Commentary on Titus

Theodoret of Cyrus (393–458)

The opening of every one of his letters is distinguished by the divine apostle with this address. At one time it is "Paul a servant of Jesus Christ called to be an apostle." At another "Paul called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ." At another "Paul a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ." And suiting his benediction to his salutation he deduces it from the same source and links the title of the Son with God the Father, saying "grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."

Natural generation does not operate by the assent of the one who is born, whereas the birth that comes from faith requires such assent. Although the one who preaches may sincerely believe, he who hears, unless he takes to himself what he learns with faith, cannot be called the son of the preacher.

Here it is clear that he calls presbyters bishops. In the same community it was the custom that there would be more presbyters than bishops.

See also

• More works by Theodoret of Cyrus

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