There is one Physician who is possessed of both flesh and spirit; both made and not made; God existing in flesh; true life in death; both of Mary and of God; first passible and then impassible—even Jesus Christ our Lord.
Ignatius of Antioch
Epistle to the Ephesians
Chapter VII
It is manifest, therefore, that we should look upon the bishop even as we would upon the Lord Himself.
Ignatius of Antioch
Epistle to the Ephesians
Chapter VI
Do you beloved, be careful to be subject to the bishop, and the presbyters and the deacons. For he that is subject to these is obedient to Christ who has appointed them; but he that is disobedient to these is disobedient to Christ Jesus.
Ignatius of Antioch
Epistle to the Ephesians
Chapter V
Therefore it is fitting that you also should run together in accordance with the will of the bishop who by God’s appointment rules over you.
Ignatius of Antioch
Epistle to the Ephesians
Chapter IV
Being followers of God, and stirring up yourselves by the blood of God, you have perfectly accomplished the work which was beseeming to you.
Ignatius of Antioch
Epistle to the Ephesians
Chapter I
I have collected these things, when they had almost faded away through the lapse of time, that the Lord Jesus Christ may also gather me along with His elect into His heavenly kingdom, to whom, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Martyrdom of Polycarp
Chapter XXII
We wish you, brethren, all happiness, while you walk according to the doctrine of the Gospel of Jesus Christ; with whom be glory to God the Father and the Holy Spirit, for the salvation of His holy elect, after whose example the blessed Polycarp suffered, following in whose steps may we too be found in the kingdom of Jesus Christ!
Martyrdom of Polycarp
Chapter XXII
Accordingly, we afterwards took up his bones, as being more precious than the most exquisite jewels, and more purified than gold, and deposited them in a fitting place, whither, being gathered together, as opportunity is allowed us, with joy and rejoicing, the Lord shall grant us to celebrate the anniversary of his martyrdom, both in memory of those who have already finished their course, and for the exercising and preparation of those yet to walk in their steps.
Martyrdom of Polycarp
Chapter XVIII
… It is neither possible for us ever to forsake Christ, who suffered for the salvation of such as shall be saved throughout the whole world (the blameless one for sinners), nor to worship any other. For Him indeed, as being the Son of God, we adore; but the martyrs, as disciples and followers of the Lord, we worthily love on account of their extraordinary affection towards their own King and Master, of whom may we also be made companions and fellow-disciples!
Martyrdom of Polycarp
Chapter XVII
… he did his utmost that not the least memorial of him should be taken away by us, although many desired to do that, and to become possessors of his holy flesh.
Martyrdom of Polycarp
Chapter XVII