Through the Church Fathers: November 22

Speech, like laughter, measures the soul. Clement of Alexandria commands believers to silence filthy talk, for what leaves the lips can either sanctify or defile (Matthew 12:37). Jerome writes to Augustine from Bethlehem, defending his Hebrew translations and declaring that truth must never yield to custom—a defense of fidelity to the Word itself (John 17:17). Thomas Aquinas completes the triad by teaching that reason must temper anger; another’s defect should awaken mercy more than wrath (Psalm 103:13–14). Together these readings teach restraint of tongue, patience in dispute, and compassion over judgment—the virtues that make truth credible.Readings:Clement of Alexandria, The Instructor, Book 2, Chapter 6Jerome, Letter 75 to AugustineThomas Aquinas, Summa Theologica, Part 2–2, Question 47, Article 4Explore the Project:Through the Church Fathers – https://www.throughthechurchfathers.comPatreon – https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpattonCredo Courses – https://www.credocourses.comCredo Ministries – https://www.credoministries.org#Clement #Jerome #Aquinas #ChurchFathers #SummaTheologica #Virtue #HistoricalTheology