On the Holy Spirit — Book II

The three Persons of the Godhead were not unknown to the ancient judges or to Moses, for the equality of the Son with the Father, as well as the equality of the three Persons among themselves, is stated both elsewhere and by Moses himself. Samson also received the help of the Holy Spirit, and his story is mentioned and shown to foreshadow in certain ways the Church and her mysteries. When the Holy Spirit departed from Samson, he fell into various disasters, and St. Ambrose explains the spiritual meaning of his cut hair.

The Three Persons of the Godhead were not unknown to the judges of old nor to Moses, for the equality of the Son with the Father, as well as of the Three Persons among Themselves, is laid down both elsewhere and by him. Samson also enjoyed the assistance of the Holy Spirit, his history is touched upon and shown to be in some points typical of the Church and her mysteries. When the Holy Spirit left Samson he fell into various calamities, and St. Ambrose explains the spiritual significance of his shorn locks.

Even in reading the first book of ancient history, it becomes clear that the sevenfold grace of the Spirit shone forth in the judges of the Jews themselves, and that the mysteries of the heavenly sacraments were revealed by the Spirit, whose eternity Moses was not ignorant of. Moreover, at the very beginning of the world, and even before its beginning, Moses joined the Spirit with God, whom he knew to be eternal before the world began. For if anyone pays close attention, he will recognize at the beginning both the Father, the Son, and the Spirit. Concerning the Father it is written: In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Concerning the Spirit it is said: The Spirit was borne upon the waters. And fittingly, at the beginning of creation, the figure of baptism is set forth, by which the creature had to be purified. And concerning the Son we read that He is the one who divided light from darkness, for there is one God the Father who speaks, and one God the Son who acts.

1. Even in reading the first book of the ancient history it is made clear both that the sevenfold grace of the Spirit shone forth in the judges themselves of the Jews, and that the mysteries of the heavenly sacraments were made known by the Spirit, of Whose eternity Moses was not ignorant. Then, too, at the very beginning of the world, and indeed before its beginning, he conjoined Him with God, Whom he knew to be eternal before the beginning of the world. For if any one takes good heed he will recognize in the beginning both the Father, the Son, and the Spirit. For of the Father it is written: In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Genesis 1:1 Of the Spirit it is said: The Spirit was borne upon the waters. Genesis 1:4 And well in the beginning of creation is there set forth the figure of baptism whereby the creature had to be purified. And of the Son we read that He it is Who divided light from darkness, for there is one God the Father Who speaks, and one God the Son Who acts.

But again, so that you may not think there was arrogance in the command of the One who spoke, or inferiority on the part of the One who carried out the command, the Father acknowledges the Son as equal to Himself in the execution of the work, saying: Let Us make man after Our image and likeness. For the common image and the working and the likeness can signify nothing but the oneness of the same Majesty.

2. But, again, that you may not think that there was assumption in the bidding of Him Who spoke, or inferiority on the part of Him Who carried out the bidding, the Father acknowledges the Son as equal to Himself in the execution of the work, saying: Let Us make man after Our image and likeness. Genesis 1:26 For the common image and the working and the likeness can signify nothing but the oneness of the same Majesty.

To help us more fully recognize the equality of the Father and the Son, just as the Father spoke and the Son made, so too the Father works and the Son speaks. The Father works, as it is written: My Father works hitherto. You find it said to the Son: Say the word and he shall be healed. And the Son says to the Father: I will that where I am, they too shall be with Me. The Father did what the Son said.

3. But that we may more fully recognize the equality of the Father and the Son, as the Father spoke, the Son made, so, too, the Father works and the Son speaks. The Father works, as it is written: My Father works hitherto. John 5:17 You find it said to the Son: Say the word and he shall be healed. Matthew 8:8 And the Son says to the Father: I will that where I am, they too shall be with Me. John 17:24 The Father did what the Son said.

4. Abraham was not ignorant of the Holy Spirit either. He saw Three and worshipped One, for there is one God, one Lord, and one Spirit. Therefore there is a unity of honor, because there is a unity of power.

4. But neither was Abraham ignorant of the Holy Spirit; he saw Three and worshipped One, for there is one God, one Lord, and one Spirit. And so there is a oneness of honour, because there is a oneness of power.

And why should I speak of each example individually? Samson, born through divine promise, had the Spirit accompanying him, for we read: "The Lord blessed him, and the Spirit of the Lord began to be with him in the camp." Thus foreshadowing the future mystery, he demanded a wife from the foreigners, which, as it is written, his father and mother did not know about, because it was from the Lord. And rightly was he considered stronger than others, because the Spirit of the Lord guided him. Under his guidance, Samson alone put to flight the people of the foreigners, and at another time, untouched by the bite of the lion, he—unconquerable in his strength—tore it apart with his hands. If only he had been as careful to preserve grace as he was strong in overcoming the beast!

5. And why should I speak of all one by one? Samson, born by the divine promise, had the Spirit accompanying him, for we read: The Lord blessed him, and the Spirit of the Lord began to be with him in the camp. Judges 13:25 And so foreshadowing the future mystery, he demanded a wife of the aliens, which, as it is written, his father and mother knew not of, because it was from the Lord. And rightly was he esteemed stronger than others, because the Spirit of the Lord guided him, under Whose guidance he alone put to flight the people of the aliens, and at another time inaccessible to the bite of the lion, he, unconquerable in his strength, tore him asunder with his hands. Would that he had been as careful to preserve grace, as strong to overcome the beast!

Perhaps this was not only a display of courage but also a mystery of wisdom and a prophetic utterance. For it does not seem to have been without purpose that, as he was going to his wedding, a roaring lion met him, which he tore apart with his hands. In the body of this lion, when he was about to enjoy the longed-for marriage, he found a swarm of bees and took honey from its mouth, which he gave to his father and mother to eat. The people of the Gentiles who believed had honey; the people who were once savage are now the people of Christ.

6. And perhaps this was not only a prodigy of valour, but also a mystery of wisdom, an utterance of prophecy. For it does not seem to have been without a purpose that, as he was going to his marriage, a roaring lion met him, which he tore asunder with his hands, in whose body, when about to enjoy the wished-for wedlock, he found a swarm of bees, and took honey from its mouth, which he gave to his father and mother to eat. The people of the Gentiles which believed had honey, the people which was before savage is now the people of Christ.

Nor is the riddle without mystery that he posed to his companions: Out of the eater came forth meat, and out of the strong came forth sweetness. And there was a mystery extending to the three days during which its answer was sought in vain, which could not be revealed except through the faith of the Church on the seventh day, after the time of the Law was fulfilled, following the Passion of the Lord. For you find that the apostles did not understand because Jesus was not yet glorified.

7. Nor is the riddle without mystery, which he set forth to his companions: Out of the eater came forth meat, and out of the strong came forth sweetness. Judges 14:14 And there was a mystery up to the point of the three days in which its answer was sought in vain, which could not be made known except by the faith of the Church, on the seventh day, the time of the Law being completed, after the Passion of the Lord. For thus you find that the apostles did not understand, because Jesus was not yet glorified. John 7:39

What, they answer, is sweeter than honey, and what is stronger than a lion? To this he replied: If you had not farmed with my heifer, you would not have found out my riddle. What a divine mystery! What a manifest sacrament! We have escaped from the slayer, we have overcome the strong one. The food of life is now there, where before was the hunger of a miserable death. Dangers are changed into safety, bitterness into sweetness. Grace came forth from the offense, power from weakness, and life from death.

8. What, answer they, is sweeter than honey, and what is stronger than a lion? To which he replied: If you had not farmed with my heifer, you would not have found out my riddle. Judges 14:18 O divine mystery! O manifest sacrament! We have escaped from the slayer, we have overcome the strong one. The food of life is now there, where before was the hunger of a miserable death. Dangers are changed into safety, bitterness into sweetness. Grace came forth from the offense, power from weakness, and life from death.

There are some, however, who think instead that the marriage could not have been established unless the lion of the tribe of Judah had been slain. And so in His body, that is, the Church, bees were found who store up the honey of wisdom, because after the Passion of the Lord the apostles believed more fully. This lion, then, Samson as a Jew slew, but in it he found honey, as in the figure of the inheritance that was to be redeemed, so that the remnant might be saved according to the election of grace.

9. There are, however, who think on the other hand that the wedlock could not have been established unless the lion of the tribe of Judah had been slain; and so in His body, that is, the Church, bees were found who store up the honey of wisdom, because after the Passion of the Lord the apostles believed more fully. This lion, then, Samson as a Jew slew, but in it he found honey, as in the figure of the heritage which was to be redeemed, that the remnant might be saved according to the election of grace. Romans 11:5

And it says the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he went down to Ascalon and killed thirty of their men. For he could not fail to win victory who saw the mysteries. And so those who solve and answer the riddle receive the reward of wisdom in the garments, the token of fellowship.

10. And the Spirit of the Lord, it is said, came upon him, and he went down to Ascalon, and smote thirty men of them. Judges 14:19 For he could not fail to carry off the victory who saw the mysteries. And so in the garments they receive the reward of wisdom, the badge of intercourse, who resolve and answer the riddle.

Here, again, other mysteries appear, in that his wife is taken away, and because of this foxes set fire to the sheaves of the foreigners. For their own cunning often deceives those who fight against divine mysteries. This is why it is said again in the Song of Songs: "Take us the little foxes which destroy the vineyards, that our vineyards may flourish." He rightly said "little," because the larger ones could not destroy the vineyards, though to the strong even the devil is weak.

11. Here, again, other mysteries come up, in that his wife is taken away, and for this foxes set fire to the sheaves of the aliens. For their own cunning often deceives those who contend against divine mysteries. Wherefore it is said again in the Song of Songs: Take us the little foxes which destroy the vineyards, that our vineyards may flourish. Song of Songs 2:15 He said well little, because the larger could not destroy the vineyards, though to the strong even the devil is weak.

So then, to sum up the story briefly (for a full consideration of the whole passage is reserved for another time), Samson was unconquered as long as he kept the grace of the Spirit, just as the people of God chosen by the Lord were unconquered—that Nazarite under the Law. Samson was unconquered and so invincible that he could strike down a thousand men with the jawbone of a donkey. He was so full of heavenly grace that when he was thirsty, he even found water in the jawbone of a donkey—whether you understand this as a miracle or interpret it as a mystery. For in the humility of the Gentile people there would be both rest and triumph, according to what is written: "He who strikes you on the cheek, turn to him also the other." Through this endurance of injuries, which the sacrament of baptism teaches, we triumph over the stings of anger, so that having passed through death we may reach the rest of the resurrection.

12. So, then, he (to sum up the story briefly, for the consideration of the whole passage is reserved for its own season) was unconquered so long as he kept the grace of the Spirit, as was the people of God chosen by the Lord, that Nazarite under the Law. Samson, then, was unconquered, and so invincible as to be able to smite a thousand men with the jawbone of an ass; Judges 15:15 so full of heavenly grace that when thirsty he found even water in the jawbone of an ass, whether you consider this as a miracle, or turn it to a mystery, because in the humility of the people of the Gentiles there would be both rest and triumph according to that which is written: He that smites you on the cheek, turn to him also the other. Matthew 5:39 For by this endurance of injuries, which the sacrament of baptism teaches, we triumph over the stings of anger, that having passed through death we may attain to the rest of the resurrection.

Is this the same Samson who broke ropes twisted with leather straps and new cords as if they were weak threads? Is this the same Samson who did not even feel the bonds when his hair was fastened to the weaving beam, as long as he had the grace of the Spirit? This man, I say, after the Spirit of God departed from him, was greatly changed from that Samson who had returned clothed in the spoils of foreigners. But now, fallen from his greatness while on the knees of a woman, caressed and deceived, he is shorn of his hair.

13. Is that, then, Samson who broke ropes twisted with thongs, and new cords like weak threads? Is that Samson who did not feel the bonds of his hair fastened to the beam, so long as he had the grace of the Spirit? He, I say, after the Spirit of God departed from him, was greatly changed from that Samson who returned clothed in the spoils of the aliens, but fallen from his greatness on the knees of a woman, caressed and deceived, is shorn of his hair.

Did Samson's hair have such great importance that as long as it remained, his strength would stay unconquered, but when his head was shaved, the man would suddenly lose all his strength? No, that is not the case, nor should we think that the hair on his head has such power. There is a spiritual hair of religion and faith—the hair of the Nazarite who is perfect in the Law, consecrated in self-restraint and abstinence. With this hair, the woman (a type of the Church) who poured ointment on the feet of the Lord wiped the feet of the heavenly Word, for at that time she knew Christ according to the flesh as well. This is the hair of which it is said: Your hair is as flocks of goats (Song of Songs 4:1), growing on that head of which it is said: The head of the man is Christ (1 Corinthians 11:3), and in another place: His head is as fine gold, and his locks like black pine-trees (Song of Songs 5:11).

14. Was, then, the hair of his head of such importance that, so long as it remained, his strength should endure unconquered, but when his head was shorn the man should suddenly lose all his strength? It is not so, nor may we think that the hair of his head has such power. There is the hair of religion and faith; the hair of the Nazarite perfect in the Law, consecrated in sparingness and abstinence, with which she (a type of the Church), who poured ointment on the feet of the Lord, wiped the feet of the heavenly Word, for then she knew Christ also after the flesh. That hair it is of which it is said: Your hair is as flocks of goats, Song of Songs 4:1 growing on that head of which it is said: The head of the man is Christ, 1 Corinthians 11:3 and in another place: His head is as fine gold, and his locks like black pine-trees. Song of Songs 5:11

And so, also, in the Gospel our Lord, pointing out that some hairs are seen and known, says: "But even the hairs of your head are all numbered" (Matthew 10:30), implying acts of spiritual virtues, for God does not take care of our physical hair. Though indeed, it is not unreasonable to believe this literally, seeing that according to His divine Majesty nothing can be hidden from Him.

15. And so, also, in the Gospel our Lord, pointing out that some hairs are seen and known, says: But even the hairs of your head are all numbered, Matthew 10:30 implying, indeed, acts of spiritual virtues, for God does not take care for our hair. Though, indeed, it is not absurd to believe that literally, seeing that according to His divine Majesty nothing can be hidden from Him.

16. But what good does it do me if God knows every hair on my head? What truly benefits and helps me is if the attentive witness of good works rewards me with the gift of eternal life. And finally, Samson himself, making clear that these hairs are not mystical, says: "If I be shorn my strength will depart from me." Judges 16:17 That is enough about the mystery; let us now consider the sequence of the passage.

16. But what does it profit me, if God Himself knows all my hairs? That rather abounds and profits me, if the watchful witness of good works reward me with the gift of eternal life. And, in fine, Samson himself, declaring that these hairs are not mystical, says: If I be shorn my strength will depart from me. Judges 16:17 So much concerning the mystery, let us now consider the order of the passage.

The Spirit is the Lord and Power, and in this respect is not inferior to the Father and the Son.

The Spirit is the Lord and Power; and in this is not inferior to the Father and the Son.

In the passage above, you read that the Lord blessed him, and the Spirit of the Lord began to go with him. Later it says: And the Spirit of the Lord came upon him. Again he says: If I am shaved, my strength will depart from me. After he was shaved, notice what Scripture says: The Lord, it says, departed from him.

17. Above, you read that the Lord blessed him, and the Spirit of the Lord began to go with him. Farther on it is said: And the Spirit of the Lord came upon him. Judges 14:6 Again he says: If I be shaven, my strength will depart from me. Judges 16:17 After he was shaven, see what the Scripture says: The Lord, he says, departed from him. Judges 16:20

You see, then, that the One who went with him is the same One who departed from him. The Lord, then, is the same as the Spirit of the Lord—that is, he called the Spirit of God "Lord," just as the Apostle also says: The Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. You find, then, that the Holy Spirit is called Lord, for the Holy Spirit and the Son are not one prosopon but one ousia.

18. You see, then, that He Who went with him, Himself departed from him. The Same is, then, the Lord, Who is the Spirit of the Lord, that is, he called the Spirit of God, Lord, as also the Apostle says: The Lord is the Spirit, now where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. You find, then, the Holy Spirit called the Lord; for the Holy Spirit and the Son are not one Person [ unus] but one Substance [ unum].

Here the author used the word Power and meant the Spirit. For just as the Father is Power, so too the Son is Power, and the Holy Spirit is Power. Concerning the Son, you have read that Christ is the Power of God and the Wisdom of God. We also read that the Father is Power, as it is written: You shall see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power of God. He certainly called the Father Power, at whose right hand the Son sits, as you read: The Lord said to my Lord, Sit at my right hand. And the Lord himself called the Holy Spirit Power when he said: You shall receive Power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.

19. In this place he used the word Power, and implied the Spirit. For as the Father is Power, so, too, the Son is Power, and the Holy Spirit is Power. Of the Son you have read that Christ is the Power of God and the Wisdom of God. 1 Corinthians 1:24 We read, too, that the Father is Power, as it is written: You shall see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power of God. Matthew 26:64 He certainly named the Father Power, at Whose right hand the Son sits, as you read: The Lord said to My Lord, Sit on My right hand. And the Lord Himself named the Holy Spirit Power, when He said: You shall receive Power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. Acts 1:8

The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are one in counsel.

The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are One in counsel.

For the Spirit Himself is Power, as you read: The Spirit of Counsel and of Power (or might). And just as the Son is the Angel of great counsel, so too is the Holy Spirit the Spirit of Counsel, so that you may know that the Counsel of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is One. This is Counsel not about doubtful matters, but about those things that are foreknown and determined.

20. For the Spirit Himself is Power, as you read: The Spirit of Counsel and of Power (or might). Isaiah 11:2 And as the Son is the Angel of great counsel, so, too, is the Holy Spirit the Spirit of Counsel, that you may know that the Counsel of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is One. Counsel, not concerning any doubtful matters, but concerning those foreknown and determined.

