ACC ~ Matthew 3 v8

SUCCESSION OF FAITH, NOT FLESH

HILARY: He advises them to “bring forth fruit that matches repentance” and not to boast that they have Abraham as their father, for God is able to raise up children to Abraham out of stones. Indeed, succession to Abraham in the flesh is not required, but the inheritance of Abraham’s faith. In this context, dignity of origin consists in examples of works. The glory of one’s race lies in the imitation of faith. The devil was faithless, but Abraham was faithful. The devil was treacherous in his treatment of humanity, whereas Abraham was justified by faith. Therefore the very life and character of each person is acquired by a close relationship, so that those who are faithful to Abraham are his posterity in faith. But those who are unfaithful are changed into the devil’s offspring by their unfaithfulness. ON MATTHEW 2.3. [1]

[1] SC 254:104-6.

FRUITS OF REPENTANCE

CYRIL OF ALEXANDRIA: One might say that the fruits of repentance are, by way of anticipation, faith in Christ. They are also the evangelical society that exists “in newness of life,” [1] changed from the present dullness of the letter. FRAGMENT 20. [2]

[1] Rom 6:4.

[2] MKGK 159.

Mt