John Chrysostom
The greatest preacher of the ancient Church, whose homilies on Scripture remain unsurpassed in their depth, fire, and pastoral urgency.
“If you cannot find Christ in the beggar at the church door, you will not find Him in the chalice.”
— Homilies on Matthew
John Chrysostom — Chrysostom meaning 'golden-mouthed' — was the greatest preacher of Christian antiquity. Born around 347 in Antioch, Syria, he studied rhetoric under the pagan philosopher Libanius, who is said to have lamented that John chose the Church over philosophy.
After years as a monk and ascetic in the Syrian desert, poor health forced him back to Antioch. He was ordained deacon and then priest, and for twelve years his preaching transformed the city. His homiletical series on Matthew, John, Romans, and the Epistles remain theological treasures.
In 398 he was made Archbishop of Constantinople — the capital of the empire. His reforming zeal made powerful enemies. He sold off much of the episcopal wealth to fund hospitals for the poor, rebuked the luxury of the imperial court, and preached without flattery to the powerful.
Empress Eudoxia drove him into exile twice. He died on a forced march in 407, his last recorded words being 'Glory to God for all things.' The Eastern Church canonized him as one of the Three Holy Hierarchs alongside Basil and Gregory.
- Scripture as the living voice of God
- Pastoral authority as servant-leadership
- Radical Christian charity and care for the poor
- The Eucharist as the center of Christian life
Born in Antioch, Syria
Baptized and begins ascetic life
Ordained priest in Antioch; begins preaching ministry
Appointed Archbishop of Constantinople
First exile by Empress Eudoxia
Second and final exile
Dies at Comana Pontica on forced march
90 homilies on the Gospel of Matthew — among the most celebrated expository sermons in the history of the Church.
A treatise on the awesome weight and dignity of the pastoral office, written in dialogue form.
32 homilies on Paul's letter to the Romans, praised by John Calvin as essential reading for any minister.
Sermons challenging the wealthy of Constantinople with the radical demands of Christian charity.
