ANF06. Fathers of the Third Century: Gregory Thaumaturgus, Dionysius the Great, Julius Africanus, Anatolius, and Minor Writers, Methodius, Arnobius

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

⁷⁷⁴ διακρίνονται.
in this matter or not. And he that doubteth in the matter of meats, the apostle tells us, “is damned if he eat.”⁷⁷⁵

⁷⁷⁵ Rom. xiv. 23. [Gr. κατακέκριται = is condemned = self-condemned. Wordsworth cites Cicero, De Officiis, i. 30.]
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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