Tertullian The Prescription Against Heretics Indeed they would have found it impossible either to convert Jews or to bring in Gentiles, unless they "set forth in order"[285] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III Thus also does Luke, without respect of persons, deliver to us what he had learned from them, as he has himself testified, saying, "Even as they delivered them unto us, who from the beginning were eye-witnesses and ministers of the Word."[242] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book IV In the preceding book, then, the ideas of the apostles as to all these points have been set forth, [to the effect] that not only did they, "who from the beginning were eye-witnesses and ministers of the word"[2] Victorinus Commentary on the Apocalypse of the Blessed John But Luke said, "There was a priest, by name Zachariah, of the course of Abia, and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron: "[27] Epistle of Ignatius to the Philadelphians For he is in harmony with the commandments and ordinances of the Lord, even as the strings are with the harp, and is no less blameless than was Zacharias the priest.[8] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III Luke also, the follower and disciple of the apostles, referring to Zacharias and Elisabeth, from whom, according to promise, John was born, says: "And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless."[87] The Letter of the Churches of Vienna and Lugdunum His mode of life had been so strict, that though he was a young man, he deserved to be described in the words used in regard to the elderly Zacharias: `He had walked therefore in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.'[6] Origen Commentary on Matthew Book XI And then you are not ashamed to accuse My disciples who transgress no commandment; for they walk "in all His commandments and ordinances blamelessly,"[89] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III and he came to sacrifice, "entering into the temple of the Lord."[89] Tertullian On Prayer [100] Origen Commentary on John Book II Gabriel, when announcing to Zacharias the birth of John, and to Mary the advent of our Saviour among men, says:[94] Origen Commentary on John Book VI " The words of the angel of the Lord, too, who appeared to Zacharias, as he stood at the right hand of the altar of incense, are somewhat to the same effect as the prophecy of Malachi: "And[37] Origen Commentary on Matthew Book XIII examination of the doctrine of transmigration, because of the suspicion of some who suppose that the soul under consideration was the same in Elijah and in John, being called in the former case Elijah, and in the second case John; and that, not apart from God, had he been called John, as is plain from the saying of the angel who appeared to Zacharias, "Fear not, Zacharias, for thy supplication is heard, and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John; "[12] The Second Epistle of Pope Pontianus Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men of good will.[1] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III And he shall go before Him in the spirit and power of Elias, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord."[90] Origen Commentary on Matthew Book XIII so his spirit had something of choice excellence, so that not only did it rest on Elisha, but also descended along with John at his birth; and that John, separately, "was filled with the Holy Ghost even from his mother's womb," and separately, "came before Christ in the spirit and power of Elijah."[22] Origen Commentary on Matthew Book XIII But some one might ask, if the soul of Elijah was not first in the Tishbite and secondly in John, what might that be in both which the Saviour called Elijah? And I say that Gabriel in his words to Zacharias suggested what the substance was in Elijah and John that was the same; for he says, "Many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God; and he shall go before his face in the spirit and power of Elijah."[14] " For the Scripture well knows the distinction between spirit and soul, as, "May God sanctify you wholly, and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved entire, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ; "[15] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III " Plainly does the commencement of the Gospel quote the words of the holy prophets, and point out Him at once, whom they confessed as God and Lord; Him, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who had also made promise to Him, that He would send His messenger before His face, who was John, crying in the wilderness, in "the spirit and power of Elias,"[118] who should prepare His way, that is, that he should bear witness of that Light in the spirit and power of Elias.[130] Tertullian On Monogamy -the one a monogamist, the other a voluntary celibate (for Elias was nothing else than John, who came "in the power and spirit of Elias"[73] Hippolytus Dogmatical and Historical Fragments It is a matter of course that His forerunners must appear first, as He says by Malachi and the angel,[103] Methodius Oration on the Psalms in order that by the miracle of these the hearts of the fathers might be turned to the children, and the disobedient unto the wisdom of the just.