The Apostolic Fathers

Epistle to the Magnesians (Long Version)

by Ignatius
15 chapters Read aloud, 15 min With the Greek text word study in 15 of 15 paragraphs
Right-clickPress and hold any paragraph, or tap its ¶ number, for its Greek, notes and slides.

Chapter 4: Some Act Wickedly Without the Bishop's Approval

It is fitting, then, not only to be called Christians, but to truly be so. For it is not just being called by this name, but genuinely embodying it, that makes a person blessed. To those who speak of the bishop, yet act without his guidance, the true and first Bishop and the only natural High Priest will declare, “Why do you call Me Lord, and not do what I say?” For such people appear to me to lack a good conscience, and to be merely dissemblers and hypocrites.