Lazarus, on the other hand, patiently endured his sufferings without any complaint. Chrysostom says, “For it is not the same thing for one who lives in poverty not to help those in need, as for one who enjoys such luxury to neglect others who are wasting away with hunger” (22). His over-indulgent lifestyle led to his spiritual ill-health. The rich man was condemned, not simply because he was rich, but because he neglected to care for his neighbor. He approaches the parable on a spiritual, not material, level. Earthquakes and Persian invasions were common threats to the people of Antioch at the time of Chrysostom’s priesthood.Ĭhrysostom’s first sermon is based on Jesus’ parable of the rich man and Lazarus, focusing on their earthly lives (Luke 16:19-21). The Christian church had to compete with other religions, the race track, and the theater (each of which is reflected in Chrysostom’s preaching). Antioch’s population was approximately 300,000, consisting mainly of Greeks (7). John estimated the population to be one tenth rich and one tenth poor (7). The people were primarily considered middle class, with few considered part of the upper and lower classes. Fourth century Antioch was much like our American society. The addresses were made around 388 or 389, by best estimate (10). John Chrysostom while he was priest of the Antiochian church (Syria).
The text, On Wealth and Poverty, consists of a series of six sermons delivered by St.
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