[13] IV. O ye disobedient as regards the wisdom of the just,[35] Redouble, therefore, your joy, that you have been made the fathers of such children who, under the teaching of God, have celebrated with their praises things unknown to their seniors. Turn your hearts to your children,[39] Origen Commentary on John Book II " He, then, who objects to that rendering of our passage which appears to be the deeper may say that Isaiah was sent not to this world from another place, but after having seen "the Lord sitting on a throne high and lifted up," was sent to the people, to say, "Hearing, ye shall hear and shall not understand," and so on; and that in the same manner John, the beginning of his mission not being narrated, is sent after the analogy of the mission of Isaiah, to baptize,[92] Origen Commentary on John Book VI thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John." And a little further on:[38] Origen Commentary on Matthew Book X False, then, is the saying concerning Jesus, whether that recorded to have been the view of Herod, or that spoken by others. Only, the saying, "That John went before in the spirit and power of Elijah,"[148] Origen Commentary on Matthew Book XIII Upon Elisha, then, only the spirit of Elijah rested, but John came before,[29] Origen Commentary on John Book VI For John's voice points to that word and demonstrates it. It is therefore a very appropriate punishment that falls on Zacharias on his saying to the angel,[61] Tertullian On Idolatry , and, passing by his bootless tongue, with the help of his hands dictates from his heart, and without his mouth pronounces the name of his son.[177] Hippolytus Dogmatical and Historical Fragments I was brought up from beneath; I did not come down from above. I bound the tongue of my father;[386] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III And again, speaking in reference to the angel, he says: "But at that time the angel Gabriel was sent from God, who did also say to the virgin, Fear not, Mary; for thou hast found favour with God."[93] Tertullian On the Flesh of Christ Clearly enough is the nativity announced by Gabriel.[9] Tertullian On the Veiling of Virgins ."[25] Hippolytus Refutation of All Heresies Book VI But concerning the creation of this (Jesus), he expresses himself thus: That powers emanating from the second tetrad fashioned Jesus, who appeared on earth, and that the angel Gabriel[153] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus Second Homily For this word also is contained in the oracle of the evangelic history: "And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent to a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house and lineage of David; and the virgin's name was Mary; "[24] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus Third Homily An angel talks with the Virgin, in order that the serpent may no more have converse with the woman. In the sixth month, it is said, the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a virgin espoused to a man.[2] The Gospel of the Nativity of Mary Accordingly, going in, he filled the chamber where she was with a great light; and most courteously saluting her, he said: Hail, Mary! O virgin highly favoured by the Lord, virgin full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou above all women, blessed above all men that have been hitherto born.[10] Martyrdom of the Holy and Glorious Apostle Bartholomew And she cast off fear, and stood up, and said, How shall this be to me, since I know not man? The angel answered her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Most High shall overshadow thee; wherefore also that holy thing which is born of thee shall be called Son of God.[7] Tertullian An Answer to the Jews For to none of men was the universal aggregation of spiritual credentials appropriate, except to Christ; paralleled as He is to a "flower" by reason of glory, by reason of grace; but accounted "of the root of Jesse," whence His origin is to be deduced,-to wit, through Mary.[181] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus First Homily To-day did Gabriel, who stands by God, come to the pure virgin, bearing to her the glad annunciation, "Hail, thou that art highly favoured![9] Fragments from Peter of Alexandria From this we learn that the angel, when he saluted the Virgin with the words, "Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee,"[39] The Protevangelium of James And, behold, a voice saying: Hail, thou who hast received grace; the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women![31] The Gospel of Pseudo-Matthew And he said to her: Hail, Mary, full of grace; the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.[26] Infancy Thomas Latin The scribes and Pharisees said to Mary: Art thou the mother of this child? And Mary said: Indeed I am. And they said to her: Blessed art thou among women,[14] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus First Homily He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God shall give unto Him the throne of His father David, and He shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever: and of His kingdom there shall be no end. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? "[12] Cyprian Treatise XII Three Books of Testimonies Against the Jews The same shall be great, and He shall be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God shall give Him the throne of His father David, and He shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever, and of His kingdom there shall be no end."[199] Tertullian On the Flesh of Christ Will not the angel's announcement also be subverted, that the virgin should "conceive in her womb and bring forth a son? "[295] First Apology of Justin And the angel of God who was sent to the same virgin at that time brought her good news, saying, "Behold, thou shalt conceive of the Holy Ghost, and shalt bear a Son, and He shall be called the Son of the Highest, and thou shalt call His name Jesus; for He shall save His people from their sins,"[64] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III And he says concerning the Lord: "He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto Him the throne of His father David: and He shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of His kingdom there shall be no end."