JOHN CHRYSOSTOM · 4TH–5TH CENTURY · ANTIOCHENE
Homilies on the Epistle to the Romans
Summary and key themes of this work
Thirty-two homilies on Paul's most theologically dense letter. Chrysostom reads Romans as a practical text about the transformation of the believer's life, not merely a doctrinal treatise on justification. His treatment of Romans 12–15 — the ethical implications of grace — is among the finest pastoral commentary in the tradition.
Homilies on the Epistle to the Romans is a central text in the Christian mystical tradition, offering insight into the spiritual life, the nature of divine union, and the transformation of the soul.
This work is central to the Antiochene tradition, shaping the understanding of the spiritual life and the soul's journey toward union with God.
Selected Passages
Not to share our own wealth with the poor is theft from the poor and deprivation of their means of life; we do not possess our own wealth but theirs.