The Importance of Patristic Theology
Jesus said: “A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.” (Mt. 12:35)
In order to better understand this saying of Christ, let us consider the following example.
Let us suppose that we have a reservoir. When it is filled with mud, the water within it becomes dark and polluted; naturally, the tap will draw out contaminated water, unfit for drinking. When, however, the reservoir is clean, then the water will also be pure, and the tap will produce clean water, suitable for drinking.
Each one of us carries within himself such a reservoir, a store of water. When it is filled with mud—sins, passions, and the like—then the “tap,” that is, our mouth, will inevitably bring forth muddy water: words mixed with passions, love of praise, vainglory, pride. The same applies to our words about God, to our theological thoughts.
They may sound pleasing to the ears, but they do not penetrate the soul, because the soul, as a divine creation, seeks words that are pure and undefiled. On the contrary, when our inner reservoir is clean, then the “tap,” our mouth, will bring forth words that are pure and holy, untainted by passions; and for this reason, they enter directly into the human soul.
Gregory the Theologian, addressing the heretics—the Arians and Eunomians, who were engaged with the doctrine of the Holy Trinity, spoke clearly:
“It is not for everyone to speak about God. Theology is not something cheap or common; it is not for those who are earthly-minded (those who live a worldly life). It belongs only to those who have been purified in soul and body, or at least are in the process of purification. Otherwise, it is like mixing a foul odor with the fragrance of myrrh.”
(Theological Oration I, 3 – P.G. 36:13)
In other words, within the Church, the true and genuine theologians are the Holy Fathers, for their theology springs forth from a pure spiritual reservoir.
Our works are “baptized” in the living waters of Patristic Theology, and we have the joy and honor of having them published on the Patristic website for the benefit of our beloved readers.
May the Lord bless them all.