The Spirit is the Arbiter of the Divine Counsel, as you can see from the following. Earlier we showed that the Holy Spirit is the Lord of baptism, and we read that baptism is the counsel of God, as the Scripture says: "But the Pharisees despised the counsel of God, not being baptized of Him" (Luke 7:30). It is completely clear that just as there can be no baptism without the Spirit, so also the counsel of God is not without the Spirit.

21. But that the Spirit is the Arbiter of the Divine Counsel, you may know even from this. For when above we showed that the Holy Spirit was the Lord of baptism, and read that baptism is the counsel of God, as you read, But the Pharisees despised the counsel of God, not being baptized of Him, Luke 7:30 it is quite clear that as there can be no baptism without the Spirit, so, too, the counsel of God is not without the Spirit.

To understand more fully that the Spirit is Power, we should recognize that He was promised when the Lord said: I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh. Therefore, the One who was promised to us is Himself Power, as the same Son of God declared in the Gospel when He said: And I will send the promise of the Father upon you, but do you remain in the city until you are endued with power from on high.

22. And that we may know more completely that the Spirit is Power, we ought to know that He was promised when the Lord said: I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh. Joel 2:28 He, then, Who was promised to us is Himself Power, as in the Gospel the same Son of God declared when He said: And I will send the promise of the Father upon you, but do you remain in the city until ye be endued with power from on high. Luke 24:49

The Evangelist demonstrates to such an extent that the Spirit is Power that Saint Luke describes Him as coming down with great power when he says: And suddenly there was a sound from heaven, as though the Spirit were carried with great power.

23. And the Evangelist so far shows that the Spirit is Power, that St. Luke relates that He came down with great power, when he says: And suddenly there was a sound from heaven, as though the Spirit were borne with great power. Acts 2:2

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But again, so that you don't think this refers to physical things that can be perceived by the senses, understand that the Spirit descended in the same way that Christ will descend, as you find written: "They shall see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and majesty." Matthew 24:30

24. But, again, that you may not suppose that this is to be referred to bodily things and perceptible to the senses, learn that the Spirit so descended as Christ is to descend, as you find: They shall see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and majesty. Matthew 24:30

For how could the power and might not be one, when the work is one, the judgment is one, the temple is one, the life-giving is one, the sanctification is one, and the kingdom of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is also one?

25. For how should not the power and might be one, when the work is one, the judgment one, the temple one, the life-giving one, the sanctification one, and the kingdom also of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit one?

Since knowing the Father and the Son is life, knowing the Holy Spirit is also life; therefore in the Godhead He must not be separated from the Father.

As to know the Father and the Son is life, so is it life to know the Holy Spirit; and therefore in the Godhead He is not to be separated from the Father.

Let them say, then, in what way they think there is an unlikeness in the divine operation. Since knowing the Father and the Son is life, as the Lord Himself declared, saying: "This is life eternal to know You the only true God, and Jesus Christ, Whom You have sent," so too, knowing the Holy Spirit is life. For the Lord said: "If you love Me, keep My commandments, and I will ask the Father and He shall give you another Paraclete, that He may abide with you for ever, even the Spirit of Truth, Whom the world cannot receive, because it sees Him not, neither knows Him, but you know Him, for He is with you, and in you."

26. Let them say, then, wherein they think that there is an unlikeness in the divine operation. Since as to know the Father and the Son is life, as the Lord Himself declared, saying: This is life eternal to know You the only true God, and Jesus Christ, Whom You have sent, John 17:3 so, too, to know the Holy Spirit is life. For the Lord said: If you love Me, keep My commandments, and I will ask the Father and He shall give you another Paraclete, that He may abide with you for ever, even the Spirit of Truth, Whom the world cannot receive, because it sees Him not, neither knows Him, but you know Him, for He is with you, and in you. John 17:14-15

The world did not have eternal life because it had not received the Spirit. Where the Spirit is, there is eternal life, for it is the Spirit Himself who brings about eternal life. So I wonder why the Arians raise the question about the only true God. Just as it is eternal life to know the only true God, so too it is eternal life to know Jesus Christ. In the same way, it is eternal life to know the Holy Spirit, whom the world does not see, just as it does not see the Father, and does not know, just as it does not know the Son. But the person who is not of this world has eternal life, and the Spirit, who is the Light of eternal life, remains with that person forever.

27. So, then, the world had not eternal life, because it had not received the Spirit; for where the Spirit is, there is eternal life; for the Spirit Himself it is Who effects eternal life. Wherefore I wonder why the Arians stir the question as to the only true God. For as it is eternal life to know the only true God, so, too, is it eternal life to know Jesus Christ; so, again, it is eternal life to know the Holy Spirit, Whom, as also the Father, the world does not see, and, as also the Son, does not know. But he who is not of this world has eternal life, and the Spirit, Who is the Light of eternal life, remains with him forever.

If knowing the only true God confers the same benefit as knowing the Son and the Spirit, why do you separate the Son and the Spirit from the honor of the true God, when you do not separate Him from conferring the benefit? For you must necessarily either believe that this is the greatest gift of the only true Godhead, and confess the only true Godhead as belonging to the Father and also to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; or if you say that someone who is not true God can also give eternal life, it will follow that you actually detract from the Father, whose work you do not consider to be the chief work of the only true Godhead, but rather one to be compared to the work of a creature.

28. If the knowledge of the only true God confers the same benefit as the knowledge of the Son and of the Spirit, why do you sever the Son and the Spirit from the honour of the true God, when you do not sever Him from conferring the benefit? For of necessity you must either believe that this is the greatest gift of the only true Godhead, and will confess the only true Godhead as of the Father, so also of the Son and of the Holy Spirit; or if you say that he, too, can give life eternal who is not true God, it will happen that you derogate rather from the Father, Whose work you do not consider to be the chief work of the only true Godhead, but one to be compared to the work of a creature.

The Holy Spirit gives life, not in a different way from the Father and the Son, nor by a different working.

The Holy Spirit gives life, not in a different way from the Father and the Son, nor by a different working.

And is it any wonder that the Spirit works life, since He gives life just as the Father does and just as the Son does? And who can deny that giving life is the work of the eternal Majesty? For it is written: "Give life to Your servant." Therefore, the one who is given life is a servant—that is, a human being—who previously did not have life, but received the gift of having it.

29. And what wonder is it the Spirit works Life, Who quickens as does the Father and as does the Son? And who can deny that quickening is the work of the Eternal Majesty? For it is written: Quicken Your servant. He, then, is quickened who is a servant, that is, man, who before had not life, but received the privilege of having it.

Let us then see whether the Spirit is quickened, or whether He Himself quickens. Now it is written: The letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. So then, the Spirit quickens.

30. Let us then see whether the Spirit is quickened, or Himself quickens. Now it is written: The letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. Romans 8:11 So, then, the Spirit quickens.

But so you may understand that the quickening work of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is not separate, read how there is also a oneness of quickening, since God Himself quickens through the Spirit, for Paul said: He Who raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies because of His Spirit Who dwells in you.

31. But that you may understand that the quickening of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is no separate work, read how there is a oneness of quickening also, since God Himself quickens through the Spirit, for Paul said: He Who raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies because of His Spirit Who dwells in you.

The Holy Scripture identifies the Holy Spirit, along with the Father and the Son, as Creator. This same truth was hinted at even by pagan writers, but it was revealed most clearly in the Mystery of the Incarnation. After mentioning this, the writer supports his argument by pointing out that the worship owed to the Creator alone is given to the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit, as well as the Father and the Son, is pointed out in holy Scripture as Creator, and the same truth was shadowed forth even by heathen writers, but it was shown most plainly in the Mystery of the Incarnation, after touching upon which, the writer maintains his argument from the fact that worship which is due to the Creator alone is paid to the Holy Spirit.

But who can doubt that the Holy Spirit gives life to all things? For both He, just like the Father and the Son, is the Creator of all things. The Almighty Father is understood to have done nothing without the Holy Spirit, and in the beginning of creation the Spirit moved upon the water.

32. But who can doubt that the Holy Spirit gives life to all things; since both He, as the Father and the Son, is the Creator of all things; and the Almighty Father is understood to have done nothing without the Holy Spirit; and since also in the beginning of the creation the Spirit moved upon the water.

When the Spirit was moving upon the water, creation was without grace. But after the world was created and experienced the work of the Spirit, it gained all the beauty of that grace by which the world is illuminated. The prophet declared that the grace of the universe cannot endure without the Holy Spirit when he said: "You will take away Your Spirit, and they will fail and be turned again into their dust. Send forth Your Spirit, and they shall be made, and You will renew all the face of the earth." He taught not only that no creature can exist without the Holy Spirit, but also that the Spirit is the Creator of the whole creation.

33. So when the Spirit was moving upon the water, the creation was without grace; but after this world being created underwent the operation of the Spirit, it gained all the beauty of that grace, wherewith the world is illuminated. And that the grace of the universe cannot abide without the Holy Spirit the prophet declared when he said: You will take away Your Spirit, and they will fail and be turned again into their dust. Send forth Your Spirit, and they shall be made, and You will renew all the face of the earth. Not only, then, did he teach that no creature can stand without the Holy Spirit, but also that the Spirit is the Creator of the whole creation.

And who can deny that the creation of the earth is the work of the Holy Spirit, whose work it is that the earth is renewed? For if they wish to deny that it was created by the Spirit, since they cannot deny that it must be renewed by the Spirit, then those who wish to separate the Persons must maintain that the operation of the Holy Spirit is superior to that of the Father and the Son, which is far from the truth. For there is no doubt that the restored earth is better than it was when created. Or if at first, without the operation of the Holy Spirit, the Father and the Son made the earth, but the operation of the Holy Spirit was joined on afterward, it will seem that what was made required His aid, which was then added. But let no one think this—namely, that the divine work should be believed to have a change in the Creator, an error introduced by Mani.

34. And who can deny that the creation of the earth is the work of the Holy Spirit, Whose work it is that it is renewed? For if they desire to deny that it was created by the Spirit, since they cannot deny that it must be renewed by the Spirit, they who desire to sever the Persons must maintain that the operation of the Holy Spirit is superior to that of the Father and the Son, which is far from the truth; for there is no doubt that the restored earth is better than it was created. Or if at first, without the operation of the Holy Spirit, the Father and the Son made the earth, but the operation of the Holy Spirit was joined on afterwards, it will seem that that which was made required His aid, which was then added. But far be it from any one to think this, namely, that the divine work should be believed to have a change in the Creator, an error brought in by Manicheus.

35. But do we suppose that the substance of the earth exists without the operation of the Holy Spirit, when even the expanse of the sky cannot endure without His work? For it is written: By the Word of the Lord were the heavens established, and all the strength of them by the Spirit of His Mouth. Notice what is being said: that all the strength of the heavens is to be attributed to the Spirit. For how could He who was moving before the earth was made be resting when it was being made?

35. But do we suppose that the substance of the earth exists without the operation of the Holy Spirit, without Whose work not even the expanse of the sky endures? For it is written: By the Word of the Lord were the heavens established, and all the strength of them by the Spirit of His Mouth. Observe what he says, that all the strength of the heavens is to be referred to the Spirit. For how should He Who was moving Genesis 1:1 before the earth was made, be resting when it was being made?

Pagan writers, following our own writers as if through shadows, were unable to fully grasp the truth of the Spirit. Nevertheless, in their poetry they indicated that the Spirit within sustains heaven and earth and the shining spheres of the moon and stars. So if they do not deny that the strength of created things exists through the Spirit, should we who read Scripture deny it? But you think they are referring to a spirit made from air. If they declared a spirit of air to be the Author of all things, should we doubt that the Spirit of God is the Creator of all things?

36. Gentile writers, following ours as it were through shadows, because they could not imbibe the truth of the Spirit, have pointed out in their verses that the Spirit within nourishes heaven and earth, and the glittering orbs of moon and stars. So they deny not that the strength of creatures exists through the Spirit, are we who read this to deny it? But you think that they refer to a Spirit produced of the air. If they declared a Spirit of the air to be the Author of all things, do we doubt that the Spirit of God is the Creator of all things?

But why am I spending time on irrelevant matters? Let them accept a clear proof that there can be nothing which the Holy Spirit can be said not to have made, and that it cannot be doubted that everything exists through His working, whether Angels, Archangels, Thrones, or Dominions. Even the Lord Himself, whom the Angels serve, was conceived by the Holy Spirit coming upon the Virgin. According to Matthew, the Angel said to Joseph: "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for what will be born from her is from the Holy Spirit." And according to Luke, he said to Mary: "The Holy Spirit will come upon you."

37. But why do I delay with matters not to the purpose? Let them accept a plain proof that there can be nothing which the Holy Spirit can be said not to have made; and that it cannot be doubted that all subsists through His operation, whether Angels, Archangels, Thrones, or Dominions; since the Lord Himself, Whom the Angels serve, was begotten by the Holy Spirit coming upon the Virgin, as, according to Matthew, the Angel said to Joseph: Joseph, you son of David, fear not to take Mary your wife, for that which shall be born of her is of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 1:20 And according to Luke, he said to Mary: The Holy Spirit shall come upon you. Luke 1:35

The birth from the Virgin was, then, the work of the Spirit. The fruit of the womb is the work of the Spirit, according to what is written: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb." The flower from the root is the work of the Spirit—that flower, I say, about which it was well prophesied: "A rod shall go forth from the root of Jesse, and a flower shall rise from his root." The root of Jesse the patriarch is the family of the Jews, Mary is the rod, Christ is the flower of Mary. He was about to spread the good fragrance of faith throughout the whole world and came forth from a virgin womb, as He Himself said: "I am the flower of the plain, a lily of the valley."

38. The birth from the Virgin was, then, the work of the Spirit. The fruit of the womb is the work of the Spirit, according to that which is written: Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the Fruit of your womb. Luke 1:42 The flower from the root is the work of the Spirit, that flower, I say, of which it was well prophesied: A rod shall go forth from the root of Jesse, and a flower shall rise from his root. Isaiah 11:1 The root of Jesse the patriarch is the family of the Jews, Mary is the rod, Christ the flower of Mary, Who, about to spread the good odour of faith throughout the whole world, budded forth from a virgin womb, as He Himself said: I am the flower of the plain, a lily of the valley. Song of Songs 2:1

The flower keeps its fragrance when cut and actually increases it when crushed, and it doesn't lose it when torn off. In the same way, the Lord Jesus on the cross did not fail when bruised or grow weak when torn. When He was pierced by the spear, He became more beautiful through the color of His poured-out blood. He grew radiant again, as it were, being unable in Himself to die, and He breathed upon the dead the gift of eternal life. It was on this flower of the royal rod that the Holy Spirit rested.

39. The flower, when cut, keeps its odour, and when bruised increases it, nor if torn off does it lose it; so, too, the Lord Jesus, on the gibbet of the cross, neither failed when bruised, nor fainted when torn; and when He was cut by that piercing of the spear, being made more beautiful by the color of the outpoured Blood, He, as it were, grew comely again, not able in Himself to die, and breathing forth upon the dead the gift of eternal life. On this flower, then, of the royal rod the Holy Spirit rested.

A good rod, as some believe, is the flesh of the Lord, which, rising from its earthly root to heaven, carried the sweet-smelling fruits of religion around the whole world—the mysteries of the divine generation—pouring grace upon the altars of heaven.

40. A good rod, as some think, is the Flesh of the Lord, which, raising itself from its earthly root to heaven, bore around the whole world the sweet-smelling fruits of religion, the mysteries of the divine generation, pouring grace on the altars of heaven.

So we cannot doubt that the Spirit is Creator, since we know He is the Author of the Lord's Incarnation. For who can doubt when you find at the beginning of the Gospel that the generation of Jesus Christ happened this way: When Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.

41. So, then, we cannot doubt that the Spirit is Creator, Whom we know as the Author of the Lord's Incarnation. For who can doubt when you find in the commencement of the Gospel that the generation of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together she was found with child of [ ex] the Holy Spirit. Matthew 1:18

42. For although most manuscripts read "de Spiritu," the Greek text from which the Latins translated has ἐκ πνεύματος ἁγίου, that is, "ex Spiritu Sancto." For that which is of [ex] someone is either of his substance or of his power. Of his substance, as the Son, Who says: I came forth of the Mouth of the Most High; as the Spirit, Who proceeds from the Father; of Whom the Son says: He shall glorify Me, for He shall receive of Mine. But of the power, as in the passage: One God the Father, of Whom are all things.

42. For although most authorities read de Spiritu, yet the Greek from which the Latins translated have ἐ χ πνεύματος ἁγίου, that is, ex Spiritu Sancto. For that which is of [ ex] any one is either of his substance or of his power. Of his substance, as the Son, Who says: I came forth of the Mouth of the Most High; Sirach 24:3 as the Spirit, Who proceeds from the Father; John 15:20 of Whom the Son says: He shall glorify Me, for He shall receive of Mine. John 16:14 But of the power, as in the passage: One God the Father, of Whom are all things.

How, then, was Mary with child of the Holy Spirit? If it was from his substance, was the Spirit then changed into flesh and bones? Certainly not. But if the Virgin conceived from his operation and power, who can deny that the Holy Spirit is Creator?

43. How, then, was Mary with child of the Holy Spirit? If as of her substance, was the Spirit, then, changed into flesh and bones? Certainly not. But if the Virgin conceived as of His operation and power, who can deny that the Holy Spirit is Creator?

How is it, too, that Job plainly declared the Spirit as his Creator, saying: "The Spirit of God has made me"? In one brief verse he showed Him to be both Divine and Creator. If, then, the Spirit is Creator, He is certainly not a creature, for the Apostle has distinguished between the Creator and the creature, saying: "They served the creature rather than the Creator."

