ACC ~ John 16 v3

THOSE WHO PERSECUTE THE SENT PERSECUTE THE SENDER

CYRIL OF ALEXANDRIA: In these words the Lord Jesus Christ defends himself and also accuses the audacity of the Jews … censuring those who dishonor him by their cruelty toward the holy apostles. For the charge of transgression will not merely have reference to their treatment of the saints but also will bear on the one who laid on them the service of apostleship. Just as God said to the holy Samuel concerning the children of Israel, “They have not rejected you, but they have rejected me.” [1] COMMENTARY ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 10.2. [2]

[1] 1 Sam 8:7.

[2] LF 48:437*.

ENDURANCE AND REWARD

CHRYSOSTOM: He says to them, in effect: It is sufficient comfort that you endure these things for my sake and the Father’s. Here he reminds them of the blessedness of which he spoke at the beginning, “Blessed are you when people shall revile you, and persecute you and shall say all kinds of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad. For great is your reward in heaven.” [1] HOMILIES ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 77.3. [2]

[1] Mt 5:11-12.

[2] NPNF 1 14:284**.