Epistle to Elders John and Antiochus

Athanasius wishes to John and Antiochus, beloved children and co-presbyters, to rejoice in the Lord. I rejoiced even now when I received your letter, especially because you wrote from Jerusalem; and I thank you for informing us about the brothers who had gathered there and who intended, under the pretext of research, to confuse simple-minded people. But regarding the latter, let the Apostolic commandment have force - not to pay heed to those engaged in verbal disputes, “and to those who practice nothing else, except to say something or hear something new” (Acts 17:21). But you, having a solid foundation, that is, Jesus Christ our Lord and the confession of the truth of the fathers, turn away from those who want to say anything more or less than this confession, but strive more for the benefit of the brethren, so that they fear God and keep the commandments; and thus, by the teaching of the fathers and by keeping the commandments, may they be able to be acceptable to the Lord on the day of judgment. But I was greatly amazed at the audacity of those who dared to speak against our beloved, the true servant of God, Bishop Basil. Such empty speeches can only expose them that they do not like the confession of their fathers. Greetings brothers. Those who are with me also greet you. I pray to God that you, beloved and desired children, may be able, O Lord. You might be interested in: