∣fore the Lord pardons all Penitents, if they shall return by Repentance to the Ʋnitie of God, and the Council of the Bishop. I be∣lieve the Grace of Jesus Christ, who will loose every bond from you. And I exhort you to do nothing with contention, but ac∣cording to the Discipline of Christ. For I have heard some speaking in this wise, That if I find it not amongst the Antients, I do not believe the Gospel. And when I replied to them, That it is written. They answered me, It lies before us. But Jesus Christ is to me Antiquitie, and the Records not to be touched are his Cross, and his Death, and his Resurrection, and the Faith, which is by him, in which things I would be justified through your Prayers. Honourable are the Priests, but more honourable the High∣priest, to whom are committed the Holies of Holies, and with whom alone are deposited the hidden things of God. He is the Door of the Father, by whom Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and the Prophets, and Apostles, and Church of God have entered. All these things are for the Unitie of God.

But the Gospel hath something in it chief∣ly valueable, and that is The Presence of our Lord Jesus Christ, his Passion, and Resur∣rection. For the beloved Prophets preached of him; but the Gospel is the Perfection of incorruption. All things together are excellent, if ye believe in Love. But seeing that through your Prayers, according to the bowels which ye have in Christ Jesus, the Church, which is at Antioch of Syria (as is told to me) is at peace; it be∣comes you, as the Church of God, to or∣dain a Minister to go thither as an Em∣bassadour upon the Embasie of God, to joy together with them that they are made one, and to glorifie his Name. Blessed in Jesus Christ shall that man be, who shall be accounted worthy of such a Ministery, and ye your selves shall be glorified. This is not impossible for the Name of God, if ye have but a will to it, as some neighbour Churches also have sent Bi∣shops, others Presbyters and Deacons. As for Philo the Deacon of Cilicia, he is a man that hath given a good Testimonie, and now ministers to me in the Word of God, together with Rheus Agathopus a choyce man, who accompanies me from Syria, having renounced this life, these also bear

testimonie to you, and I give thanks to God for you, because ye have received them, as the Lord you. But they, who have dishonoured them, may obtain Redempti∣on by the Grace of Jesus Christ. The Love of the Brethren, who are at Troas, saluteth you, whence also I write unto you by Burrus, who was sent along with me from the Ephesians and the Smyrneans for the Word of honour. The Lord Jesus Christ will honour them, in whom they hope, in flesh, soul, faith, love, and unanimitie. Farewel in Christ Jesus our common Hope.

Ignatius to the Philadel∣phians.

To the Trallians.

Ignatius, who is also Theophorus, to the holy Church, beloved of God the Father, of Jesus Christ, which is in Trallis of Asia, elect, and divine, having obtained peace in the flesh and bloud, by the Passion of Je∣sus Christ our hope, and the Resurrection grounded upon him; which I salute in ful∣ness, in an Apostolical Style wishing much joy.

I Have known you to have a blameless understanding, not to be severed in Pa∣tience, and that not by use, but by nature, as Polybius your Bishop hath manifested to me, who by the will of God, and of Jesus Christ, was at Smyrna; and did so congratulate me a Prisoner for Jesus Christ, that I did view over your whole multitude in him. There∣fore receiving from him that good disposi∣tion of mind, which is according to God, I gloried finding you as I had known you the followers of God. For in regard ye are subject to the Bishop as to Jesus Christ, ye appear to me not to live as men, but to

live according to Jesus Christ, who died for us, that believing in his death ye may escape death. Therefore it is necessary, as ye do to do nothing without the Bishop; but that ye be subject to the Presbyterie, as to the Apostles of Jesus Christ our Hope, in whom we should be found having our conversation. It behooves the Deacons also, being the My∣sterie of Jesus Christ, to please all men every manner of way. For they are not the Mini∣sters of meats and drinks, but Ministers of the Church of God. Therefore it is necessa∣ry for them to avoid accusations as fire. Let all in like manner reverence the Deacons as Jesus Christ, and the Bishop, being the Son of the Father; and the Presbyters as the Council of God, and companie of the A∣postles. Without these a Church is not called. Of whom I am perswaded that ye are so in∣formed, (For I have received the Exemplar of your love, and have it by me in your Bi∣shop, whose behaviour is a great Disciplina∣tion, and his meekness power; whom I think that very Atheists do reverence) being satisfied that I spare not my self. Formerly though I might have matter to write, I thought not fit for this cause, lest being a condemned person I might seem to com∣mand you as an Apostle. I am wise in God

as to many things, yet do I measure my self, that I may not be destroyed by boasting. For now it behooves me to be very much affraid, and not to give heed to those, who would puff me up. For when such speak un∣to me they scourge me. Truly I love to suffer, but know not whether I am worthy. For my zeal appears not to many, but I have the greater war within. I have need there∣fore of meekness, that by it the prince of this world may be defeated. Cannot I write unto you of things celestial? but I am af∣fraid, lest I should give you some offence being yet but babes. Therefore pardon me, for I would not perplexe you with those things, which ye are not able to bear. For it is not for a slightie matter that I am a Prisoner, being acquainted with things ce∣lestial, and the Angelical Orders, and their governing Constitutions, things visible and invisible; and besides this I am now a Disci∣ple. For many things are wanting to you, that we may not fall short of God. There∣fore I exhort you, not I, but the love of Jesus Christ, to use only the Christian nu∣triment, and to abstain from that strange herb, which is heresie. For the times are such, that persons worthy of credit seeming∣ly do fold in heresie with Jesus Christ, like

