AMBROSE
Milan was an important city that was declared the capital of the Western Roman Empire. During the 4th century, after the death of a bishop named Auxentius, peace in Milan was threatened because both Arians and orthodox Christians wanted one of their men to be the next Bishop.
Ambrose was the governor of the city at the time and his efficient and fair rule made him popular. Although he did not seek the office, he was the popular choice to become bishop of Milan. Ambrose took the job seriously by studying theology and learning the basics of Christian doctrine from a local priest. In a short time, he would become one of the most knowledgeable and respected theologians in the Western church.
Among many who went to listen to him preach, only one made a greater impact than Ambrose himself. His name was Augustine. Justo Gonzalez said, “(Augustine) was so entranced by the bishop’s words that he returned to (Christianity), which he had abandoned many years before. Ambrose, who baptized Augustine, was unaware of the influence this new convert would have” (191). Gonzalez affirmed, “(Augustine) would become the most influential theologian for the West since the apostle Paul (Ibid).
JOHN CHRYSOSTOM
Although there were some great preachers in the fourth century, none matched John Chrysostom. Gonzalez said of Chrysostom, “One hundred years after his death, John of Constantinople was given the name by which later ages know him: John Chrysostom—‘golden-mouth.’ That was a title he well deserved, for in a century that gave the church such great preachers as Ambrose of Milan and Gregory of Nazianzus, John of Constantinople stood above the rest, a giant above the giants of his time” (194).
John’s ministry began with him wanting to withdraw from the city to be a monk. His mother was very possessive of him and did not want him to leave her while she was still alive. Honoring her request, John remained with her, but turned their home into a monastery. After her death, John continued in the monastic way of life until he was ordained a deacon in 381. Five years later he became a priest and it was during this time that Chrysostom became known as an excellent preacher and teacher. Christian Historians Matthew Price and Michael Collins affirmed “During this time…Chrysostom preached a series of homilies on Genesis and the books of the New Testament (which) established his reputation and proved his ability to convey both the spiritual meaning of the Greek Bible and its practical application” (74).
Chrysostom became bishop of Constantinople in 398. His first task as bishop was to reform the clergy because he did not like the way the church had been corrupted by money. This act gained him the respect of some and the hatred of others. He also reformed other areas of the church calling for the laity to lead lives more in line with the Scriptures.
John’s boldness resulted in him being exiled more than once. After the first exile, the people rioted, which resulted in his immediate return. After returning, John continued preaching against the nobles, which resulted in a second exile. This time John would not return. He died in exile in 407.
LESSONS LEARNED FROM AMBROSE & GOLDEN MOUTH
From Ambrose we learn the importance of being equipped with sound doctrine. Because he valued being equipped with biblical theology, he in turn rightly influenced others, which included one of the most influential theologians in Christian history. It is important to remember that behind every influential Christian, there is an influencer. May we be devoted to growing in our knowledge of Scripture, so that we will be equipped to properly influence the influencers.
From Golden Mouth we learn that the truth of the Gospel is preached no matter the consequences. Many church leaders in the 4th century were being influenced by those with money. John Chrysostom is a great example of how one should never compromise the truth of God’s Word. Although he was threatened and eventually died in exile, I am sure he was comforted by the words of the Apostle Paul who asserted that "this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison" (2 Cor. 4:17).
Gonzalez, Justo. The Story of Christianity: The Early Chruch and the Dawn of the Reformation. San Fransico: Harper Collins. 1984. 191-194.
Price, Matthew and Michael Collins. The Story of Christianity: 2,000 Years of Faith. Wheaton: Tyndale House Publishers. 1999. 74.