44. How is it, too, that Job plainly set forth the Spirit as his Creator, saying: The Spirit of God has made me? Job 33:4 In one short verse he showed Him to be both Divine and Creator. If, then, the Spirit is Creator, He is certainly not a creature, for the Apostle has separated the Creator and the creature, saying: They served the creature rather than the Creator. Romans 1:25

The Apostle teaches that the Creator is to be served by condemning those who serve the creature, since we owe our service to the Creator. And because he knew the Spirit to be the Creator, he teaches that we ought to serve Him, saying: Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of the concision, for we are the circumcision who serve the Spirit of God.

45. He teaches that the Creator is to be served by condemning those who serve the creature, whereas we owe our service to the Creator. And since he knew the Spirit to be the Creator, he teaches that we ought to serve Him, saying: Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of the concision, for we are the circumcision who serve the Spirit of God. Philippians 3:2-3

If anyone argues based on differences in Latin manuscripts, some of which heretics have corrupted, they should examine the Greek manuscripts and note that it is written there: οἱ πνεύματι Θεοῦ λατρεύοντες, which means in translation, who serve the Spirit of God.

46. But if any one disputes because of the variations of the Latin codices, some of which heretics have falsified, let him look at the Greek codices, and observe that it is there written: οἱ πνεύματι Θεοῦ λατρεύοντες, which is, being translated, who serve the Spirit of God.

So then, when the same Apostle says that we ought to serve the Spirit, while also asserting that we must not serve the creature but the Creator, he undoubtedly makes it plain that the Holy Spirit is Creator and is to be honored with the worship due to the eternal Godhead. For it is written: You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve.

47. So, then, when the same Apostle says that we ought to serve the Spirit, who asserts that we must not serve the creature, but the Creator; without doubt he plainly shows that the Holy Spirit is Creator, and is to be venerated with the honour due to the eternal Godhead; for it is written: You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve. Matthew 4:10

Some people object that according to the words of Amos, the Spirit is created. The response is that the word there refers to the wind, which is frequently created, but this cannot be said of the Holy Spirit, since He is eternal and cannot be dissolved in death or through a heretical absorption into the Father. However, if they stubbornly insist that this passage was written about the Holy Spirit, St. Ambrose explains that we must turn to a spiritual interpretation. Christ by His coming established the thunder, that is, the force of the divine utterances, and by Spirit is meant the human soul as well as the flesh assumed by Christ. Since this was created by each Person of the Trinity, it follows that the Spirit, Who has already been affirmed to be the Creator of all things, was the Author of the Incarnation of the Lord.

To those who object that according to the words of Amos the Spirit is created, the answer is made that the word is there understood of the wind, which is often created, which cannot be said of the Holy Spirit, since He is eternal, and cannot be dissolved in death, or by an heretical absorption into the Father. But if they pertinaciously contend that this passage was written of the Holy Spirit, St. Ambrose points out that recourse must be had to a spiritual Interpretation, for Christ by His coming established the thunder, that is, the force of the divine utterances, and by Spirit is signified the human soul as also the flesh assumed by Christ. And since this was created by each Person of the Trinity, it is thence argued that the Spirit, Who has before been affirmed to be the Creator of all things, was the Author of the Incarnation of the Lord.

Nor does it escape my notice that heretics have been accustomed to object that the Holy Spirit appears to be a creature, because many of them use as an argument to establish their impiety that passage from Amos where he spoke of the blowing of the wind, as the prophet's words make clear. For you read this: "Behold, I am He who establishes the thunders, and creates the wind [spirit], and declares to man His Christ, who makes light and mist, and ascends upon high places, the Lord God Almighty is His Name." (Amos 4:13)

48. Nor does it escape my notice that heretics have been wont to object that the Holy Spirit appears to be a creature, because many of them use as an argument for establishing their impiety that passage of Amos, where he spoke of the blowing of the wind, as the words of the prophet made clear. For you read thus: Behold, I am He that establish the thunders, and create the wind [spirit], and declare unto man his Christ, that make light and mist, and ascend upon high places, the Lord God Almighty is His Name. Amos 4:13

If they use the argument that he said spirit was created, Esdras taught us that spirit is created when he said in the fourth book: "And upon the second day You made the spirit of the firmament." However, to keep to our point, isn't it obvious that in what Amos said, the order of the passage shows that the prophet was speaking of the creation of this world?

49. If they make an argument of this, that he said spirit was created, Esdras taught us that spirit is created, saying in the fourth book: And upon the second day You made the spirit of the firmament, yet, that we may keep to our point, is it not evident that in what Amos said the order of the passage shows that the prophet was speaking of the creation of this world?

Amos begins his account as follows: I am the Lord that establish the thunders and create the wind [spirit]. The order of the words itself teaches us. If he had wanted to speak about the Holy Spirit, he certainly would not have put the thunders first. Thunder is not older than the Holy Spirit. Even though they are ungodly, they still do not dare to say that. And when we look at what follows concerning light and mist, isn't it clear that what is being said refers to the creation of this world? We know from everyday experience that when storms occur on earth, thunder comes first, wind blasts follow, the sky darkens with mist, and light shines again out of the darkness. Wind blasts are also called spirits, as it is written: Fire and brimstone and the spirit of storm.

50. He begins as follows: I am the Lord that establish the thunders and create the wind [spirit]. The order of the words itself teaches us; for if he had wished to speak of the Holy Spirit, he would certainly not have put the thunders in the first place. For thunder is not more ancient than the Holy Spirit; though they be ungodly, they still dare not say that. And then when we see what follows concerning light and mist, is it not plain that what is said is to be understood of the creation of this world? For we know by every-day experience, that when we have storms on this earth, thunders come first, blasts of wind follow on, the sky grows black with mists, and light shines again out of the darkness. For the blasts of wind are also called spirits, as it is written: Fire and brimstone and the spirit of storm.

And so you may know that he called this a spirit, he says: establishing thunders and creating the wind [spirit]. For these are often created, when they occur. But the Holy Spirit is eternal, and if anyone dares to call Him a creature, still he cannot say that He is daily created like the blast of wind. Then again, Wisdom herself, speaking according to the mystery of the assumed Body, says: The Lord created Me. Although prophesying of things to come, yet because the coming of the Lord was predestined, it is not said creates but created Me; so that people might believe that the Body of Jesus was begotten of the Virgin Mary, not repeatedly, but once only.

51. And that you might know that he called this spirit, he says: establishing thunders and creating the wind [spirit]. For these are often created, when they take place. But the Holy Spirit is eternal, and if any one dares to call Him a creature, still he cannot say that He is daily created like the blast of the wind. Then, again, Wisdom herself, speaking after the mystery of the assumed Body, says: The Lord created Me. Proverbs 8:22 Although prophesying of things to come, yet, because the coming of the Lord was predestined, it is not said creates but created Me; that men might believe that the Body of Jesus was begotten of the Virgin Mary, not often, but once only.

And so, regarding what the prophet declared about God's daily work in the thunder and creation of the wind, it would be impious to understand anything like this about the Holy Spirit, Whom even the ungodly cannot deny has existed from before the world. Therefore we testify with devout conviction that He always exists and abides forever. For He who was moving upon the waters before the world cannot begin to be visible after the world's creation; otherwise it would be permissible to suppose that there are many Holy Spirits who come into being through a sort of daily production. Far be it from anyone to pollute themselves with such impiety as to say that the Holy Spirit is frequently or ever created. For I do not understand why He should be frequently created, unless perhaps they believe that He dies frequently and is therefore frequently created. But how can the Spirit of life die? If, then, He cannot die, there is no reason why He should be often created.

52. And so, as to that which the prophet declared as it were of the daily working of God in the thunder and the creation of the wind, it would be impious to understand any such thing of the Holy Spirit, Whom the ungodly themselves cannot deny to exist from before the world. Whence with pious asseveration we testify that He always exists, and abides ever. For neither can He Who before the world was moving upon the waters begin to be visible after the world's creation; or else it would be allowable to suppose that there are many Holy Spirits, Who come into being by as it were a daily production. Far be it from any one to pollute himself with such impiety as to say that the Holy Spirit is frequently or ever created. For I do not understand why He should be frequently created; unless perchance they believe that He dies frequently and so is frequently created. But how can the Spirit of life die? If, then, He cannot die, there is no reason why He should be often created.

Those who think otherwise fall into this sacrilege: they do not distinguish the Holy Spirit. They think that the Word which was sent forth returns to the Father, and the Spirit which was sent forth is reabsorbed into God, so that there is a reabsorption and a kind of alternation of one changing himself into various forms. But the distinction between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, always abiding and unchangeable, preserves the unity of its power.

53. But they who think otherwise fall into this sacrilege, that they do not distinguish the Holy Spirit; who think that the Word Which was sent forth returns to the Father, and the Spirit Which was sent forth is reabsorbed into God, so that there should be a reabsorption and a kind of alternation of one changing himself into various forms; whereas the distinction between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit always abiding and unchangeable, preserves the Unity of its power.

If someone thinks that the prophet's words should be explained with reference to the Holy Spirit because it says "declaring to men His Christ" (Amos 4:13), it would be easier to explain them in terms of the Lord's Incarnation. If it troubles you that he said "Spirit," and you therefore think this cannot easily be explained with reference to the mystery of the taking of human nature, continue reading in the Scriptures and you will find that everything fits most excellently with Christ. It is thoroughly fitting to think of Him as having established the thunders by His coming—that is, the force and sound of the heavenly Scriptures—by whose thunder, so to speak, our minds are struck with astonishment, so that we learn to be afraid and pay respect to the heavenly oracles.

54. But if any one thinks that the word of the prophet is to be explained with reference to the Holy Spirit, because it is said, declaring unto men His Christ, Amos 4:13 he will explain it more easily of the Lord's Incarnation. For if it troubles you that he said Spirit, and therefore you think that this cannot well be explained of the mystery of the taking of human nature, read on in the Scriptures and you will find that all agrees most excellently with Christ, of Whom it is thoroughly fitting to think that He established the thunders by His coming, that is, the force and sound of the heavenly Scriptures, by the thunder, as it were, of which our minds are struck with astonishment, so that we learn to be afraid, and pay respect to the heavenly oracles.

Finally, in the Gospel the brothers of the Lord were called Sons of Thunder, and when the voice of the Father was heard saying, "I have both glorified it and will glorify it again," the Jews said that it thundered upon him. For although they could not receive the grace of the truth, they nonetheless confessed unwittingly, and in their ignorance were speaking mysteries, so that a great testimony resulted from the Father to the Son. And in the Book of Job too, Scripture says: "And who knows when He will make the power of His thunder?" Certainly if these words referred to the thunders of the heavens, he would have said that their force was already made, not that it was about to be made.

55. Lastly, in the Gospel the brothers of the Lord were called Sons of Thunder; and when the voice was uttered of the Father, saying, I have both glorified it and will glorify it again, John 12:28 the Jews said that it thundered on Him. For although they could not receive the grace of the truth, yet they confessed unwillingly, and in their ignorance were speaking mysteries, so that there resulted a great testimony of the Father to the Son. And in the Book of Job, too, the Scripture says: And who knows when He will make the power of His thunder? Certainly if these words pertained to the thunders of the heavens, he would have said that their force was already made, not about to be made.

Therefore he connected the thunders to the words of the Lord, whose sound went out into all the earth, and we understand the word spirit in this passage to refer to the soul, which He took endowed with reason and complete. For Scripture often designates the soul of man by the word spirit, as you read: "Who creates the spirit of man within him." Similarly, the Lord signified His Soul by the word Spirit when He said: "Into Your hands I commend My Spirit."

56. Therefore he referred the thunders to the words of the Lord, the sound of which went out into all the earth, and we understand the word spirit in this place of the soul, which He took endowed with reason and perfect; for Scripture often designates the soul of man by the word spirit, as you read: Who creates the spirit of man within him. Zechariah 12:1 So, too, the Lord signified His Soul by the word Spirit, when He said: Into Your hands I commend My Spirit. Luke 23:46

57. And so you could know that he was speaking about Jesus' coming down, he added that He declared His Christ to men, for in His baptism He declared Him, saying: "You are My beloved Son, in Whom I am well pleased." He declared Him on the mountain, saying: "This is My beloved Son, hear Him." He declared Him in His Passion, when the sun hid itself and the sea and earth trembled. He declared Him through the Centurion, who said: "Truly this was the Son of God."

57. And that you might know that he spoke of the coming down of Jesus, he added that He declared His Christ to men, for in His baptism He declared Him, saying: You are My beloved Son, in Whom I am well pleased. Matthew 3:17 He declared Him on the mount, saying: This is My beloved Son, hear ye Him. Mark 9:7 He declared Him in His Passion, when the sun hid itself, and sea and earth trembled. He declared Him in the Centurion, who said: Truly this was the Son of God. Mark 15:39

We should understand this entire passage as referring either simply to the state in which we live and breathe here, or to the mystery of the Lord's Body. For if Scripture had stated here that the Holy Spirit was created, it would undoubtedly have declared the same elsewhere, just as we often read of the Son of God, who according to the flesh was both made and created.

58. We ought, then, to take this whole passage either to be simply to be understood of that state in which we here live and breathe, or of the mystery of the Lord's Body; for if here it had been stated that the Holy Spirit was created, undoubtedly Scripture would elsewhere have declared the same, as we often read of the Son of God, Who according to the flesh was both made and created.

We should consider His Majesty in the very fact of His taking flesh for us, so that we may see His divine power in the very taking of the Body. For just as we read that the Father created the mystery of the Lord's Incarnation, the Spirit also created it; and likewise we read that Christ Himself created His own Body. The Father created it, as it is written: "The Lord created Me" (Proverbs 8:12), and in another place, "God sent His Son, made of a woman, made under the law" (Galatians 4:4). And the Spirit created the whole mystery, according to what we read, for Mary was found with child of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:18).

59. But it is fitting that we should consider His Majesty in the very fact of His taking flesh for us, that we may see His divine power in the very taking of the Body. For as we read that the Father created the mystery of the Lord's Incarnation, the Spirit too created it; and so too we read that Christ Himself created His own Body. For the Father created it, as it is written: The Lord created Me, Proverbs 8:12 and in another place, God sent His Son, made of a woman, made under the law. Galatians 4:4 And the Spirit created the whole mystery, according to that which we read, for Mary was found with child of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 1:18

You find, then, that the Father created and the Spirit created. Learn also that the Son of God created, when Solomon says: "Wisdom has made herself a house." How, then, can the Holy Spirit, who created the mystery of the Lord's Incarnation—which is above all created things—be himself a creature?

60. You find, then, that the Father created and the Spirit created; learn, too, that the Son of God also created, when Solomon says: Wisdom has made herself a house. Proverbs 9:1 How, then, can the Holy Spirit Who created the mystery of the Lord's Incarnation, which is above all created things, be Himself a creature?

61. We have shown in general that the Holy Spirit is our Creator according to the flesh in the outer man. Let us now show that He is also our Creator according to the mystery of grace. Just as the Father creates, so does the Son create, and so does the Holy Spirit create, as we read in Paul's words: For it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus in good works.

61. As we have shown above generally that the Holy Spirit is our Creator according to the flesh in the outer man, let us now show that He is our Creator also according to the mystery of grace. And as the Father creates, so too does the Son create, and so too the Holy Spirit creates, as we read in the words of Paul: For it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any one should boast. For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus in good works.

The Holy Spirit is just as much the author of spiritual creation or regeneration as the Father and the Son. The excellence of that creation, and what it consists of. How we should understand holy Scripture when it attributes a body or bodily parts to God.

The Holy Spirit is no less the author of spiritual creation or regeneration than the Father and the Son. The excellence of that creation, and wherein it consists. How we are to understand holy Scripture, when it attributes a body or members to God.

The Father creates in good works, and the Son does too, for it is written: "But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them who believe in His Name; who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God."

62. So, then, the Father creates in good works, and the Son also, for it is written: But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them who believe in His Name; who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. John 1:12-13

63. In the same way, the Lord Himself also testifies that we are born again of the Spirit according to grace, saying: That which is born of the flesh is flesh, because it is born of flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit, because God is Spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, You must be born again. The Spirit breathes where He wills, and you hear His voice, but do not know where He comes from or where He goes, so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.

63. In like manner the Lord Himself also testifies that we are born again of the Spirit according to grace, saying: That which is born of the flesh is flesh, because it is born of flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit, because God is Spirit. Marvel not that I said to you, You must be born again. The Spirit breathes where He wills, and you hear His voice, but know not whence He comes or whither He goes, so is every one who is born of the Spirit.

It is therefore clear that the Holy Spirit is also the Author of the grace of the Spirit, since we are created according to God so that we may become the sons of God. So when He has brought us into His kingdom through the adoption of holy regeneration, do we deny Him what is His? He has made us heirs of the new birth from above—do we claim the inheritance while rejecting its Author? But the benefit cannot remain when its Author is excluded; the Author is not without the gift, nor the gift without the Author. If you claim the grace, believe in the power; if you reject the power, do not ask for the grace. The one who has denied the Spirit has at the same time denied the gift. For if the Author is of no account, how can His gifts be precious? Why do we begrudge the gifts we ourselves receive, diminish our hopes, repudiate our dignity, and deny our Comforter?

64. It is then clear that the Holy Spirit is also the Author of the grace of the Spirit, since we are created according to God, that we may be made the sons of God. So when He has taken us into His kingdom by the adoption of holy regeneration, do we deny Him that which is His? He has made us heirs of the new birth from above, do we claim the heritage and reject its Author? But the benefit cannot remain when its Author is shut out; the Author is not without the gift, nor the gift without the Author. If you claim the grace, believe the power; if you reject the power, do not ask for the grace. He who has denied the Spirit has at the same time denied the gift. For if the Author be of no account how can His gifts be precious? Why do we grudge the gifts we ourselves receive, diminish our hopes, repudiate our dignity, and deny our Comforter?

