Acknowledgment of Their Kindness
The sermon emphasizes the importance of showing kindness and gratitude towards the servants of Christ, and the significance of the Lord's mercy in the day of judgment.
Ignatius of Antioch commends the congregation for their hospitality towards fellow servants of Christ, expressing gratitude for their support and blessings. He assures them that their kindness will not go unnoticed by the Lord and encourages them to continue in their good deeds. Ignatius prays for God's mercy upon them and expresses his hope that they will not be ashamed in the presence of Jesus Christ.
Text
Ye have done well in receiving Philo, and Gaius, and Agathopus, who, being the servants of Christ, have followed me for the sake of God, and who greatly bless the Lord in your behalf, because ye have in every way refreshed them. None of those things which ye have done to them shall be passed by without being reckoned unto you.
"The Lord grant" to you "that ye may find mercy of the Lord in that day!" May my spirit be for you, and my bonds, which ye have not despised or been ashamed of. Wherefore, neither shall Jesus Christ, our perfect hope, be ashamed of you.
Sermon Outline
- Introduction
- Welcome and gratitude towards the church
- Acknowledge the kindness of the church towards Philo, Gaius, and Agathopus
Key Quotes
“The Lord grant to you that ye may find mercy of the Lord in that day!” — Ignatius of Antioch
“May my spirit be for you, and my bonds, which ye have not despised or been ashamed of.” — Ignatius of Antioch
Application Points
- We should strive to show kindness and generosity towards those who have helped us.
- We should recognize and appreciate the efforts of those who have supported us spiritually and physically.
- We should pray for the mercy of the Lord, so that we may be saved in the end.