[94] And David, knowing by the Spirit the dispensation of the advent of this Person, by which He is supreme over all the living and dead, confessed Him as Lord, sitting on the right hand of the Most High Father.[278] The Gospel of the Nativity of Mary and He shall be called the Son of the Most High, because He who is born on earth in humiliation, reigns in heaven in exaltation; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David, and He shall reign in the house of Jacob for ever, and of His kingdom there shall be no end;[12] Origen Commentary on Matthew Book XIII Thus, then, these became great, of whom this is written, Isaac, and Moses, and John, and the Saviour Himself above all; for also about Him Gabriel said, "He shall be great; "[155] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III , because He was a King, "of whose kingdom is no end; "[77] Acts of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul Peter said: We preach one God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, that has made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and all that therein is, who is the true King; and of His kingdom there shall be no end.[37] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus Twelve Topics on the Faith How could one say that Christ was born of the seed of man by the Virgin, when the holy Gospel and the angel, in proclaiming the good tidings, testify of Mary the Virgin that she said, "How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? "[8] The Protevangelium of James and ran to the door, and opened it; and seeing Mary, she blessed her, and said: Whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? for, behold, that which is in me leaped and blessed thee.[34] Dialogue of Justin But the Virgin Mary received faith and joy, when the angel Gabriel announced the good tidings to her that the Spirit of the Lord would come upon her, and the power of the Highest would overshadow her: wherefore also the Holy Thing begotten of her is the Son of God;[386] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III and that the angel Gabriel said unto her, "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee; therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God; "[408] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book V Vain also are the Ebionites, who do not receive by faith into their soul the union of God and man, but who remain in the old leaven of [the natural] birth, and who do not choose to understand that the Holy Ghost came upon Mary, and the power of the Most High did overshadow her:[5] Tertullian An Answer to the Jews -which is His glorious resurrection-He received back into the heavens (whence withal the Spirit Himself had come to the Virgin[305] Tertullian Against Marcion Book IV , the Son of God; "[188] Tertullian On the Flesh of Christ of God." however, and "the Power of the Highest,"[206] Tertullian Against Praxeas ."[359] See, say they, it was announced by the angel: "Therefore that Holy Thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God."[385] Of them Jesus consists-Man. of the flesh; of the Spirit, God-and the angel designated Him as "the Son of God,"[394] Origen de Principiis Book I and the saying of the angel to Mary, "The Holy Spirit will come upon thee; "[59] Origen de Principiis Book II But we see also very many other statements in holy Scripture respecting the meaning of the word "shadow," as that well-known one in the Gospel according to Luke, where Gabriel says to Mary, "The Spirit of the Lord shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee."[101] Hippolytus Refutation of All Heresies Book VI had been concealed, and in which obscurity the natural man was hid, and had a veil upon the heart;-when (it was time), then, that the veil should be taken away, and that these mysteries should be seen, Jesus was born of Mary the virgin, according to the declaration (in Scripture), "The Holy Ghost will come upon thee"-Sophia is the Spirit-" and the power of the Highest will overshadow thee"-the Highest is the Demiurge,-"wherefore that which shall be born of thee shall be called holy."[96] Hippolytus Refutation of All Heresies Book VII The light, (therefore,) which came down from the Ogdoad above to the Son of the Hebdomad, descended from the Hebdomad upon Jesus the son of Mary, and he had radiance imparted to him by being illuminated with the light that shone upon him. This, he says, is that which has been declared: "The Holy Spirit will come upon thee,"[52] Hippolytus Dogmatical and Historical Fragments Of this Spirit Gabriel also spoke to the Virgin, "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee."[416] Cyprian Treatise XII Three Books of Testimonies Against the Jews Whence, in the Gospel according to Luke, Gabriel says to Mary: "And the angel, answering, said to her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee. Wherefore that holy thing which is born of thee shall be called the Son of God."[193] A Treatise of Novatian Concerning the Trinity For they propose and put forward what is told in the Gospel of Luke, whence they strive to maintain not what is the truth, but only what they want it to be: "The Holy Spirit shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shah overshadow thee; therefore also the Holy Thing which is born of thee shall be called the Son of God."[188] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus Twelve Topics on the Faith Wherefore he says, "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of the Highest."