First Epistle to the Corinthians
Chapter 47: Your Recent Disagreements are Worse than the Previous Ones During Paul's Time
Consider the letter from the blessed Apostle Paul. What did he write to you when the Gospel first started being preached? Truly, led by the Spirit, he wrote to you about himself, Cephas, and Apollos, because even then factions had formed among you. However, your preference for one over another was less blameworthy, as your loyalties were directed towards apostles who were already highly regarded and towards a man they had endorsed. But now, think about who has misled you and diminished the fame of your renowned brotherly love. It is disgraceful, beloved, indeed highly disgraceful, and unworthy of your Christian profession, that such a thing should be heard of, that the most steadfast and ancient Church of the Corinthians should, because of one or two people, engage in conflict against its presbyters. This rumor has reached not only us but also those who are not connected to us; so that, through your foolishness, the name of the Lord is blasphemed, and you bring danger upon yourselves.