THEOSISClement of Alexandria
It is wisely observed regarding those who seek repentance: To the Lord you have declared that He shall be your God, and the Lord has assured you that you will be His own people. God welcomes anyone who seeks assistance and wishes to serve the true Creator. Even if there were only a single individual like this, they would be esteemed equally with the entire congregation, for as a member of the community, they represent the collective, since a part inherently signifies the whole.