Whereas there can be but one Baptism, they think they can Baptize; they have abandoned the fountain of life, yet promise the life and grace of the waters of salvation. It is not cleansing which men find there, but soiling; their sins are not washed away, but only added to. That being "born again" does not bring forth sons to God but to the Devil. Born of a lie, they cannot inherit the things which Truth has promised; begotten by the faithless, they are deprived of the grace of faith.
The Lord withdraws when He is denied, and what is taken by the undeserving does not avail them unto salvation, since the saving grace is turned into ashes and holiness departs.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the idea that divine grace is lost when denied, leading to futility in seeking salvation through unworthy means.
Cyprian's quote emphasizes the profound consequence of rejecting divine grace. When individuals turn away from spiritual truths or deny the presence of the Lord, they not only forfeit the salvation that could have been theirs but also render their pursuits meaningless. The 'ashes' metaphorically signifies the emptiness that arises when genuine holiness is abandoned, suggesting that real spiritual fulfillment cannot be achieved through superficial means or by those who do not truly deserve it.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a sermon discussing the importance of faith and acceptance of grace.
More from Cyprian
All quotes →In proportion to the size of the vessel of faith, brought by us to the Lord, is the measure we draw out of His overflowing grace.
None of us offers resistance when he is seized, or avenges himself for your unjust violence, although our people are numerous and plentiful...it is not lawful for us to hate, and so we please God more when we render no requital for injury...we repay your hatred with kindness.
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