[9] Fragments from Peter of Alexandria For he shows that He was conceived in the womb, and was to become flesh; as it is written, "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee; therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God; "[11] intended to signify God the Word is with thee, and also to show that He would arise from her bosom, and would be made flesh, even as it is written, "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee; therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God."[40] The Gospel of the Nativity of Mary now the manner of it, she answered: How can that come to pass? For while, according to my vow, I never know man, how can I bring forth without the addition of man's seed? To this the angel says: Think not, Mary, that thou shalt conceive in the manner of mankind: for without any intercourse with man, thou, a virgin, wilt conceive; thou, a virgin, wilt bring forth; thou, a virgin, wilt nurse: for the Holy Spirit shall come upon thee, and the power of the Most High shall overshadow thee,[14] Origen Commentary on John Book VI On these points I cannot now enlarge; this work must not be unduly expanded. To establish the fact that power is different from spirit. it will be enough to cite the text,[40] Origen Commentary on Matthew Book X Now those who say so wish to preserve the honour of Mary in virginity to the end, so that that body of hers which was appointed to minister to the Word which said, "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Most High shall overshadow thee,"[106] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus Third Homily And how is this made plain? The archangel himself gives us the interpretation, when he says to the virgin: "Behold, thy relation Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is now the sixth month with her, who was called barren."[3] The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs IX And do ye also tell these things to your children, that they honour Judah and Levi, for from them shall the Lord raise up a Saviour to Israel.[8] Tertullian On Idolatry ? [You ask] "How many have fulfilled these conditions? "But what with men is difficult, with God is easy.[91] Dialogue of Justin and she replied, `Be it unto me according to thy word.'"[387] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III In accordance with this design, Mary the Virgin is found obedient, saying, "Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word."[439] Tertullian To His Wife Book II The handmaid of God[41] The Protevangelium of James And the priest blessed her, and said: Mary, the Lord God hath magnified thy name, and thou shall be blessed in all the generations of the earth. And Mary, with great joy, went away to Elizabeth her kinswoman,[32] Tertullian A Treatise on the Soul However, even these have life, each of them in his mother's womb. Elizabeth exults with joy, (for) John had leaped in her womb;[201] Tertullian On the Flesh of Christ Therefore even Elisabeth must be silent although she is carrying in her womb the prophetic babe, which was already conscious of his Lord, and is, moreover, filled with the Holy Ghost.[298] Cyprian Treatise XII Three Books of Testimonies Against the Jews Also in the Gospel according to Luke: "And it came to pass, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and she was filled with the Holy Ghost, and she cried out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. And whence does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? "[182] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus Second Homily And thereafter she journeyed diligently to her relation Elisabeth in the hill-country. "And she entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth,"[26] "And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leapt with joy in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost."[27] Origen Commentary on John Book VI It is to be noticed that on the former occasion, when the voice of Mary's salutation came to the ears of Elisabeth, the babe John leaped in the womb of his mother, who then received the Holy Spirit, as it were, from the ground. For it came to pass, we read,[145] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III ," that it might declare the generation of Him who should be [born] from the Virgin, as Elisabeth testified when filled with the Holy Ghost, saying to Mary, "Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy belly; "[413] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus Second Homily And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? Blessed art thou among women."[29] Excerpts of Theodotus He cited as a proof to all, how, when the angels give glad tidings to the barren, they introduce souls before conception. And in the Gospel "the babe leapt"[74] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III For He hath taken up His child Israel, in remembrance of His mercy, as He spake to our fathers, Abraham, and his seed for ever."[95] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book IV Moreover, Mary said, "My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my salvation; "[74] Tertullian A Treatise on the Soul Mary magnifies the Lord, (for) Christ had instigated her within.[202] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus Second Homily "He hath holpen His servant Israel in remembrance of His mercy, and of the covenant which He established with Abraham and with his seed for ever."[31] The Protevangelium of James But Mary had forgotten the mysteries of which the archangel Gabriel had spoken, and gazed up into heaven, and said: Who am I, O Lord, that all the generations of the earth should bless me?