Source edition
Cyprian. Saint. S. Thasci Caecili Cypriani Opera omnia, Pars I (Corpus Scriptorum Ecclesiasticorum Latinorum, Volume 3.1). Hartel, Wilhelm von, editor. Vienna: Gerold, 1868.
Source data
Open Greek and Latin · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
Written by Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage, this theological treatise addresses the absolute unity of the Christian Church and issues a stern warning against heresy and schism. The author demonstrates that the foundation of the Church was established upon Peter, arguing for the indivisibility of the episcopate and the unity of the Church through biblical symbols such as Christ's seamless garment and the divine union of the Trinity. He famously emphasizes that 'there is no salvation outside the Church,' warning that baptisms, prayers, or even martyrdom performed outside its fold cannot bring salvation due to a fundamental lack of love and unity. Cyprian also points out that even 'confessors' who survived persecution are not immune to falling into grave sin if they lead schisms, citing Old Testament examples of divine punishment. Finally, contrasting the fervent faith and solidarity of the early apostolic community with the decline of faith in his own day, he urges the faithful to avoid discord, remain united in peace, and keep watch for the Lord's return by faithfully keeping His commandments.