First Epistle to the Corinthians — First Epistle to the Corinthians

The church of God that is living temporarily in Rome, to the church of God living temporarily in Corinth, to those who are called and made holy by the will of God, through our Lord Jesus Christ: May grace and peace from Almighty God through Jesus Christ be increased for you.

The church of God which sojourns at Rome, to the church of God sojourning at Corinth, to them that are called and sanctified by the will of God, through our Lord Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, from Almighty God through Jesus Christ, be multiplied.

Because of the sudden and repeated disasters that have come upon us, dear brothers and sisters, we realize we have been slow to address the matters you brought to our attention—especially that shameful and detestable division, utterly opposed to God's chosen people, which a few reckless and arrogant individuals have stirred up to such intensity that your respected and honored reputation, worthy of universal love, has been seriously damaged. For who has ever lived among you, even briefly, without discovering that your faith produced virtue as abundantly as it was firmly rooted? Who did not admire the self-control and balance of your devotion to Christ? Who did not speak highly of your generous and consistent hospitality? And who did not celebrate your complete and solid understanding? For you did everything without favoritism and followed God's commands, obeying those in authority over you and showing proper honor to the elders among you. You directed young men to be self-controlled and serious-minded, you taught your wives to carry out all their duties with a blameless, proper, and pure conscience, loving their husbands as they ought, and you instructed them that by living under proper authority, they should manage their households appropriately and be thoroughly marked by wisdom.

Owing, dear brethren, to the sudden and successive calamitous events which have happened to ourselves, we feel that we have been somewhat tardy in turning our attention to the points respecting which you consulted us; and especially to that shameful and detestable sedition, utterly abhorrent to the elect of God, which a few rash and self-confident persons have kindled to such a pitch of frenzy, that your venerable and illustrious name, worthy to be universally loved, has suffered grievous injury. For who ever dwelt even for a short time among you, and did not find your faith to be as fruitful of virtue as it was firmly established? Who did not admire the sobriety and moderation of your godliness in Christ? Who did not proclaim the magnificence of your habitual hospitality? And who did not rejoice over your perfect and well-grounded knowledge? For you did all things without respect of persons, and walked in the commandments of God, being obedient to those who had the rule over you, and giving all fitting honour to the presbyters among you. You enjoined young men to be of a sober and serious mind, you instructed your wives to do all things with a blameless, becoming, and pure conscience, loving their husbands as in duty bound; and you taught them that, living in the rule of obedience, they should manage their household affairs becomingly, and be in every respect marked by discretion.

Moreover, you were all marked by humility and were not puffed up with pride in any way. You yielded obedience rather than demanding it, and were more willing to give than to receive. Content with the provision God had made for you and carefully attending to His words, you were inwardly filled with His doctrine, and His sufferings were before your eyes. In this way, a deep and abundant peace was given to all of you, and you had an insatiable desire for doing good, while a full outpouring of the Holy Spirit was upon all of you. Full of holy purposes, you stretched out your hands to God Almighty with true earnestness of mind and godly confidence, asking Him to be merciful to you if you had committed any unintentional sin. Day and night you were concerned for the whole brotherhood, so that the number of God's elect might be saved with mercy and a good conscience. You were sincere and uncorrupted, and you did not hold grudges against one another. Every kind of faction and schism was detestable in your sight. You mourned over the sins of your neighbors and considered their shortcomings as your own. You never resented any act of kindness, being ready for every good work. Adorned by a thoroughly virtuous and religious life, you did all things in the fear of God. The commandments and ordinances of the Lord were written upon the tablets of your hearts.

Moreover, you were all distinguished by humility, and were in no respect puffed up with pride, but yielded obedience rather than extorted it, and were more willing to give than to receive. Acts 20:35 Content with the provision which God had made for you, and carefully attending to His words, you were inwardly filled with His doctrine, and His sufferings were before your eyes. Thus a profound and abundant peace was given to you all, and you had an insatiable desire for doing good, while a full outpouring of the Holy Spirit was upon you all. Full of holy designs, you did, with true earnestness of mind and a godly confidence, stretch forth your hands to God Almighty, beseeching Him to be merciful unto you, if you had been guilty of any involuntary transgression. Day and night you were anxious for the whole brotherhood, 1 Peter 2:17 that the number of God's elect might be saved with mercy and a good conscience. You were sincere and uncorrupted, and forgetful of injuries between one another. Every kind of faction and schism was abominable in your sight. You mourned over the transgressions of your neighbours: their deficiencies you deemed your own. You never grudged any act of kindness, being ready to every good work. Titus 3:1 Adorned by a thoroughly virtuous and religious life, you did all things in the fear of God. The commandments and ordinances of the Lord were written upon the tablets of your hearts. Proverbs 7:3

Every kind of honor and happiness was given to you, and then what is written came true: My beloved ate and drank, and grew large and became fat, and kicked. Hence came rivalry and envy, conflict and rebellion, persecution and chaos, war and captivity. So the worthless rose up against the honored, those with no reputation against those who were famous, the foolish against the wise, the young against the elderly. For this reason righteousness and peace have now departed far from you, since everyone abandons the fear of God and has become blind in his faith, neither walking in the rules of his calling nor acting in a way fitting for a Christian, but walking according to his own wicked desires, taking up again the practice of an unrighteous and ungodly envy, through which death itself entered into the world.

Every kind of honour and happiness was bestowed upon you, and then was fulfilled that which is written, My beloved ate and drank, and was enlarged and became fat, and kicked. Deuteronomy 32:15 Hence flowed emulation and envy, strife and sedition, persecution and disorder, war and captivity. So the worthless rose up against the honoured, those of no reputation against such as were renowned, the foolish against the wise, the young against those advanced in years. For this reason righteousness and peace are now far departed from you, inasmuch as every one abandons the fear of God, and has become blind in His faith, neither walks in the ordinances of His appointment, nor acts a part becoming a Christian, but walks after his own wicked lusts, resuming the practice of an unrighteous and ungodly envy, by which death itself entered into the world. Wisdom 2:24

For this is what is written: After some time had passed, Cain brought some of the fruits of the earth as a sacrifice to God, and Abel also brought some of the firstborn of his sheep and their fat. God looked favorably on Abel and his offerings, but He did not look favorably on Cain and his sacrifices. Cain was deeply upset, and his face fell. God said to Cain, "Why are you upset, and why has your face fallen? If you offer correctly but do not divide correctly, haven't you sinned? Be calm: your offering returns to you, and you will possess it again." Cain said to his brother Abel, "Let us go into the field." While they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him. You see, brothers, how envy and jealousy led to the murder of a brother. Because of envy, our father Jacob also fled from his brother Esau. Envy caused Joseph to be persecuted to the point of death and to be sold into slavery. Envy forced Moses to flee from Pharaoh, king of Egypt, when he heard these words from his fellow countryman: "Who made you a judge or ruler over us? Will you kill me as you killed the Egyptian yesterday?" Because of envy, Aaron and Miriam had to live outside the camp. Envy brought Dathan and Abiram down alive to Hades because of the rebellion they stirred up against God's servant Moses. Because of envy, David not only suffered the hatred of foreigners but was also persecuted by Saul, king of Israel.

For thus it is written: And it came to pass after certain days, that Cain brought of the fruits of the earth a sacrifice unto God; and Abel also brought of the firstlings of his sheep, and of the fat thereof. And God had respect to Abel and to his offerings, but Cain and his sacrifices He did not regard. And Cain was deeply grieved, and his countenance fell. And God said to Cain, Why are you grieved, and why is your countenance fallen? If you offer rightly, but do not divide rightly, have you not sinned? Be at peace: your offering returns to yourself, and you shall again possess it. And Cain said to Abel his brother, Let us go into the field. And it came to pass, while they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him. You see, brethren, how envy and jealousy led to the murder of a brother. Through envy, also, our father Jacob fled from the face of Esau his brother. Envy made Joseph be persecuted unto death, and to come into bondage. Genesis xxxvii Envy compelled Moses to flee from the face of Pharaoh king of Egypt, when he heard these words from his fellow-countryman, Who made you a judge or a ruler over us? Will you kill me, as you killed the Egyptian yesterday? Exodus 2:14 On account of envy, Aaron and Miriam had to make their abode without the camp. Numbers 12:14-15 Envy brought down Dathan and Abiram alive to Hades, through the sedition which they excited against God's servant Moses. Numbers 16:33 Through envy, David not only underwent the hatred of foreigners, but was also persecuted by Saul king of Israel.

But let us not dwell on ancient examples. Let us turn to the spiritual heroes closest to our own time. Let us consider the noble examples from our own generation. Through envy and jealousy the greatest and most righteous pillars of the church have been persecuted and killed. Let us place before our eyes the famous apostles. Peter, because of wrongful envy, endured not just one or two, but many hardships, and when he finally suffered martyrdom, he went to the place of glory he deserved. Because of envy, Paul also received the reward of patient endurance, after being imprisoned seven times, forced to flee, and stoned. After preaching in both the east and the west, he gained the excellent reputation his faith deserved, having taught righteousness to the whole world, and having reached the farthest boundary of the west, he suffered martyrdom under the prefects. In this way he departed from the world and entered the holy place, having shown himself to be a remarkable example of patience.

