Gregory of Nazianzus, Basil of Caesarea and John Chrysostom (Cambridge, University Library, MS Nn.1.23)

Before this day, and out of a love for humanity original: "φιλάνθρωπος." This is the characteristic "philanthropia" of God—His kindness and mercy toward the human race., a plan of healing was arranged for our correction. For since we are prone to stray and a sudden change original: "μετακλίσις." Gregory argues that human nature cannot handle sudden, radical shifts in behavior without breaking; God therefore changes us slowly. would be dangerous for us, just as a physician might treat a patient, he deals with us. On one hand, he allows some things to be struck down, while others are set right. For one cannot tame a spirited horse Gregory uses the metaphor of a "hot" or spirited horse to represent human passions. Just as a horseman uses "flattery" (gentle coaxing) rather than just the whip, God uses the Law to guide us. that is past its prime without some degree of coaxing and specific treatments. Because of this, the Law νόμος: The Mosaic Law given to the Israelites. was given: so that it might be a kind of bulwark or partition, standing in the middle between God and an idol. It leads us away from one, and leads us back toward the other. And he [God] concedes a small thing now, so that he might receive something greater later. He concedes sacrifices Gregory suggests that God didn't actually want animal sacrifices, but allowed them temporarily so that the people wouldn't sacrifice to idols instead. for a time, so that the understanding of God might remain among those who were only half-way...

...the right time. By changing the sacrifices piece by piece, we clearly transform ourselves through gradual removals. Thus, he leads us toward the Gospel εὐαγγέλιον: The "Good News" or the new covenant in Christ., which is joined to what was previously written. Only in this way could it be. And for these reasons, the written law was a multitude, gathering us in quietly. And this is the reasoning behind the sacrifices—a wise reasoning! For whoever might search the depth of Wisdom original: "Σοφίας." A reference to Romans 11:33: "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God!" and the wealth of his unsearchable judgments would find that he did not leave these [legal rituals] entirely without reward, nor were they useless. Nor do they continue even until now in the form of blood. Instead, he has provided the Great and Unslayable Victim original: "ἄθυτον ἱερεῖον." Referring to Christ. Unlike animal sacrifices that must be repeated, Christ is the "unslayable" or "eternal" sacrifice who was offered once for all., Jesus the Savior. Let me speak of how much this differs in its first nature from the legal...