Fathers

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What the Fathers say

Ephesians 1:8

Eastern Fathers

John Chrysostom

That is to say, Making us wise and prudent, in that which is true wisdom, and that which is true prudence. Strange! what friendship! For He telleth us His secrets; the mysteries, saith he, of His will, as if one should say, He hath made known to us the things that are in His heart. For here is indeed the mystery which is full of all wisdom and prudence. For what will you mention equal to this wisdom! Those that were worth nothing, it hath discovered a way of raising them to wealth and abundance. What can equal this wise contrivance? …

Homily 1 on Ephesians ↗

Theophylact of Ohrid

He did this, he says, according to the riches of His grace. Notice these intensified expressions: we have been given riches, and the riches of God, the riches of grace, and not simply grace, but "which He abundantly bestowed upon us," that is, poured out in superabundance.

Commentary on Ephesians ↗

Cosmas Indicopleustes

In all wisdom and prudence, he says, having made known unto us the mystery of his will, as if one should say: he made known to us the things in his heart. For this is the mystery which is full of all wisdom and prudence. For what seekest thou that is greater than this wisdom? Those who were nothing worth—even those He found out, that He might lead them to great riches. What is there that can compare with this inventive skill? …

The Christian Topography, Book 10 ↗

Western Saints

Thomas Aquinas

Having set down the blessings generally given to all, the Apostle now turns to those favors especially granted to the Apostles. This section is divided into two parts: First, he proposes the special blessings given the Apostles. Secondly, he indicates their cause (1:11). In reference to the first he does three things. He sets down the particular blessings of the Apostles: First, as regards the excellence of their wisdom. Secondly, as regards a unique revelation of the hidden mystery (1:9a). …

Commentary on Ephesians ↗