Living Your Theology

When John Chrysostom (ca. 347-407) was brought before the empress Eudoxia, she threatened him with banishment if he insisted on his Christian independence as a preacher.

"You cannot banish me, for this world is my Father's house."

"But I will kill you," said the empress.

"No, you cannot, for my life is hid with Christ in God," said John.

"I will take away your treasures."

"No, you cannot, for my treasure is in heaven and my heart is there."

"But I will drive you away from your friends and you will have no one left."

"No, you cannot, for I have a Friend in heaven from whom you cannot separate me.

I defy you, for there is nothing you can do to harm me."

What a testimony Chrysostom displayed in his words to the empress. His is the kind of response that only comes when you spend time with an open Bible. Every response he gave was biblical and would not have been spoken if he did not trust and meditate upon the Scriptures. Do you want faith that is unshakable? Read and believe the Scriptures.