November 23rd is the day set aside for Clement of Rome. He was third bishop of Rome and served at the end of the first century. He is best remembered for a letter he wrote in 96 to the congregation in Corinth. They were still a fractious group still having difficulties with divisions in spite of Paul’s letters to them which we find in the New Testament. Remember, they had problems with seeking status on the basis of who baptized whom. They had difficulties with the resurrection, with marriage and morality, and they had made a shambles of the Lord’s supper. The gifts of the Spirit caused some to promote themselves over others.
Now thirty years after Paul, some of the younger Christians revolted against the older leader in the congregation. Clement’s letter is a model of pastoral concern. He writes, “Love…has no limits to its endurance, bears everything patiently. Love is neither servile nor arrogant. It does not promote schisms or form cliques, but always acts in harmony with others.”
Clement’s letter reminds us that divisions within the church are a sad part of our history and that pastoral love for people must be present amid our differing views. His letter was well received and read often. It was also widely distributed and regarded in some area as part of sacred scripture.
Another interesting article concerning the use of Synoptic material by Clement of Rome may be found at:
http://www.mortalresurrection.com/
Posted by: John | Tuesday, January 06, 2009 at 01:20 PM