Letter 47

From: Ambrose, Bishop of Milan To: Emperor Gratian Date: ~381 AD Context: A supplementary theological instruction for the emperor, addressing the relationship between faith and works and clarifying that orthodox belief must be accompanied by righteous action. Ambrose, Bishop, to the Emperor Gratian. Your Clemency has absorbed the doctrine of the Trinity with admirable attention. Now let me add a practical point that doctrine alone does not cover: belief without action is incomplete. The Arians believe wrongly and act accordingly. But there are Catholics who believe rightly and act no better than pagans. Correct doctrine is necessary but not sufficient. The demons themselves believe that God is one (James 2:19) — and they tremble, but they do not obey. Faith and works are not opposites; they are partners. Faith is the root; works are the fruit. A tree with roots but no fruit is barren. A tree with fruit but no roots is an illusion — it will topple at the first storm. What works does God require of an emperor? Justice in judgment, mercy to the defeated, protection of the weak, and restraint in the use of power. The scepter is a trust, not a right. The man who wields it answers to the One who granted it. I do not say this to burden you, most faithful Emperor. I say it because you have shown yourself capable of hearing hard truths, and that capacity is itself a mark of grace. Many emperors before you silenced their advisors rather than listen to unwelcome counsel. You listen, and for that, both your subjects and your bishop are grateful. Continue in the faith, and let the faith continue in your actions. The world will judge you by what it can see — your deeds. God will judge you by what it cannot — your heart. Make sure both are worthy. Farewell in Christ.

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