…and pray without ceasing in behalf of other men. For there is in them the hope of repentance that they may attain to God. See, then, that they be instructed by your works, if in no other way. Be meek in response to their wrath, humble in opposition to their boasting: to their blasphemies return your prayers; in contrast to their error, be steadfast in the faith; and for their cruelty, manifest your gentleness.While we take care not to imitate their conduct, let us be found their brethren in all true kindness; and let us seek to be followers of the Lord—who ever more unjustly treated, more destitute, more condemned?—that no plant of the devil may be found in you, but that you may remain in all holiness and sobriety in Jesus Christ, both with respect to the flesh and the spirit.
Since I tend often to think literally and concretely, I really appreciate these instructions from Ignatios of Antioch as well as all your posts today. Discipleship and fellowship: that state and experience contains everything I have ever wanted in life.
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