Chapter VI.—The duties of the Christian flock.

Give ye^10991099    As this Epistle, though sent to the bishop, was meant to be read to the people, Ignatius here directly addresses them. heed to the bishop, that God also may give heed to you. My soul be for theirs^11001100    Comp. chap. ii. etc. that are submissive to the bishop, to the presbyters, and to the deacons, and may my portion be along with them in God! Labour together with one another; strive in company together; run together; suffer together; sleep together; and awake together, as the stewards, and associates,^11011101    Or, “assessors.” and servants of God. Please ye Him under whom ye fight, and from whom ye receive your wages. Let none of you be found a deserter. Let your baptism endure as your arms; your faith as your helmet; your love as your spear; your patience as a complete panoply. Let your works be the charge^11021102    A military reference, simply implying the idea of faithful effort leading to future reward. assigned to you, that ye may receive a worthy recompense. Be long-suffering, therefore, with one another, in meekness, as God is towards you. May I have joy of you for ever!^11031103    Comp. Ignatius’ Epistle to the Ephesians, chap. ii.

Give ye^11041104    As this Epistle, though sent to the bishop, was meant to be read to the people, Ignatius here directly addresses them. heed to the bishop, that God also may give heed to you. My soul be for theirs^11051105    Comp. chap. ii. etc. that are submissive to the bishop, to the presbytery, and to the deacons: may I have my portion with them from God! Labour together with one another; strive in company together; run together; suffer together; sleep together; and awake together, as the stewards, and associates,^11061106    Or, “assessors.” and servants of God. Please ye Him under whom ye fight, and from whom ye shall receive your wages. Let none of you be found a deserter. Let your baptism endure as your arms; your faith as your helmet; your love as your spear; your patience as a complete panoply. Let your works be the charge assigned to you, that you may obtain for them a most worthy^11071107    Literally, “worthy of God.” recompense. Be long-suffering, therefore, with one another, in meekness, and God shall be so with you. May I have joy of you for ever!^11081108    Comp. Ignatius’ Epistle to the Ephesians, chap. ii.