[35] The Account of St. John the Theologian The apostles said all these things to the holy mother of God, why they had come, and in what way; and she stretched her hands to heaven and prayed, saying: I adore, and praise, and glorify Thy much to he praised name, O Lord, because Thou hast looked upon the lowliness of Thine handmaiden, and because Thou that art mighty hast done great things for me; and, behold, all generations shall count me blessed.[7] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus Second Homily For He hath blessed every age, both men and women, both young men and youths, and old men. "He hath made strength with His arm,"[33] Tertullian Against Marcion Book IV sufficiently shown that the glory of riches is condemned by our God, "who putteth down the mighty from their throne, and exalts the poor from the dunghill."[1164] believe that after death there were punishments for the arrogance of wealth and the glory of luxury, announced indeed by Moses and the prophets, but decreed by that God, who deposes princes from their thrones, and raiseth up the poor from dunghills.[1374] Tertullian Against Marcion Book V and then to have refused his request, when thrice entreated to liberate him! It would seem, therefore, that Marcion's god imitates the Creator's conduct, who is an enemy to the proud, even "putting down the mighty from their seats."[588] Tertullian On the Veiling of Virgins This we sometimes interpretatively ascribe to the devil, for of him comes hatred of good; sometimes we attribute it to God, for of Him comes judgment upon haughtiness, exalting, as He does, the humble, and depressing the elated.[55] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus Second Homily For the Christ who was born of the Virgin, and who is our God, has given over the whole inheritance of divine blessings to the Gentiles. "He hath holpen His servant Israel."[37] Origen Commentary on Matthew Book XIII and from the fact that Zacharias regained his speech after he had written in the tablet, that he who had been born should be called John.[13] Origen Commentary on John Book VI nscorporation we have seen based upon our passage, may go on with a close examination of the text, and urge against his antagonist, that if John was the son of such a man as the priest Zacharias, and if he was born when his parents were both aged, contrary to all human expectation, then it is not likely that so many Jews at Jerusalem would be so ignorant about him, or that the priests and levites whom they sent would not be acquainted with the facts of his birth. Does not Luke declare[44] Cyprian Treatise XII Three Books of Testimonies Against the Jews Also in that according to Luke: "And Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who hath foreseen redemption for His people, and hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David."[179] The Letter of the Churches of Vienna and Lugdunum and having himself the Advocate, the Spirit,[8] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III n the house of His servant David; as He spake by the mouth of His holy prophets, which have been since the world begun; salvation from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; to perform the mercy [promised] to our fathers, and to remember His holy covenant, the oath which He swore to our father Abraham, that He would grant unto us, that we, being delivered out of the hand of our enemies, might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him, all our days."[99] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III as David says when discoursing on the causes of His birth: "And He appointed a law in Israel, that another generation might know [Him, ] the children which should he born from these, and they arising shall themselves declare to their children, so that they might set their hope in God, and seek after His commandments."[276] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book IV union of God and man took place according to the good pleasure of the Father, the Word of God foretelling from the beginning that God should be seen by men, and hold converse with them upon earth, should confer with them, and should be present with His own creation, saving it, and becoming capable of being perceived by it, and freeing us from the hands of all that hate us, that is, from every spirit of wickedness; and causing us to serve Him in holiness and righteousness all our days,[278] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III Then he says to John: "And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare HiS ways; to give knowledge of salvation to His people, for the remission of their sins."[100] Tertullian On Baptism In this case also a type has preceded; for thus was John beforehand the Lord's forerunner, "preparing His ways."[44] remission; if it be true, that repentance is antecedent, remission subsequent; and this is "preparing the way."[110] Tertullian On Modesty except that he suffered a typical example of the Lord's passion, which was to redeem heathens as well (as others) on their repentance. It is enough for me that even John, when "strewing the Lord's ways,"[114] Peter of Alexandria Canonical Epistle Who, as ye know, when another infant in the sixth month[14] Origen Commentary on John Book VI what can we say that John was but a prophet? His father Zacharias, indeed, says, filled with the Holy Ghost and prophesying,[53] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III This same God, after His great goodness, poured His compassion upon us, through which compassion "the Day-spring from on high hath looked upon us, and appeared to those who sat in darkness and the shadow of death, and has guided our feet into the way of peace; "[96] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book V For how can he be good, who does not give from what belongs to himself? Or how can he be just, who snatches away the goods of another? And in what way can sins be truly remitted, unless that He against whom we have sinned has Himself granted remission "through the bowels of mercy of our God," in which "He has visited us"[147] Tertullian An Answer to the Jews while the light from on high would beam upon us who were sitting in darkness, and were being detained in the shadow of death.