{"collection":"chr","html_url":"https://unchartedknowledge.5gfusion.net/browse/chr/ecf/105/1050307.htm","path":"chr/ecf/105/1050307.htm","source_url":"https://sacred-texts.com/chr/ecf/105/1050307.htm","text":"Chapter 60 [LII.]\u2014Pelagius Admits \u201cContrary Flesh\u201d In the Unbaptized.\nSee what obstacles he still attempts to break through, if possible, in order to introduce his own opinion. He raises a question for himself in these terms: \u201cBut you will tell me that, according to the apostle, the flesh is contrary 1270 to us;\u201d and then answers it in this wise: \u201cHow can it be that in the case of any baptized person the flesh is contrary to him, when according to the same apostle he is understood not to be in the flesh? For he says, \u2018But ye are not in the flesh.\u2019\u201d 1271 Very well; we shall soon see 1272 whether it be really true that this says that in the baptized the flesh cannot be contrary to them; at present, however, as it was impossible for him quite to forget that he was a Christian (although his reminiscence on the point is but slight), he has p. 142 quitted his defence of nature. Where then is that inseparable capacity of his? Are those who are not yet baptized not a part of human nature? Well, now, here by all means, here at this point, he might find his opportunity of awaking out of his sleep; and he still has it if he is careful. \u201cHow can it be,\u201d he asks, \u201cthat in the case of a baptized person the flesh is contrary to him?\u201d Therefore to the unbaptized the flesh can be contrary! Let him tell us how; for even in these there is that nature which has been so stoutly defended by him. However, in these he does certainly allow that nature is corrupted, inasmuch as it was only among the baptized that the wounded traveller left his inn sound and well, or rather remains sound in the inn whither the compassionate Samaritan carried him that he might become cured. 1273 Well, now, if he allows that the flesh is contrary even in these, let him tell us what has happened to occasion this, since the flesh and the spirit alike are the work of one and the same Creator, and are therefore undoubtedly both of them good, because He is good,\u2014unless indeed it be that damage which has been inflicted by man\u2019s own will. And that this may be repaired in our nature, there is need of that very Saviour from whose creative hand nature itself proceeded. Now, if we acknowledge that this Saviour, and that healing remedy of His by which the Word was made flesh in order to dwell among us, are required by small and great,\u2014by the crying infant and the hoary-headed man alike,\u2014then, in fact, the whole controversy of the point between us is settled.","title":"Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, Vol. V: A Treatise on Nat...","type":"page"}