Ante-Nicene Fathers/Volume III/Ethical/On Prayer/Of the Parting of Brethren

Chapter XXVI.&#8212;Of the Parting of Brethren.

You will not dismiss a brother who has entered your house without prayer.&#8212;&#8220;Have you seen,&#8221; says Scripture, &#8220;a brother? you have seen your Lord;&#8221; &#8212;especially &#8220;a stranger,&#8221; lest perhaps he be &#8220;an angel.&#8221;&#160; But again, when received yourself by brethren, you will not make earthly refreshments prior to heavenly, for your faith will forthwith be judged. Or else how will you&#8212;according to the precept &#8212;say, &#8220;Peace to this house,&#8221; unless you exchange mutual peace with them who are in the house?