ACC ~ John 4 v27

JESUS’ TREATMENT OF WOMEN

ORIGEN: We learn that he is meek and lowly in heart [1] and does not disdain to speak of such great matters with a woman carrying water who goes out of the city because of her great poverty and labors to draw water for herself. When the disciples arrive they are amazed, for they previously beheld the greatness of the divinity in him, and they marvel that so great a man was speaking with a woman. We, however, carried away with pride and arrogance, despise those below us and forget that the words “Let us make man according to our image and according to our likeness” [2] apply to each person. COMMENTARY ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 13.166-67. [3]

[1] Mt 11:29.

[2] Gen 1:26.

[3] FC 89:103-4; SC 222:124-26.

GENDER EQUALITY IN THE GOSPEL

CYRIL OF ALEXANDRIA: He shows here, as the one Creator of all, that he does not give men only this life through faith but imparts this faith to women as well. Let him that teaches in the church follow this pattern and not refuse to help women. [1] For in all things one must not follow one’s own will but the service of preaching. COMMENTARY ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 2.5. [2]

[1] In Cyril’s day, it was rare for women to receive philosophical training.

[2] LF 43:221**.