“O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” (Romans 7:24)

The 4th century witnessed the rapid growth of organised Christian monasticism, built upon earlier ascetic traditions. This involved withdrawing from the ordinary affairs of the world which often involved taking vows of humility, poverty and chastity. At times this involved the most extraordinary acts of self denial and self sacrifice. Symeon Stylites, for example, spent nearly four decades living upon a pillar, preaching repentance to those gathered below—perhaps the most bizarre example of all.

The ascetics embraced some of Christianity’s noblest and most useful saints. Athanasius, Jerome and Augustine each played an enormous role in popularising and authenticating the system. As the monastic system developed as a structured community of ascetics it helped to nurture learning and devotion.

The growing worldliness of the fourth-century church undoubtedly contributed to the rise of monasticism. In large measure, it was a reaction against a church that had become increasingly comfortable within society.

The reaction was not biblically framed. Christ practised self-denial, yet He did not withdraw from society, nor did He call His disciples to a life of monastic separation.

It is true that as Christians we face the temptations of the world but we are called to live holy lives among men not apart from them. The real struggle is often with the mind, however, not the body. Jerome, despite his extreme self-imposed austerities, lamented that thoughts of women, dancing, and worldly pleasures still invaded his mind. We still face the battle of mind and heart in the struggle against the flesh. But victory is ours in Christ. Sin is not conquered by changing our surroundings but by walking in the Spirit. Our hope is not found in isolation but in union with Christ, who gives victory over the flesh.

My will is not my own
till Thou hast made it Thine;
if it would reach a monarch's throne,
it must its crown resign.
It only stands unbent
amid the clashing strife,
when on Thy bosom it has leant
and found in Thee its life.
George Matheson