But not to dwell upon ancient examples, let us come to the most recent spiritual heroes. Let us take the noble examples furnished in our own generation. Through envy and jealousy the greatest and most righteous pillars [of the church] have been persecuted and put to death. Let us set before our eyes the illustrious apostles. Peter, through unrighteous envy, endured not one or two, but numerous labours; and when he had at length suffered martyrdom, departed to the place of glory due to him. Owing to envy, Paul also obtained the reward of patient endurance, after being seven times thrown into captivity, compelled to flee, and stoned. After preaching both in the east and west, he gained the illustrious reputation due to his faith, having taught righteousness to the whole world, and come to the extreme limit of the west, and suffered martyrdom under the prefects. Thus was he removed from the world, and went into the holy place, having proved himself a striking example of patience.

To these men who spent their lives practicing holiness, we must add a great multitude of the elect who, having endured many indignities and tortures because of envy, provided us with a most excellent example. Because of envy, those women, the Danaids and Dircae, were persecuted, and after they had suffered terrible and unspeakable torments, they completed the course of their faith with steadfastness, and though weak in body, received a noble reward. Envy has alienated wives from their husbands and changed that saying of our father Adam, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh. Genesis 2:23 Envy and strife have overthrown great cities and uprooted mighty nations.

To these men who spent their lives in the practice of holiness, there is to be added a great multitude of the elect, who, having through envy endured many indignities and tortures, furnished us with a most excellent example. Through envy, those women, the Danaids and Dircæ, being persecuted, after they had suffered terrible and unspeakable torments, finished the course of their faith with steadfastness, and though weak in body, received a noble reward. Envy has alienated wives from their husbands, and changed that saying of our father Adam, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh. Genesis 2:23 Envy and strife have overthrown great cities, and rooted up mighty nations.

These things, beloved, we write to you not only to warn you about your duty, but also to remind ourselves. For we are struggling in the same arena, and the same conflict is assigned to both of us. Therefore let us give up empty and useless concerns, and come to the glorious and honorable rule of our holy calling. Let us pay attention to what is good, pleasing, and acceptable in the sight of Him who formed us. Let us look steadily at the blood of Christ, and see how precious that blood is to God, which, having been shed for our salvation, has set the grace of repentance before the whole world. Let us look back at every age that has passed, and learn that from generation to generation, the Lord has granted a place of repentance to all who would turn to Him. Noah preached repentance, and as many as listened to him were saved. Jonah proclaimed destruction to the Ninevites, but they, repenting of their sins, appeased God through prayer and obtained salvation, even though they were strangers to the covenant of God.

These things, beloved, we write unto you, not merely to admonish you of your duty, but also to remind ourselves. For we are struggling on the same arena, and the same conflict is assigned to both of us. Wherefore let us give up vain and fruitless cares, and approach to the glorious and venerable rule of our holy calling. Let us attend to what is good, pleasing, and acceptable in the sight of Him who formed us. Let us look steadfastly to the blood of Christ, and see how precious that blood is to God which, having been shed for our salvation, has set the grace of repentance before the whole world. Let us turn to every age that has passed, and learn that, from generation to generation, the Lord has granted a place of repentance to all such as would be converted unto Him. Noah preached repentance, and as many as listened to him were saved. Jonah proclaimed destruction to the Ninevites; Jonah iii but they, repenting of their sins, propitiated God by prayer, and obtained salvation, although they were aliens [to the covenant] of God.

The ministers of God's grace have spoken about repentance through the Holy Spirit, and the Lord of all things has himself declared with an oath concerning it: "As I live, says the Lord, I do not desire the death of the sinner, but rather his repentance," adding this gracious statement: "Repent, O house of Israel, of your iniquity. Say to the children of my people: Though your sins reach from earth to heaven, and though they are redder than scarlet and blacker than sackcloth, yet if you turn to me with your whole heart and say 'Father,' I will listen to you as to a holy people." And in another place He says: "Wash yourselves and become clean; put away the wickedness of your souls from before my eyes; stop your evil ways and learn to do good; seek justice, deliver the oppressed, judge the fatherless, and see that justice is done to the widow. Come, let us reason together. He declares: Though your sins are like crimson, I will make them white as snow; though they are like scarlet, I will whiten them like wool. If you are willing and obey me, you will eat the good of the land; but if you refuse and will not listen to me, the sword will devour you, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken these things." Therefore, desiring that all His beloved should share in repentance, He has established these declarations by His almighty will.

The ministers of the grace of God have, by the Holy Spirit, spoken of repentance; and the Lord of all things has himself declared with an oath regarding it, As I live, says the Lord, I desire not the death of the sinner, but rather his repentance; Ezekiel 33:11 adding, moreover, this gracious declaration, Repent, O house of Israel, of your iniquity. Ezekiel 18:30 Say to the children of my people, Though your sins reach from earth to heaven, and though they be redder Isaiah 1:18 than scarlet, and blacker than sack-cloth, yet if you turn to me with your whole heart, and say, Father! I will listen to you, as to a holy people. And in another place He speaks thus: Wash you and become clean; put away the wickedness of your souls from before my eyes; cease from your evil ways, and learn to do well; seek out judgment, deliver the oppressed, judge the fatherless, and see that justice is done to the widow; and come, and let us reason together. He declares, Though your sins be like crimson, I will make them white as snow; though they be like scarlet, I will whiten them like wool. And if you be willing and obey me, you shall eat the good of the land; but if you refuse, and will not hearken unto me, the sword shall devour you, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken these things. Isaiah 1:16-20 Desiring, therefore, that all His beloved should be partakers of repentance, He has, by His almighty will, established [these declarations].

Therefore, let us obey His excellent and glorious will. While we beg for His mercy and loving-kindness, let us abandon all fruitless work and strife, and envy that leads to death, and turn and rely on His compassion. Let us carefully consider those who have perfectly served His excellent glory. Let us take, for example, Enoch, who was found righteous in obedience and was taken up, and death was never known to happen to him. Noah, being found faithful, preached regeneration to the world through his ministry, and the Lord saved through him the animals that entered the ark together in harmony.

Wherefore, let us yield obedience to His excellent and glorious will; and imploring His mercy and loving-kindness, while we forsake all fruitless labours and strife, and envy, which leads to death, let us turn and have recourse to His compassions. Let us steadfastly contemplate those who have perfectly ministered to his excellent glory. Let us take (for instance) Enoch, who, being found righteous in obedience, was translated, and death was never known to happen to him. Noah, being found faithful, preached regeneration to the world through his ministry; and the Lord saved by him the animals which, with one accord, entered into the ark.

Abraham, called the friend of God, was found faithful because he obeyed the words of God. In his obedience, he left his own country, his relatives, and his father's house, so that by leaving behind a small territory, a weak family, and an insignificant house, he might receive the promises of God. For God said to him, "Leave your country, your relatives, and your father's house, and go to the land which I will show you. And I will make you a great nation, and will bless you, and make your name great, and you shall be blessed. And I will bless those who bless you, and curse those who curse you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed" (Genesis 12:1-3). And again, when he separated from Lot, God said to him, "Lift up your eyes, and look from the place where you now are, to the north, and south, and east, and west; for all the land which you see, I will give to you and to your descendants forever. And I will make your descendants as the dust of the earth, so that if anyone can count the dust of the earth, then your descendants also can be counted" (Genesis 13:14-16). And again Scripture says, "God brought Abram outside, and spoke to him, 'Look up now to heaven, and count the stars if you are able to number them; so shall your descendants be.' And Abram believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness." Because of his faith and hospitality, a son was given to him in his old age; and in obedience, he offered him as a sacrifice to God on one of the mountains which God showed him.

Abraham, styled the friend, was found faithful, inasmuch as he rendered obedience to the words of God. He, in the exercise of obedience, went out from his own country, and from his kindred, and from his father's house, in order that, by forsaking a small territory, and a weak family, and an insignificant house, he might inherit the promises of God. For God said to him, Get you out from your country, and from your kindred, and from your father's house, into the land which I shall show you. And I will make you a great nation, and will bless you, and make your name great, and you shall be blessed. And I will bless them that bless you, and curse them that curse you; and in you shall all the families of the earth be blessed. Genesis 12:1-3 And again, on his departing from Lot, God said to him, Lift up your eyes, and look from the place where you now are, northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward; for all the land which you see, to you will I give it, and to your seed forever. And I will make your seed as the dust of the earth, [so that] if a man can number the dust of the earth, then shall your seed also be numbered. Genesis 13:14-16 And again [the Scripture] says, God brought forth Abram, and spoke unto him, Look up now to heaven, and count the stars if you are able to number them; so shall your seed be. And Abram believed God, and it was counted to him for righteousness. On account of his faith and hospitality, a son was given him in his old age; and in the exercise of obedience, he offered him as a sacrifice to God on one of the mountains which He showed him.

