Here it were well to sigh aloud, and to wail bitterly: for not only do we imitate the hypocrites, but we have even surpassed them.
-St. John Chrysostom, Homily 20 on Matthew 6, 4th Century


For in a contest there is much labor needed--and after the contest victory falls to some, to others disgrace. Is the palm ever given or the crown granted before the course is finished? ... Therefore no one can receive a reward, unless he has striven lawfully; nor is the victory a glorious one, unless the contest also has been toilsome.
-St. Ambrose of Milan, Chapter 15, Three Books on the Duties of the Clergy, 4th century