Thus, we are called to reflect on the prophets and diligently seek the ancient or eternal paths walked by many saints, known in Greek as τρίβοι (trodden paths). We must observe and inquire where the good way of the Gospel can be found (Matthew 7:14) and walk in it; should this path be discovered, it will bring rest or purification to the souls of the faithful. However, they countered, Let us not follow the way of the Gospel. This sentiment expresses the disbelief of the Jews. Following this, the prophet adds, And I have set watchmen over you, undoubtedly referring to the apostolic community, echoed in Ezekiel: Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel (Ezekiel 3:17). I commanded you to heed the trumpet's call—whether the commandments of the Gospel or the teachings of the apostles—as illustrated in Isaiah: You who bring good tidings to Zion, lift up your voice like a trumpet, proclaiming to Jerusalem (Isaiah 40:9). Yet, they declared, Let us not listen; even when invited to the banquet, they refused to come. Thus it is proclaimed, Hear, O nations. The Apostles, in Lycaonia, echoed this sentiment, stating: It was necessary that we speak the word of God to you first; but since you have rejected it and judged yourselves unworthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles (Acts 13:46). And recognize the assembly—not merely of the Jews, but of all nations. Understand, you who shepherd the flocks, the bishops, presbyters, and the whole order of the Church; discern the testimony given to them—the testimony of the Lord instructing the young (Psalm 18:8), to whom the Lord says, Fear not, little flock (Luke 12:32), and, Behold, I and the children God has given me (Isaiah 8:18). Therefore, know what I will do to the disbelieving people. When I say: Hear, O earth, the entire world is summoned to listen, as we read at the beginning of Isaiah: Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth (Isaiah 1:2), which reveals the Lord’s intentions regarding the Jewish people.
THEOSIS