On account of his hospitality and godliness, Lot was saved out of Sodom when all the surrounding country was punished by fire and brimstone, the Lord thus making it clear that He does not abandon those who hope in Him, but hands over those who depart from Him to punishment and torture. For Lot's wife, who went out with him but had a different mind from his and did not continue in agreement with him regarding the command that had been given them, was made an example by becoming a pillar of salt to this day. This happened so that all might know that those who are double-minded and who distrust the power of God bring judgment upon themselves and become a sign to all later generations.

On account of his hospitality and godliness, Lot was saved out of Sodom when all the country round was punished by means of fire and brimstone, the Lord thus making it manifest that He does not forsake those that hope in Him, but gives up such as depart from Him to punishment and torture. Genesis xix; cf. 2 Peter 2:6-9 For Lot's wife, who went forth with him, being of a different mind from himself, and not continuing in agreement with him [as to the command which had been given them], was made an example of, so as to be a pillar of salt unto this day. This was done that all might know that those who are of a double mind, and who distrust the power of God, bring down judgment on themselves and become a sign to all succeeding generations.

On account of her faith and hospitality, Rahab the prostitute was saved. When spies were sent by Joshua, the son of Nun, to Jericho, the king of that land learned that they had come to spy out his territory and sent men to capture them so that they could be put to death once caught. But the hospitable Rahab took them in and hid them on her roof under stalks of flax. When the men sent by the king arrived and said, Men came to you who are here to spy out our land; hand them over, for this is the king's command, she answered them, The two men you are looking for did come to me, but they left quickly and are gone, and so she did not reveal the spies to them. Then she said to the men, I know for certain that the Lord your God has given you this city, for fear and dread of you have fallen on everyone who lives here. Therefore, when you capture it, keep me and my father's household safe. And they said to her, It will be as you have said to us. So as soon as you know we are approaching, gather all your family under your roof, and they will be kept safe, but everyone found outside your house will die. Furthermore, they gave her a sign to this effect, that she should hang a scarlet thread from her house. And in this way they made it clear that redemption should flow through the blood of the Lord to all who believe and hope in God. You see, beloved, that there was not only faith but prophecy in this woman.

On account of her faith and hospitality, Rahab the harlot was saved. For when spies were sent by Joshua, the son of Nun, to Jericho, the king of the country ascertained that they had come to spy out their land, and sent men to seize them, in order that, when taken, they might be put to death. But the hospitable Rahab receiving them, concealed them on the roof of her house under some stalks of flax. And when the men sent by the king arrived and said, There came men unto you who are to spy out our land; bring them forth, for so the king commands, she answered them, The two men whom you seek came unto me, but quickly departed again and are gone, thus not discovering the spies to them. Then she said to the men, I know assuredly that the Lord your God has given you this city, for the fear and dread of you have fallen on its inhabitants. When therefore you shall have taken it, keep ye me and the house of my father in safety. And they said to her, It shall be as you have spoken to us. As soon, therefore, as you know that we are at hand, you shall gather all your family under your roof, and they shall be preserved, but all that are found outside of your dwelling shall perish. Moreover, they gave her a sign to this effect, that she should hang forth from her house a scarlet thread. And thus they made it manifest that redemption should flow through the blood of the Lord to all them that believe and hope in God. You see, beloved, that there was not only faith, but prophecy, in this woman.

So brothers, let us have humble minds, setting aside all arrogance, pride, foolishness, and anger. Let us act according to what is written, for the Holy Spirit says, "Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, nor let the mighty man boast in his might, nor let the rich man boast in his riches; but let the one who boasts boast in the Lord, by earnestly seeking Him and doing justice and righteousness." We should especially remember the words of the Lord Jesus that He spoke when teaching us gentleness and patience. For He said this: "Be merciful, so that you may receive mercy; forgive, so that you may be forgiven; as you do, so it will be done to you; as you judge, so you will be judged; as you show kindness, so kindness will be shown to you; with whatever measure you use, the same measure will be used for you." Let us strengthen ourselves by this command and by these principles, so that we walk in complete humility, obeying His holy words. For the holy word says, "On whom will I look, except on the one who is humble and peaceful, and who trembles at my words?"

Let us therefore, brethren, be of humble mind, laying aside all haughtiness, and pride, and foolishness, and angry feelings; and let us act according to that which is written (for the Holy Spirit says, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, neither let the rich man glory in his riches; but let him that glories glory in the Lord, in diligently seeking Him, and doing judgment and righteousness), being especially mindful of the words of the Lord Jesus which He spoke teaching us meekness and long-suffering. For thus He spoke: Be merciful, that you may obtain mercy; forgive, that it may be forgiven to you; as you do, so shall it be done unto you; as you judge, so shall you be judged; as you are kind, so shall kindness be shown to you; with what measure you measure, with the same it shall be measured to you. By this precept and by these rules let us establish ourselves, that we walk with all humility in obedience to His holy words. For the holy word says, On whom shall I look, but on him that is meek and peaceable, and that trembles at my words? Isaiah 66:2

It is right and holy, brothers, to obey God rather than to follow those who have become leaders of a hateful rivalry through pride and sedition. For we will suffer no small harm, but rather great danger, if we rashly give ourselves over to the desires of men who aim to stir up strife and disturbances, drawing us away from what is good. Let us be kind to one another following the example of the tender mercy and goodness of our Creator. For it is written, The kind-hearted will live in the land, and the innocent will remain in it, but those who break the law will be wiped out from it. And again Scripture says, I saw the wicked man greatly exalted and lifted up like the cedars of Lebanon: I passed by, and look, he was gone; and I searched carefully for his place and could not find it. Keep your innocence and look to what is right: for there will be a future for the man of peace.

It is right and holy therefore, men and brethren, rather to obey God than to follow those who, through pride and sedition, have become the leaders of a detestable emulation. For we shall incur no slight injury, but rather great danger, if we rashly yield ourselves to the inclinations of men who aim at exciting strife and tumults, so as to draw us away from what is good. Let us be kind one to another after the pattern of the tender mercy and benignity of our Creator. For it is written, The kind-hearted shall inhabit the land, and the guiltless shall be left upon it, but transgressors shall be destroyed from off the face of it. Proverbs 2:21-22 And again [the Scripture] says, I saw the ungodly highly exalted, and lifted up like the cedars of Lebanon: I passed by, and, behold, he was not; and I diligently sought his place, and could not find it. Preserve innocence, and look on equity: for there shall be a remnant to the peaceable man.

Let us therefore hold fast to those who pursue peace with godliness, and not to those who pretend they want it. For Scripture says in one place, This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. And again: They bless with their mouth, but curse with their heart. And again it says, They loved Him with their mouth, and lied to Him with their tongue; but their heart was not right with Him, neither were they faithful in His covenant. Let the deceitful lips become silent, and let the Lord destroy all the lying lips, and the boastful tongue of those who have said, Let us magnify our tongue: our lips are our own; who is lord over us? For the oppression of the poor, and for the sighing of the needy, will I now arise, says the Lord: I will place him in safety; I will deal confidently with him.

Let us cleave, therefore, to those who cultivate peace with godliness, and not to those who hypocritically profess to desire it. For [the Scripture] says in a certain place, This people honours me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. And again: They bless with their mouth, but curse with their heart. And again it says, They loved Him with their mouth, and lied to Him with their tongue; but their heart was not right with Him, neither were they faithful in His covenant. Let the deceitful lips become silent, [and let the Lord destroy all the lying lips,] and the boastful tongue of those who have said, Let us magnify our tongue: our lips are our own; who is lord over us? For the oppression of the poor, and for the sighing of the needy, will I now arise, says the Lord: I will place him in safety; I will deal confidently with him.

