| John Chrysostom (ca. 347-407) was an important early church father. He is best known for his eloquence in preaching and public speaking, his denunciation of abuse of authority by both ecclesiastical and political leaders, his “Divine Liturgy,” and his ascetic sensibilities. After his death (or, according to some sources, during his life) he was given the Greek surname chrysostomos, meaning “golden mouthed”, rendered in English as Chrysostom. John Calvin quoted him frequently. It would seem that just as Augustine was Calvin’s favorite theologian so also Chrysostom was his favorite exegete.
Chrysostom was sent into exile twice. Once when he was brought before the empress Aelia Eudoxia, she threatened him with banishment if he insisted on his Christian independence as a preacher. “You cannot banish me, for this world is my Father’s house.” “But I will kill you,” said the empress. “No, you cannot, for my life is hid with Christ in God,” replied John. “I will take away your treasures.” “No, you cannot, for my treasure is in heaven and my heart is there.” “But I will drive you away from your friends and you will have no one left.” “No, you cannot, for I have a Friend in heaven from whom you cannot separate me. I defy you, for there is nothing you can do to harm me.”
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