[88] Methodius Oration Concerning Simeon and Anna For what is more splendid for a king than a purple robe embroidered around with flowers, and a shining diadem? Or what for God, who delights in man, is more magnificent than this merciful assumption of the manhood, illuminating with its resplendent rays those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death?[54] But by means of that light, which is of one substance with Thee, Thou hast given light to those that sat in darkness[66] Gospel of Nicodemus II The Descent of Christ into Hell While David was thus speaking, there came to Hades, in the form of a man, the Lord of majesty, and lighted up the eternal darkness, and burst asunder the indissoluble chains; and the aid of unconquered power visited us, sitting in the profound darkness of transgressions, and in the shadow of death of sins.[56] Tertullian An Answer to the Jews For He was from the native soil of Bethlehem, and from the house of David; as, among the Romans, Mary is described in the census, of whom is born Christ.[182] Tertullian On the Flesh of Christ "Away," says he, "with that eternal plaguey taxing of Cµsar, and the scanty inn, and the squalid swaddling-clothes, and the hard stable.[14] The Protevangelium of James And there was an order from the Emperor Augustus, that all in Bethlehem of Judaea should be enrolled.[46] The Gospel of Pseudo-Matthew And it came to pass some little time after, that an enrolment was made according to the edict of Caesar Augustus, that all the world was to be enrolled, each man in his native place. This enrolment was made by Cyrinus, the governor of Syria,[28] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus First Homily and wrapped him in swaddling-clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn."[33] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus Second Homily And there ensued there the mystery which transcends all wonders,-the Virgin brought forth and bore in her hand Him who bears the whole creation by His word. "And there was no room for them in the inn."[40] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book IV And the angels, in like manner, announced tidings of great joy to the shepherds who were keeping watch by night.[73] Tertullian On the Flesh of Christ Let the shepherds take better care of their flock,[17] The Gospel of Pseudo-Matthew And some shepherds also affirmed that they had seen angels singing a hymn at midnight, praising and blessing the God of heaven, and saying: There has been born the Saviour of all, who is Christ the Lord, in whom salvation shall be brought back to Israel.[32] Cyprian Treatise XII Three Books of Testimonies Against the Jews place, the angel said to the shepherds: "Fear not; for, behold, I bring you tidings that unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ Jesus."[180] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus Second Homily in the holy conception and in the glorious pregnancy, "I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people."[5] Origen Commentary on John Book I Hence an angel standing over the shepherds made a bright light to shine round about them, and said:[65] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III 3. And the angel of the Lord, he says, appeared to the shepherds, proclaiming joy to them: "For[108] Tertullian On the Flesh of Christ that multitude of the heavenly host which praised their Lord at night.[16] Pseudo-Gregory Thaumaturgus Twelve Topics on the Faith For He was born in Bethlehem according to the flesh, in a manner meet for Deity, the angels of heaven recognising Him as their Lord, and hymning as their God Him who was then wrapped in swaddling-clothes in a manger, and exclaiming, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good-will among men."[36] Methodius Oration Concerning Simeon and Anna And it is a proof of this, and an irrefragable argument, that at the novelty of thy supernatural child-bearing, the angels sang on earth, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good-will towards men,"[39] Constitutions of the Holy Apostles Book VII "Glory be to God in the highest, and upon earth peace, good-will among men."[202] Constitutions of the Holy Apostles Book VIII Hosanna to the son of David! Blessed be He that cometh in the name of the Lord," being the Lord God who appeared to us, "Hosanna in the highest."[122] The Gospel of Pseudo-Matthew And as soon as He was born, He stood upon His feet, and the angels adored Him, saying: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men of good pleasure.[30] The Gospel of Pseudo-Matthew And when she saw it she wondered, and reflected within herself, and laid up all these things in her heart.[66] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III Wherefore he adds: "The shepherds returned, glorifying God for all which they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them."[112] The Gospel of Pseudo-Matthew And on the eighth day they circumcised the child, and called His name Jesus; for so He was called by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.