So we see how grave a matter it is to deprive another, with whom we ought rather to suffer, of anything, or to act injuriously towards one to whom we ought to give a share in our services. This is a true law of nature, which binds us to show all kindly feeling, so that we should all of us in turn help help one another, as parts of one body,and should never think of depriving another of anything, seeing it is against the law of nature even to abstain from giving help. We are born in such a way that limb combines with limb, and one works with another, and all assist each other in mutual service.
Ambrose, 337-397, Duties of the Clergy, Book III, Chapter III, 19 (translated by Rev. H. De Romestin, The Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, Philip Schaff and Henry Wace, T & T Clark and Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing, 1997, Second Series, Vol. X, p. 70).
What does it mean to be part of the body of Christ? How should it affect how we behave toward one another?
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