ACC ~ Matthew 6 v27 - 30

GOD’S PROVIDENCE AND OUR ANXIETIES

CHRYSOSTOM: Do you see how Jesus clarifies what has been obscure by comparing it to what is self-evident? Can you add one cubit, or even the slightest measure, to your bodily life span by worrying about it? Can you by being anxious about food add moments to your life? Hence it is clear that it is not our diligence but the providence of God, even where we seem to be active, that finally accompanies everything. In the light of God’s providence, none of our cares, anxieties, toils or any other such things will ever come to anything, but all will utterly pass away. THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW, HOMILY 21.3. [1]

[1] PG 57:298; NPNF 1 10:149**.

THE VALUE OF LIFE

CHRYSOSTOM: Note the acceleration of images: just when the lilies are decked out, he no longer calls them lilies but “grass of the field.” [1] He then points further to their vulnerable condition by saying “which are here today.” Then he does not merely say “and not tomorrow” but rather more callously “cast into the oven.” These creatures are not merely “clothed” but “so clothed” in this way as to be later brought to nothing. Do you see how Jesus everywhere abounds in amplifications and intensifications? And he does so in order to press his points home. So then he adds, “Will he not much more clothe you?” The force of the emphasis is on “you” to indicate covertly how great is the value set upon your personal existence and the concern God shows for you in particular. It is as though he were saying, “You, to whom he gave a soul, for whom he fashioned a body, for whose sake he made everything in creation, for whose sake he sent prophets, and gave the law, and wrought those innumerable good works, and for whose sake he gave up his only begotten Son.” THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW, HOMILY 22.1. [2]

[1] Mt 6:30.

[2] PG 57:299; NPNF 1 10:150**.

BALANCING COUNSEL AND REPROOF

CHRYSOSTOM: It is not until he has clearly revealed his affection that he proceeds also to reprove them, saying, “O you of little faith.” For this is the quality of a wise counselor. He balances counsel and reproof, that he may awaken persons all the more to the force of his words. THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW, HOMILY 22.1. [1]

[1] PG 57:299-300; NPNF 1 10:150-51**.