We cannot deny Him. Far be it from us to deny something so great, since the Apostle says: "But you, brethren, like Isaac, are the children of promise, but as then, he that is born after the flesh persecutes him that is after the Spirit." Again, certainly "is born after the Spirit" is to be understood from what has gone before. Therefore, whoever is born after the Spirit is born after God. Now we are born again when we are renewed in our inner affections and lay aside the oldness of the outer man. And so the Apostle says again: "But be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new man which is created according to God in truth and righteousness and holiness." Let them hear how Scripture has indicated the unity of the divine operation. The one who is renewed in the spirit of his mind has put on the new man, which is created according to God.

65. But we cannot deny Him. Far be it from us to deny that which is so great, since the Apostle says: But you brethren, like Isaac, are the children of promise, but as then, he that is born after the flesh persecutes him that is after the Spirit. Galatians 4:28-29 Again certainly is understood from what has gone before, is born after the Spirit. He then who is born after the Spirit is born after God. Now we are born again when we are renewed in our inward affections and lay aside the oldness of the outer man. And so the Apostle says again: But be ye renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new man which is created according to God in truth and righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:23-24 Let them hear how the Scripture has signified the unity of the divine operation. He who is renewed in the spirit of his mind has put on the new man, which is created according to God.

That more excellent regeneration is then the work of the Holy Spirit, and the Spirit is the Author of that new man which is created after the image of God. No one will doubt that this is better than our outer man. The Apostle has pointed out that one is heavenly and the other is earthly when he says: As is the heavenly, such also are the heavenly.

66. That more excellent regeneration is then the work of the Holy Spirit; and the Spirit is the Author of that new man which is created after the image of God, which no one will doubt to be better than this outer man of ours. Since the Apostle has pointed out that the one is heavenly, the other earthly, when he says: As is the heavenly, such also are the heavenly. 1 Corinthians 15:48

Since the grace of the Spirit makes heavenly what it can create earthly, we should understand this through reason even if we lack examples. In a certain place, holy Job says: As the Lord lives, Who thus judges me, and the Almighty, Who has brought my soul to bitterness (for the Spirit of God which is in my nostrils). He certainly did not mean by His Spirit the vital breath and bodily breathing passages, but rather signified the nostrils of the inner man within him, through which he took in the fragrance of eternal life and drew in the grace of the heavenly ointment as if with a kind of dual sense.

67. Since, then, the grace of the Spirit makes that to be heavenly which it can create earthy, we ought to observe by reason though we be without instances. For in a certain place holy Job says: As the Lord lives, Who thus judges me, and the Almighty, Who has brought my soul to bitterness (for the Spirit of God which is in my nostrils). Job 27:2-3 He certainly did not here signify by His Spirit the vital breath and bodily breathing passages, but signifies the nostrils of the inner man within him, wherewith he gathered in the fragrance of eternal life, and drew in the grace of the heavenly ointment as with a kind of twofold sense.

For there are spiritual nostrils, as we read, which the spouse of the Word has, to whom it is said: And the smell of your nostrils; and in another place: The Lord smelled a smell of sweetness. There are, then, inward members of a person, so to speak, whose hands are understood in terms of action, whose ears in terms of hearing, whose feet in terms of a kind of progress in good works. And so from what is done we gather, as it were, figures of the members, for it is not appropriate for us to imagine anything in the inner person in a fleshly manner.

68. For there are spiritual nostrils, as we read, which the spouse of the Word has, to whom it is said: And the smell of your nostrils; Song of Songs 7:8 and in another place: The Lord smelled a smell of sweetness. Genesis 8:21 There are, then, as it were, inward members of a man, whose hands are considered to be in action, his ears in hearing, his feet in a kind of progress in a good work. And so from what is done we gather as it were figures of the members, for it is not suitable for us to imagine anything in the inner man after a fleshly manner.

Some people imagine that God has a physical body when they read about His hand or finger. They fail to notice that these things are written not because of any bodily form—since in the Godhead there are neither bodily members nor separate parts—but are expressions of the oneness of the Godhead. We are meant to believe that it is impossible for either the Son or the Holy Spirit to be separated from God the Father, since the fullness of the Godhead dwells, as it were, bodily in the substance of the Trinity. For this reason, the Son is also called the Right Hand of the Father, as we read: "The Right Hand of the Lord has done mighty things, the Right Hand of the Lord has exalted me."

69. And there are some who suppose that God is fashioned after a bodily manner, when they read of His hand or finger, and they do not observe that these things are written not because of any fashion of a body, since in the Godhead are neither members nor parts, but are expressions of the oneness of the Godhead, that we may believe that it is impossible for either the Son or the Holy Spirit to be separated from God the Father; since the fullness of the Godhead dwells as it were bodily in the substance of the Trinity. For this reason, then, is the Son also called the Right Hand of the Father, as we read: The Right Hand of the Lord has done mighty things, the Right Hand of the Lord has exalted me.

St. Ambrose examines and refutes the heretical argument that because God is said to be glorified in the Spirit rather than with the Spirit, the Holy Spirit is therefore inferior to the Father. He shows that the particle in can also be used of the Son and even of the Father, and that on the other hand with may be said of creatures without any violation of the prerogatives of the Godhead; and that in reality these prepositions simply indicate the connection of the Three Divine Persons.

St. Ambrose examines and refutes the heretical argument that because God is said to be glorified in the Spirit, and not with the Spirit, the Holy Spirit is therefore inferior to the Father. He shows that the particle in can be also used of the Son and even of the Father, and that on the other hand with may be said of creatures without any infringement on the prerogatives of the Godhead; and that in reality these prepositions simply imply the connection of the Three Divine Persons.

But what is surprising if foolish people argue about words, when they even argue about syllables? For some believe that a distinction should be made and that God should be praised in the Spirit, but not with the Spirit, and they think that the greatness of the Godhead is to be measured by a single syllable or some custom. They argue that if they say God should be glorified in the Spirit, they are pointing to some function of the Holy Spirit, but if they say that God receives glory or power with the Spirit, they seem to suggest some partnership and communion of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

70. But what wonder is it if foolish men question about words, when they do so even about syllables? For some think that a distinction should be made and that God should be praised in the Spirit, but not with the Spirit, and consider that the greatness of the Godhead is to be estimated from one syllable or some custom, arguing that if they consider that God should be glorified in the Spirit, they point to some office of the Holy Spirit, but that if they say that God receives glory or power with the Spirit, they seem to imply some association and communion of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

But who can separate what cannot be separated? Who can divide that association which Christ shows to be inseparable? "Go," He says, "baptize all nations in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." Has He changed either a word or a syllable here concerning the Father or the Son or the Holy Spirit? Certainly not. He says, "in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." The expression is the same for the Spirit as for the Father and for Himself. From this is inferred not some subordinate function of the Holy Spirit, but rather a sharing of honor or of work when we say "in the Spirit."

71. But who can separate what is incapable of separation? Who can divide that association which Christ shows to be inseparable? Go, says He, baptize all nations in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19 Has He changed either a word or a syllable here concerning the Father or the Son or the Holy Spirit? Certainly not. But He says, in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. The expression is the same for the Spirit as for the Father and for Himself. From which is inferred not any office of the Holy Spirit, but rather a sharing of honour or of working when we say in the Spirit.

Consider also that your opinion causes harm to the Father and the Son, because the Son did not say "with the Name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit," but "in the Name." Yet this single syllable expresses not merely an office but the power of the Trinity.

72. Consider, too, that this opinion of yours tends to the injury of the Father and the Son, for the latter did not say, with the Name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, but in the Name, and yet not any office but the power of the Trinity is expressed in this syllable,

Finally, to show you that it is not a syllable that undermines faith, but faith that gives value to a syllable, Paul also speaks in Christ. Christ is not made less because Paul spoke in Christ, as you find: We speak before God in Christ. Just as the Apostle says that we speak in Christ, so too is what we speak in the Spirit, as the Apostle himself said: No man says Lord Jesus, except in the Holy Spirit. Therefore, in this passage what is signified is not any subordination of the Holy Spirit, but a unity of grace.

73. Lastly, that you may know that it is not a syllable which prejudices faith, but faith which commends a syllable, Paul also speaks in Christ. Christ is not less, because Paul spoke in Christ, as you find: We speak before God in Christ. 2 Corinthians 2:17 As, then, the Apostle says that we speak in Christ, so, too, is that which we speak in the Spirit; as the Apostle himself said: No man says Lord Jesus, except in the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:3 So, then, in this place not any subjection of the Holy Spirit, but a connection of grace is signified.

And to show you that the distinction does not depend on a particular syllable, he also says in another place: And such were some of you, but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians 6:11 I can bring forward many examples of this. For it is written: You are all one in Christ Jesus, Galatians 3:28 and elsewhere: To those sanctified in Christ Jesus, 1 Corinthians 1:2 and again: That we might become the righteousness of God in Him, 2 Corinthians 5:21 and in another place: Should fall from the purity which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Corinthians 11:3

74. And that you may know that distinction does not depend upon a syllable, he says also in another place: And these indeed were you, but you are washed, but you are sanctified, but you are justified in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians 6:11 How many instances of this I can bring forward. For it is written: You are all one in Christ Jesus, Galatians 3:28 and elsewhere: To those sanctified in Christ Jesus, 1 Corinthians 1:2 and again: That we might be the righteousness of God in Him, 2 Corinthians 5:21 and in another place: Should fall from the chastity which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Corinthians 11:3

But what am I doing? While I am pointing out that similar things are written about the Son as about the Spirit, I am actually leading to this conclusion: not that because something is written about the Son, it therefore seems to be reverently written about the Holy Spirit, but rather that because the same things are written about the Spirit, people claim that the Son's honor is diminished because of the Spirit. For they ask, "Is this written about God the Father?"

75. But what am I doing? For while I say that like things are written of the Son as of the Spirit, I am rather leading on to this, not that because it is written of the Son, therefore it would appear to be reverently written of the Holy Spirit, but that because the same is written of the Spirit, therefore men allege that the Son's honour is lessened because of the Spirit. For say they, Is it written of God the Father?

But let them learn that it is also said of God the Father: In the Lord I will praise the word; and elsewhere: In God we will do mighty deeds; and My remembrance shall be ever in You; and In Your Name will we rejoice; and again in another place: That his deeds may be manifested, that they are wrought in God; and Paul: In God Who created all things; and again: Paul and Silvanus and Timotheus to the Church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ; and in the Gospel: I in the Father and the Father in Me, and the Father that dwells in Me. It is also written: He that glories let him glory in the Lord; and in another place: Our life is hid with Christ in God. Did he here give more to the Son than to the Father by saying that we are with Christ in God? Or does our condition have more value than the grace of the Spirit, so that we can be with Christ but the Holy Spirit cannot? And when Christ wants to be with us, as He Himself said: Father, I will that they whom You have given Me be with Me where I am, would He refuse to be with the Spirit? For it is written: You coming together and my spirit with the power of the Lord Jesus. Do we then come together in the power of the Lord, and dare to say that the Lord Jesus would not be willing to come together with the Spirit, when He does not refuse to come together with us?

76. But let them learn that it is also said of God the Father: In the Lord I will praise the word; and elsewhere: In God we will do mighty deeds; and My remembrance shall be ever in You; and In Your Name will we rejoice; and again in another place: That his deeds may be manifested, that they are wrought in God; John 3:21 and Paul: In God Who created all things; Ephesians 3:9 and again: Paul and Silvanus and Timotheus to the Church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ; 2 Thessalonians 1:2 and in the Gospel: I in the Father and the Father in Me, and the Father that dwells in Me. John 14:10 It is also written: He that glories let him glory in the Lord; 2 Corinthians 10:17 and in another place: Our life is hid with Christ in God. Colossians 3:3 Did he here ascribe more to the Son than to the Father in saying that we are with Christ in God? Or does our state avail more than the grace of the Spirit, so that we can be with Christ and the Holy Spirit cannot? And when Christ wills to be with us, as He Himself said: Father, I will that they whom You have given Me be with Me where I am, John 17:24 would He disdain to be with the Spirit? For it is written: You coming together and my spirit with the power of the Lord Jesus. 1 Corinthians 5:4 Do we then come together in the power of the Lord, and dare to say that the Lord Jesus would not be willing to come together with the Spirit Who does not disdain to come together with us?

The Apostle believes it makes no difference which particle is used. Each one is a conjunctive particle, and conjunction does not cause separation—if it caused division, it would not be called a conjunction.

77. So the Apostle thinks that it makes no difference which particle you use. For each is a conjunctive particle, and conjunction does not cause separation, for if it divided it would not be called a conjunction.

What, then, leads you to say that glory, life, greatness, or power belongs to God the Father or to His Christ in the Holy Spirit, while you refuse to say with the Holy Spirit? Is it because you fear appearing to join the Spirit with the Father and the Son? But listen to what is written about the Spirit: For the law of the Spirit is life in Christ Jesus. And in another place God the Father says: They shall worship You, and in You they shall make supplication. God the Father says that we ought to pray in Christ; and do you think it diminishes the Spirit in any way if the glory of Christ is said to be in Him?

78. What, then, moves you to say that to God the Father or to His Christ there is glory, life, greatness, or power, in the Holy Spirit, and to refuse to say with the Holy Spirit? Is it that you are afraid of seeming to join the Spirit with the Father and the Son? But hear what is written of the Spirit: For the law of the Spirit is life in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:2 And in another place God the Father says: They shall worship You, and in You they shall make supplication. God the Father says that we ought to pray in Christ; and do you think that it is any derogation to the Spirit if the glory of Christ is said to be in Him?

79. Listen to this: what you are afraid to acknowledge about the Spirit, the Apostle was not afraid to claim for himself. He says: "To depart and be with Christ is far better." Do you really deny that the Spirit, through whom the Apostle was made worthy to be with Christ, is with Christ?

79. Hear that what you are afraid to acknowledge of the Spirit, the Apostle did not fear to claim for himself; for he says: To be dissolved and to be with Christ is much better. Philippians 1:23 Do you deny that the Spirit, through Whom the Apostle was made worthy of being with Christ, is with Christ?

What, then, is the reason that you prefer saying that God or Christ is glorified in the Spirit rather than with the Spirit? Is it because if you say in the Spirit, the Spirit is declared to be less than Christ? Although your claim that the Lord is greater or less can be refuted, yet since we read, For Christ was made sin for us, that we might be the righteousness of God in Him, He is found greatest in Whom we are found lowest. So, too, elsewhere you read, For in Him all things consist, that is, in His power. And the things which consist in Him cannot be compared to Him, because they receive from His power the substance by which they consist.

80. What, then, is the reason that you prefer saying that God or Christ is glorified in the Spirit rather than with the Spirit? Is it because if you say in the Spirit, the Spirit is declared to be less than Christ? Although your making the Lord greater or less is a matter which can be refuted, yet since we read, For Christ was made sin for us, that we might be the righteousness of God in Him, 2 Corinthians 5:21 He is found chiefest in Whom we are found most low. So, too, elsewhere you read, For in Him all things consist, Colossians 1:17 that is, in His power. And the things which consist in Him cannot be compared to Him, because they receive from His power the substance whereby they consist.

Do you really think that God reigns in the Spirit in such a way that the power of the Spirit, as if it were some kind of source of substance, gives God the origin of His rule? But this is impious. Therefore our predecessors spoke of the unity of power of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit when they said that the glory of Christ was with the Spirit, so that they might declare their inseparable connection.

81. Do you then understand that God so reigns in the Spirit that the power of the Spirit, as a kind of source of substance, imparts to God the origin of His rule? But this is impious. And so our predecessors spoke of the unity of power of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, when they said that the glory of Christ was with the Spirit, that they might declare their inseparable connection.

The Holy Spirit is not separated from the Son, because the Spirit himself testifies together with our spirit that we are children of God, and if we are children, then also heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ. Who would be so foolish as to want to separate the eternal union of the Spirit and Christ, when the Spirit, through whom we are made co-heirs with Christ, unites even what has been separated?

82. For how is the Holy Spirit separated from the Son, since the Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are sons of God, and if sons, also heirs, heirs, indeed, of God and joint-heirs with Christ. Romans 8:16-17 Who, then, is so foolish as to wish to dissever the eternal conjunction of the Spirit and Christ, when the Spirit by Whom we are made joint-heirs with Christ conjoins even what is severed.

If we suffer with Him, he says, so that we may also be glorified together. If we will be glorified together with Christ through the Spirit, how can we refuse to admit that the Spirit Himself is glorified together with Christ? Do we separate the life of Christ from the life of the Holy Spirit when the Spirit says that we will live together with the Son of God? For the Apostle says: If we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with Him; and again: For if we suffer with Him we will also live with Him, and not only will we live with Him, but we will also be glorified with Him, and not only be glorified but will also reign with Him.

83. If so be, he says, we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together. Romans 8:16-17 If we then shall be glorified together with Christ through the Spirit, how do we refuse to admit that the Spirit Himself is glorified together with Christ? Do we dissociate the life of Christ and of the Holy Spirit when the Spirit says that we shall live together with the Son of God? For the Apostle says: If we be dead with Christ we believe that we shall also live with Him; and then again: For if we suffer with Him we shall also live with Him, and not only shall we live with Him, but shall be also glorified with Him, and not only be glorified but shall also reign with Him. 2 Timothy 2:11-12

No division, then, is implied in those particles, for each is a particle of conjunction. And finally, we often find in holy Scripture the one inserted and the other understood, as it is written: "I will enter into Your house in whole burnt-offerings," that is, with whole burnt-offerings; and in another place: "He brought them forth in silver and gold," that is, with silver and gold. And elsewhere the Psalmist says: "Will You not go forth with us in our hosts?" for what is really meant is with our hosts. So then, when this expression is used, no lessening of honor can be implied, and nothing ought to be deduced that is derogatory to the honor of the Godhead. It is necessary that with the heart a person should believe unto righteousness, and that out of the faith of the heart, confession should be made with the mouth unto salvation. But those who do not believe with the heart spread what is derogatory with their mouth.