Christ belongs to those who are humble, not to those who put themselves above His flock. Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Sceptre of God's majesty, did not come with showy pride or arrogance, even though He could have. Instead, He came in a lowly state, just as the Holy Spirit had said about Him. For He says, Lord, who has believed our report, and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed? We have declared our message in His presence: He is like a child, like a root in dry ground; He has no form or glory—yes, we saw Him, and He had no form or beauty; His appearance had no honor, even lacking compared to the normal appearance of other people. He is a man exposed to beatings and suffering, familiar with enduring grief. His face was turned away; He was despised and not valued. He bears our sins and suffers for our sake, yet we thought He was exposed to hardship, beatings, and affliction on His own account. But He was wounded for our wrongdoing and crushed for our sins. The punishment that brought us peace fell on Him, and by His wounds we are healed. All of us, like sheep, have gone astray; each person has turned to his own way, and the Lord has handed Him over for our sins. While suffering, He does not open His mouth. He was led like a sheep to be killed, and like a lamb silent before its shearer, He does not open His mouth. In His humiliation, justice was denied Him. Who can describe His generation? For His life is taken from the earth. He was brought down to death because of my people's wrongdoing. I will give the wicked for His burial and the rich for His death, because He did no wrong, and no deceit was found in His mouth. The Lord is pleased to crush Him with suffering. If you make an offering for sin, you will see long-lived descendants. The Lord is pleased to relieve Him from the suffering of His soul, to show Him light, to shape Him with understanding, to declare righteous the Righteous One who serves many well, and He Himself will bear their sins. Therefore He will inherit many and divide the plunder of the strong, because His soul was handed over to death, He was counted among wrongdoers, He carried the sins of many, and for their sins He was handed over. And again He says, I am a worm, not a man; scorned by people and despised by the crowd. All who see me mock me; they speak with their lips and shake their heads, saying, He trusted in God—let Him rescue Him, let Him save Him, since He delights in Him. You see, beloved, what example has been given to us. If the Lord humbled Himself this way, what should we do who have come under the yoke of His grace through Him?

For Christ is of those who are humble-minded, and not of those who exalt themselves over His flock. Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Sceptre of the majesty of God, did not come in the pomp of pride or arrogance, although He might have done so, but in a lowly condition, as the Holy Spirit had declared regarding Him. For He says, Lord, who has believed our report, and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed? We have declared [our message] in His presence: He is, as it were, a child, and like a root in thirsty ground; He has no form nor glory, yea, we saw Him, and He had no form nor comeliness; but His form was without eminence, yea, deficient in comparison with the [ordinary] form of men. He is a man exposed to stripes and suffering, and acquainted with the endurance of grief: for His countenance was turned away; He was despised, and not esteemed. He bears our iniquities, and is in sorrow for our sakes; yet we supposed that [on His own account] He was exposed to labour, and stripes, and affliction. But He was wounded for our transgressions, and bruised for our iniquities. The chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we were healed. All we, like sheep, have gone astray; [every] man has wandered in his own way; and the Lord has delivered Him up for our sins, while He in the midst of His sufferings opens not His mouth. He was brought as a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before her shearer is dumb, so He opens not His mouth. In His humiliation His judgment was taken away; who shall declare His generation? For His life is taken from the earth. For the transgressions of my people was He brought down to death. And I will give the wicked for His sepulchre, and the rich for His death, because He did no iniquity, neither was guile found in His mouth. And the Lord is pleased to purify him by stripes. If you make an offering for sin, your soul shall see a long-lived seed. And the Lord is pleased to relieve Him of the affliction of His soul, to show Him light, and to form Him with understanding, to justify the Just One who ministers well to many; and He Himself shall carry their sins. On this account He shall inherit many, and shall divide the spoil of the strong; because His soul was delivered to death, and He was reckoned among the transgressors, and He bare the sins of many, and for their sins was He delivered. And again He says, I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people. All that see me have derided me; they have spoken with their lips; they have wagged their head, [saying] He hoped in God, let Him deliver Him, let Him save Him, since He delights in Him. You see, beloved, what is the example which has been given us; for if the Lord thus humbled Himself, what shall we do who have through Him come under the yoke of His grace?

Let us also imitate those who went about in goat-skins and sheep-skins proclaiming the coming of Christ—I mean Elijah, Elisha, and Ezekiel among the prophets, along with others who received similar testimony in Scripture. Abraham received special honor and was called the friend of God, yet when he earnestly considered God's glory, he humbly declared, "I am but dust and ashes." Furthermore, it is written of Job: "Job was a righteous man, and blameless, truthful, God-fearing, and one who kept himself from all evil." But even he brought an accusation against himself, saying, "No man is free from defilement, even if his life is only one day long." Moses was called faithful in all God's house, and through him God punished Egypt with plagues and tortures. Yet even though he was so greatly honored, he did not use lofty language but said, when the divine oracle came to him from the bush, "Who am I, that you send me? I am a man of feeble voice and slow tongue." And again he said, "I am but as the smoke of a pot."

Let us be imitators also of those who in goat-skins and sheep-skins Hebrews 11:37 went about proclaiming the coming of Christ; I mean Elijah, Elisha, and Ezekiel among the prophets, with those others to whom a like testimony is borne [in Scripture]. Abraham was specially honoured, and was called the friend of God; yet he, earnestly regarding the glory of God, humbly declared, I am but dust and ashes. Genesis 18:27 Moreover, it is thus written of Job, Job was a righteous man, and blameless, truthful, God-fearing, and one that kept himself from all evil. Job 1:1 But bringing an accusation against himself, he said, No man is free from defilement, even if his life be but of one day. Job 14:4-5 Moses was called faithful in all God's house; and through his instrumentality, God punished Egypt with plagues and tortures. Yet he, though thus greatly honoured, did not adopt lofty language, but said, when the divine oracle came to him out of the bush, Who am I, that You send me? I am a man of a feeble voice and a slow tongue. And again he said, I am but as the smoke of a pot.

What should we say about David, who received such a testimony and about whom God said, "I have found a man after my own heart, David the son of Jesse, and in everlasting mercy I have anointed him"? Yet this same man says to God, "Have mercy on me, O Lord, according to Your great mercy, and according to the abundance of Your compassions, blot out my transgression. Wash me even more from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my iniquity, and my sin is always before me. Against You only have I sinned, and done what is evil in Your sight, so that You may be justified in Your words and may prevail when You are judged. For look, I was conceived in transgressions, and in sins my mother conceived me. For look, You have loved truth; the secret and hidden things of wisdom You have shown me. You shall sprinkle me with hyssop, and I shall be cleansed; You shall wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. You shall make me hear joy and gladness; my bones, which have been humbled, shall rejoice. Turn Your face away from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me with Your governing Spirit. I will teach transgressors Your ways, and the ungodly shall be converted to You. Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, the God of my salvation; my tongue shall rejoice in Your righteousness. O Lord, You shall open my mouth, and my lips shall declare Your praise. For if You had desired sacrifice, I would have given it; You will not delight in burnt offerings. The sacrifice acceptable to God is a bruised spirit; a broken and contrite heart God will not despise."

But what shall we say concerning David, to whom such testimony was borne, and of whom God said, I have found a man after my own heart, David the son of Jesse; and in everlasting mercy have I anointed him? Yet this very man says to God, Have mercy on me, O Lord, according to Your great mercy; and according to the multitude of Your compassions, blot out my transgression. Wash me still more from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge mine iniquity, and my sin is ever before me. Against You only have I sinned, and done that which is evil in Your sight; that You may be justified in Your sayings, and may overcome when You are judged. For, behold, I was conceived in transgressions, and in sins did my mother conceive me. For, behold, You have loved truth; the secret and hidden things of wisdom have You shown me. You shall sprinkle me with hyssop, and I shall be cleansed; You shall wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. You shall make me to hear joy and gladness; my bones, which have been humbled, shall exult. Turn away Your face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from Your presence, and take not Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and establish me by Your governing Spirit. I will teach transgressors Your ways, and the ungodly shall be converted unto You. Deliver me from blood-guiltiness, O God, the God of my salvation: my tongue shall exult in Your righteousness. O Lord, You shall open my mouth, and my lips shall show forth Your praise. For if You had desired sacrifice, I would have given it; You will not delight in burnt-offerings. The sacrifice [acceptable] to God is a bruised spirit; a broken and a contrite heart God will not despise.

The humility and godly submission of such great and distinguished men have made not only us better, but also all the generations that came before us—all those who received His oracles in fear and truth. Therefore, since we have so many great and glorious examples placed before us, let us return to the practice of that peace which was the goal set before us from the beginning. Let us look steadfastly to the Father and Creator of the universe, and hold fast to His mighty and extraordinarily great gifts and blessings of peace. Let us contemplate Him with our understanding, and look with the eyes of our soul at His patient will. Let us consider how free from anger He is toward all His creation.

Thus the humility and godly submission of so great and illustrious men have rendered not only us, but also all the generations before us, better; even as many as have received His oracles in fear and truth. Wherefore, having so many great and glorious examples set before us, let us turn again to the practice of that peace which from the beginning was the mark set before us; and let us look steadfastly to the Father and Creator of the universe, and cleave to His mighty and surpassingly great gifts and benefactions of peace. Let us contemplate Him with our understanding, and look with the eyes of our soul to His long-suffering will. Let us reflect how free from the wrath He is towards all His creation.

