ABSTRACT
The devil always thrashes our good beginnings and tempts us when the virtues are just starting to take root. The devil approached Christ with the deceit of the one who tempts, not with the care of the One who helps. The devil drew near to Christ with a more wicked brazenness than when he withdrew. The military trumpet instructs those experienced in battles what to do, but it is a terrifying clamor for the novice soldier. The trumpet is the director of battles, bestowing confidence on its own but pouring fear into the hearts of the enemy. A true teacher plants by word and demonstrates by deeds, for it is an office which consists of knowledge, but the authority of which comes from one’s way of life. Doing the very things one teaches encourages the obedience of the listener. “John wore clothing made of camel’s hair”.
