Theology

From Monachos Patristic Quotations Index

This page is part of the 'The Fathers Say...' Patristics Quotation Index by Topic. Quotations on this page relate to the concept of 'theology' as it is understood by the Fathers. You are welcome to add new quotations, citations, etc., in accordance with the guidlines.

St Diadochus of Photiki (5th cent.)

'All God's gifts of grace are flawless and the source of everything good; but the gift which enflames our heart and moves it to the love of His goodness more than any other is theoloy. It is the early offspring of God's grace and bestows on the soul the greatest gifts. [...] In brief, it is the gift which, through the help of the holy prophets, unites the deiform soul with God in unbreakable communion. So among men as among angels, divine theology - like one who conducts the wedding feast - brings into harmony the voices of those who praise God's majesty.' (On Spiritual Knowledge, 67; in the Philokalia, vol. i, p. 275.)

Evagrius the Solitary of Pontus (4th cent.)

'If you are a theologian, you will pray truly. And if you pray truly, you are a theologian.' (On Prayer: One Hundred and Fifty-Three Texts, 61; in the Philokalia, vol. i, p. 62.)

St. Gregory Nazianzen

Discussion of theology is not for everyone, I tell you, not for everyone — it is no such inexpensive and effortless pursuit...It must be reserved for certain occasions, for certain audiences, and certain limits must be observed. It is not for all men, but only for those who have been tested and have found a sound footing in study, and, more importantly, have undergone, or at the very least are undergoing, purification of body and soul.