The heavens, revolving under His government, are subject to Him in peace. Day and night run the course He appointed for them, in no way hindering each other. The sun and moon, with the groups of stars, roll on in harmony according to His command, within their assigned limits, and without any deviation. The fruitful earth, according to His will, brings forth food in abundance at the proper seasons for man and beast and all living beings upon it, never hesitating nor changing any of the ordinances He has established. The unsearchable depths of the abysses and the indescribable arrangements of the underworld are restrained by the same laws. The vast, immeasurable sea, gathered together by His working into various basins, never passes beyond the bounds placed around it, but does as He has commanded. For He said, "Thus far shall you come, and your waves shall be broken within you" (Job 38:11). The ocean, impassable to man, and the worlds beyond it are regulated by the same decrees of the Lord. The seasons of spring, summer, autumn, and winter peacefully give way to one another. The winds in their various directions fulfill their service at the proper time without hindrance. The ever-flowing springs, created both for enjoyment and health, furnish without fail their streams for the life of men. Even the smallest of living beings come together in peace and harmony. All these things the great Creator and Lord of all has appointed to exist in peace and harmony, while He does good to all, but most abundantly to us who have fled for refuge to His compassions through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom be glory and majesty forever and ever. Amen.

The heavens, revolving under His government, are subject to Him in peace. Day and night run the course appointed by Him, in no wise hindering each other. The sun and moon, with the companies of the stars, roll on in harmony according to His command, within their prescribed limits, and without any deviation. The fruitful earth, according to His will, brings forth food in abundance, at the proper seasons, for man and beast and all the living beings upon it, never hesitating, nor changing any of the ordinances which He has fixed. The unsearchable places of abysses, and the indescribable arrangements of the lower world, are restrained by the same laws. The vast unmeasurable sea, gathered together by His working into various basins, never passes beyond the bounds placed around it, but does as He has commanded. For He said, Thus far shall you come, and your waves shall be broken within you. Job 38:11 The ocean, impassable to man and the worlds beyond it, are regulated by the same enactments of the Lord. The seasons of spring, summer, autumn, and winter, peacefully give place to one another. The winds in their several quarters fulfil, at the proper time, their service without hindrance. The ever-flowing fountains, formed both for enjoyment and health, furnish without fail their breasts for the life of men. The very smallest of living beings meet together in peace and concord. All these the great Creator and Lord of all has appointed to exist in peace and harmony; while He does good to all, but most abundantly to us who have fled for refuge to His compassions through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom be glory and majesty for ever and ever. Amen.

Be careful, beloved, that His many acts of kindness don't result in condemnation for all of us. This will happen unless we live in a way that is worthy of Him and with united purpose do what is good and pleasing in His sight. Scripture says somewhere, "The Spirit of the Lord is a lamp searching the innermost parts of the body." Let us consider how close He is to us, and that none of our thoughts or deliberations are hidden from Him. It is right, then, that we should not abandon the position His will has given us. We should rather offend those people who are foolish, thoughtless, and arrogant, and who boast in their proud speech, than offend God. Let us revere the Lord Jesus Christ, whose blood was shed for us. Let us respect those who lead us. Let us honor the elderly among us. Let us train the young men in the fear of God. Let us guide our wives toward what is good. They should display the attractive quality of purity in all their behavior. They should demonstrate a genuine attitude of gentleness. They should reveal their control over their tongue through the way they speak. They should show their love not by favoring one person over another, but by displaying equal care for all who reverently fear God. Let your children receive true Christian instruction. Let them learn how valuable humility is to God, how powerful the spirit of pure love is with Him, how excellent and great His fear is, and how it saves all who live according to it with a pure mind. For He searches the thoughts and desires of the heart. His breath is in us, and whenever He wishes, He will take it away.

Take heed, beloved, lest His many kindnesses lead to the condemnation of us all. [For thus it must be] unless we walk worthy of Him, and with one mind do those things which are good and well-pleasing in His sight. For [the Scripture] says in a certain place, The Spirit of the Lord is a candle searching the secret parts of the belly. Proverbs 20:27 Let us reflect how near He is, and that none of the thoughts or reasonings in which we engage are hid from Him. It is right, therefore, that we should not leave the post which His will has assigned us. Let us rather offend those men who are foolish, and inconsiderate, and lifted up, and who glory in the pride of their speech, than [offend] God. Let us reverence the Lord Jesus Christ, whose blood was given for us; let us esteem those who have the rule over us; let us honour the aged among us; let us train up the young men in the fear of God; let us direct our wives to that which is good. Let them exhibit the lovely habit of purity [in all their conduct]; let them show forth the sincere disposition of meekness; let them make manifest the command which they have of their tongue, by their manner of speaking; let them display their love, not by preferring one to another, but by showing equal affection to all that piously fear God. Let your children be partakers of true Christian training; let them learn of how great avail humility is with God — how much the spirit of pure affection can prevail with Him — how excellent and great His fear is, and how it saves all those who walk in it with a pure mind. For He is a Searcher of the thoughts and desires [of the heart]: His breath is in us; and when He pleases, He will take it away.

The faith that is in Christ confirms all these admonitions. For He Himself speaks to us through the Holy Spirit: Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. What person desires life and loves to see good days? Keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking deceit. Turn away from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers. The face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to cut off their memory from the earth. The righteous cried out, and the Lord heard him, and delivered him from all his troubles. Many are the afflictions appointed for the wicked; but mercy will surround those who hope in the Lord.

Now the faith which is in Christ confirms all these [admonitions]. For He Himself by the Holy Ghost thus addresses us: Come, you children, hearken unto me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. What man is he that desires life, and loves to see good days? Keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking guile. Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and His ears are [open] unto their prayers. The face of the Lord is against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth. The righteous cried, and the Lord heard him, and delivered him out of all his troubles. Many are the stripes [appointed for] the wicked; but mercy shall compass those about who hope in the Lord.

The all-merciful and compassionate Father has deep compassion for those who fear Him, and He graciously and lovingly gives His blessings to those who come to Him with a sincere heart. Therefore, let us not be double-minded, and let us not become proud because of His extraordinarily great and glorious gifts. May we have nothing to do with what is written: Wretched are those who are double-minded and have doubting hearts, who say, We have heard these things even in our fathers' time, but look, we have grown old and none of them has happened to us. You foolish people! Compare yourselves to a tree; consider the vine, for example. First it sheds its leaves, then it buds, next it puts forth leaves, then it flowers; after that comes the unripe grape, and then follows the mature fruit. You see how in a short time the fruit of a tree reaches maturity. Truly, His will shall be accomplished soon and suddenly, just as Scripture testifies, saying, He will come quickly and will not delay; and, The Lord will suddenly come to His temple, even the Holy One for whom you are waiting.

The all-merciful and beneficent Father has bowels [of compassion] towards those that fear Him, and kindly and lovingly bestows His favours upon those who come to Him with a simple mind. Wherefore let us not be double-minded; neither let our soul be lifted up on account of His exceedingly great and glorious gifts. Far from us be that which is written, Wretched are they who are of a double mind, and of a doubting heart; who say, These things we have heard even in the times of our fathers; but, behold, we have grown old, and none of them has happened unto us; You foolish ones! compare yourselves to a tree; take [for instance] the vine. First of all, it sheds its leaves, then it buds, next it puts forth leaves, and then it flowers; after that comes the sour grape, and then follows the ripened fruit. You perceive how in a little time the fruit of a tree comes to maturity. Of a truth, soon and suddenly shall His will be accomplished, as the Scripture also bears witness, saying, Speedily will He come, and will not tarry; and, The Lord shall suddenly come to His temple, even the Holy One, for whom you look. Malachi 3:1

Let us consider, beloved, how the Lord continually proves to us that there will be a future resurrection, of which he has made the Lord Jesus Christ the first-fruits by raising him from the dead. Let us contemplate, beloved, the resurrection that is taking place at all times. Day and night declare to us a resurrection. The night sinks to sleep, and the day arises; the day departs again, and the night comes on. Let us behold the fruits of the earth, how the sowing of grain takes place. The sower goes forth and casts it into the ground, and the seed being scattered in this way, though dry and naked when it fell upon the earth, is gradually dissolved. Then out of its dissolution the mighty power of the providence of the Lord raises it up again, and from one seed many arise and bring forth fruit.

Let us consider, beloved, how the Lord continually proves to us that there shall be a future resurrection, of which He has rendered the Lord Jesus Christ the first-fruits by raising Him from the dead. Let us contemplate, beloved, the resurrection which is at all times taking place. Day and night declare to us a resurrection. The night sinks to sleep, and the day arises; the day [again] departs, and the night comes on. Let us behold the fruits [of the earth], how the sowing of grain takes place. The sower Luke 8:5 goes forth, and casts it into the ground, and the seed being thus scattered, though dry and naked when it fell upon the earth, is gradually dissolved. Then out of its dissolution the mighty power of the providence of the Lord raises it up again, and from one seed many arise and bring forth fruit.