84. No division, then, is implied in those particles, for each is a particle of conjunction. And lastly, we often find in holy Scripture the one inserted and the other understood, as it is written: I will enter into Your house in whole burnt-offerings, that is, with whole burnt-offerings; and in another place: He brought them forth in silver and gold, that is, with silver and gold. And elsewhere the Psalmist says: Will You not go forth with us in our hosts? for that which is really meant, with our hosts. So, then, in the use of the expression no lessening of honour can be implied, and nothing ought to be deduced derogatory to the honour of the Godhead, it is necessary that with the heart man should believe unto righteousness, and that out of the faith of the heart confession should be made in the mouth unto salvation. But they who believe not with the heart spread what is derogatory with their mouth.

A passage from St. Paul that heretics have misused to prove a distinction between the Divine Persons is explained, and it is proved that the whole passage can rightly be said of each Person, though it refers especially to the Son. It is then proved that each part of the passage applies to each Person, and just as saying "of Him are all things" applies to the Father, so may "all things are through Him" and "in Him" also be said of Him.

A passage of St. Paul abused by heretics, to prove a distinction between the Divine Persons, is explained, and it is proved that the whole passage can be rightly said of each Person, though it refers specially to the Son. It is then proved that each member of the passage is applicable to each Person, and as to say, of Him are all things is applicable to the Father, so may all things are through Him and in Him also be said of Him.

Another similar passage is the one they claim implies a difference, where it is written: "But to us there is one Father, of Whom are all things and we unto Him, and one Lord Jesus Christ, through Whom are all things, and we through Him" (1 Corinthians 8:6). For they claim that when it says "of Him," it signifies the source or matter, when it says "through Him," it signifies either the instrument of the work or some function, but when it says "in Him," it signifies either the place or the time in which all created things exist.

85. Another similar passage is that which they say implies difference, where it is written: But to us there is one Father, of Whom are all things and we unto Him, and one Lord Jesus Christ, through Whom are all things, and we through Him. 1 Corinthians 8:6 For they pretend that when it is said of Him, the matter is signified, when through Him, either the instrument of the work or some office, but when it is said in Him, either the place or the time in which all things that are made are seen.

Their goal, then, is to prove that there is some difference of substance, since they are eager to make a distinction between the instrument, so to speak, and the actual worker or author, and also between time or place and the instrument. But is the Son, then, alien in His physis from the Father, because an instrument is alien from the worker or author? Or is the Son alien from the Spirit, because either time or place is not of the same class as an instrument?

86. So, then, their desire is to prove that there is some difference of substance, being anxious to make a distinction between as it were the instrument, and the proper worker or author, and also between time or place and the instrument. But is the Son, then, alien as regards His Nature from the Father, because an instrument is alien from the worker or author? Or is the Son alien from the Spirit, because either time or place is not of the same class as an instrument?

Compare now our assertions. They claim that matter is of God as though it were of the nature of God, just as when you say that a chest is made of wood or a statue of stone. They say that in this manner matter has come forth from God, and that this same matter has been made by the Son as if by some sort of instrument, so that they declare the Son is not so much the Craftsman as the instrument of the work. And they say that all things have been made in the Spirit, as if in some place or time. They assign each part separately to each Person separately and deny that all are in common.

87. Compare now our assertions. They will have it that matter is of God as though of the nature of God, as when you say that a chest is made of wood or a statue of stone; that after this fashion matter has come forth from God, and that the same matter has been made by the Son as if by some sort of instrument; so that they declare that the Son is not so much the Artificer as the instrument of the work; and that all things have been made in the Spirit, as if in some place or time; they attribute each part severally to each Person severally and deny that all are in common.

We show that all things are from God the Father in such a way that God the Father has suffered no loss because all things are either through him or in him, and yet all things are not from him as if from matter. Moreover, all things are through the Lord the Son, so that he is not deprived of the attribute that all things are from the Son and in him. And all things are in the Spirit, so that we may teach that all things are through the Spirit, and all things from the Spirit.

88. But we show that all things are so of God the Father, that God the Father has suffered no loss because all things are either through Him or in Him, and yet all things are not of Him as if of matter; then, too, that all things are through the Lord the Son, so that He is not deprived of the attribute that all things are of the Son and in Him; and that all things are in the Spirit, so that we may teach that all things are through the Spirit, and all things from the Spirit.

89. These prepositions, like the ones we discussed earlier, imply one another. When the Apostle said "All things are of God" and "all things are through the Son," he did not mean to suggest that the substance of the Father and the Son could be separated. Rather, he wanted to teach that through a distinction without confusion, the Father is one and the Son is another. Therefore, these prepositions are not opposed to each other but are allied and in agreement, so much so that they often apply to even one Person, as it is written: "For of Him, and through Him, and in Him are all things" (Romans 11:36).

89. For these particles, like those of which we have spoken before, imply each other. For the Apostle did not so say, All things are of God, and all things are through the Son, as to signify that the substance of the Father and the Son could be severed, but that he might teach that by a distinction without confusion the Father is one, the Son another. Those particles, then, are not as it were in opposition to each other, but are as it were allied and agreed, so as often to suit even one Person, as it is written: For of Him, and through Him, and in Him are all things. Romans 11:36

But if you truly consider where the passage comes from, you will have no doubt that it is said of the Son. For the Apostle says, according to the prophecy of Isaiah, Who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been His counselor? And he adds: For of Him and in Him are all things. Isaiah had said this of the Maker of all things, as you read: Who has measured out the water with his hand, and the heaven with a span, and all the earth with his closed hand? Who has placed the mountains in scales and the hills in a balance? Who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been His counselor?

90. But if you really consider whence the passage is taken you will have no doubt that it is said of the Son. For the Apostle says, according to the prophecy of Isaiah, Who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been His counsellor? Isaiah 40:13 And he adds: For of Him and in Him are all things. Which Isaiah had said of the Artificer of all, as you read: Who has measured out the water with his hand, and the heaven with a span, and all the earth with his closed hand? Who has placed the mountains in scales and the hills in a balance? Who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been His counsellor? Isaiah 40:12

And the Apostle added: For of Him, and through Him, and in Him are all things. What does of Him mean? That the physis of everything comes from His will, and He is the Author of all things that have come into being. What does through Him mean? That the establishment and continuance of all things is His gift. What does in Him mean? That all things, through a wonderful kind of longing and unspeakable love, look to the Author of their life and the Giver of their graces and functions, according to what is written: The eyes of all look to You, and You open Your hand and fill every living creature with Your good pleasure.

91. And the Apostle added: For of Him, and through Him, and in Him are all things. What is of Him? That the nature of everything is of His will, and He is the Author of all things which have come into being. Through Him means what? That the establishment and continuance of all things is His gift. What is in Him? That all things by a wonderful kind of longing and unspeakable love look upon the Author of their life, and the Giver of their graces and functions, according to that which is written: The eyes of all look unto You, and You open Your hand and fill every living creature with Your good pleasure.

And you may rightly say the same of the Father: "of Him," because the operative Wisdom was of Him, and this Wisdom, by its own will and the Father's will, gave being to all things that did not exist. "Through Him," because all things were made through His Wisdom. "In Him," because He is the Fount of substantial Life, in whom we live and move and have our being.

92. And of the Father, too, you may rightly say of Him, for of Him was the operative Wisdom, Which of His own and the Father's will gave being to all things which were not. Through Him, because all things were made through His Wisdom. In Him, because He is the Fount of substantial Life, in Whom we live and move and have our being.

93. We also receive the gift of eternal life of the Spirit, since we are formed by Him, strengthened by Him, and established in Him.

93. Of the Spirit also, as being formed by Him, strengthened by Him, established in Him, we receive the gift of eternal life.

Since these expressions seem suitable for the Father, the Son, or the Holy Spirit, it is certain that nothing derogatory is spoken of in them. We say that many things are "of" the Son and many things are "through" the Father, just as you find it said of the Son: "That we may be increased through all things in Him, Who is Christ the Head, from Whom," he says, "the whole body, framed and knit together through every joint of the supply for the measure of every part, makes increase of the body unto the building up of itself in love." And again, writing to the Colossians about those who do not have knowledge of the Son of God, he says: "Because they hold not the Head, from Whom all the body being supplied and joined together through joints and bands, increases to the increase of God." For we said above that Christ is the Head of the Church. And in another place you read: "Of His fullness have all we received." And the Lord Himself said: "He shall take of Mine and show it unto you." And before that, He said: "I perceive that virtue is gone out of Me."

94. Since, then, these expressions seem suitable either to the Father or the Son or the Holy Spirit, it is certain that nothing derogatory is spoken of in them, since we both say that many things are of the Son, and many through the Father, as you find it said of the Son: That we may be increased through all things in Him, Who is Christ the Head, from Whom, says he, the whole body, framed and knit together through every joint of the supply for the measure of every part, makes increase of the body unto the building up of itself in love. Ephesians 4:15-16 And again, writing to the Colossians of those who have not the knowledge of the Son of God, he says: Because they hold not the Head, from Whom all the body being supplied and joined together through joints and bands, increases to the increase of God. Colossians 2:19 For we said above that Christ is the Head of the Church. And in another place you read: Of His fullness have all we received. And the Lord Himself said: He shall take of Mine and show it unto you. John 16:14 And before, He said: I perceive that virtue is gone out of Me. Luke 8:46

In the same way, so that you may recognize the Unity, it is also said of the Spirit: "For the one who sows in the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life." And John says: "By this we know that He is in us, because He has given us of His Spirit." And the Angel says: "That which will be born of her is of the Holy Spirit." And the Lord says: "That which is born of the Spirit is Spirit."

95. In like manner that you may recognize the Unity, it is also said of the Spirit: For he that sows in the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap eternal life. Galatians 6:8 And John says: Hereby we know that He is in us because He has given us of His Spirit. 1 John 4:13 And the Angel says: That Which shall be born of her is of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 1:20 And the Lord says: That which is born of the Spirit is Spirit. John 3:6

So then, just as we read that all things are of the Father, we can also say that all things are of the Son, through whom are all things; and we are taught by evidence that all things are of the Spirit, in whom are all things.

96. So, then, as we read that all things are of the Father, so, too, that all things can be said to be of the Son, through Whom are all things; and we are taught by proof that all things are of the Spirit in Whom are all things.

Now let us consider whether we can teach that anything is through the Father. But it is written: "Paul the servant of Christ through the will of God," and elsewhere: "Wherefore you are now not a servant but a son, and if a son an heir also through God," and again: "As Christ rose from the dead by the glory of God." And elsewhere God the Father says to the Son: "Behold proselytes shall come to You through Me."

97. Now let us consider whether we can teach that anything is through the Father. But it is written: Paul the servant of Christ through the will of God; 1 Corinthians 1:1 and elsewhere: Wherefore you are now not a servant but a son, and if a son an heir also through God; Galatians 4:7 and again: As Christ rose from the dead by the glory of God. Romans 6:4 And elsewhere God the Father says to the Son: Behold proselytes shall come to You through Me.

You will find many other passages if you look for things done through the Father. Is the Father, then, less because we read that many things are in the Son and of the Son, and we find in the heavenly Scriptures very many things done or given through the Father?

98. You will find many other passages, if you look for things done through the Father. Is, then, the Father less because we read that many things are in the Son and of the Son, and find in the heavenly Scriptures very many things done or given through the Father?

In the same way, we also read of many things done through the Spirit, as you find: "But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit;" and in another place: "Keep the good deposit through the Holy Spirit;" and to the Ephesians: "to be strengthened through His Spirit;" and to the Corinthians: "To another is given through the Spirit the word of wisdom;" and in another place: "But if through the Spirit you mortify the deeds of the flesh, you shall live;" and above: "He Who raised Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies through the indwelling of His Spirit in you."

99. But in like manner we also read of many things done through the Spirit, as you find: But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit; 1 Corinthians 2:10 and in another place: Keep the good deposit through the Holy Spirit; 1 Timothy 6:20 and to the Ephesians: to be strengthened through His Spirit; Ephesians 3:16 and to the Corinthians: To another is given through the Spirit the word of wisdom; 1 Corinthians 12:8 and in another place: But if through the Spirit ye mortify the deeds of the flesh, you shall live; Romans 8:13 and above: He Who raised Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies through the indwelling of His Spirit in you. Romans 8:11

100. But perhaps someone may say, Show me that we can read explicitly that all things are of the Son, or that all things are of the Spirit. But I reply, Let them also show that it is written that all things are through the Father. But since we have proved that these expressions fit either the Father or the Son or the Holy Spirit, and that no distinction of the divine power can arise from prepositions of this kind, there is no doubt that all things are of Him through Whom all things are; and that all things are through Him through Whom all are; and that we must understand that all things are through Him or of Him in Whom all are. For every creature exists both of the will, and through the operation and in the power of the Trinity, as it is written: Let Us make man after Our image and likeness; and elsewhere: By the word of the Lord were the heavens established, and all their power by the Spirit of His mouth.

100. But perhaps some one may say, Show me that we can read expressly that all things are of the Son, or that all things are of the Spirit. But I reply, Let them also show that it is written that all things are through the Father. But since we have proved that these expressions suit either the Father or the Son or the Holy Spirit, and that no distinction of the divine power can arise from particles of this kind, there is no doubt but that all things are of Him through Whom all things are; and that all things are through Him through Whom all are; and that we must understand that all things are through Him or of Him in Whom all are. For every creature exists both of the will, and through the operation and in the power of the Trinity, as it is written: Let Us make man after Our image and likeness; Genesis 1:26 and elsewhere: By the word of the Lord were the heavens established, and all their power by the Spirit of His mouth.

Being about to prove that the will, the calling, and the commandment of the Trinity is one, St. Ambrose shows that the Spirit called the Church exactly as the Father and the Son did, and he proves this through the selection of Paul and Barnabas, and especially through the mission of Peter to Cornelius. Along the way, he points out how in the Apostle's vision the calling of the Gentiles was foreshadowed—those who had previously been like wild beasts now lay aside that wildness through the work of the Spirit. Then, after citing other passages to support this view, he shows that the case of Jeremiah being thrown into a pit by the Jews and rescued by Abdemelech is a type of the Jews' rejection of the Holy Spirit and of His being honored by the Gentiles.

Being about to prove that the will, the calling, and the commandment of the Trinity is one, St. Ambrose shows that the Spirit called the Church exactly as the Father and the Son did, and proves this by the selection of SS. Paul and Barnabas, and especially by the mission of St. Peter to Cornelius. And by the way he points out how in the Apostle's vision the calling of the Gentiles was shadowed forth, who having been before like wild beasts, now by the operation of the Spirit lay aside that wildness. Then having quoted other passages in support of this view, he shows that in the case of Jeremiah cast into a pit by Jews, and rescued by Abdemelech, is a type of the slighting of the Holy Spirit by the Jews, and of His being honoured by the Gentiles.

The work of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is not only everywhere the same, but their will, calling, and command-giving are also one and the same. This can be seen in the great and saving mystery of the Church. Just as the Father called the Gentiles to the Church, saying "I will call her My people which was not My people, and her beloved who was not beloved" (Hosea 2:23), and elsewhere "My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations" (Isaiah 56:7), so too the Lord Jesus said that Paul was chosen by Him to call forth and gather together the Church, as you find it said by the Lord Jesus to Ananias: "Go, for he is a chosen vessel unto Me to bear My name before all nations" (Acts 9:15).

101. And not only is the operation of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit everywhere one but also there is one and the same will, calling, and giving of commands, which one may see in the great and saving mystery of the Church. For as the Father called the Gentiles to the Church, saying: I will call her My people which was not My people, and her beloved who was not beloved; Hosea 2:23 and elsewhere: My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations, Isaiah 56:7 so, too, the Lord Jesus said that Paul was chosen by Him to call forth and gather together the Church, as you find it said by the Lord Jesus to Ananias: Go, for he is a chosen vessel unto Me to bear My name before all nations. Acts 9:15

Just as God the Father called the Church, so also Christ called it, and so also the Spirit called it, saying: Separate Me Paul and Barnabas for the work to which I have called them. Therefore it is added that having fasted and prayed, they laid hands on them and sent them forth. And they, being sent forth by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia. So Paul received the apostleship by the will not only of Christ but also of the Holy Spirit, and hastened to gather together the Gentiles.

102. As, then, God the Father called the Church, so, too, Christ called it, and so, too, the Spirit called it, saying: Separate Me Paul and Barnabas for the work to which I have called them. So, it is added, having fasted and prayed, they laid hands on them and sent them forth. And they, being sent forth by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia. So Paul received the apostleship by the will not only of Christ, but also of the Holy Spirit, and hastened to gather together the Gentiles.

When Peter was praying, he saw heaven opened and a certain vessel tied at the four corners, like a sheet, which contained all kinds of four-footed animals, wild beasts, and birds of the air. A voice came to him saying, "Rise, Peter, kill and eat." Peter said, "Far be it from me, Lord, I have never eaten anything common or unclean." Again a voice came to him saying, "What God has cleansed, do not call common." This happened three times, and the vessel was taken back into heaven. While Peter was quietly thinking about this, the servants of Cornelius, who had been sent by the Angel, came to him. The Spirit said to him, "Look, men are looking for you. Get up, go down, and go with them. Do not doubt, for I have sent you."

