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  AS A PRISONER, I HOPE TO SEE YOU
  by Ignatius of Antioch
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Summary: Ignatius expresses his hope to see the church while in prison,
but is concerned that their love may not be genuine, and that he needs
their support to attain a deeper spiritual connection with God.

Topics: "Persevering Faith", "Spiritual Growth"
Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 16:13

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DESCRIPTION
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Ignatius of Antioch expresses his gratitude for the privilege of seeing
the faces of the congregation through prayer, hoping to visit them as a
prisoner in Christ Jesus. He acknowledges the importance of clinging to
his faith without hindrance until the end, fearing that excessive love
from the congregation might hinder his spiritual journey. Ignatius
recognizes the power of God's will and the challenges he faces in
attaining closeness to God, urging the congregation to support him
without being swayed by mere human affections.

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CONTENT
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Through prayer to God I have obtained the privilege of seeing your most
worthy faces, even as I earnestly begged might be granted me; for as a
prisoner in Christ Jesus I hope to salute you, if indeed it be the will
[of God] that I be thought worthy of attaining unto the end.

For the beginning has been well ordered, if I may obtain grace to cling
to my lot without hindrance unto the end. For I am afraid of your love,
lest it should do me an injury. For it is easy for you to accomplish
what you please; but it is difficult for me to attain to God, if ye do
not spare me, under the pretence of carnal affection.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/ignatius-of-antioch/as-a-prisoner-i-hope-to-see-you/
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