Library Theophilus of Antioch To Autolycus

Book 3, Chapter 14: Of Loving Our Enemies.

And that we should be kindly disposed, not only towards those of our own stock, as some suppose, Isaiah the prophet said: Say to those that hate you, and that cast you out, You are our brethren, that the name of the Lord may be glorified, and be apparent in their joy. Isaiah 66:5 And the Gospel says: Love your enemies, and pray for them that despitefully use you. For if you love them who love you, what reward will you have? This do also the robbers and the publicans. Matthew 5:44, 46 And those that do good it teaches not to boast, lest they become men-pleasers. For it says: Let not your left hand know what your right hand does. Matthew 6:3 Moreover, concerning subjection to authorities and powers, and prayer for them, the divine word gives us instructions, in order that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life. 1 Timothy 2:2 And it teaches us to render all things to all, Romans 13:7-8 honour to whom honour, fear to whom fear, tribute to whom tribute; to owe no man anything, but to love all.

English translation by Marcus Dods, in Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol. II (eds. Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson; Buffalo: Christian Literature Publishing Co., 1885). Public domain. Digital text via New Advent Church Fathers.