
Cyprian of Carthage
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Epistle 1
0MAT 6:19ROM 12:2PHP 4:6COL 3:21PE 3:21Cyprian fulfills his promise to Donatus by commending the grace of God in baptism, sharing his personal transformation, and highlighting the errors of the world. He urges contempt for worldly pleasures, encourages reading and prayer, and emphasizes the need for spiritual discipline and constant communion with God. Cyprian contrasts the corrupt and sinful nature of the world with the peace and security found in withdrawing from worldly entanglements and anchoring oneself in the salvation offered by God. He concludes by exhorting Donatus to maintain a disciplined and virtuous life, characterized by prayer, reading, and a focus on heavenly treasures over earthly riches.
Epistle 2
0EZK 34:2JHN 10:111CO 12:26JAS 5:141PE 4:8Cyprian of Carthage, through a letter from the Roman clergy, is reminded of his duty to shepherd the flock during his absence, emphasizing the importance of standing firm in the faith amidst persecution and idolatry. The clergy urge Cyprian to be a good shepherd, not a hireling, and to exhort the brethren to repent and remain steadfast in their beliefs, even if faced with fear and danger. They stress the need to care for the fallen, the sick, widows, prisoners, and catechumens, and to ensure the proper burial of martyrs and others, highlighting the rewards of faithful service and the importance of unity and support within the Church.
Epistle 3
0PRO 12:22JHN 8:32EPH 4:25COL 3:91PE 2:1Cyprian of Carthage writes a friendly and familiar epistle to the elders and deacons in Rome, expressing joy upon hearing of the glorious end of his colleague. He commends the Roman clergy for honoring their bishop's memory publicly, setting an example of faith and virtue for others to follow. Cyprian also addresses concerns about a potentially altered epistle, emphasizing the importance of truth and integrity in clerical communication.
Epistle 4
0PRO 15:221CO 1:10GAL 6:2PHP 2:31TH 5:13Cyprian of Carthage, in his letter to the presbyters and deacons, emphasizes the importance of unity in his absence, urging them to fulfill their duties diligently and with discipline. He stresses the need to provide for prisoners, the poor, and to maintain peace among the people, cautioning against overwhelming crowds visiting the imprisoned confessors. Cyprian advises a balanced approach to avoid potential conflicts and ensure continued access to those in need.
Epistle 5
0LUK 14:11JHN 13:14PHP 2:3JAS 4:101PE 5:6Cyprian of Carthage addresses the presbyters and deacons, urging them to care for the poor and especially the confessors who have stood firm in their faith. He advises them to provide for the needs of those in want, reminding them to be humble, modest, and peaceable, following the examples of Jesus washing His disciples' feet and Apostle Paul's humility despite his sufferings. Cyprian expresses concern over some members running wickedly and proudly, defiling themselves and tarnishing the honorable glories of other confessors, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a righteous and humble character.