Let us consider that wonderful sign of the resurrection which takes place in eastern lands, that is, in Arabia and the surrounding countries. There is a certain bird called a phoenix. This is the only one of its kind, and it lives five hundred years. And when the time of its death draws near, it builds itself a nest of frankincense, myrrh, and other spices. When the time is fulfilled, it enters the nest and dies. But as the flesh decays, a certain kind of worm is produced, which is nourished by the fluids of the dead bird and grows feathers. Then, when it has gained strength, it picks up that nest containing the bones of its parent and carries them from the land of Arabia into Egypt, to the city called Heliopolis. And in broad daylight, flying in the sight of all people, it places them on the altar of the sun, and having done this, hurries back to its former home. The priests then examine the records of the dates and find that it has returned exactly as the five hundredth year was completed.

Let us consider that wonderful sign [of the resurrection] which takes place in eastern lands, that is, in Arabia and the countries round about. There is a certain bird which is called a phœnix. This is the only one of its kind, and lives five hundred years. And when the time of its dissolution draws near that it must die, it builds itself a nest of frankincense, and myrrh, and other spices, into which, when the time is fulfilled, it enters and dies. But as the flesh decays a certain kind of worm is produced, which, being nourished by the juices of the dead bird, brings forth feathers. Then, when it has acquired strength, it takes up that nest in which are the bones of its parent, and bearing these it passes from the land of Arabia into Egypt, to the city called Heliopolis. And, in open day, flying in the sight of all men, it places them on the altar of the sun, and having done this, hastens back to its former abode. The priests then inspect the registers of the dates, and find that it has returned exactly as the five hundredth year was completed.

Do we then consider it a great and wonderful thing for the Maker of all things to raise up again those who have faithfully served Him with the confidence of a good faith, when He shows us through even a bird the greatness of His power to fulfill His promise? For Scripture says in a certain place, "You shall raise me up, and I shall confess unto You"; and again, "I laid me down, and slept; I awoke, because You are with me"; and again, Job says, "You shall raise up this flesh of mine, which has suffered all these things."

Do we then deem it any great and wonderful thing for the Maker of all things to raise up again those that have piously served Him in the assurance of a good faith, when even by a bird He shows us the mightiness of His power to fulfil His promise? For [the Scripture] says in a certain place, You shall raise me up, and I shall confess unto You; and again, I laid me down, and slept; I awoke, because You are with me; and again, Job says, You shall raise up this flesh of mine, which has suffered all these things. Job 19:25-26

Having this hope, let our souls be bound to him who is faithful in his promises and just in his judgments. He who has commanded us not to lie will much more not lie himself, for nothing is impossible with God except lying. Let his faith therefore be stirred up again within us, and let us consider that all things are near to him. By the word of his power he established all things, and by his word he can overthrow them. Who can say to him, "What have you done?" Or who can resist the power of his strength? When and as he pleases, he will do all things, and none of the things determined by him will pass away. All things are open before him, and nothing can be hidden from his counsel. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky shows his handiwork. Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. And there are no words or speeches whose voices are not heard.

Having then this hope, let our souls be bound to Him who is faithful in His promises, and just in His judgments. He who has commanded us not to lie, shall much more Himself not lie; for nothing is impossible with God, except to lie. Let His faith therefore be stirred up again within us, and let us consider that all things are near unto Him. By the word of His might He established all things, and by His word He can overthrow them. Who shall say unto Him, What have you done? Or, Who shall resist the power of His strength? When, and as He pleases, He will do all things, and none of the things determined by Him shall pass away. Matthew 24:35 All things are open before Him, and nothing can be hidden from His counsel. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows His handy-work. Day unto day utters speech, and night unto night shows knowledge. And there are no words or speeches of which the voices are not heard. Psalm 19:1-4

Since all things are seen and heard by God, let us fear him and abandon those wicked works that come from evil desires. In this way, through his mercy, we may be protected from the judgments that are coming. For where can any of us flee from his mighty hand? Or what world will accept those who run away from him? For the Scripture says in a certain place, "Where shall I go, and where shall I hide from your presence? If I ascend into heaven, you are there; if I go away even to the farthest parts of the earth, there is your right hand; if I make my bed in the abyss, there is your Spirit." Where, then, can anyone go, or where can he escape from him who encompasses all things?

Since then all things are seen and heard [by God], let us fear Him, and forsake those wicked works which proceed from evil desires; so that, through His mercy, we may be protected from the judgments to come. For whither can any of us flee from His mighty hand? Or what world will receive any of those who run away from Him? For the Scripture says in a certain place, Whither shall I go, and where shall I be hid from Your presence? If I ascend into heaven, You are there; if I go away even to the uttermost parts of the earth, there is Your right hand; if I make my bed in the abyss, there is Your Spirit. Whither, then, shall anyone go, or where shall he escape from Him who comprehends all things?

Let us draw near to God with holiness of spirit, lifting up pure and undefiled hands to Him, loving our gracious and merciful Father, who has made us partakers in the blessings of His elect. For Scripture says, "When the Most High divided the nations, when He scattered the sons of Adam, He fixed the boundaries of the nations according to the number of the angels of God. His people Jacob became the portion of the Lord, and Israel the lot of His inheritance" (Deuteronomy 32:8-9). And in another place Scripture says, "Behold, the Lord takes for Himself a nation out of the midst of the nations, as a man takes the first-fruits of his threshing-floor, and from that nation shall come forth the Most Holy."

Let us then draw near to Him with holiness of spirit, lifting up pure and undefiled hands unto Him, loving our gracious and merciful Father, who has made us partakers in the blessings of His elect. For thus it is written, When the Most High divided the nations, when He scattered the sons of Adam, He fixed the bounds of the nations according to the number of the angels of God. His people Jacob became the portion of the Lord, and Israel the lot of His inheritance. Deuteronomy 32:8-9 And in another place [the Scripture] says, Behold, the Lord takes unto Himself a nation out of the midst of the nations, as a man takes the first-fruits of his threshing-floor; and from that nation shall come forth the Most Holy.

Since we are the portion of the Holy One, let us do everything that pertains to holiness. Let us avoid all evil speech, all disgusting and impure acts of intimacy, all drunkenness, all craving for novelty, all vile desires, hateful adultery, and abominable pride. For God, as Scripture says, resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. So let us hold fast to those to whom God has given grace. Let us clothe ourselves with harmony and humility, always practicing self-control and keeping far away from all gossip and slander. We should be justified by our actions, not by our words. For Scripture says, "The one who speaks much will also hear much in reply. Does the person who talks freely consider himself righteous? Blessed is the one born of woman, who lives only a short time: do not be given to excessive talking." Let our praise be in God, not in ourselves, for God hates those who praise themselves. Let others bear witness to our good deeds, just as they did for our righteous forefathers. Boldness, arrogance, and recklessness belong to those who are cursed by God, but restraint, humility, and gentleness belong to those who are blessed by Him.

Seeing, therefore, that we are the portion of the Holy One, let us do all those things which pertain to holiness, avoiding all evil-speaking, all abominable and impure embraces, together with all drunkenness, seeking after change, all abominable lusts, detestable adultery, and execrable pride. For God, [says the Scripture], resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Let us cleave, then, to those to whom grace has been given by God. Let us clothe ourselves with concord and humility, ever exercising self-control, standing far off from all whispering and evil-speaking, being justified by our works, and not our words. For [the Scripture] says, He that speaks much, shall also hear much in answer. And does he that is ready in speech deem himself righteous? Blessed is he that is born of woman, who lives but a short time: be not given to much speaking. Let our praise be in God, and not of ourselves; for God hates those that commend themselves. Let testimony to our good deeds be borne by others, as it was in the case of our righteous forefathers. Boldness, and arrogance, and audacity belong to those that are accursed of God; but moderation, humility, and meekness to such as are blessed by Him.

Let us hold on to His blessing, then, and consider what the means are for possessing it. Let us think about the things that have taken place from the beginning. For what reason was our father Abraham blessed? Was it not because he did what was right and true through faith? Isaac, with complete confidence, as if knowing what was going to happen, cheerfully gave himself as a sacrifice. Jacob, because of his brother, left his own land in humility and came to Laban and served him; and there the scepter of the twelve tribes of Israel was given to him.

Let us cleave then to His blessing, and consider what are the means of possessing it. Let us think over the things which have taken place from the beginning. For what reason was our father Abraham blessed? Was it not because he wrought righteousness and truth through faith? Isaac, James 2:21 with perfect confidence, as if knowing what was to happen, cheerfully yielded himself as a sacrifice. Genesis 22:6-10 Jacob, through reason of his brother, went forth with humility from his own land, and came to Laban and served him; and there was given to him the sceptre of the twelve tribes of Israel.

