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.

Do not be haughty to slaves, either men or women; yet do not let them be puffed up, but let them rather endure slavery to the glory of God, that they may obtain a better freedom from God. Let them not desire to be set free at the Church’s expense, that they be not found the slaves of lust.

Flee from evil arts, but rather preach against[*](The need of purity and of abstinence from boasting) them. Speak to my sisters that they love the Lord,! and be content with their husbands in flesh and in spirit. In the same way enjoin on my brothers in the name of Jesus Christ to love their wives as the Lord loved the Church.