Νote: The following text is a free theological rendering of PG 31:653–676, St. Basil the Great’s On the Judgment of God. It seeks to convey the theological spirit and moral urgency of St. Basil’s thought, rather than provide a strict literal translation. Βriefly.
When St. Basil entered into the “inner realities” of the Church and saw what was taking place, he was deeply troubled. He therefore composed the homily “On the Judgment of God” attempting to explain the realities he observed (and which continue to occur) within the Church.
“I have observed that in various professions, each person does not act according to his own will, but there is a common order and rule. Only in the Church do I see no unified standard. Here, each bishop follows his own path; he knowingly violates the commandments of God and attempts to impose his own laws as authority.
Even among irrational animals there is order and harmony, because each follows its leader. This example was given by the Lord so that we might learn from it, yet we do not obey within the Church, and each does whatever he wishes.
On the Day of Judgment, all these things will be brought before us for shame and condemnation.
It is a fearful thing to say, yet I will say it: all of this happens because we despise Christ, and therefore we are unworthy of His protection.
We must also say this: when there is division and fragmentation among Christians, they are no longer members of Christ, because they do not obey Christ. And whoever does not submit to the Son, “the wrath of God remains upon him” (John 3:36).
We must understand that every act of disobedience, every violation of a divine command, is punished by the Lord—even when a person sins in ignorance (Leviticus 5:17–19). Consider then what applies when we knowingly transgress the divine command (Numbers 15:30–35; Deuteronomy 17:12–13).
Those who live around such a person and do nothing to correct him also bear responsibility. Failure to do good is considered a sin and is punished equally with wrongdoing. “Depart from Me, you cursed, into the eternal fire” (Matthew 25:41), the Lord will say to those who did not do good.
Therefore, studying the Scriptures, I have come to the conclusion that the terrible cause of division among Christians is the violation of the divine commandments. I have also learned of the fearful judgment awaiting those who neglect the correction of sinners.
Let us avoid the coming wrath of the Lord and be counted worthy of His heavenly Kingdom by keeping His commandments.”
. Saint Basil, intercede with the Lord for the establishment of order and unity in the Church. Amen.
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