Anyone who honestly examines each detail will recognize the greatness of the gifts that were given by him. For from him came the priests and all the Levites who serve at the altar of God. From him also came our Lord Jesus Christ according to the flesh. From him came kings, princes, and rulers of the race of Judah. Nor are his other tribes of small glory, since God had promised, Your seed shall be as the stars of heaven. All these, therefore, were highly honored and made great, not for their own sake, or for their own works, or for the righteousness they practiced, but through the working of His will. And we, too, being called by His will in Christ Jesus, are not justified by ourselves, nor by our own wisdom, or understanding, or godliness, or works which we have done in holiness of heart; but by that faith through which, from the beginning, Almighty God has justified all men; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Whosoever will candidly consider each particular, will recognise the greatness of the gifts which were given by him. For from him have sprung the priests and all the Levites who minister at the altar of God. From him also [was descended] our Lord Jesus Christ according to the flesh. Romans 9:5 From him [arose] kings, princes, and rulers of the race of Judah. Nor are his other tribes in small glory, inasmuch as God had promised, Your seed shall be as the stars of heaven. All these, therefore, were highly honoured, and made great, not for their own sake, or for their own works, or for the righteousness which they wrought, but through the operation of His will. And we, too, being called by His will in Christ Jesus, are not justified by ourselves, nor by our own wisdom, or understanding, or godliness, or works which we have wrought in holiness of heart; but by that faith through which, from the beginning, Almighty God has justified all men; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

What should we do, then, brothers and sisters? Should we become lazy in doing good and stop practicing love? God forbid that we should follow any such path! Instead, let us hurry with all energy and eagerness to do every good work. For the Creator and Lord of all delights in His works. By His infinitely great power He established the heavens, and by His incomprehensible wisdom He adorned them. He also separated the earth from the water surrounding it and set it firmly upon the immovable foundation of His own will. He commanded the animals upon it into existence by His own word. Likewise, when He had formed the sea and the living creatures in it, He confined them within their proper boundaries by His own power. Above all, with His holy and pure hands He formed man, the most excellent of His creatures and truly great through the understanding given to him—the exact likeness of His own image. For God says: Let us make man in our image, and after our likeness. So God made man; male and female He created them. Having finished all these things, He approved them and blessed them and said, Increase and multiply. We see, then, how all righteous people have been adorned with good works, and how the Lord Himself, adorning Himself with His works, rejoiced. Since we have such an example, let us without delay submit to His will and let us do the work of righteousness with all our strength.

What shall we do, then, brethren? Shall we become slothful in well-doing, and cease from the practice of love? God forbid that any such course should be followed by us! But rather let us hasten with all energy and readiness of mind to perform every good work. For the Creator and Lord of all Himself rejoices in His works. For by His infinitely great power He established the heavens, and by His incomprehensible wisdom He adorned them. He also divided the earth from the water which surrounds it, and fixed it upon the immovable foundation of His own will. The animals also which are upon it He commanded by His own word into existence. So likewise, when He had formed the sea, and the living creatures which are in it, He enclosed them [within their proper bounds] by His own power. Above all, with His holy and undefiled hands He formed man, the most excellent [of His creatures], and truly great through the understanding given him — the express likeness of His own image. For thus says God: Let us make man in our image, and after our likeness. So God made man; male and female He created them. Genesis 1:26-27 Having thus finished all these things, He approved them, and blessed them, and said, Increase and multiply. Genesis 1:28 We see, then, how all righteous men have been adorned with good works, and how the Lord Himself, adorning Himself with His works, rejoiced. Having therefore such an example, let us without delay accede to His will, and let us work the work of righteousness with our whole strength.

The good servant receives his wages confidently; the lazy and idle worker cannot face his employer. Therefore, we must be eager to do good works, because all things come from Him. He warns us in advance: "Behold, the Lord is coming, and His reward is before His face, to give to every person according to his work." He urges us, then, to devote ourselves wholeheartedly to this, so that we are not lazy or idle in any good work. Let our pride and confidence be in Him. Let us submit ourselves to His will. Let us think about the entire multitude of His angels, how they always stand ready to serve His will. For Scripture says, "Ten thousand times ten thousand stood around Him, and thousands of thousands served Him," and cried, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Sabaoth; the whole creation is full of His glory." So let us also gather together conscientiously in harmony and cry out to Him earnestly, as with one voice, so that we may share in His great and glorious promises. For Scripture says, "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which He has prepared for those who wait for Him."

The good servant receives the bread of his labour with confidence; the lazy and slothful cannot look his employer in the face. It is requisite, therefore, that we be prompt in the practice of well-doing; for of Him are all things. And thus He forewarns us: Behold, the Lord [comes], and His reward is before His face, to render to every man according to his work. He exhorts us, therefore, with our whole heart to attend to this, that we be not lazy or slothful in any good work. Let our boasting and our confidence be in Him. Let us submit ourselves to His will. Let us consider the whole multitude of His angels, how they stand ever ready to minister to His will. For the Scripture says, Ten thousand times ten thousand stood around Him, and thousands of thousands ministered unto Him, Daniel 7:10 and cried, Holy, holy, holy, [is] the Lord of Sabaoth; the whole creation is full of His glory. Isaiah 6:3 And let us therefore, conscientiously gathering together in harmony, cry to Him earnestly, as with one mouth, that we may be made partakers of His great and glorious promises. For [the Scripture] says, Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which He has prepared for them that wait for Him. 1 Corinthians 2:9

How blessed and wonderful, beloved, are the gifts of God! Life in immortality, splendor in righteousness, truth in complete confidence, faith in assurance, self-control in holiness! And all these things are already within our understanding now. So what will those things be like that are prepared for those who wait for Him? The Creator and Father of all worlds, the Most Holy, alone knows how great and beautiful they are. Therefore, let us eagerly work to be found among those who wait for Him, so that we may receive His promised gifts. But how, beloved, can this be done? If our understanding is firmly established through faith toward God; if we earnestly seek the things that please and are acceptable to Him; if we do the things that align with His blameless will; and if we follow the path of truth, throwing away from ourselves all unrighteousness and wickedness, along with all greed, conflict, evil actions, deceit, gossip, and slander, all hatred of God, pride and arrogance, empty boasting and selfish ambition. For those who do such things are hateful to God—and not only those who do them, but also those who approve of them doing them. Romans 1:32 For Scripture says, But to the sinner God said, Why do you recite my statutes and take my covenant into your mouth, since you hate instruction and cast my words behind you? When you saw a thief, you agreed with him, and made your lot with adulterers. Your mouth has overflowed with wickedness, and your tongue devised deceit. You sit and speak against your brother; you slander your own mother's son. These things you have done, and I kept silent; you thought, wicked one, that I would be like you. But I will rebuke you and set these things before you. Consider these things now, you who forget God, lest He tear you in pieces like a lion, and there be no one to rescue you. The sacrifice of praise will glorify me, and there is a way by which I will show him the salvation of God.

How blessed and wonderful, beloved, are the gifts of God! Life in immortality, splendour in righteousness, truth in perfect confidence, faith in assurance, self-control in holiness! And all these fall under the cognizance of our understandings [now]; what then shall those things be which are prepared for such as wait for Him? The Creator and Father of all worlds, the Most Holy, alone knows their amount and their beauty. Let us therefore earnestly strive to be found in the number of those that wait for Him, in order that we may share in His promised gifts. But how, beloved, shall this be done? If our understanding be fixed by faith towards God; if we earnestly seek the things which are pleasing and acceptable to Him; if we do the things which are in harmony with His blameless will; and if we follow the way of truth, casting away from us all unrighteousness and iniquity, along with all covetousness, strife, evil practices, deceit, whispering, and evil-speaking, all hatred of God, pride and haughtiness, vain glory and ambition. For they that do such things are hateful to God; and not only they that do them, but also those that take pleasure in them that do them. Romans 1:32 For the Scripture says, But to the sinner God said, Wherefore do you declare my statutes, and take my covenant into your mouth, seeing you hate instruction, and castest my words behind you? When you saw a thief, you consented with him, and made your portion with adulterers. Your mouth has abounded with wickedness, and your tongue contrived deceit. You sit, and speak against your brother; you slander your own mother's son. These things you have done, and I kept silence; you thought, wicked one, that I should be like to yourself. But I will reprove you, and set yourself before you. Consider now these things, you that forget God, lest He tear you in pieces, like a lion, and there be none to deliver. The sacrifice of praise will glorify me, and a way is there by which I will show him the salvation of God.

This is the way, beloved, in which we find our Savior, even Jesus Christ, the High Priest of all our offerings, the defender and helper of our weakness. Through Him we look up to the heights of heaven. Through Him we see, as in a mirror, His perfect and most excellent face. Through Him the eyes of our hearts are opened. Through Him our foolish and darkened minds blossom up anew toward His marvelous light. Through Him the Lord has willed that we should taste immortal knowledge. He, being the brightness of God's majesty, is by so much greater than the angels as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. For it is written this way: Who makes His angels spirits, and His ministers a flame of fire. But concerning His Son the Lord spoke this way: You are my Son, today I have begotten You. Ask of me, and I will give You the nations for Your inheritance, and the farthest parts of the earth for Your possession. And again He says to Him, Sit at my right hand, until I make Your enemies Your footstool. But who are His enemies? All the wicked, and those who set themselves to oppose the will of God.