those, who administer deadly poison, and temper it with a drink made of honey and sowre wine, which the ignorant receives with pleasure, and so dies by an evil delecta∣tion. Therefore preserve your selves from such, and so it shall be, if ye are not puffed up, being inseparable from God, Jesus Christ, and the Bishop, and the Orders of the Apo∣stles. He, who is within the Altar, is pure; that is, he, who does any thing without the Bishop, Presbyterie, and Deacons, is of an im∣pure Conscience. Not that I have known any such thing among you, but foreseeing the subtilties of the devil, I take care of you before hand being my beloved. Do ye there∣fore, re-assuming your mild disposition, build up your selves anew in the faith, which is the flesh of the Lord, in love, which is the bloud of Jesus Christ. Let none among you have any quarrel against his Neighbour. Give no offences to the Gentiles, that the Multitude which is in God be not blasphemed by a few foolish men. For Wo to him, through whose foolishness my Name is blas∣phemed amongst some. Therefore be deaf to him, who speaks to you without Jesus Christ, who was of the stock of David, and of Mary, who was truly born, eat and drank, was truly persecuted under Pontius

Pilate, was truly crucified, dead, things in heaven, on earth, and under the earth be∣holding him. And was truly raised again from the dead, his Father raising him up ac∣cording to his likeness, as his Father will raise up us also, if we believe in him, through Jesus Christ, without whom we have no true life. But if, as some Atheists, that is, In∣fidels s••y, He suffered only in appearance, as they themselves are only in appearance, why am I in bonds? and why do I pray that I may fight with beasts? therefore do I not die without reward? and am I not a lyar against the Lord? Fly therefore evil plants, which bring forth deadly fruit; which if a man taste of, he dies presently. For these are not the Plantation of the Father, if they were they would appear branches of the Cross, and their fruit would be incorruptible. Through which Cross by his Passion he Advocates for you being his Members. The Head therefore cannot be born without the Members, God having promised the Ʋnion of them, who is himself. I salute you from Smyrna, together with the Churches of God, which are present with me, who have every way refreshed me both in flesh and spirit. My bonds, which I carry about for Jesus Christ, do admonish you, that I desire to en∣joy

God. Continue in your Ʋnanimitie, and in Prayer one for another. For it becomes you all one by one exceedingly, and the Presbyters to comfort up the Bishop for the honour of the Father of Jesus Christ and of the Apostles. I beseech you in love to hear me, that writing unto you I may not be a witness within you. Pray also for me, out of that Charitie which is in you, for I need the mercy of God, that I may be accounted worthy of the Lot, which I labour to enjoy, and may not be found Reprobate. The love of the Smyrneans and Ephesians saluteth you. Remember in your prayers the Church which is in Syria, whence I am not worthy to be called, being the last of them. Fare∣wel in Jesus Christ, being subject to the Bi∣shop as to the Commandement, and likewise to the Presbyterie. And love one another man by man with an undivided heart. My Spirit shall be an expiation for you, not one∣ly now, but when I shall enjoy God. For as yet I am in danger, but the Father, who is faithful, will fulfil my Petition and yours in Jesus Christ, in whom may ye be found un∣blameable.

To the Trallians.

To the Romans.

Ignatius, who is also Theophorus, to the Church which hath obtained Mercy through the Magnificence of the most high Father, and Jesus Christ his onely begotten Son, sanctified and enlightned by him who willeth all things, which are according to the love of Jesus Christ our God; which is President over the Churches about in the Region of the Romans, as over a Quire, being divine, comely, most blessed, worthy of praise, in a becoming order, eminently chaste, and set up for a President of Charitie, having the Law of Christ, and bearing the Name of the Fa∣ther; which I also salute in the Name of Jesus Christ the Son of the Father, accord∣ing to the flesh and spirit united in every command of his, filled with all the Grace of God without any difference, and purged from every strange tincture, wishing very much joy in our Lord Jesus Christ our God im∣maculately.

