Was John Chrysostom overly critical of the wealthy?
To speak truth is not to criticize unjustly, but to call sinners to repentance. For what purpose do we possess wealth if not to aid the poor and glorify God? I spoke out against the excessive luxury and indifference of many rich Christians, for it is a grave offense when brothers and sisters in Christ suffer from want while others indulge in extravagance. This is the very root of many evils. My concern, as articulated in my homilies, was not to condemn all possession, but to urge those who have much to share generously, lest their riches become a stumbling block on the path to salvation. Let us not deceive ourselves; true wealth lies in merciful giving.
Ask John Chrysostom the follow-up →