ACC ~ John 6 v53

THE MEDICINE OF IMMORTALITY

IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH: Come together in common one and all without exception in charity, in one faith and in one Jesus Christ, who is of the race of David according to the flesh, the Son of man and Son of God… and break one bread, which is the medicine of immortality and the antidote against death, enabling us to live forever in Jesus Christ. EPISTLE TO THE EPHESIANS 20. [1]

[1] FC 1:95. See also Justin Martyr Apology 1.65-67.

THE MYSTERY IS REVEALED TO THOSE WHO BELIEVE

CYRIL OF ALEXANDRIA: How he will give them his flesh to eat he does not yet tell them, for he knew they were in darkness and would never in that state be able to understand what is ineffable…. But the power of learning suitably follows on those who believe…. It was therefore right that faith should first be rooted in them before understanding…. And it is for this reason (I suppose) that the Lord refrained from telling them how he would give them his flesh to eat, calling them to believe before they seek. For those who believed, however, he broke bread and gave it to them, saying, “Take, eat; this is my body.” [1] … Do you see how he does not explain the mystery to those who had senselessly rejected the faith without investigation? But, to those who believe, he declares it most clearly. COMMENTARY ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 4.2. [2]

[1] Mt 26:26.

[2] LF 43:417-18**. See also Augustine Sermon 228B.3 (WSA 3 6:262).