103. And not only Paul, but also, as we read in the Acts of the Apostles, Peter. For when he had seen in his prayer heaven opened and a certain vessel tied at the four corners, as it were a sheet in which were all kinds of four-footed beasts and wild beasts and fowls of the air, a voice came to him saying, Arise, Peter, kill and eat. And Peter said, Be it far from me, Lord, I have never eaten anything common or unclean. And again a voice came to him, saying, What God has cleansed, call not common. And this was done three times, and the vessel was received back into heaven. And so when Peter was silently thinking over this with himself, and the servants of Cornelius appointed by the Angel had come to him, the Spirit said to him, Lo, men are seeking you, rise therefore, and go down and go with them; doubt not, for I have sent you. Acts 10:19-20

How clearly did the Holy Spirit express His own power! First of all, in that He inspired the one who was praying and was present to the one who was entreating. Then when Peter, being called, answered "Lord," and so was found worthy of a second message, because he acknowledged the Lord. But the Scripture declares who that Lord was, for He whom Peter had answered spoke to him when he answered. And the following words show the Spirit clearly revealed, for He who formed the mystery made known the mystery.

104. How clearly did the Holy Spirit express His own power! First of all in that He inspired him who was praying, and was present to him who was entreating; then when Peter, being called, answered, Lord, and so was found worthy of a second message, because he acknowledged the Lord. But the Scripture declares Who that Lord was, for He Whom he had answered spoke to him when he answered. And the following words show the Spirit clearly revealed, for He Who formed the mystery made known the mystery.

Notice also that the mystery appearing three times expressed the working of the Trinity. Similarly, in the mysteries the question is asked three times and the answer is given three times, and no one can be cleansed except through a threefold confession. For this reason, Peter in the Gospel is also asked three times whether he loves the Lord, so that through his threefold answer the chains of guilt he had incurred by denying the Lord might be broken.

105. Notice, also, that the appearance of the mystery three times repeated expressed the operation of the Trinity. And so in the mysteries the threefold question is put, and the threefold answer made, and no one can be cleansed but by a threefold confession. For which reason, also, Peter in the Gospel is asked three times whether he loves the Lord, that by the threefold answer the bonds of the guilt he had contracted by denying the Lord might be loosed.

Then again, because the Angel is sent to Cornelius, the Holy Spirit speaks to Peter: For the eyes of the Lord are over the faithful of the earth. It is not without purpose that when He had said before, "What God has cleansed call not thou common," the Holy Spirit came upon the Gentiles to purify them, when it is clear that the operation of the Spirit is a divine operation. But Peter, when sent by the Spirit, did not wait for the command of God the Father, but acknowledged that the message was from the Spirit Himself, and the grace was that of the Spirit Himself, when he said: "If, then, God has granted them the same grace as to us, who was I that I should resist God?"

106. Then, again, because the Angel is sent to Cornelius, the Holy Spirit speaks to Peter: For the eyes of the Lord are over the faithful of the earth. Nor is it without a purpose that when He had said before, What God has cleansed call not thou common, Acts 10:15 the Holy Spirit came upon the Gentiles to purify them, when it is manifest that the operation of the Spirit is a divine operation. But Peter, when sent by the Spirit, did not wait for the command of God the Father, but acknowledged that that message was from the Spirit Himself, and the grace that of the Spirit Himself, when he said: If, then, God has granted them the same grace as to us, who was I that I should resist God?

It is the Holy Spirit, then, who has freed us from the impurity of the Gentiles. In those various four-footed animals, wild beasts, and birds, there was a representation of the human condition, which appears clothed in the savage brutality of wild beasts unless it becomes gentle through the sanctification of the Spirit. Excellent indeed is that grace which transforms the fury of beasts into the simplicity of the Spirit: For we too were once foolish, unbelieving, wandering astray, enslaved to various desires and pleasures. But now, through the renewal of the Spirit, we begin to be heirs of Christ and co-heirs with the angels.

107. It is, then, the Holy Spirit Who has delivered us from that Gentile impurity. For in those kinds of four-footed creatures and wild beasts and birds there was a figure of the condition of man, which appears clothed with the bestial ferocity of wild beasts unless it grows gentle by the sanctification of the Spirit. Excellent, then, is that grace which changes the rage of beasts into the simplicity of the Spirit: For we also were aforetime foolish, unbelieving, erring, serving various lusts and pleasures. But now by the renewing of the Spirit we begin to be heirs of Christ, and joint-heirs with the Angels. Titus 3:3-7

Therefore the holy prophet David, seeing in the Spirit that we should be transformed from wild beasts into beings like the dwellers in heaven, says, "Rebuke the wild beasts of the wood"—clearly signifying not the forest disturbed by the running of wild beasts and shaken with the roaring of animals, but rather that wood of which it is written: "We found it in the fields of the wood." In this wood, as the prophet said, "The righteous shall flourish as the palm tree, and shall be multiplied as the cedar which is in Lebanon." This is the wood which, shaken in the tops of the trees spoken of in prophecy, poured forth the nourishment of the heavenly Word. This is the wood into which Paul entered as a ravening wolf but went forth as a shepherd, for "their sound is gone out into all the earth."

108. Therefore the holy prophet David, seeing in the Spirit that we should from wild beasts become like the dwellers in heaven, says, Rebuke the wild beasts of the wood, evidently signifying, not the wood disturbed by the running of wild beasts, and shaken with the roaring of animals, but that wood of which it is written: We found it in the fields of the wood. In which, as the prophet said: The righteous shall flourish as the palm-tree, and shall be multiplied as the cedar which is in Libanus. That wood which, shaken in the tops of the trees spoken of in prophecy, shed forth the nourishment of the heavenly Word. That wood into which Paul entered indeed as a ravening wolf, but went forth as a shepherd, for their sound is gone out into all the earth.

We were once wild beasts, and that is why the Lord said: Beware of false prophets, who come in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves. But now, through the Holy Spirit, the rage of lions, the spots of leopards, the cunning of foxes, and the violence of wolves have been removed from our inner lives. Great, then, is the grace that has transformed earth into heaven, so that our manner of life—we who once roamed as wild beasts in the woods—might now be in heaven.

109. We then were wild beasts, and therefore the Lord said: Beware of false prophets, which come in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves. Matthew 7:15 But now, through the Holy Spirit, the rage of lions, the spots of leopards, the craft of foxes, the rapacity of wolves, have passed away from our feelings; great, then, is the grace which has changed earth to heaven, that the conversation of us, who once were wandering as wild beasts in the woods, might be in heaven. Philippians 3:20

And not only in this place, but also elsewhere in the same book, the Apostle Peter declared that the Church was built by the Holy Spirit. For you read that he said: God, who knows the hearts of men, bore witness, giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He did to us; and He made no distinction between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. In this we should consider that just as Christ is the Cornerstone who joined both peoples into one, so too the Holy Spirit made no distinction between the hearts of each people, but united them.

110. And not only in this place, but also elsewhere in the same book, the Apostle Peter declared that the Church was built by the Holy Spirit. For you read that he said: God, Which knows the hearts of men, bore witness, giving them the Holy Spirit, even as also to us; and He made no distinction between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. Acts 15:8-9 In which is to be considered, that as Christ is the Cornerstone, Who joined together both peoples into one, so, too, the Holy Spirit made no distinction between the hearts of each people, but united them.

Do not, then, like a Jew, despise the Son whom the prophets foretold. For if you do, you would also despise the Holy Spirit and despise Isaiah, and you would despise Jeremiah, whom the one chosen by the Lord lifted with rags and ropes from the pit of that Jewish prison. The people of the Jews, despising the prophetic word, had thrown him into the pit. And no one among the Jews was found to pull the prophet out, but rather one Ethiopian, Abdemelech, as Scripture testifies.

111. Do not, then, like a Jew, despise the Son, Whom the prophets foretold; for you would despise also the Holy Spirit, you would despise Isaiah, you would despise Jeremiah, whom he who was chosen of the Lord raised with rags and cords from the pit of that Jewish abode. Jeremiah 38:11 For the people of the Jews, despising the word of prophecy, had cast him into the pit. Nor was there found any one of the Jews to draw the prophet out, but one Ethiopian Abdemelech, as the Scripture testifies.

In this account there is a very beautiful figure, namely that we, sinners from among the Gentiles, black beforehand through our transgressions and previously fruitless, raised up from the depths the word of prophecy which the Jews had cast down, as it were, into the mire of their mind and carnality. And therefore it is written: Ethiopia shall stretch out her hand unto God. In this is signified the appearance of the holy Church, who says in the Song of Songs: I am black and comely, O daughters of Jerusalem—black through sin, comely through grace; black by natural condition, comely through redemption, or certainly black with the dust of her labors. So she is black while fighting, but comely when she is crowned with the ornaments of victory.

112. In which account is a very beautiful figure, that is to say, that we, sinners of the Gentiles, black beforehand through our transgressions, and aforetime fruitless, raised from the depth the word of prophecy which the Jews had thrust down, as it were, into the mire of their mind and carnality. And therefore it is written: Ethiopia shall stretch out her hand unto God. In which is signified the appearance of holy Church, who says in the Song of Songs: I am black and comely, O daughters of Jerusalem; Song of Songs 1:5 black through sin, comely through grace; black by natural condition, comely through redemption, or certainly, black with the dust of her labours. So she is black while fighting, is comely when she is crowned with the ornaments of victory.

And it is fitting that the prophet was raised by cords, for the faithful writer said: The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places. And it is fitting that he was raised with rags, for the Lord Himself, when those who had been first invited to the marriage made excuses, sent to the crossroads so that as many as were found, both bad and good, should be invited to the marriage. With these rags, then, He lifted the word of prophecy from the mire.

113. And fittingly is the prophet raised by cords, for the faithful writer said: The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places. And fittingly with rags; for the Lord Himself, when those who had been first invited to the marriage made excuse, sent to the partings of the highways, that as many as were found, both bad and good, should be invited to the marriage. With these rags, then, He lifted the word of prophecy from the mire.

We should follow the example of Abdemelech by believing that the Son and Holy Spirit know all things. Scripture attributes this knowledge to the Spirit and also to the Son. The Son is glorified by the Spirit, just as the Spirit is glorified by the Son. Furthermore, since we read that the Father, the Son, and the Spirit say and reveal the same things, we must acknowledge in them a oneness of nature and knowledge. Finally, the fact that the Spirit searches the deep things of God is not a sign of ignorance, since the Father and the Son are likewise said to search, and Paul, although chosen by Christ, was still taught by the Spirit.

We shall follow the example of Abdemelech, if we believe that the Son and Holy Spirit know all things. This knowledge is attributed in Scripture to the Spirit, and also to the Son. The Son is glorified by the Spirit, as also the Spirit by the Son. Also, inasmuch as we read that the Father, the Son, and the Spirit say and reveal the same things, we must acknowledge in Them a oneness of nature and knowledge. Lastly, that the Spirit searches the deep things of God is not a mark of ignorance, since the Father and the Son are likewise said to search, and Paul, although chosen by Christ, yet was taught by the Spirit.

And you, too, shall be Abdemelech, that is, chosen by the Lord, if you raise the Word of God from the depths of Gentile ignorance; if you believe that the Son of God is not deceived, that nothing escapes His knowledge, that He is not ignorant of what will happen. And the Holy Spirit also is not deceived, of whom the Lord says: But when He, the Spirit of Truth, shall come, He shall lead you into all truth. John 16:13 He who says all overlooks nothing, neither the day nor the hour, neither things past nor things to come.

114. And you, too, shall be Abdemelech, that is, chosen by the Lord, if you raise the Word of God from the depth of Gentile ignorance; if you believe that the Son of God is not deceived, that nothing escapes His knowledge, that He is not ignorant of what is going to be. And the Holy Spirit also is not deceived, of Whom the Lord says: But when He, the Spirit of Truth, shall come, He shall lead you into all truth. John 16:13 He Who says all passes by nothing, neither the day nor the hour, neither things past nor things to come.

And so that you may know that He knows all things, foretells things to come, and that His knowledge is one with that of the Father and the Son, hear what the Truth of God says concerning Him: For He shall not speak from Himself, but what things He shall hear shall He speak, and He shall declare unto you the things that are to come.

115. And that you may know that He both knows all things, and foretells things to come, and that His knowledge is one with that of the Father and the Son, hear what the Truth of God says concerning Him: For He shall not speak from Himself, but what things He shall hear shall He speak, and He shall declare unto you the things that are to come. John 16:13

Therefore, so that you may see that He knows all things, when the Son said, "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven," He excepted the Holy Spirit. But if the Holy Spirit is excepted from ignorance, how is the Son of God not excepted?

116. Therefore, that you may observe that He knows all things, when the Son said: But of that day and hour knows no one, not even the Angels of heaven, Mark 13:32 He excepted the Holy Spirit. But if the Holy Spirit is excepted from ignorance, how is the Son of God not excepted?

However, you say that He numbered the Son of God together with the Angels. He did number the Son, but He did not number the Spirit as well. Therefore, confess either that the Holy Spirit is greater than the Son of God—in which case you speak not only as an Arian, but even as a Photinian—or else acknowledge what you ought to understand when He said that the Son did not know. For as man, He could be numbered with creatures in His human nature, since they were created.

117. But you say that He numbered the Son of God also with the Angels. He numbered the Son indeed, but He did not number the Spirit also. Confess, then, either that the Holy Spirit is greater than the Son of God, so as to speak now not only as an Arian, but even as a Photinian, or acknowledge to what you ought to refer it that He said that the Son knew not. For as man He could [in His human nature] be numbered with creatures Who were created.

118. But if you are willing to learn that the Son of God knows all things and has foreknowledge of all, see that those very things which you think are unknown to the Son, the Holy Spirit received from the Son. However, He received them through Unity of ousia (substance), just as the Son received from the Father. He says, "He shall glorify Me, for He shall receive of Mine and shall declare it unto you. All things whatsoever the Father has are Mine, therefore said I, He shall receive of Mine, and shall declare it unto you" (John 16:14-15). What, then, is more clear than this Unity? What things the Father has pertain to the Son; what things the Son has the Holy Spirit also has received.

118. But if you are willing to learn that the Son of God knows all things, and has foreknowledge of all, see that those very things which you think to be unknown to the Son, the Holy Spirit received from the Son. He received them, however, through Unity of Substance, as the Son received from the Father. He, says He, shall glorify Me, for He shall receive of Mine and shall declare it unto you. All things whatsoever the Father has are Mine, therefore said I, He shall receive of Mine, and shall declare it unto you. John 16:14-15 What, then, is more clear than this Unity? What things the Father has pertain to the Son; what things the Son has the Holy Spirit also has received.

119. Yet learn that the Son knows the day of judgment. We read in Zechariah: "And the Lord my God shall come, and all the saints with Him. In that day there shall not be light, but cold and frost, and it shall be one day, and that day is known unto the Lord." This day, then, was known to the Lord, who will come with His saints to enlighten us by His second coming.

119. Yet learn that the Son knows the day of judgment. We read in Zechariah: And the Lord my God shall come, and all the saints with Him. In that day there shall not be light, but cold and frost, and it shall be one day, and that day is known unto the Lord. This day, then, was known unto the Lord, Who shall come with His saints, to enlighten us by His second Advent.

Let us continue with the point we began concerning the Spirit. In the passage we presented, you find that the Son says of the Spirit: He shall glorify Me. Therefore, the Spirit glorifies the Son, just as the Father also glorifies Him, but the Son of God also glorifies the Spirit, as we said above. He is not weak, then, who is the cause of this mutual glory through the Unity of the Eternal Light, nor is He inferior to the Spirit, since it is true that He is glorified by the Spirit.

120. But let us continue the point which we have commenced concerning the Spirit. For in the passage we have brought forward you find that the Son says of the Spirit: He shall glorify Me. So, then, the Spirit glorifies the Son, as the Father also glorifies Him, but the Son of God also glorifies the Spirit, as we said above. He, then, is not weak who is the cause of the mutual glory through the Unity of the Eternal Light, nor is He inferior to the Spirit, of Whom this is true that He is glorified by the Spirit.

You too will be chosen if you believe that the Spirit spoke the same things that the Father spoke and the Son spoke. Paul was chosen precisely because he believed and taught this way, since as it is written, God has revealed to us by His Spirit that which eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor has entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that love Him. This is why He is called the Spirit of revelation, as you read: For God gives to those who thus prepare themselves the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, that He may be known.

122. And you too shall be chosen, if you believe that the Spirit spoke that which the Father spoke, and which the Son spoke. Paul, in fine, was therefore chosen because he so believed and so taught, since, as it is written, God has revealed to us by His Spirit that which eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor has entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that love Him. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 And therefore is He called the Spirit of revelation, as you read: For God gives to those who thus prepare themselves the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, that He may be known. Isaiah 64:4

There is, then, a unity of knowledge, since the Father who gives the Spirit of revelation reveals just as the Son also reveals, for it is written: No one knows the Son except the Father, nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him. He said more concerning the Son, not because He has more than the Father, but to prevent anyone from supposing He has less. And it is entirely fitting that the Father is revealed by the Son in this way, for the Son knows the Father just as the Father knows the Son.

123. There is, then, a Unity of knowledge, since, as the Father, Who gives the Spirit of revelation, reveals, so also the Son reveals, for it is written: No one knows the Son save the Father, neither does any one know the Father save the Son, and he to whom the Son shall will to reveal Him. Matthew 11:27 He said more concerning the Son, not because He has more than the Father, but lest He should be supposed to have less. And not unfittingly is the Father thus revealed by the Son, for the Son knows the Father even as the Father knows the Son.

