ACC ~ John 19 v23

THE GOSPEL’S SPREAD TO THE FOUR CORNERS

EPHREM THE SYRIAN: “His tunic was not torn” since it represented his divinity, which was undivided because it was not composite. “His clothing, divided into four parts,” symbolized his gospel, which was to go forth into the four parts of the world. Share then, for love of him, the body of him who, for love of you, shared his garment between those who were crucifying him. Take it, all of you, absorb it in its entirety, just as he, on his own, took and absorbed your death for everyone. Open the doors of your hearts to him who opened the doors of his kingdom to you. COMMENTARY ON TATIAN’S DIATESSARON 20.27. [1]

[1] ECTD 307-8.

THE SOLDIERS SHOWED RESTRAINT

AUGUSTINE: Even the men who parted the garment of Christ among them did not rudely tear in pieces the seamless robe—and these were men who at that time had no faith in Christ’s resurrection. In fact, they were witnessing his death. If, then, persecutors stopped themselves from tearing the clothing of Christ when he was hanging upon the cross, why should Christians destroy the sacrament of his institution now when he is sitting in heaven on his throne? LETTER 23.4. [1]

[1] NPNF 1 1:243**.