HAving beseeched God, I happened to see your divine faces, as I much de∣sired

to receive you. And being in bonds for Jesus Christ I hope to salute you, if it be his will, that I may be accounted worthy to continue to the end. For the beginning is well ordered, if thereby I may obtain Grace so as to obtain my Lot unto the end without impediment. For I fear your charitie, lest it prove injurious to me. For to you it is ea∣sie to do what ye will; but to me it is a diffi∣cult thing to enjoy God, unless ye are the more sparing to me. I would not have you to please men, but to please God, as ye do please him. I shall never have such an op∣portunity to enjoy God, neither shall ye be intituled to a better work, if ye can but be silent. For if ye be silent and let me alone, I shall be of God, but if ye love my flesh, I shall be but a voice, and to run again. Ye cannot do better than to let me be sacrificed unto God, in regard the Altar is already prepared. That ye being made up a chorus in love may sing to the Father in Jesus Christ; because God hath accounted the Bishop of Syria worthy to be found, and to be sent from the East unto the West, to set and go down gloriously from the world unto God, that I may rise again in him. Ye have never bewitched me in any thing; ye have instructed others, and I would that

those things may be firm, which ye as teach∣ers have commanded. Onely pray for me to be inabled inwardly and outwardly, that I may not onely say it, but will it, and not on∣ly be called a Christian, but be found so. For if I shall be found so, I may also be so called, and then be a Believer, when I appear not to the world. Nothing is good which is onely in appearance; For our God Jesus Christ being in the Father appeareth the more. A Christian is not a work of per∣suasion but of greatness, especially when he shall be hated of the world. I write to all the Churches, and lay my commands upon them all, that I may willingly die for God, if ye shall not hinder me. I intreat you that ye would not be unseasonably kind unto me. Suffer me to be the meat of beasts that by them I may enjoy God. I am the wheat of God, and shall be ground by the teeth of beasts, that I may be found the pure bread of God. Allure those beasts the rather to become my sepulchre, and to leave no reliques of my body, that when I am fallen asleep I may not be burdensom to any. Then shall I be the true Disciple of Jesus Christ, when the world shall not see my body. Pray to the Lord for me, that by these instruments I may be found a sacrifice

to God. I do not give you commands as Peter and Paul; they were Apostles, but I am a condemned person, they were free, but I am a servant even until now, yet, if I suffer, I shall be made the Freeman of Jesus Christ, and shall rise again free; and being now a Prisoner I learn to desire nothing. From Syria even to Rome do I fight with beasts, both by Land and by Sea, by night and by day, being bound to ten Leopards, (which are my military guard) which are the worse for being kindly treated. But by their injurious dealings I am the more made a Disciple, yet am I not therefore ju∣stified. I would enjoy the beasts which are prepared for me, and I pray that they may be found sharply set, nay I would entise them greedily to devour me, and not fear∣fully to decline the touching of me as they have avoided some. But if they shun me, and will not, I shall provoke them. Pardon me. I know what is convenient for me. Now I begin to be a Disciple in that I have a zeal to nothing visible or invisible, but that I may gain Jesus Christ. Let the fire, the cross, the violence of beasts, scattering of bones, concision or chewing of members, grinding of the whole body, buffetings of the devil come upon me, so that I may but

enjoy Jesus Christ. The ends of the world will profit me nothing, nor the kingdoms of this age. It is good for me to die for Je∣sus Christ, rather then to rule over the ends of the earth. I seek him, who died for us, I will him, who rose again for us. He is the Gain set before me. Pardon me, bre∣thren, do not hinder me to live, do not se∣parate me by the world, who am willing to be of God, nor seduce me by that which is material. Suffer me to receive the pure light, when I approach to that, I shall be a man of God. Suffer me to imitate the Pas∣sion of my God. If any man hath him with∣in him, he may understand what I will, and sympathize with me, knowing what things have taken possession of me. The prince of this world would spoil me, and corrupt my judgement, which is according to God. Therefore let none of you being present contribute any assistance to him, but rather be for me, that is, for God. Do not speak Jesus Christ, and covet the world. Let no fascination be amongst you. Neither do I exhort you being present to believe me, ra∣ther believe the things, which I write unto you; for I write unto you being alive, yet withal willing to die. My Love is crucified, and the fire, which is in me, desires no wa∣ter.

But there is one living and speaking in me, who saith to me inwardly, Come to the Father. I take no pleasure in the meat of corruption, nor in the pleasures of this life. I will the bread of God, which is the flesh of Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, and the drink which I will, is his bloud, which is incorruptible love. I would live no longer according to men, and this shall be if ye will. Will it therefore that ye also may be accepted. I intreat you by a few writings, believe me; but Jesus Christ shall manifest these things to you, that I speak truth. That is no lying mouth, by which the Father hath truly spoken. Pray for me that I may obtain. For I have not written unto you according to the flesh, but ac∣cording to the mind of God. If I suffer ye have loved me, but if I prove Reprobate ye have hated me. Remember in your Prayers the Church in Syria, which in my stead hath God for its Pastour. Jesus Christ himself shall watch over it, and your Love. But I am ashamed to be named from them, for I am not worthy, being the last of them, and an abortive. But I may through mercy be something if I obtain God. My Spirit saluteth you, and the love of the Churches which have received me for the

Name of Jesus Christ, not as one passing by them; for they did not meet me onely on the way according to the flesh, but con∣ducted me to the Citie. These things I write unto you from Smyrna by the Ephe∣sians, worthy to be most blessed. Crocus also is with me a Name desireable, together with many others, who came from Syria to Rome to the glorie of God. I believe they are known to you, to whom ye may make manifest the things approaching me. For they are all worthy of God, and of you, and it becomes you to refresh them in all things. I have written unto you these things upon the day before the ninth of the Calends of September. Be strengthe∣ned to the end in the Patience of Jesus Christ.