Now learn that the Spirit also knows God the Father, for it is written that just as no one knows the things of a person except the spirit within him, so too no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. No one, Scripture says, knows except the Spirit of God. Is the Son of God therefore excluded? Certainly not, since the Spirit is not excluded when it is said: And no one knows the Father except the Son.

124. Learn now that the Spirit too knows God the Father, for it is written that, As no one knows the things of a man, save the spirit which is in him, so too the things of God no one knows save the Spirit of God. No one, he says, knows save the Spirit of God. 1 Corinthians 2:11 Is, then, the Son of God excluded? Certainly not, since neither is the Spirit excluded, when it is said: And none knows the Father, save the Son.

Therefore the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are of one nature (physis) and of one knowledge. And the Spirit is not to be counted among all the things that were made by the Son, since He knew the Father, Whom (as it is written) who can know except the Son? But the Holy Spirit knows also. What then? When the totality of created things is spoken of, it follows that the Holy Spirit is not included.

125. Therefore the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are of one nature and of one knowledge. And the Spirit is not to be numbered with all things which were made by the Son, since He knew the Father, Whom (as it is written) who can know save the Son? But the Holy Spirit knows also. What then? When the totality of created things is spoken of, it follows that the Holy Spirit is not included.

I would now like them to answer what it is in man that knows the things of a man. Certainly, whatever surpasses the other powers of the soul and by which the highest nature of man is measured must be rational. What, then, is the Spirit, who knows the deep things of God and through whom Almighty God is revealed? Is He inferior in the fullness of the Godhead when He is proved even by this instance to be of one substance with the Father? Or is He ignorant of anything when He knows the counsels of God and His mysteries which have been hidden from the beginning? What is there that He does not know when He knows all things that are of God? For the Spirit searches even the deep things of God.

126. Now I should like them to answer what it is in man which knows the things of a man. Certainly that must be reasonable which surpasses the other powers of the soul, and by which the highest nature of man is estimated. What, then, is the Spirit, Who knows the deep things of God, and through Whom Almighty God is revealed? Is He inferior in the fullness of the Godhead Who is proved even by this instance to be of one substance with the Father? Or is He ignorant of anything Who knows the counsels of God, and His mysteries which have been hidden from the beginning? What is there that He knows not Who knows all things that are of God? For the Spirit searches even the deep things of God. 1 Corinthians 2:10

But in case you should think that He searches things unknown, and searches in such a way that He learns what He does not know, it is stated first that God revealed them to us through His Spirit. At the same time, so that you may learn that the Spirit knows the things which are revealed to us through the Spirit Himself, it is said afterward: For who among men knows the things of a man, save the spirit of the man which is in him? So, too, the things of God knows no one save the Spirit of God. If, then, the spirit of a man knows the things of a man, and knows them before it searches, can there be anything of God which the Spirit of God does not know? Of Whom the Apostle said not without purpose, The things of God knows no one, save the Spirit of God—not that He knows by searching, but knows by nature; not that the knowledge of divine things is an accident in Him, but is His natural knowledge.

127. But lest you should think that He searches things unknown, and so searches that He may learn that which He knows not, it is stated first that God revealed them to us through His Spirit, and at the same time in order that you may learn that the Spirit knows the things which are revealed to us through the Spirit Himself, it is said subsequently: For who among men knows the things of a man, save the spirit of the man which is in him? So, too, the things of God knows no one save the Spirit of God. 1 Corinthians 2:11 If, then, the spirit of a man knows the things of a man, and knows them before it searches, can there be anything of God which the Spirit of God knows not? Of Whom the Apostle said not without a purpose, The things of God knows no one, save the Spirit of God; not that He knows by searching, but knows by nature; not that the knowledge of divine things is an accident in Him, but is His natural knowledge.

But if it troubles you that Scripture says "searches," understand that this word is also used of God, since He is the one who searches hearts and reins. For He Himself said: I am He that searches the heart and reins. And concerning the Son of God you also have in the Epistle to the Hebrews: Who is the Searcher of the mind and thoughts. From this it is clear that no inferior being searches the inner things of his superior, for knowing hidden things belongs to divine power alone. The Holy Spirit, then, is a searcher in the same way as the Father, and the Son is a searcher in the same way. The proper meaning of this expression implies that clearly there is nothing He does not know, since nothing escapes Him.

128. But if this moves you that He said searches, learn that this is also said of God, inasmuch as He is the searcher of hearts and reins. For Himself said: I am He that searches the heart and reins. Jeremiah 17:10 And of the Son of God you have also in the Epistle to the Hebrews: Who is the Searcher of the mind and thoughts. Hebrews 4:12 Whence it is clear that no inferior searches the inward things of his superior, for to know hidden things is of the divine power alone. The Holy Spirit, then, is a searcher in like manner as the Father, and the Son is a searcher in like manner, by the proper signification of which expression this is implied, that evidently there is nothing which He knows not, Whom nothing escapes.

Finally, he was chosen by Christ and taught by the Spirit. For as he himself testifies, having obtained knowledge of the divine secrets through the Spirit, he shows both that the Holy Spirit knows God and has revealed to us the things that are of God, just as the Son has also revealed them. And he adds: But we received, not the spirit of this world, but the Spirit which is of God, that we might know the things that are given to us by God, which we also speak, not in persuasive words of man's wisdom, but in manifestation of the Spirit and in the power of God.

129. Lastly, he was chosen by Christ, and taught by the Spirit. For as he himself witnesses, having obtained through the Spirit knowledge of the divine secrets, he shows both that the Holy Spirit knows God, and has revealed to us the things which are of God, as the Son also has revealed them. And he adds: But we received, not the spirit of this world, but the Spirit which is of God, that we might know the things that are given to us by God, which we also speak, not in persuasive words of man's wisdom, but in manifestation of the Spirit and in the power of God. 1 Corinthians 2:12-13

After proving that the Spirit is the Giver of revelation equally with the Father and the Son, we explain how the same Spirit does not speak of Himself. We show that no bodily organs should be imagined in Him, and that no inferiority should be assumed from the fact that we read He hears, since the same thing would have to be attributed to the Son, and even to the Father, since He hears the Son. The Spirit therefore hears and glorifies the Son in the sense that He revealed Him to the prophets and apostles, through which the Unity of operation of the Three Persons is inferred. And since the Spirit does the same works as the Father, the ousia of each is also declared to be the same.

After proof that the Spirit is the Giver of revelation equally with the Father and the Son, it is explained how the same Spirit does not speak of Himself; and it is shown that no bodily organs are to be thought of in Him, and that no inferiority is to be supposed from the fact of our reading that He hears, since the same would have to be attributed to the Son, and indeed even to the Father, since He hears the Son. The Spirit then hears and glorifies the Son in the sense that He revealed Him to the prophets and apostles, by which the Unity of operation of the Three Persons is inferred; and, since the Spirit does the same works as the Father, the substance of each is also declared to be the same.

It has been proved, then, that just as God has revealed to us the things that are His, so too the Son, and so too the Spirit, has revealed the things of God. For our knowledge proceeds from one Spirit, through one Son, to one Father; and from one Father, through one Son, to one Holy Spirit is delivered goodness and sanctification and the sovereign right of eternal power. Where there is a manifestation of the Spirit, then, there is the power of God, nor can there be any distinction where the work is one. And therefore what the Son says the Father also says, and what the Father says the Son also says, and what the Father and the Son say the Holy Spirit also says.

130. It has then been proved that like as God has revealed to us the things which are His, so too the Son, and so too the Spirit, has revealed the things of God. For our knowledge proceeds from one Spirit, through one Son to one Father; and from one Father through one Son to one Holy Spirit is delivered goodness and sanctification and the sovereign right of eternal power. Where, then, there is a manifestation of the Spirit, there is the power of God, nor can there be any distinction where the work is one. And therefore that which the Son says the Father also says, and that which the Father says the Son also says, and that which the Father and the Son say the Holy Spirit also says.

That is why the Son of God said concerning the Holy Spirit: He shall not speak from Himself, that is, not without the participation of the Father and Myself. For the Spirit is not divided and separated, but speaks what He hears. He hears, that is to say, by unity of ousia and by the property of knowledge. For He does not receive hearing through any bodily organs, nor does the divine voice resound with any physical measurements, nor does He hear what He does not already know. In ordinary human experience, hearing produces knowledge, and yet even among human beings there is not always bodily speech or physical hearing. For he who speaks in tongues, it is said, speaks not to men but to God, for no one hears, but in the Spirit he speaks mysteries.

131. Whence also the Son of God said concerning the Holy Spirit: He shall not speak from Himself, John 16:13 that is, not without the participation of the Father and Myself. For the Spirit is not divided and separated, but speaks what He hears. He hears, that is to say, by unity of substance and by the property of knowledge. For He receives not hearing by any orifices of the body, nor does the divine voice resound with any carnal measures, nor does He hear what He knows not; since commonly in human matters hearing produces knowledge, and yet not even in men themselves is there always bodily speech or fleshly hearing. For he that speaks in tongues, it is said, speaks not to men but to God, for no one hears, but in the Spirit he speaks mysteries. 1 Corinthians 14:2

Therefore, if even in human beings hearing is not always physical, why do you demand that God must have the sounds of human weakness and certain bodily organs for hearing, when Scripture says He hears so that we may believe He knows? For we know what we have heard, and we hear in advance so that we may be able to know. But in God, who knows all things, knowledge comes before hearing. So when we say that the Son has heard, we are declaring that the Son is not ignorant of what the Father wills. But in God there is no sound or syllable, such as normally indicates the expression of will. Rather, oneness of will is understood in hidden ways in God, but in us it is shown through signs.

132. Therefore if in men hearing is not always of the body, do you require in God the voices of man's weakness, and certain organs of fleshly hearing, when He is said to hear in order that we may believe that He knows? For we know that which we have heard, and we hear beforehand that we may be able to know; but in God Who knows all things knowledge goes before hearing. So in order to state that the Son is not ignorant of what the Father wills, we say that He has heard; but in God there is no sound nor syllable, such as usually signify the indication of the will; but oneness of will is comprehended in hidden ways in God, but in us is shown by signs.

133. What does it mean, then, that "He shall not speak from Himself"? It means He shall not speak without Me; for He speaks the truth, He breathes wisdom. He does not speak without the Father, for He is the Spirit of God; He does not hear from Himself, for all things are of God.

133. What means, then, He shall not speak from Himself? This is, He shall not speak without Me; for He speaks the truth, He breathes wisdom. He speaks not without the Father, for He is the Spirit of God; He hears not from Himself, for all things are of God.

The Son received all things from the Father, for He Himself said: "All things have been delivered unto Me from My Father." All that is the Father's the Son also has, for He says again: "All things which the Father has are Mine." And those things which He Himself received by unity of nature, the Spirit by the same unity of nature received also from Him, as the Lord Jesus Himself declares when speaking of His Spirit: "Therefore said I, He shall receive of Mine and shall declare it unto you." Therefore what the Spirit says belongs to the Son, and what the Son has given belongs to the Father. So neither the Son nor the Spirit speaks anything of Himself. For the Trinity speaks nothing external to Itself.

134. The Son received all things from the Father, for He Himself said: All things have been delivered unto Me from My Father. Matthew 11:27 All that is the Father's the Son also has, for He says again: All things which the Father has are Mine. John 15:15 And those things which He Himself received by Unity of nature, the Spirit by the same Unity of nature received also from Him, as the Lord Jesus Himself declares, when speaking of His Spirit: Therefore said I, He shall receive of Mine and shall declare it unto you. John 15:15 Therefore what the Spirit says is the Son's, what the Son has given is the Father's. So neither the Son nor the Spirit speaks anything of Himself. For the Trinity speaks nothing external to Itself.

If you argue that this shows the weakness of the Holy Spirit and a kind of resemblance to bodily lowliness, you will also make it an argument against the Son, because the Son said of Himself: "As I hear I judge," and "The Son can do nothing else than what He sees the Father doing." For if it is true, as it is, that the Son said: "All things which the Father has are Mine," and the Son according to the Godhead is One with the Father, One by natural substance—not according to the Sabellian falsehood—then what is one by the property of substance certainly cannot be separated. Therefore the Son cannot do anything except what He has heard from the Father, for the Word of God endures forever, nor is the Father ever separated from the Son's work. What the Son does, He knows the Father wills, and what the Father wills, the Son knows how to accomplish.

135. But if you contend that this is an argument for the weakness of the Holy Spirit, and for a kind of likeness to the lowliness of the body, you will also make it an argument to the injury of the Son, because the Son said of Himself: As I hear I judge, John 5:30 and The Son can do nothing else than what He sees the Father doing. John 5:19 For if that be true, as it is, which the Son said: All things which the Father has are Mine, John 16:15 and the Son according to the Godhead is One with the Father, One by natural substance, not according to the Sabellian falsehood; that which is one by the property of substance certainly cannot be separated, and so the Son cannot do anything except what He has heard of the Father, for the Word of God endures forever, nor is the Father ever separated from the operation of the Son; and that which the Son works He knows that the Father wills, and what the Father wills the Son knows how to work.

Finally, so that no one may think there is any difference of work either in time or in order between the Father and the Son, but may believe the oneness of the same operation, He says: The works which I do He does. And again, so that no one may think there is any difference in the distinction of the works, but may judge that the will, the working, and the power of the Father and the Son are the same, Wisdom says concerning the Father: For whatsoever things He does, the Son likewise does the same. So the action of neither Person is before or after that of the Other, but the same result of one operation. And for this reason the Son says that He can do nothing of Himself, because His operation cannot be separated from that of the Father. In the same way the operation of the Holy Spirit is not separated. Therefore also the things which He speaks, He is said to hear from the Father.

136. Lastly, that one may not think that there is any difference of work either in time or in order between the Father and the Son, but may believe the oneness of the same operation, He says: The works which I do He does. And again, that one may not think that there is any difference in the distinction of the works, but may judge that the will, the working, and the power of the Father and the Son are the same, Wisdom says concerning the Father: For whatsoever things He does, the Son likewise does the same. John 5:19 So that the action of neither Person is before or after that of the Other, but the same result of one operation. And for this reason the Son says that He can do nothing of Himself, because His operation cannot be separated from that of the Father. In like manner the operation of the Holy Spirit is not separated. Whence also the things which He speaks, He is said to hear from the Father.

What if I show that the Father also hears the Son, just as the Son hears the Father? You have it written in the Gospel that the Son says: "Father, I thank You that You heard Me." How did the Father hear the Son, since in the earlier passage about Lazarus the Son said nothing to the Father? And so we would not think that the Son was heard by the Father only once, He added: "And I knew that You hear Me always." Therefore this hearing is not a matter of subordinate obedience, but of eternal unity.

137. What if I demonstrate that the Father also hears the Son, as the Son too hears the Father? For you have it written in the Gospel that the Son says: Father, I thank You that You heard Me. John 11:41 How did the Father hear the Son, since in the previous passage concerning Lazarus the Son spoke nothing to the Father? And that we might not think that the Son was heard once by the Father, He added: And I knew that You hear Me always. John 11:42 Therefore the hearing is not that of subject obedience, but of eternal Unity.

In the same way, then, the Spirit is said to hear from the Father and to glorify the Son. He glorifies because the Holy Spirit taught us that the Son is the Image of the invisible God and the brightness of His glory and the impress of His substance. The Spirit also spoke through the patriarchs and the prophets, and finally, the apostles began to be more perfect after they had received the Holy Spirit. Therefore, there is no separation of the divine power and grace, for although there are diversities of gifts, it is the same Spirit; and diversities of ministrations, it is the same Lord; and diversities of operations, it is the same God who works all things in all people. There are diversities of offices, not divisions of the Trinity.

138. In like manner, then, the Spirit is said to hear from the Father, and to glorify the Son. To glorify, because the Holy Spirit taught us that the Son is the Image of the invisible God, Colossians 1:15 and the brightness of His glory, and the impress of His substance. Hebrews 1:3 The Spirit also spoke in the patriarchs and the prophets, and, lastly, the apostles began then to be more perfect after that they had received the Holy Spirit. There is therefore no separation of the divine power and grace, for although there are diversities of gifts, yet it is the same Spirit; and diversities of ministrations, yet the same Lord; and diversities of operations, yet the same God Who works all in all. There are diversities of offices, not severances of the Trinity.

Finally, it is the same God who works all things in all people, so that you may know there is no difference in activity between God the Father and the Holy Spirit; for those things which the Spirit accomplishes, God the Father also accomplishes, who works all things in all people. For while God the Father works all things in all people, yet to one is given through the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge, according to the same Spirit; to another faith, in the same Spirit; to another the gift of healings, in the one Spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another various kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues; but all these things the one and the same Spirit accomplishes, distributing to each one as He wills.

139. Lastly, it is the same God Who works all in all, that you may know that there is no diversity of operation between God the Father and the Holy Spirit; since those things which the Spirit works, God the Father also works, Who works all in all. For while God the Father works all in all, yet to one is given through the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge, according to the same Spirit; to another faith, in the same Spirit; to another the gift of healings, in the one Spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another various kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of sayings; but all these works one and the same Spirit, dividing to each one as He will.

There is no doubt, then, that the Spirit also works the same things that the Father works. The Spirit does not work by following a command, as someone who receives instructions in a physical way. Instead, He works voluntarily, being free in His own will and not a servant to someone else's power. He does not obey as one who is commanded. Rather, as the giver, He controls His own gifts.

140. There is then no doubt but that those things which the Father works, the Spirit works also. Nor does He work in accordance with a command, as he who hears in bodily fashion, but voluntarily, as being free in His own will, not the servant of the power of another. For He does not obey as being bidden, but as the giver He is the controller of His own gifts.

