THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Consequently, it is evident that all who turn away from the Lord will face disgrace, for they have listened to His declarations: “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you have faith, as I am, you shall die in your sins” (John 8:24). However, those who recognized His manifestation were justified through faith and received immense and eternal glory, sharing in the Holy Spirit and enriched with the splendid dignity of being sons of God; for He has granted them the privilege of being His children (John 1:12). Above all, they possess a noble and unashamed hope of full acceptance and will receive the inheritance of the heavenly kingdom (John 1:12). They might be understood as the descendants of the children of Israel.
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This signifies that the holy apostles and evangelists are regarded as sons of Israel, as they were Jews by descent, and their offspring are those who, through them, were called to the knowledge of Christ. Thus, the Apostle Paul stated to those who came to faith through him: “Even though you have many guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel” (1 Corinthians 4:15). In various other instances, it is also noted that the children of the holy apostles refer to others who have been brought to salvation in Christ through their ministry.