Methodius’ Other Works

Little is known about Methodius, born around A.D. 260, aside from the fact that he was bishop of both Olympus and Patara in the region of Lycia. He may have later become bishop of Tyre and, in 312, was caught up in the great persecutions and was martyred.

This episode contains four other works by Methodius. The first is a short argument for the nature of free will, written in the style of a discourse. Using a series of logical and natural arguments, Methodius refutes the idea the evil is a property of matter or that God could be the author of evil. He rather asserts that humans have free will and thus are the ones responsible for all the troubles in the world.

The second is a discourse on the resurrection which specifically defends the doctrine that we will be raised with a body of flesh and blood. Of particular note is the fact that Methodius, who is perfectly willing to use allegorical interpretation at times, critiques Origen in the course of his arguments.

The third and fourth works represent two orations from Methodius, one on Simeon and Anna from Jesus’ presentation at the Temple and the other on the Psalms, exhorting his congregation to worship God.

If you would like to read more of the writings of the Early Christian Fathers, please visit ccel.org to view the full collection.