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NOT long after this, at the suggestion of Theophilus, the bishop
Epiphanius again came from Cyprus to Constantinople; he brought also
with him a copy of the synodical decree in which they did not
excommunicate Origen himself but condemned his books. On reaching
John's church, which is seven miles distant from the city, he
disembarked, and there celebrated a service; then after having
ordained a deacon, he again entered the city. In complaisance to
Theophilus he declined John's courtesy, and engaged apartments in a
private house. He afterwards assembled those of the bishops who were
then in the capital, and producing his copy of the synodical decree
condemnatory of Origen's works, recited it before them; not being
able to assign any reason for this judgment, than that it seemed fit to
Theophilus and himself to reject them. Some indeed from a reverential
respect for Epiphanius subscribed the decree; but many refused to do
so among whom was Theotimus bishop of Scythia, who thus addressed
Epiphanius: -- 'I neither choose, Epiphanius,' said he, 'to
insult the memory of one who ended his life piously long ago; nor dare
I be guilty of so impious an act, as that of condemning what our
predecessors did not reject: and especially when I know of no evil
doctrine contained in Origen's books.' Having said this, he
brought forward one of that author's works, and reading a few passages
therefrom, showed that the sentiments pro-pounded were in perfect
accordance with the orthodox faith. He then added, 'Those who speak
evil of these writings are unconsciously casting dishonor upon the
sacred volume whence their principles are drawn.' Such was the reply
which Theotimus, a bishop celebrated for his piety and rectitude of
life, made to Epiphanius.
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