Catholicity

The Deposit of Faith

Now I praise you, brethren, that you remember me in all things
and keep the traditions just as I delivered them to you.
1 Corinthians 11, 2

Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of your love for all the saints; because of the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, of which you heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel, which has come to you, as it has also in all the world, and is bringing forth fruit, as it is also among you since the day you heard and knew the grace of God in truth.
Colossians 1, 4-6

Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions you were taught,
whether by word or our epistle.
2 Thessalonians 2, 15

My Explications of the Patristic Texts

Irenaeus of Lyons (A.D. 180-89)
Against Heresies, 5,20:2

“Those, therefore, who desert the preaching of the Church, call in question the knowledge of the holy presbyters, not considering how much greater consequence is a religious man, even in a private station, than a blasphemous and impudent sophist. Now, such are all the heretics, and those who imagine that they have hit upon something more beyond the truth, so that by following those things already mentioned, proceeding on their way variously, in harmoniously, and foolishly, not always keeping to the same opinions about the same things, as blind men are led by the blind, they shall deservedly fall into the ditch of ignorance lying in their path, ever seeking and never finding out the truth. It behooves us, therefore, to avoid their doctrines and take careful heed lest we suffer any injury from them; but to flee to the Church, be brought up in her bosom, and be nourished with the Lord’s Scriptures.”

Irenaeus of Lyons was a prominent early Christian bishop and theologian known for defending Christian doctrine against Gnosticism. His most famous work, “Against Heresies,” outlines his arguments against various heretical teachings and emphasizes the importance of apostolic tradition and the teachings of the Church. In the provided text, Irenaeus asserts the significance of the Church’s teachings and the authority of its presbyters (elders/priests). He emphasizes that those who abandon the Church’s preaching undermine the knowledge and wisdom preserved through its teachings, which are essential for maintaining true faith.

By comparing a religious person in a humble position to a “blasphemous and impudent sophist,” Irenaeus highlights the value of genuine faith and moral integrity, suggesting that a person’s spiritual standing is more consequential than their intellectual prowess or social status. This reflects a broader theme in Irenaeus’s work: the idea that true knowledge and salvation come from God and the authentic teachings of the Church rather than from heretical or philosophical speculations that may lead one away from faith.

The text addresses the issue of heresy and the dangers of deviating from established truths, particularly within a religious or doctrinal context. It suggests that those who consider themselves enlightened or who believe they have discovered deeper truths beyond accepted beliefs are akin to the “blind leading the blind.” This imagery conveys a sense of misguided leadership, where individuals, unaware of their own ignorance, wander off the right path.

The author warns that these individuals risk falling into a “ditch of ignorance ” by following varied and often contradictory opinions. This suggests that lacking a solid foundation, their quest for knowledge or truth leads only to confusion and error. The phrase “ever seeking and never finding” emphasizes the futility of their efforts; despite their search, they do not attain real understanding or enlightenment.

The conclusion urges readers to avoid such misguided beliefs and stay connected to the “Church.” Here, the Church symbolizes a source of truth and stability, offering a nurturing environment founded on established teachings, particularly the Scriptures. The recommendation to be “brought up in her bosom” reflects the idea of finding safety, guidance, and nourishment in traditional doctrines as opposed to the chaotic and uncertain beliefs of heretics.

Overall, the message calls for adhering to proven truths and teachings to avoid the pitfalls of ignorance and confusion that can arise from straying too far into unconventional or unsupported beliefs.

Clement of Alexandria (A.D. 202)
Stromata 7:16

“For those who are slothful and have it in their power to provide themselves with proper proofs for the divine Scriptures from the Scriptures themselves, select only what contributes to their own pleasures. And those craving glory who voluntarily evade, by arguments of a diverse sort, the things delivered by the blessed apostles and teachers, which are wedded to inspired words; opposing the divine tradition by human teachings, to establish the heresy.”

Clement of Alexandria was a prominent early Christian theologian and philosopher who lived around the late 2nd and early 3rd centuries. His work aimed to bridge the gap between Greek philosophy and Christian theology, emphasizing the unity of faith and reason. In the excerpt I have provided, Clement critiques those who neglect the riches of Scripture for their own indulgences. He highlights a couple of key themes that are central to his overall philosophy.

