Epistles

Ignatius of Antioch

Ignatius of Antioch. The Apostolic Fathers, Volume 1. Lake, Kirsopp, translator. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press; London: William Heinemann Ltd., 1912.

Let us then not be insensible to his goodness.[*](Christianity and Judaism) for if he should imitate us in our actions we are lost.[*](The meaning appears to be if God should treat us according to human standards none of us should see salvation.) For this cause let us be his disciples, and let us learn to lead Christian lives. For whoever is called by any name other than this is not of God.

Put aside then the evil leaven, which has grown old and sour, and turn to the new leaven, which is Jesus Christ. Be salted in him, that none among you may be corrupted, since by your savour you shall be tested.

It is monstrous to talk of Jesus Christ and to practise Judaism. For Christianity did not base its faith on Judaism, but Judaism on Christianity, and every tongue believing on God was brought together in it.