Becoming a Community of Disciples

Chapter 2: Legislative Teachings – The Role of the Abbot

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precepts by the example of his deeds. 13 And all of the things that he teaches his disciples are contrary [to the divine precepts]—his own deeds should indicate that these are not to be done, lest while preaching to others, he himself be found reprobate (1 Cor 9:27); 14 and God says to him in his sin: How can you recite my justice and declare my covenant with your mouth? For you hated discipline and cast my words behind you (Ps 50:1–17). 15 And also: How could you see a speck in your brother’s eye, and not have noticed the plank in your own? (Matt 7:3). 16 He is not to distinguish between persons in the monastery. 17 He should not love one more than another unless he finds him better in good deeds or obedience. 18 One born free is not to be put before one who enters religion from slavery, except for some other reasonable cause. 19 Although, according to the dictates of justice, the Abbot may see fit to change anyone’s rank. Otherwise let each keep to his proper place, 20 because whether we are slaves or free, we are all one in Christ (Gal 3:28, Eph 6:8) and under one Lord serve equally in bearing arms: for with God there is no partiality among persons (Rom 2:11). 21 Solely in this are we distinguished before him: if we are found better than others in good works and humility. 22 Therefore, let equal love be shown to all; and there should be imposed upon all, according to their merits, the same discipline. 23 For in his teaching the Abbot should always observe the apostle’s norm, where he says: use argument, exhort, rebuke (2 Tim 4:2). 24 That is, he must adapt to circumstances, mingling gentleness with sternness, alternating the strictness of a master with the loving affection shown by a father: 25 thus he should sternly argue with the