The Greek name Chrysostom, meaning “Golden Mouth,”
was not given to John until 150 years after his death. The name stuck because of
his greatness as a preacher.John was forced to become bishop of Constantinople.
He had served in Antioch as a priest for 14 years when one day military
officials, under orders from an imperial official, kidnapped him. He was
transported to the capital and ordained. Chrysostom accepted these events as
God’s providence.Chrysostom was educated by one of the leading pagan teachers of
his day, Libanius. In his writings, John cites more than 15 ancient Greek
philosophers, including at least 30 references to Plato.
In keeping with his era, John favored a cappella singing
in worship and opposed the use of musical instruments. Instruments were allowed
in the Old Testament to entice people to attend worship, he said, but Christians
shouldn’t need such inducements.As a youth, Chrysostom said he “plunged into the
whirlpool of the world.” His favorite pastime was the theater, which was noted
for its bawdiness. He would later preach stinging indictments against such
entertainment.Christmas first appeared as a special feast during John’s life. It
was celebrated at Antioch for the first time about 378, eight years before
Chrysostom was ordained there. Christianity Today.
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