Letters of Ignatius 85

1From now on, it is reasonable for us to wake up and be sober-minded while we [still] have time to repent and turn to God. It is good to recognize God and the bishop. Whoever honors the bishop is honored by God; whoever does anything without the bishop’s knowledge serves the devil.

2Therefore, may all things abound to you in grace, for you are worthy. You refreshed me in every way, and Jesus Christ will refresh you. Both in my absence and in my presence, you cherished me. May God repay you; for whose sake, if you endure all things, you will attain to him.