Clement admonishes those who are “slothful” and have the means to engage with Scripture but choose instead to select only those parts that suit their personal desires. This reflects a broader theme in Clement’s thought that emphasizes the importance of diligent study and understanding of Scripture. He believed that the Scriptures hold the keys to divine wisdom and that neglecting them leads to spiritual impoverishment.

He contrasts the teachings of the apostles, which he considers divinely inspired, with human arguments that distort their truth. This tension between divine tradition and human interpretation is a critical element in Clement’s work, as he often defends the idea that true understanding comes from embracing the authority of the Scriptures and the teachings of the Church rather than relying on personal interpretations or philosophical arguments that diverge from orthodoxy.

Clement warns against the pursuit of glory through false teachings or interpretations that stray from the core tenets of Christianity. By labeling those who seek to develop heresies as “craving glory,” he suggests that ambition can lead to spiritual dangers. This distinction between seeking truth versus self-serving interpretations is significant in Clement’s writings, underscoring the need for humility and adherence to tradition.

Thus, Clement of Alexandria advocates for an engaged and responsible approach to Scripture, warns against the pitfalls of personal ambition leading to heretical teachings, and underscores the significance of adhering to divinely inspired traditions. His work remains influential in discussions about the relationship between faith, reason, and the interpretation of Scripture in the Christian tradition.

Origen of Alexandria (A.D. 230)
First Principles, 4,1:9

“Now the cause, in all the points previously enumerated, of the false opinions, and of the impious statements or ignorant assertions about God, appears to be nothing else than the not understanding the Scripture according to its spiritual meaning, but the interpretation of it agreeably to the mere letter. And therefore, to those who believe that the sacred books are not the compositions of men, but that they were composed by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, agreeably to the will of the Father of all things through Jesus Christ, and that they have come down to us, we must point out the ways (of interpreting them) which appear (correct) to us, who cling to the standard of the heavenly Church of Jesus Christ according to the succession of the apostles.”

The text appears to reflect an early Christian perspective, emphasizing the importance of understanding Scripture beyond its literal interpretation. The author, Origen, argues that misunderstandings about God often stem from a failure to grasp the spiritual meaning of the Scriptures.

Origen asserts that false opinions and erroneous beliefs about God arise from interpreting the Scriptures solely in a literal sense, neglecting their deeper spiritual significance. He highlights the belief that sacred texts are not merely human writings but are divinely inspired by the Holy Spirit. This perspective underscores the authority and sacredness of the Scriptures. The reference to adhering to the “heavenly Church of Jesus Christ” and the “succession of the apostles” suggests that interpretation should align with the teachings and traditions passed down through the Church. This points to a communal and historical aspect of understanding Scripture.

The author proposes that there are correct ways to interpret Scripture that should be followed, aiming to guide believers in understanding the texts in a manner that aligns with divine intention. In essence, Origen calls for a more profound and thoughtful engagement with the Scriptures, encouraging a move away from superficial reading and a search for their spiritual truths. This approach reflects early Christian thought on exegesis and the quest for understanding the divine through sacred texts.

Cyril of Jerusalem (A.D. 350)
Catechetical Lectures, 5:12

“But in learning the Faith and in professing it, acquire and keep that only, which is now delivered to you by the Church and has been built up strongly out of all the Scriptures. Since all cannot read the Scriptures, some are hindered as to their knowledge by want of learning, and others by a want of leisure, so that the soul may not perish from ignorance, we comprise the doctrine of the Faith in a few lines… So, for the present, listen while I simply say the Creed and commit it to memory, but at the proper season, expect the confirmation of each part of the contents from the Holy Scripture. The articles of the Faith were not composed as they seemed good to men, but the most important points collected out of all the Scripture make up one complete teaching of the Faith. Just as the mustard seed in one small grain contains many branches, this Faith has embraced in a few words all the knowledge of godliness in the Old and New Testaments. Take heed then, brethren, and hold the traditions you now receive fast, and write them on the table of your heart.”

Cyril of Jerusalem was an influential early Christian theologian and bishop in the fourth century. He was known for his significant contributions to Christian education and catechesis. His teachings, particularly his “Catechetical Lectures,” provide essential insights into the nature of the Christian faith, the sacraments, and the relationship between Scripture and tradition. In the excerpt I provided, Cyril emphasizes several key points.

