Letters of Ignatius 41

1For when you are obedient to the bishop as to Jesus Christ, it is evident to me that you are living not after men but after Jesus Christ, who died for us, so that, believing in his death, you might escape death.

2It is therefore necessary, even as is your custom, that you should do nothing without the bishop; but be obedient also to the presbytery, as to the Apostles of Jesus Christ our hope. For if we live in him, we shall also be found in him.

3And likewise those who are deacons of the mysteries of Jesus Christ must please all people in every way. For they are not deacons of meats and drinks but servants of the Church of God. It is right, therefore, that they should beware of blame as of fire.