2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Calendar
THEOPHILUS OF ANTIOCH
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9
Romans 1:18-32
John 4:21-24
“God is a Spirit:
and they that worship him must
worship him in spirit and in truth.”
THEOPHILUS OF ANTIOCH
Theophilus of Antioch (from the region of modern-day Iraq) served as the sixth bishop of Antioch and was one of the notable Christian apologists of the second century. Educated in the Greek tradition, he became a Christian as an adult after careful deliberation, and by AD 170, was elected bishop. He is remembered for three letters written to an unbeliever, defending the basics of the Christian faith against philosophical and historical objections. While the doctrine of the Trinity was already present in the church, Theophilus was the first to use the Greek word “triad” to describe the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
In his writings, Theophilus exposed the immoralities of the pagan gods, pointing out their shameful deeds as recorded in myths and poetry. He wrote:
“…indeed, the names of those whom you say you worship, are the names of dead men… Is not Saturn found to be a cannibal, destroying and devouring his own children? And if you name his son Jupiter, hear also his deeds and conduct… his incest, and adultery, and lust…”
He also condemned idolatry as absurd, noting how Egyptians worshipped animals, reptiles and even household objects, while Greeks and other nations bowed to lifeless stones and wood:
“For these are not gods, but idols… the works of men’s hands and unclean demons. And such may all those become who make them and put their trust in them!”
Theophilus reminds us today that true worship belongs to the living God alone. Many churches today embrace practices that are more pagan than biblical. The saints of old fully embraced God’s Word; we too must worship Him in spirit and in truth.
THOUGHT: Am I faithfully avoiding what the Bible forbids and doing what it requires?
PRAYER: Father, may my heart be ruled by Thy Spirit, that I may worship Thee alone in truth. Guard me from idolatry in all its forms, and make me a true worshipper who honours Thee in both word and deed.