Cyril underscores the importance of acquiring and maintaining the teachings delivered by the authoritative Church. He asserts that these teachings are rooted in Scripture and have been carefully constructed to guide believers.

The Bishop of Jerusalem acknowledges that not everyone can read or study the Scriptures due to various limitations, such as lack of education or time. Therefore, he presents a distilled version of the faith—the Creed—so that all believers can grasp the essential truths necessary for their spiritual well-being. Cyril stresses that the articles of the Creed are not arbitrary but are derived from the core teachings of the Old and New Testaments. He likens the faith to a mustard seed, suggesting that despite its concise expression, it encompasses a vast and profound understanding of godliness.

Cyril urges his listeners to commit the Creed to memory and emphasizes the importance of holding onto these traditions. This reflects the early Church’s view that oral transmission and memorization were vital for passing down the faith. He indicates that while memorizing the Creed is important, believers should also anticipate a deeper exploration of each of its components through Scripture at a later time. This approach highlights a dual process of initial learning followed by deeper theological reflection and understanding.

Cyril’s work has had a lasting impact on Christian catechesis and theology, helping to shape how the faith is taught and understood within the Church. Through his teachings, he provided followers of Christ with a framework to comprehend and embrace their beliefs, promoting both personal faith and communal unity within the Church.

Ephraem of Syria (ante A.D. 373)
Adv. Haeres

“While (the sects) mutually refute and condemn each other, it has happened to the truth as to Gideon; that is, while they fight against each other and fall under wounds mutually inflicted, they crown her. All the heretics acknowledge that there is a true Scripture. Had they all falsely believed that none existed, someone might reply that such Scripture was unknown to them. But now they have taken away the force of such a plea because they have mutilated the Scriptures. For they have corrupted the sacred copies and words which ought to have but one interpretation, they have wrested to strange significations. Whilst, when one of them attempts this and cuts off a member of his own body, the rest demand and claim back the severed limb…It is the church which perfect truth perfects. The church of believers is great, and its bosom most ample; it embraces the fulness (or, the whole) of the two Testaments.”

In “Adversus Haereses” (often referred to in English as “Against Heresies”), Ephraem of Syria addresses the theological and doctrinal disputes of his time, focusing on the nature of truth and the preservation of the authentic Christian faith. The quoted passage reflects several key themes present in his work.

Ephraem notes that various sects and heretical groups refute and condemn each other. This chaos results in a fragmented understanding of truth among them yet ironically leads to a recognition of true Scripture. The metaphor of Gideon alludes to an Old Testament figure who achieved victory despite being outnumbered, suggesting that truth can emerge even amidst conflict. His argument suggests that had these sects genuinely believed in the absence of true Scripture, they would have no framework for their beliefs. Their existence as sects indicates a recognition of a higher truth that they strive to conceptualize, albeit in divergent ways.

Ultimately, Ephraem posits that rather than diminishing the truth, the struggles among these sects paradoxically elevate it. By contending against each other, they inadvertently highlight and affirm the existence of a singular truth that transcends their disputes.

However, Ephraem expresses a strong concern regarding the integrity of religious scriptures. He suggests that sacred texts have been deliberately altered or manipulated, rendering them less effective as sources of truth or moral guidance. The phrase “mutilated the Scriptures” implies that these texts have been damaged or altered in ways that distort their original meanings. The author argues that the changes made to the “sacred copies” mean that the scriptures, which should have a single, clear interpretation, have instead been subject to “strange significations.” This suggests a sense of frustration and disillusionment with how the meanings of these texts have been twisted to serve different agendas or interpretations, distancing the faithful from the intended message.

Ephraem continues by presenting an idea about the role of the church in relation to truth and faith. He suggests that the church is a gathering of believers and a vital entity that helps in the pursuit and perfection of truth. The phrase “It is the church that perfects truth perfects” implies that the church plays a crucial role in refining and clarifying truths, possibly referring to theological and moral truths that guide the lives of its members.

When he states “the church of believers is great,” it emphasizes the strength and significance of a community of faith. The term “most ample” suggests that this community is expansive and inclusive, embracing diverse people and ideas. The mention of “the fulness (or, the whole) of the two Testaments” indicates that the church grounds itself in both the Old and New Testaments of the Bible, seeing itself as a custodian of the entire narrative of faith.

Overall, the text highlights a tension between the purity of original religious teachings and the corrupting influences that can emerge over time, ultimately calling into question the authenticity and authority of contemporary interpretations of these scriptures. It highlights the church’s function as a unifying body that nurtures and perfects the understanding of truth within the framework of Christian beliefs, drawing from the richness of both Testaments.

Gregory of Nyssa (A.D. 384)
Against Eunomius, 4:6

“Seeing, I say, that the Church teaches this in plain language, that the Only-begotten is essentially God, very God of the essence of the very God, how ought one who opposes her decisions to overthrow the preconceived opinion… And let no one interrupt me by saying that what we confess should also be confirmed by constructive reasoning, for it is enough for proof of our statement that the tradition has come down to us from our Fathers, handled on, like some inheritance, by succession from the apostles and the saints who came after them.”

Gregory of Nyssa was an influential Christian theologian and one of the Cappadocian Fathers, alongside his brother Basil the Great and their friend Gregory of Nazianzus. He played a crucial role in developing early Christian doctrine, particularly about the Trinity and the nature of God.

In the excerpt I provided, Gregory emphasizes the authority of the Church’s teachings regarding the nature of Christ and God. He argues that the Church clearly teaches that the Only-begotten Son is fully divine—“very God of the essence of the very God”—and he questions the credibility of those who oppose this fundamental doctrine. Gregory advocates for the acceptance of Church tradition as a foundational basis for belief, arguing that it has been transmitted through generations, linking directly back to the apostles and saints.

By defending the concept of Christ’s divine nature, Gregory aims to counter various heretical views that arose during his time, particularly those that questioned Christ’s divinity or misrepresented the nature of the Trinity. While he acknowledges the importance of reason in understanding faith, Gregory insists that the divine truths revealed through tradition should suffice as proof, thus placing a higher value on revealed truth than purely philosophical reasoning. He likens the Church’s tradition to an inheritance, underscoring the continuity and communal aspect of faith as something passed down from generations rather than an individually constructed belief system.

Gregory of Nyssa’s contributions to the Church were pivotal during a time of theological conflict. His teachings continue influencing Christian thought, particularly in Trinitarian theology and Christology.

Augustine of Hippo (A.D. 397)
On Christian Doctrine, 3,2:2

“But when proper words make Scripture ambiguous, we must see in the first place that there is nothing wrong in our punctuation or pronunciation. Accordingly, if, when attention is given to the passage, it shall appear to be uncertain in what way it ought to be punctuated or pronounced, let the reader consult the rule of faith which he has gathered from the plainer passages of Scripture and from the authority of the Church, and of which I treated at sufficient length when I was speaking in the first book about things.”

Augustine of Hippo, also known as Saint Augustine, was a prominent early Christian theologian and philosopher whose writings greatly influenced Christian doctrine and Western philosophy. He lived from 354 to 430 AD and served as the Bishop of Hippo in North Africa. In his works, Augustine addresses various theological and philosophical issues, including the nature of God, the problem of evil, and the relationship between faith and reason. He is perhaps best known for his concepts of original sin, grace, and the city of God.

The above excerpt reflects Augustine’s approach to interpreting Scripture. He emphasizes the importance of clarity and the proper understanding of biblical texts. Augustine advises readers to look beyond mere punctuation or pronunciation issues when faced with ambiguities in Scripture. Instead, they should rely on a well-formed understanding of their faith, informed by clearer passages of Scripture and the teachings of the Church.

This reliance on the community’s teachings and authoritative interpretations signifies Augustine’s view that individual interpretation must be guided by the faith established within the Church. It reminds readers that the collective understanding of Scripture can provide clarity where textual ambiguities arise. Augustine’s work encourages an interaction between personal reasoning and communal doctrine, advocating for a thoughtful and faith-informed approach to Scripture.

