XXVI. To this I may compare the case of
Theology Theology is here used
in a restricted sense, as denoting simply the doctrine of the Deity of
the Son or Logos. It is very frequently used in this limited
sense; examples of which may readily be found in Gregory of Nyssa,
Basil, Chrysostom, and others. A similar use occurs in Orat.
XXXVIII., c. 8, in which passage θεολογία is
contrasted with οἰκονομία,
the doctrine of our Lord’s Divinity with that of the
Incarnation. except that it
proceeds the reverse way. For in the case by which I have
illustrated it the change is made by successive subtractions; whereas
here perfection is reached by additions. For the matter stands
thus. The Old Testament proclaimed the Father openly, and the Son
more obscurely. The New manifested the Son, and suggested the
Deity of the Spirit. Now the Spirit Himself dwells among us, and
supplies us with a clearer demonstration of Himself. For it was
not safe, when the Godhead of the Father was not yet acknowledged,
plainly to proclaim the Son; nor when that of the Son was not yet
received to burden us further (if I may use so bold an expression) with
the Holy Ghost; lest perhaps people might, like men loaded with food
beyond their strength, and presenting eyes as yet too weak to bear it
to the sun’s light, risk the loss even of that which was within
the reach of their powers; but that by gradual additions, and, as David
says, Goings up, and advances and progress from glory to
glory, Ps.
lxxxiv. 7, and 2 Cor. iii. 18. the Light of the
Trinity might shine upon the more illuminated. For this reason it
was, I think, that He gradually came to dwell in the Disciples,
measuring Himself out to them according to their capacity to receive
Him, at the beginning of the Gospel, after the Passion, after the
Ascension, making perfect their powers, being breathed upon them, and
appearing in fiery tongues. And indeed it is by little and little
that He is declared by Jesus, as you will learn for yourself if you
will read more carefully. I will ask the Father, He says, and He
will send you another Comforter, even the spirit of Truth. John xiv. 16, 17. This He said that He might not seem to
be a rival God, or to make His discourses to them by another
authority. Again, He shall send Him, but it is in My Name.
He leaves out the I will ask, but He keeps the Shall send, John xvi. 7. then again, I will send,—His own
dignity. Then shall come, Ib. xvi.
8. the authority
of the Spirit.