An early Church Father and Archbishop of Constantinople, renowned for his eloquent preaching and powerful public speaking. He earned the epithet "golden-mouthed" for his rhetorical brilliance and unwavering denunciation of abuses of power by both secular and religious leaders. His asceticism and contributions to liturgical practice, including a widely used liturgy, highlight his profound spiritual influence. While celebrated for his theological insights and homiletic skill, some of his writings have also sparked controversy.
"The cult of the saints is a phenomenon that expanded rapidly in the fourth century, and John Chrysostom's homilies are important witnesses to its growth. In this volume, Wendy Mayer investigates the liturgical, topographical, and pastoral aspects that marked the martyr cult at Antioch and Constantinople in John's time."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved
These excerpts from the sermons of Saint John Chrysostom bring fourth-century wisdom to 20th century issues. Each serves as a brief introduction to a major spiritual thinker and as a meditation book for daily use.
Focusing on the significance of marriage, St. John Chrysostom offers a corrective perspective on the Christian view of married life, particularly regarding sexuality. Drawing inspiration from the epistles to the Corinthians and Ephesians, he emphasizes that marriage is primarily intended to foster holiness between spouses, with procreation as a secondary purpose. His sermons address sexual relations, mutual responsibilities, and parenting, providing timeless insights that remain relevant for contemporary Christian families, despite some context-specific elements.
This collection of writings from the early Christian Church offers a rich insight into the beliefs and practices of the time. Featuring the works of two influential theologians, St. Augustine and St. John Chrysostom, this volume covers a wide range of topics including the priesthood, asceticism, and the interpretation of scripture. A valuable resource for scholars and believers alike.