me in the name of God, it was good of you to give them a
To THE SMYRNAEANS
attentively and, especially, the Gospel, in which the Passion is revealed to us and the Resurrection shown in its fulfillment. Shun division as the beginning of evil.
8. You must all follow the lead of the bishop, as Jesus Christ followed that of the Father; follow the presbytery as you would the Apostles; reverence the deacons as you would
God's commandment. Let no one do anything touching the Church, apart from the bishop. Let that celebration of the Eucharist be considered valid which is held under the bishop or anyone to whom he has committed it.
2 Where the bishop appears, there let the people be, just as where Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church." It is not permitted without authorization from the bishop either to baptize or to hold an agape; *° but whatever he approves is also pleasing to God. Thus everything you do will be proof against danger and valid.** 9. It is consonant with reason, therefore, that we should come to our senses, while we still have time to change our ways and turn to God. It is well to revere God and bishop.
He who honors a bishop is honored by God. He who does anything without the knowledge of the bishop worships the devil. 2 May all things, then, be yours in abundance through grace, for you deserve it. You have brought relief to me in every respect, and may Jesus Christ do so to you! Whether
I was absent or present, you have shown me love. Your reward is God, to whom you will come if you endure all things for His sake.
10. As to Philo and Rheus Agathopus, who accompanied me in the name of God, it was good of you to give them a warm reception as to servants of Christ God. For their part, they thank the Lord on your behalf, because you offered them