Revisiting a project I began many moons ago - refuting revisionist theology on homosexuality.
Looking now at the
writings of select church fathers,in order to learn how they preached on the
subject of human sexuality.
Ignatius of Antioch (c. 35 - 117) was a
student of John the Apostle, along with his contemporary, Polycarp.
Ignatius became a Christian at a young age. He was appointed Bishop of
Antioch at a time when the early church was coalescing, as the Bible states in
Acts 11:26 it was in Antioch that the term "Christian" was coined. Seven
of Ignatius' letters remain extant. According to Christian legend, Ignatius was
martyred in the Roman Colosseum by wild animals. His remains were carried back to
Antioch by his companions and interred outside the city gates.
The Epistle of Ignatius to Polycarp upholds marriage as the union of
man and wife, with celibacy as the other option.
Speak to my sisters, that they love the Lord, and be satisfied with their
husbands both in the flesh and spirit. In like manner also, exhort my
brethren, in the name of Jesus Christ, that they love their wives, even as the
Lord the Church. If any one can continue in a state of purity, to the honour of the flesh of the Lord, let him so remain without
boasting.
(Ch.5
- "The Duties of Husbands and Wives")
