ACC ~ Mark 6 v8

TO WHOM ADDRESSED

JEROME: Are all commanded not to have two coats, nor food in their possession, money in their purse, only a staff in the hand and shoes on the feet? [1] Are all commanded to sell all they possess and give it to the poor, and follow Jesus? Of course not. This command is for those who earnestly desire to respond fully to grace. … The Lord says in the Gospel to him who had boasted of having kept the whole law: “If you will be perfect, go and sell all that you have, and give to the poor, and come, follow me.” [2] He said this to those who wish to be wholly mature in faith, that he might not seem to be laying a heavy burden on unwilling shoulders. AGAINST JOVINIANUS 2. [3]

RESOURCES FOR APOSTOLIC MISSION

PRUDENTIUS:

To wish for nothing more than need demands

Is rest supreme, with simple food and dress

To feed and clothe our bodies and to seek

No more than is prescribed by nature’s wants.

When going on a journey, take no purse, [4]

Nor of a second tunic think, and be

Not anxious for the morrow, [5] lest for food

The belly lack. Our daily bread returns

With every sun. Does any bird take thought

Of tomorrow, certain to be fed by God? [6]

THE SPIRITUAL COMBAT.[7]

[1] Cf. Mt 10:9; Mk 6:8.

[2] Mt 19:21.

[3] Cetedoc 0610, 2.6.307.18; NPNF 2 6:393*.

[4] Mt 10:10; Mk 6:8-9; Lk 9:3; 22:35.

[5] Mt 6:34.

[6] Mt 10:29.

[7] Cetedoc 1441, 609; FC 52:100.