Consider whether you can say that the Spirit accomplishes all things that the Father accomplishes, for you cannot deny that the Father accomplishes those things that the Holy Spirit accomplishes. Otherwise, the Father does not accomplish all things if He does not accomplish those things that the Spirit also accomplishes. But if the Father also accomplishes those things that the Spirit accomplishes—since the Spirit distributes His operations according to His own will—you must necessarily say either that what the Spirit distributes He distributes according to His own will against the will of God the Father, or if you say that the Father wills the same thing that the Holy Spirit wills, you must necessarily confess the oneness of the divine will and operation, even if you do so unwillingly, and if not with the heart, at least with the mouth.

141. Consider meanwhile whether you can say that the Spirit effects all things which the Father effects; for you cannot deny that the Father effects those things which the Holy Spirit effects; otherwise the Father does not effect all things, if He effects not those things which the Spirit also effects. But if the Father also effects those things which the Spirit effects, since the Spirit divides His operations, according to His own will, you must of necessity say, either that what the Spirit divides He divides according to His own will, against the will of God the Father; or if you say that the Father wills the same that the Holy Spirit wills, you must of necessity confess the oneness of the divine will and operation, even if you do it unwillingly, and, if not with the heart, at least with the mouth.

However, if the Holy Spirit shares one will and operation with God the Father, He is also of one substance, since the Creator is known by His works. Therefore, as Scripture says, it is the same Spirit, the same Lord, the same God. And if you call Him Spirit, He is the same; if you call Him Lord, He is the same; if you call Him God, He is the same. Not the same in the sense that He is Himself the Father, Himself the Son, Himself the Spirit as one and the same Person; but rather because both the Father and the Son are the same Power. He is, then, the same in substance and in power, for in the Godhead there is neither the confusion of Sabellius nor the division of Arius, nor any earthly and bodily change.

142. But if the Holy Spirit is of one will and operation with God the Father, He is also of one substance, since the Creator is known by His works. So, then, it is the same Spirit, he says, the same Lord, the same God. 1 Corinthians 12:5 And if you say Spirit, He is the same; and if you say Lord, He is the same; and if you say God, He is the same. Not the same, so that Himself is Father, Himself Son, Himself Spirit [one and the selfsame Person]; but because both the Father and the Son are the same Power. He is, then, the same in substance and in power, for there is not in the Godhead either the confusion of Sabellius nor the division of Arius, nor any earthly and bodily change.

Prophecy came not only from the Father and the Son but also from the Spirit. The authority and operation of the Spirit upon the apostles is shown to be the same as Theirs. Therefore we understand that there is unity in the three aspects of authority, rule, and bounty. Yet we need not fear any disadvantage from this participation, since such disadvantage does not arise even in human friendship. Finally, this is confirmed as the inheritance of the apostolic faith by the fact that the apostles are described as having obeyed the Holy Spirit.

Prophecy was not only from the Father and the Son but also from the Spirit; the authority and operation of the latter on the apostles is signified to be the same as Theirs; and so we are to understand that there is unity in the three points of authority, rule, and bounty; yet need no disadvantage be feared from that participation, since such does not arise in human friendship. Lastly, it is established that this is the inheritance of the apostolic faith from the fact that the apostles are described as having obeyed the Holy Spirit.

Here is a striking example for you to consider, holy Emperor, one that you are familiar with: God spoke to the fathers through the prophets in many ways and various manners. The Wisdom of God said: I will send prophets and apostles. And as it is written: To one is given through the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another, the word of knowledge, according to the same Spirit; to another faith, in the same Spirit; to another, the gift of healings, in the one Spirit; to another, the working of miracles; to another, prophecy. Therefore, according to the Apostle, prophecy comes not only through the Father and the Son, but also through the Holy Spirit, and so the office is one, and the grace is one. You see, then, that the Spirit is also the author of prophecies.

143. Take, O sacred Emperor, another strong instance in this question, and one known to you: In many ways and in various manners, God spoke to the fathers in the prophets. Hebrews 1:1 And the Wisdom of God said: I will send prophets and apostles. Luke 11:49 And To one is given, as it is written, through the Spirit, the word of wisdom; to another, the word of knowledge, according to the same Spirit; to another faith, in the same Spirit; to another, the gift of healings, in the one Spirit; to another, the working of miracles; to another, prophecy. Therefore, according to the Apostle, prophecy is not only through the Father and the Son, but also through the Holy Spirit, and therefore the office is one, and the grace one. So you find that the Spirit also is the author of prophecies.

The apostles also said: "It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us." When they say "it seemed good," they point out not only the one who works the grace, but also the originator of carrying out what was commanded. For just as we read of God: "It pleased God," so too when it is said that "it seemed good to the Holy Spirit," someone who is master of his own power is being portrayed.

144. The apostles also said: It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us. Acts 15:28 And when they say, It seemed good, they point out not only the Worker of the grace, but also the Author of the carrying out of that which was commanded. For as we read of God: It pleased God; so, too, when it is said that, It seemed good to the Holy Spirit, one who is master of his own power is portrayed.

How could He not be a master when He speaks what He wills and commands what He wills, just as the Father commands and the Son commands? For just as Paul heard the voice saying to him, "I am Jesus, whom you persecute" (Acts 9:5), so too the Spirit forbade Paul and Silas to go into Bithynia. And just as the Father spoke through the prophets, so too Agabus says concerning the Spirit: "Thus says the Holy Spirit: In this way the Jews in Jerusalem will bind the man whose girdle this is" (Acts 21:11). And just as Wisdom sent the apostles, saying, "Go into all the world and preach the Gospel" (Mark 16:15), so too the Holy Spirit says: "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them" (Acts 13:2). And so, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, as Scripture points out further on, they were in no way different from the other apostles, as if they had been sent in one way by God the Father and in another way by the Spirit.

145. And how should He not be a master Who speaks what He wills, and commands what He wills, as the Father commands and the Son commands? For as Paul heard the voice saying to him, I am Jesus, Whom you persecute, Acts 9:5 so, too, the Spirit forbade Paul and Silas to go into Bithynia. And as the Father spoke through the prophets, so, too, Agabus says concerning the Spirit: Thus says the Holy Spirit, Thus shall the Jews in Jerusalem bind the man, whose is this girdle. Acts 21:11 And as Wisdom sent the apostles, saying, Go into all the world and preach the Gospel, Mark 16:15 so, too, the Holy Spirit says: Separate Me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. Acts 13:2 And so being sent forth by the Holy Spirit, as the Scripture points out farther on, they were distinguished in nothing from the other apostles, as though they were sent in one way by God the Father, in another way by Spirit.

146. Finally, since Paul was sent by the Spirit, he was both a chosen vessel on Christ's part, and he himself reports that God worked in him, saying: For He that worked for Peter unto the apostleship of the circumcision, worked for me also unto the Gentiles. Since, then, the Same worked in Paul Who worked in Peter, it is clearly evident that, since the Spirit worked in Paul, the Holy Spirit also worked in Peter. But Peter himself testifies that God the Father worked in him, as it is stated in the Acts of the Apostles that Peter stood up and said to them: Men and brethren, you know that a good while ago God made choice among us that the Gentiles should hear the word of the Gospel from my mouth. See, then, that in Peter God worked the grace of preaching. And who would dare to deny the work of Christ in him, since he was certainly elected and chosen by Christ, when the Lord said: Feed My lambs.

146. Lastly, Paul having been sent by the Spirit, was both a vessel of election on Christ's part, and himself relates that God wrought in him, saying: For He that wrought for Peter unto the apostleship of the circumcision, wrought for me also unto the Gentiles. Galatians 2:8 Since, then, the Same wrought in Paul Who wrought in Peter, it is certainly evident that, since the Spirit wrought in Paul, the Holy Spirit wrought also in Peter. But Peter himself testifies that God the Father wrought in him, as it is stated in the Acts of the Apostles that Peter rose up and said to them: Men and brethren, you know that a good while ago God made choice among us that the Gentiles should hear the word of the Gospel from my mouth. See, then, in Peter God wrought the grace of preaching. And who would dare to deny the operation of Christ in him, since he was certainly elected and chosen by Christ, when the Lord said: Feed My lambs. John 21:15

The work of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is therefore one—unless perhaps you, who deny that the same work was performed upon the Apostle, think this: that the Father and the Spirit worked in Peter, in whom the Son had already worked, as though the Son's work was somehow insufficient for him to receive grace. And so the power of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit had to be combined and brought together, making the work complex, as if Christ's work alone would be too weak to establish Peter.

147. The operation, then, of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is one, unless perchance you, who deny the oneness of the same operation upon the Apostle, think this; that the Father and the Spirit wrought in Peter, in whom the Son had wrought, as if the operation of the Son by no means sufficed for him to the attainment of the grace. And so the strength of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit being as it were joined and brought together, the work was manifold, lest the operation of Christ alone should be too weak to establish Peter.

148. Not only in Peter is there one operation of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, but also in all the apostles there is unity of the divine operation and a certain authority over the dispensations of heaven. The divine operation works through the power of a command, not through the carrying out of a servant's task. When God works, He does not shape anything through labor or skill. Instead, He spoke and things were made. He said, "Let there be light," and there was light, Genesis 1:3, because the accomplishment of the work is contained in God's command.

148. And not only in Peter is there found to be one operation of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, but also in all the apostles the unity of the divine operation, and a certain authority over the dispensations of heaven. For the divine operation works by the power of a command, not in the execution of a ministry; for God, when He works, does not fashion anything by toil or art, but He spoke and they were made. He said, Let there be light, and there was light, Genesis 1:3 for the effecting of the work is comprised in the commandment of God.

We can easily find, if we consider carefully, that Scripture testifies that this royal power belongs to the Holy Spirit. It will become clear that all the apostles were not only disciples of Christ, but also ministers of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The teacher of the Gentiles tells us this when he says: God has set some in the Church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers; then miracles, the gift of healings, helps, governments, various kinds of tongues.

149. We can, then, easily find, if we will consider, that this royal power is by the witness of the Scriptures attributed to the Holy Spirit; and it will be made clear that all the apostles were not only disciples of Christ, but also ministers of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. As also the teacher of the Gentiles tells us, when he says: God has set some in the Church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers; then miracles, the gift of healings, helps, governments, various kinds of tongues. 1 Corinthians 12:28

We see, then, that God appointed apostles, appointed prophets and teachers, and gave the gift of healings, which you find above is given by the Holy Spirit; He gave various kinds of tongues. Yet not all are apostles, not all are prophets, not all are teachers. Not all have the gift of healings, he says, nor do all speak with tongues. For the entirety of the divine gifts cannot exist in each individual person; each person, according to his capacity, receives what he either desires or deserves. But the power of the Trinity, which freely bestows all graces, is not like this weakness.

150. See, God set apostles, and set prophets and teachers, gave the gift of healings, which you find above to be given by the Holy Spirit; gave various kinds of tongues. But yet all are not apostles, all are not prophets, all are not teachers. Not all, says he, have the gift of healings, nor do all, says he, speak with tongues. 1 Corinthians 12:30 For the whole of the divine gifts cannot exist in each several man; each, according to his capacity, receives that which he either desires or deserves. But the power of the Trinity, which is lavish of all graces, is not like this weakness.

Finally, God appointed apostles. Those whom God appointed in the Church, Christ chose and ordained to be apostles, and sent them into the world, saying: Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In my name they will cast out demons, they will speak in new tongues, they will pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them, they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover. You see that both the Father and Christ appointed teachers in the Churches; and just as the Father gives the gift of healings, so too does the Son give it; just as the Father gives the gift of tongues, so too has the Son granted it.

151. Lastly, God set apostles. Those whom God set in the Church, Christ chose and ordained to be apostles, and sent them into the world, saying: Go into all the world, and preach the Gospel to the whole creation. He that shall believe and be baptized shall be saved, but he that believes not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe. In My Name shall they cast out devils, they shall speak with new tongues, they shall take up serpents, and if they shall drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them, they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. You see the Father and Christ also set teachers in the Churches; and as the Father gives the gift of healings, so, too, does the Son give; as the Father gives the gift of tongues, so, too, has the Son also granted it.

We have also heard above concerning the Holy Spirit that He grants the same kinds of graces. For it is said: To one is given through the Spirit the gift of healings, to another various kinds of tongues, to another prophecy. Therefore, the Spirit gives the same gifts as the Father, and the Son also gives them. Let us now learn more clearly what we touched on above: that the Holy Spirit entrusts the same office as the Father and the Son, and appoints the same persons. Paul said: Take heed to yourselves and to all the flock in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers to rule the Church of God.

152. In like manner we have heard also above concerning the Holy Spirit, that He too grants the same kinds of graces. For it is said: To one is given through the Spirit the gift of healings, to another various kinds of tongues, to another prophecy. 1 Corinthians 12:8-9 So, then, the Spirit gives the same gifts as the Father, and the Son also gives them. Let us now learn more expressly what we have touched upon above, that the Holy Spirit entrusts the same office as the Father and the Son, and appoints the same persons; since Paul said: Take heed to yourselves, and to all the flock in the which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers to rule the Church of God. Acts 20:28

There is, then, unity of authority, unity of appointment, unity of giving. For if you separate appointment and power, what reason would there be for maintaining that those whom Christ appointed as apostles were also appointed by God the Father and appointed by the Holy Spirit? Unless perhaps, as if sharing property or a legal right, They were afraid of legal liability like human beings, and therefore the work was divided and the authority distributed among Them.

153. There is, then, unity of authority, unity of appointment, unity of giving. For if you separate appointment and power, what cause was there [for maintaining] that those whom Christ appointed as apostles, God the Father appointed, and the Holy Spirit appointed? Unless, perhaps, as if sharing a possession or a right, They, like men, were afraid of legal prejudice, and therefore the operation was divided, and the authority distributed.

These things are narrow and petty, even among humans, who for the most part, although they do not agree in action, nevertheless agree in will. So when a certain person was asked what a friend is, he answered, "A second self." If, then, a man defined a friend by saying he was a second self—that is, through a oneness of love and good will—how much more ought we to recognize the oneness of Majesty in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, when by the same operation and divine power, either the unity, or even more, the tautotēs (sameness), as it is called in Greek, is expressed. For tauto means "the same," so that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit have the same. Thus, having the same will and the same power does not arise from an affection of the will, but belongs to the substance of the Trinity.

154. These things are narrow and paltry, even between men, who for the most part, although they do not agree in action, yet agree in will. So that a certain person being asked what a friend is, answered, A second self. If, then, a man so defined a friend as to say, he was a second self, that is to say, through a oneness of love and good-will, how much more ought we to esteem the oneness of Majesty, in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, when by the same operation and divine power, either the unity, or certainly that which is more, the ταυτότης, as it is called in Greek, is expressed, for ταύτο signifies the same, so that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit have the same; so that to have the same will and the same power does not arise from the affection of the will, but inheres in the substance of the Trinity.

This is the inheritance of apostolic faith and devotion that can also be seen in the Acts of the Apostles. Paul and Barnabas obeyed the commands of the Holy Spirit, and all the apostles obeyed and immediately ordained those whom the Spirit had commanded to be set apart: "Separate to Me Barnabas and Saul," He said. Do you see the authority of the One who commands? Consider the merit of those who obey.

155. This is the inheritance of apostolic faith and devotion, which one may observe also in the Acts of the Apostles. Therefore Paul and Barnabas obeyed the commands of the Holy Spirit. And all the apostles obeyed, and immediately ordained those whom the Spirit had ordered to be separated: Separate Me, said He, Barnabas and Saul. Acts 13:2 Do you see the authority of Him Who commands? Consider the merit of those who obey.

Paul believed, and because he believed, he abandoned his zeal as a persecutor and gained a crown of righteousness. This man who had been ravaging the Churches believed, and after being converted to the faith, he preached in the Spirit what the Spirit commanded. The Spirit anointed His champion, and having shaken off the dust of unbelief, presented him as an unconquerable victor over the unbelievers to various gatherings of the ungodly, and trained him through many sufferings for the prize of his high calling in Christ Jesus.

156. Paul believed, and because he believed he cast off the zeal of a persecutor, and gained a crown of righteousness. He believed who used to make havoc of the Churches; but being converted to the faith, he preached in the Spirit that which the Spirit commanded. Acts 9:20 The Spirit anointed His champion, and having shaken off the dust of unbelief, presented him as an insuperable conqueror of the unbelievers to various assemblies of the ungodly, and trained him by many sufferings for the prize of his high calling in Christ Jesus.

Paul believed, and because he believed he cast off the zeal of a persecutor and gained a crown of righteousness. He believed who used to destroy the Churches, but being converted to the faith, he preached in the Spirit what the Spirit commanded. The Spirit anointed His champion, and having shaken off the dust of unbelief, presented him as an unconquerable victor.

Barnabas also believed and obeyed because he believed. Therefore, being chosen by the authority of the Holy Spirit, which came upon him abundantly as a special sign of his merits, he was not unworthy of such great fellowship. For one grace shone in these men whom one Spirit had chosen.

157. Barnabas also believed, and obeyed because he believed. Therefore, being chosen by the authority of the Holy Spirit, Which came on him abundantly, as a special sign of his merits, he was not unworthy of so great a fellowship. For one grace shone in these whom one Spirit had chosen.

Paul was not inferior to Peter, even though Peter was the foundation of the Church and Paul was a skilled builder who knew how to strengthen the faith of the believing nations. Paul was not, I repeat, unworthy of fellowship with the apostles, but is easily compared with the greatest of them and second to none. For whoever does not know that he is inferior makes himself equal.

158. Nor was Paul inferior to Peter, though the latter was the foundation of the Church, and the former a wise builder knowing how to make firm the footsteps of the nations who believed; Paul was not, I say, unworthy of the fellowship of the apostles, but is easily comparable with the first, and second to none. For he who knows not that he is inferior makes himself equal.