Commentary on John

Ambrose of Milan (340–397)

"In the beginning," we are told, "God created heaven and earth." And the world was therefore created and that which was not began to exist. And the word of God was in the beginning and always was.

That which was "in the beginning" is not comprehended in time, is not preceded by any beginning. Let Arius, therefore, hold his peace. Moreover, that which was "with God" is not confounded and mingled with him but is distinguished by the perfection unblemished that it has as the Word abiding with God; and so let Sabellius keep silence. And "the Word was God." This Word, therefore, consists not in uttered speech but in the designation of celestial excellence, so that Photinus's teaching is refuted. Furthermore, by the fact that in the beginning he was with God is proven the indivisible unity of eternal Godhead in Father and Son, to the shame and confusion of Eunomius.

See also

• More works by Ambrose of Milan

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