ACC ~ Matthew 12 v15

AWARE OF THEIR INTENT

ORIGEN: To the extent that one draws near to Jesus, one does not hold counsel, [1] for no counselor of evil things draws near to Jesus. But when others go out, departing from Jesus, they hold counsel to destroy Jesus, to destroy the Light, the good Way, the Life, the Treasure, the Pearl, Love itself and Peace. If anyone destroys these, he is called a “son of destruction.” But “Jesus, aware of this, withdrew from there.” He had no reason to remain around the sons of destruction. They sought to destroy him, but we, who were not seeking, have found him. This recalls the words of the prophet: “I am found by those who do not seek for me; I have been made manifest to those who were not asking after me.” [2] For he came “to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” who had forgotten their own Shepherd. So Jesus withdraws, not fearing their judgment but to dispel evil. And, lest anyone should suppose that it was through fear that he had withdrawn, Jesus healed everyone, displaying his almighty power. But, as one who does what is fitting, without pride, he sent them away, telling them not to publicize this. FRAGMENT 252. [3]

[1] Origen interprets the physical departure of the Pharisees from Jesus as a symbol of their spiritual departure from him.

[2] Is 65:1.

[3] GCS 41.1:117.