[35] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III And still further does Luke say in reference to the Lord: "When the days of purification were accomplished, they brought Him up to Jerusalem, to present Him before the Lord, as it is written in the law of the Lord, That every male opening the womb shall be called holy to the Lord; and that they should offer a sacrifice, as it is said in the law of the Lord, a pair of turtle-doves, or two young pigeons: "[113] Tertullian On the Flesh of Christ Spare also the babe from circumcision, that he may escape the pain thereof; nor let him be brought into the temple, lest he burden his parents with the expense of the offering;[21] Methodius Oration Concerning Simeon and Anna Hence it was that the ark of God removed from the inn at Bethlehem, for there He paid to the law that debt of the forty days, due not to justice but to grace, and rested upon the mountains of Sion, and receiving into His pure bosom as upon a lofty throne, and one transcending the nature of man, the Monarch of all,[29] The Gospel of Pseudo-Matthew And after this he took Him up into his cloak and kissed His feet, and said: Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word: for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples, to be a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel.[38] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book I by the following passage: "Every male that openeth the womb."[42] Tertullian On the Flesh of Christ Indeed, hers is the womb on account of which it is written of others also: "Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord."[323] Dubious Hippolytus Fragments For Moses says, "Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy unto the Lord."[78] The Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour after His birth they carried Him into the temple, and set Him before the Lord, and offered sacrifices for Him, according to the command-meet of the law of Moses, which is: Every male that openeth the womb shall be called the holy of God.[8] Clement of Alexandria The Instructor Book I the reference is again to us. Again, by Moses, He commands "two young pigeons or a pair of turtles to be offered for sin; "[28] Tertullian An Answer to the Jews And if these blessings accrue through Christ, they will not have been prophesied of another than Him through whom we consider them to have been accomplished.[257] Tertullian On the Flesh of Christ nor let him be handed to Simeon, lest the old man be saddened at the point of death.[22] Hippolytus Exegetical Fragments For Simeon did not obtain an inheritance like the other tribes, for he dwelt in the midst of Judah. Yet his tribe was preserved, although it was small in numbers.[17] The Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour Hanna also, a prophetess, was present, and came up, giving thanks to God, and calling the Lady Mary blessed.[9] Gospel of Nicodemus I The Acts of Pilate And Symeon said to her, It is well; behold, he lies for the fall and rising again of many in Israel, and for a sign spoken against; and of thee thyself a sword shall go through the soul, in order that the reasoning of many hearts may be revealed.[53] The Protevangelium of James For it was he who had been warned by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death until he should see the Christ in the flesh.[57] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book I They say, too, that Simeon, "who took Christ into his arms, and gave thanks to God, and said, Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word,"[113] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III But "Simeon," he also says, "blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace; for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light for the revelation of the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel."[114] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book IV and the glory of the people Israel."[72] Cyprian Treatise VII On the Mortality Therefore, rejoicing concerning his now approaching death, and secure of his immediate summons, he received the child into his arms, and blessing the Lord, he exclaimed, and said, "Now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word; for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation; "[9] Cyprian Treatise XII Three Books of Testimonies Against the Jews Also according to Luke: "Now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, O Lord, according to the word; for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation."[669] Methodius Oration Concerning Simeon and Anna s man, waxing bold and yielding to the exhortation of the mother of God, who is the handmaid of God in regard to the things which pertain to men, received into his aged arms Him who in infancy was yet the Ancient of days, and blessed God, and said, "Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word: for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel."[63] Methodius Oration on the Psalms V. Once, indeed, the aged Simeon met the Saviour[43] Constitutions of the Holy Apostles Book VII "Now, O Lord, lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word; for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people, a light for the revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel."[206] Origen Commentary on John Book X " But how much more blessed are those eyes which Jesus calls blessed for the things which they have seen, than those which have not attained to such a vision; Simeon is content to take into his arms the salvation of God, and after seeing it, he says,[153] Five Books in Reply to Marcion Heard with their ears Salvation,[181] Tertullian Against Marcion Book IV of their own cleansing in Christ their light,[248] Methodius Oration Concerning Simeon and Anna hope which he had conceived of Christ, extending the limits of life, and putting off the debt of death-when they saw him, I say, leaping for joy, speaking words of good omen, quite transformed with gladness of heart, entirely rapt in a divine and holy ecstasy; who from a man had been changed into an angel by a godly change, and, for the immensity of his joy, chanted his hymn of thanksgiving, and openly proclaimed the "Light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel."[105] Tertullian Against Marcion Book V This stumbling-stone Marcion retains still.[224] Tertullian On the Flesh of Christ is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel, and for a sign that shall be spoken against."[313] Hippolytus Exegetical Fragments " And His "falling" denotes His death; as it is written in the Gospel: "Behold, this (child) is set for the fall and rising again of many."[25] Gospel of Nicodemus I The Acts of Pilate And Rabbi Levi said: Why did Rabbi Symeon say, when he saw Jesus, "Behold, he lies for the fall and rising again of many in Israel, and for a sign spoken against? "[57] Gospel of Nicodemus I The Acts of Pilate And the mother of God said, weeping: How am I not to lament thee, my son? How should I not tear my face with my nails? This is that, my son, which Symeon the elder foretold to me when I brought thee, an infant of forty days old, into the temple. This is the sword which now goes through my soul.[116] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book I was a type of the Demiurge, who, on the arrival of the Saviour, learned his own change of place, and gave thanks to Bythus. They also assert that by Anna, who is spoken of in the gospel[114] Tertullian On the Flesh of Christ Let that old woman also hold her tongue, lest she should bewitch the child."[23] Tertullian On Fasting We produce, too, our remaining (evidences). For we now hasten to modern proofs. On the threshold of the Gospel,[58] Constitutions of the Holy Apostles Book III Such a one may also be compared to "Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser, which departed not from the temple, but continued in supplications and prayers night and day, who was fourscore years old, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity, who glorified the coming of Christ, and gave thanks to the Lord, and spake concerning Him to all those who looked for redemption in Israel."[6] Constitutions of the Holy Apostles Book VIII O Eternal God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Creator of man and of woman, who didst replenish with the Spirit Miriam, and Deborah, and Anna, and Huldah;[138] [151] The Gospel of Pseudo-Matthew And she never left the temple of the Lord, but spent her time in fasting and prayer. She also likewise adored the child, saying: In Him is the redemption of the world.[39] Cyprian Treatise IV On the Lord's Prayer Thus the widow Anna, without intermission praying and watching, persevered in deserving well of God, as it is written in the I Gospel: "She departed not," it says, "from the temple, serving with fastings and prayers night and day."[100] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book III And "Anna"[115] Methodius Oration Concerning Simeon and Anna -Simeon, I mean, and Anna, bearing in themselves most evidently the images of both peoples-had taken their station by the side of that glorious and virginal throne,-for by the old man was represented the people of Israel, and the law now waxing old; whilst the widow represents the Church of the Gentiles, which had been up to this point a widow,-the old man, indeed, as personating the law, seeks dismissal; but the widow, as personating the Church, brought her joyous confession of faith[100] Infancy Thomas Greek A And His mother observed all these things that had happened. And Jesus advanced in wisdom, and stature, and grace.[22] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book I [33] The Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour And when the feast was finished, they indeed returned; but the Lord Jesus remained in the temple among the teachers and elders and learned men of the sons of Israel, to whom He put various questions upon the sciences, and gave answers in His turn.[21] The Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour And His mother kept all these words of His in her heart. And the Lord Jesus advanced in stature, and in wisdom, and in favour with God and man.[24] Irenaeus Against Heresies Book I Some passages, also, which occur in the Gospels, receive from them a colouring of the same kind, such as the answer which He gave His mother when He was twelve years of age: "Wist ye not that I must be about My Father's business? "[258] Tertullian Against Praxeas business? "[368] Infancy Thomas Greek A And Jesus said to them: Why do you seek me? Do you not know that I must be about my Father's business?[21] Constitutions of the Holy Apostles Book VI He who had commanded to honour our parents, was Himself subject to them.[144] Tertullian On Modesty I blush not at an error which I have ceased to hold, because I am delighted at having ceased to hold it, because I recognise myself to be better and more modest. No one blushes at his own improvement. Even in Christ, knowledge had its stages of growth;[10] Origen Commentary on Matthew Book XIII ut to the spermatic principles, that one is short and little, another great, and another of middle height; but in the case of souls, it is our free-will, and actions of such a kind, and habits of such a kind, that furnish the reason why one is great, or little, or of middle height; and it is of our free-will either by advancing in stature to increase our size, or not advancing to be short. And so indeed I understand the words about Jesus having assumed a human soul, "Jesus advanced; "[152]