Canon IV.
As to those who are overtaken by an involuntary
flux in the night-time, let such follow the testimony of their own
conscience, and consider themselves as to whether they are doubtfully
minded774
in this matter
or not. And he that doubteth in the matter of meats, the
apostle
tells us, “is
damned if he eat.”
775
In these things, therefore, let
every one who approaches
God be of a good conscience, and of a proper
confidence, so
far as his own
judgment is concerned. And, indeed,
it is in order to show your regard for us (for you are not ignorant,
beloved,) that you have proposed these
questions to us, making us of
one
mind, as indeed we are, and of one spirit with yourself. And
I, for my part, have thus set forth my opinions in
public, not as a
teacher, but only as it becomes us with all simplicity to confer with
each other. And when you have
examined this opinion of mine, my
most intelligent son, you will
write back to me your notion of these
matters, and let me know whatever may seem to you to be just and
preferable, and whether you approve of my
judgment in these
things.
776
| 776 [The
entire absence of despotic authority in these episcopal teachings is to
be noted. 2 Cor. i.
24.] |
That it
may fare well with you, my beloved son, as you minister to the Lord in
peace, is my prayer.
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