Epistle to Diognetus 11

I do not speak of strange things, nor do I inquire unreasonably; but having become a disciple of apostles, I am becoming a teacher of the nations. I worthily minister the things handed down to those who become disciples of the truth.

For who, rightly taught and made dear to the Word, does not seek to learn clearly the things plainly shown by the Word to disciples—to whom the Word, having appeared, made them manifest, speaking openly, not understood by unbelievers, but expounding them to disciples who, being reckoned faithful by him, came to know the mysteries of the Father?

For this cause he sent the Word, that he might appear to the world; who, having been dishonored by the people, and proclaimed through the apostles, was believed on by the nations.

This is he who was from the beginning, who appeared as new and was found to be ancient, and who is ever being born anew in the hearts of the saints.

This is he who is eternal, who today is reckoned a Son; through whom the Church is made rich, and grace, unfolding, is multiplied among the saints—grace that bestows understanding, makes manifest mysteries, announces the seasons, rejoices over the faithful, and is given to those who seek it, those by whom the pledges of faith are not broken nor the boundaries of the fathers overstepped.

Then the fear of the Law is sung, the grace of the Prophets is recognized, the faith of the Gospels is established, the tradition of the apostles is kept, and the grace of the Church leaps for joy.

If you do not grieve this grace, you will come to know the things which the Word speaks through whom he wills, when he wills.

For whatever things we were moved to declare by the will of the Word who commands us, out of love for the things revealed to us we share them with you, with much labor.