Letters of Ignatius 26

1Yes, and it is fitting for you also not to presume upon the youth of your bishop, but, in accordance with the power of God the Father, to show him every reverence. I have learned that the holy presbyters likewise have not taken advantage of his outwardly youthful condition, but yield to him as to one who is wise in God—yet not to him, but to the Father of Jesus Christ, the Bishop of all.

2Therefore, for the honor of Him who desired you, it is right that you should obey without pretense. For a person does not so much deceive this visible bishop as cheat the One who is invisible; and in such a case, that person must reckon not with flesh but with God, who knows the hidden things.