Again in Trallians 1-3, Ignatius writes concerning the Offices of Bishop, Presbyter and Deacon. Why does he say that the church’s obedience to their pastors is evidence of their living like Christ as opposed to living in human fashion? What does this have to do with our life together as Church?

	

What do you make of Ignatius’ words concerning the deacons, that “they must please men in every way” and that they are “servants of the Church”?

		

		

		

	

Note again Ignatius thoughts concerning himself. Why does he consider it dangerous to take seriously the praise of others?

		

		

		

	

In 5, Ignatius says that though he has much knowledge of the Faith, “many things are lacking to us so that we may not lack God”. What does he mean by this?

		

		

		

	

Note Ignatius’ description of heresy in paragraph 6 and 11. What do these “strange plants” bring and why?

		

		

		

	

Why does the devil through heresy always try to draw people away from their bishop, presbyters and deacons?

		

		

		

	

Why does Ignatius tie the flesh and blood of Christ together with faith, love and unity in 8?

		

		

		

	

What would it mean if Christ’s sufferings were only “apparent”?

		

		

		

		

	

Pr. David A. Kind

	

May 21, 2003