ACC ~ Mark 15 v37

A SIGN OF POWER, NOT NECESSITY

AUGUSTINE: Those robbers crucified next to him, did they breathe their last when they wanted to? [1] They were held fast by the chains of the flesh because they were not the creators of the flesh. Fastened by nails, they were tormented for a long time because they were not masters of their infirmity. [2] But the Lord took on flesh in the virgin’s womb when he wished it. He came forth to humanity when he wished it. He lived in history as long as he wished it. He departed from the flesh when he wished it. This is a sign of power, not of necessity. TRACTATES ON JOHN 37.9. [3]

[1] The issue is, did Jesus breathe his last out of necessity or voluntarily?

[2] Cf. Jn 19:32-33.

[3] Cetedoc 0278, 37.9.17; FC 88:103.

HIS POWER OF DYING

AUGUSTINE: He departed by his [own] power; for he had not come by necessity. And so some marveled more at his power of dying than at his power of performing miracles. TRACTATES ON JOHN 31.6. [1]

[1] Cetedoc 0278, 31.6.12; FC 88:35.

Mk