Golden Age
Homilies on the New Testament & On the Priesthood
John Chrysostom · c. 386 – 407
Historical Context
Preacher at Antioch and later patriarch of Constantinople, John was nicknamed 'Chrysostom' — 'Golden Mouth' — for his preaching. His outspoken sermons against luxury led to two exiles; he died on the second.
Summary
Chrysostom left extensive sermon series on most New Testament books, marked by careful exegesis and concrete moral application; his Divine Liturgy remains the principal Sunday liturgy of the Eastern Orthodox Church. On the Priesthood reflects on the awesome demands of pastoral ministry.
Major Themes
- Biblical preaching
- Pastoral care
- Care for the poor
- Eucharistic awe
- Practical ethics
Important Quotations
“Do you wish to honour the Body of the Saviour? Do not despise Him when He is naked. Do not honour Him here in the church with silken garments while neglecting Him outside, where He suffers cold and nakedness.”— Homily 50 on Matthew
Primary Sources
Further Reading
- J. N. D. Kelly, Golden Mouth: The Story of John Chrysostom