True knowledge is [that which consists in] the doctrine of…
““True knowledge is [that which consists in] the doctrine of the apostles, and the ancient constitution of the Church throughout all the world, and the distinctive manifestation of the body of Christ according to the successions of the bishops, by which they have handed down that Church which exists in every place, and has come even unto us, being guarded and preserved without any forging of Scriptures, by a very complete system of doctrine, and neither receiving addition nor [suffering] curtailment [in the truths which she believes]; and [it consists in] reading [the word of God] without falsification, and a lawful and diligent exposition in harmony with the Scriptures, both without danger and without blasphemy; and [above all, it consists in] the pre-eminent gift of love, which is more precious than knowledge, more glorious than prophecy, and which excels all the other gifts [of God].””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote describes the Church’s doctrine as an unaltered, comprehensive system passed down through apostolic succession, emphasizing love as the supreme gift above knowledge and prophecy.
In simple terms: Doctrine is preserved unchanged; love is the highest gift.
Value love over knowledge and hierarchy.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- church teaching
- personal study
- faith formation
- ecumenical dialogue
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does love shape your understanding of doctrine?
- Can tradition be both preserved and reformed?
May overlook historical complexities and differing interpretations.