John Chrysostom (A.D. 404)
Homily on 2nd Thessalonians, 4:2

“ ‘So then, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye were taught, whether by word or by Epistle of ours.’ Hence, it is manifest that they did not deliver all things by Epistle, but many things were also unwritten, and in like manner, both the one and the other are worthy of credit. Therefore, let us think the tradition of the Church is also worthy of credit. It is a tradition; seek no farther.”

John Chrysostom was an early Church Father and a significant Christian theologian and preacher, recognized for his eloquent homilies and public speaking. Born around 349 AD in Antioch, Syria, he later became the Archbishop of Constantinople. His name, which means “Golden Mouth” in Greek, reflects his reputation for powerful and persuasive oratory. Chrysostom is well-known for his contributions to Christian liturgy, particularly the Divine Liturgy of John Chrysostom, which is still used in many Eastern Orthodox Churches today. He emphasized the importance of the Eucharist and the moral responsibility of Christians to care for the poor and marginalized.

The text reflects on the importance of both written and oral traditions within the context of the Church. It begins with an exhortation to “stand fast” and adhere to the traditions taught by the Apostles, emphasizing that these teachings come not only through written letters (Epistles) but also through oral teachings. This distinction suggests that not everything essential to faith and practice was captured in written form; some teachings were passed down verbally.

The phrase “both the one and the other are worthy of credit” underlines the notion that both the written and the unwritten traditions carry authority and should be respected. This acknowledgment of oral traditions recognizes the communal and lived aspects of faith that cannot always be captured in text.

Finally, the statement that “the tradition of the Church is also worthy of credit” emphasizes the legitimacy and significance of Church traditions as a source of authority in guiding believers’ beliefs and practices. The call to “seek no further” suggests that these traditions should be accepted without question, positioning them as crucial to maintaining the integrity of faith within the community.

Overall, this text champions a holistic understanding of tradition, asserting that both scriptural and non-scriptural teachings are vital for the life of the Church and its followers. The text reflects on the importance of both written and oral traditions within the context of the Church. It begins with an exhortation to “stand fast” and adhere to the traditions taught by the Apostles, emphasizing that these teachings come not only through written letters (Epistles) but also through oral teachings. This distinction suggests that not everything essential to faith and practice was captured in written form; some teachings were passed down verbally.

Vincent of Lerins (A.D. 434)
Commonitory of the Antiquity and Universality of the Catholic Faith, 70

“But it will be said, If the words, the sentiments, the promises of Scripture, are appealed to by the Devil and his disciples, of whom some are false apostles, some false prophets and false teachers, and all without exception heretics, what are Catholics and the sons of Mother Church to do? How are they to distinguish truth from falsehood in the sacred Scriptures? They must be very careful to pursue that course which, in the beginning of this Commonitory, we said that holy and learned men had commended to us; that is to say, they must interpret the sacred Canon according to the traditions of the Universal Church and in keeping with the rules of Catholic doctrine, in which Catholic and Universal Church, moreover, they must follow universality, antiquity, consent.”

Vincent of Lerins was a notable theologian and ecclesiastical writer in the early 5th century. He is best known for his work, the “Commonitorium,” in which he discusses the principles of Catholic faith and tradition. Vincent emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of Christian doctrine by adhering to what the Church has believed universally throughout history. His ideas have had a lasting impact on the development of Christian theology, particularly regarding the concepts of orthodoxy and the role of tradition in the faith.

The text addresses the challenge that Catholics face when interpreting Scripture, especially in light of the fact that even the Devil and false teachers can misuse biblical words and sentiments to lead people astray. It highlights the concern that if deception exists within the context of Scripture interpretation, how can the faithful discern true doctrine from falsehood?

Vincent advises that Catholics should rely on the traditions of the Universal Church as a guide when interpreting the Bible. This underscores the importance of historical context and the teachings passed down through generations. Adherence to established Catholic doctrines is crucial for understanding Scripture correctly. This prevents interpretations that deviate from the faith’s core beliefs.

The author proposes three criteria for interpreting Scripture: universality, antiquity, and consent. This means that interpretations should be consistent across different times and places (universality), upheld throughout the church’s history (antiquity), and in agreement with a consensus of church leaders and theologians (consent).

In short, the text urges Catholics to be vigilant and grounded in their faith’s traditions and teachings to accurately interpret Scripture and discern truth from falsehood in a world where misleading interpretations can arise.

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