This is the way, beloved, in which we find our Saviour, even Jesus Christ, the High Priest of all our offerings, the defender and helper of our infirmity. By Him we look up to the heights of heaven. By Him we behold, as in a glass, His immaculate and most excellent visage. By Him are the eyes of our hearts opened. By Him our foolish and darkened understanding blossoms up anew towards His marvellous light. By Him the Lord has willed that we should taste of immortal knowledge, who, being the brightness of His majesty, is by so much greater than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. Hebrews 1:3-4 For it is thus written, Who makes His angels spirits, and His ministers a flame of fire. But concerning His Son the Lord spoke thus: You are my Son, today have I begotten You. Ask of me, and I will give You the heathen for Your inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for Your possession. And again He says to Him, Sit at my right hand, until I make Your enemies Your footstool. But who are His enemies? All the wicked, and those who set themselves to oppose the will of God.

Brothers, let us carry out our duties as soldiers with complete dedication, following His holy commandments. Consider those who serve under our military commanders: notice the order, obedience, and submission with which they carry out their orders. Not everyone is a prefect, or a commander of a thousand, or of a hundred, or of fifty, or holds similar positions, but each person in his own rank performs what is commanded by the king and the generals. Those in high positions cannot exist without those in lower positions, and those in lower positions cannot exist without those in high positions. There is a kind of interdependence in all things, and from this comes mutual benefit. Take our body as an example. The head is nothing without the feet, and the feet are nothing without the head. Indeed, even the smallest parts of our body are necessary and useful to the whole body. But all parts work together in harmony and are subject to one common authority for the preservation of the entire body.

Let us then, men and brethren, with all energy act the part of soldiers, in accordance with His holy commandments. Let us consider those who serve under our generals, with what order, obedience, and submissiveness they perform the things which are commanded them. All are not prefects, nor commanders of a thousand, nor of a hundred, nor of fifty, nor the like, but each one in his own rank performs the things commanded by the king and the generals. The great cannot subsist without the small, nor the small without the great. There is a kind of mixture in all things, and thence arises mutual advantage. Let us take our body for an example. The head is nothing without the feet, and the feet are nothing without the head; yea, the very smallest members of our body are necessary and useful to the whole body. But all work harmoniously together, and are under one common rule for the preservation of the whole body.

Let us keep our whole body united in Christ Jesus, and let each person submit to their neighbor according to the particular gift given to them. The strong should not look down on the weak, and the weak should show respect to the strong. The wealthy person should provide for the needs of the poor, and the poor person should bless God because He has given them someone to meet their needs. The wise person should demonstrate wisdom not just through words, but through good actions. The humble person should not testify about himself, but should let someone else bear witness about him. The person who is pure in the flesh should not become proud of it and boast, knowing that someone else gave him the gift of self-control. Let us think about this, brothers: what material we were made from, who we were and what kind of beings we were when we came into the world, as if coming out of a tomb and from complete darkness. The one who made us and formed us, having prepared His generous gifts for us before we were born, brought us into His world. Therefore, since we receive all these things from Him, we should give Him thanks for everything; to Him be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Let our whole body, then, be preserved in Christ Jesus; and let every one be subject to his neighbour, according to the special gift bestowed upon him. Let the strong not despise the weak, and let the weak show respect unto the strong. Let the rich man provide for the wants of the poor; and let the poor man bless God, because He has given him one by whom his need may be supplied. Let the wise man display his wisdom, not by [mere] words, but through good deeds. Let the humble not bear testimony to himself, but leave witness to be borne to him by another. Proverbs 27:2 Let him that is pure in the flesh not grow proud of it, and boast, knowing that it was another who bestowed on him the gift of continence. Let us consider, then, brethren, of what matter we were made — who and what manner of beings we came into the world, as it were out of a sepulchre, and from utter darkness. He who made us and fashioned us, having prepared His bountiful gifts for us before we were born, introduced us into His world. Since, therefore, we receive all these things from Him, we ought for everything to give Him thanks; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Foolish and thoughtless people who lack both wisdom and instruction mock and ridicule us, being eager to elevate themselves in their own pride. For what can a mortal person do, or what strength does someone made from dust possess? For it is written, There was no shape before my eyes, only I heard a sound, and a voice saying, What then? Shall a person be pure before the Lord? Or shall such a one be counted blameless in his deeds, seeing He does not trust in His servants, and has charged even His angels with perversity? The heaven is not clean in His sight: how much less those who dwell in houses of clay, of which we ourselves were also made! He struck them as a moth; and from morning even until evening they do not endure. Because they could provide no help to themselves, they perished. He breathed upon them, and they died, because they had no wisdom. But call now, if anyone will answer you, or if you will look to any of the holy angels; for wrath destroys the foolish person, and envy kills the one who is in error. I have seen the foolish taking root, but their dwelling was immediately consumed. Let their sons be far from safety; let them be despised before the gates of those less than themselves, and there shall be no one to deliver them. For what was prepared for them, the righteous shall eat; and they shall not be delivered from evil.

Foolish and inconsiderate men, who have neither wisdom nor instruction, mock and deride us, being eager to exalt themselves in their own conceits. For what can a mortal man do, or what strength is there in one made out of the dust? For it is written, There was no shape before my eyes, only I heard a sound, and a voice [saying], What then? Shall a man be pure before the Lord? Or shall such an one be [counted] blameless in his deeds, seeing He does not confide in His servants, and has charged even His angels with perversity? The heaven is not clean in His sight: how much less they that dwell in houses of clay, of which also we ourselves were made! He smote them as a moth; and from morning even until evening they endure not. Because they could furnish no assistance to themselves, they perished. He breathed upon them, and they died, because they had no wisdom. But call now, if any one will answer you, or if you will look to any of the holy angels; for wrath destroys the foolish man, and envy kills him that is in error. I have seen the foolish taking root, but their habitation was presently consumed. Let their sons be far from safety; let them be despised before the gates of those less than themselves, and there shall be none to deliver. For what was prepared for them, the righteous shall eat; and they shall not be delivered from evil.

Since these things are clear to us, and we have looked into the depths of divine knowledge, we must do everything in its proper order—the things the Lord has commanded us to perform at specific times. He has commanded that offerings be presented and service be performed to Him, and not carelessly or irregularly, but at the appointed times and hours. He Himself has determined by His supreme will where these things should be done and by whom, so that all things, being done reverently according to His good pleasure, may be acceptable to Him. Therefore, those who present their offerings at the appointed times are accepted and blessed, because they follow the Lord's laws and do not sin. For the high priest has been assigned his own particular services, the priests have their own proper place prescribed to them, the Levites have their own special duties, and the layman is bound by the laws that apply to laymen.

These things therefore being manifest to us, and since we look into the depths of the divine knowledge, it behooves us to do all things in [their proper] order, which the Lord has commanded us to perform at stated times. He has enjoined offerings [to be presented] and service to be performed [to Him], and that not thoughtlessly or irregularly, but at the appointed times and hours. Where and by whom He desires these things to be done, He Himself has fixed by His own supreme will, in order that all things, being piously done according to His good pleasure, may be acceptable unto Him. Those, therefore, who present their offerings at the appointed times, are accepted and blessed; for inasmuch as they follow the laws of the Lord, they sin not. For his own peculiar services are assigned to the high priest, and their own proper place is prescribed to the priests, and their own special ministrations devolve on the Levites. The layman is bound by the laws that pertain to laymen.

Let each of you, brothers, give thanks to God in your own order, living with a completely good conscience, with proper dignity, and not going beyond the rule of ministry assigned to you. Not in every place, brothers, are the daily sacrifices offered, or the peace-offerings, or the sin-offerings and the trespass-offerings, but in Jerusalem only. And even there they are not offered in just any place, but only at the altar in front of the temple, with what is offered being first carefully examined by the high priest and the ministers already mentioned. Therefore, those who do anything beyond what is agreeable to His will are punished with death. You see, brothers, that the greater the knowledge that has been given to us, the greater also is the danger to which we are exposed.

Let every one of you, brethren, give thanks to God in his own order, living in all good conscience, with becoming gravity, and not going beyond the rule of the ministry prescribed to him. Not in every place, brethren, are the daily sacrifices offered, or the peace-offerings, or the sin-offerings and the trespass-offerings, but in Jerusalem only. And even there they are not offered in any place, but only at the altar before the temple, that which is offered being first carefully examined by the high priest and the ministers already mentioned. Those, therefore, who do anything beyond that which is agreeable to His will, are punished with death. You see, brethren, that the greater the knowledge that has been vouchsafed to us, the greater also is the danger to which we are exposed.

The apostles preached the gospel to us from the Lord Jesus Christ; Jesus Christ did so from God. Christ was therefore sent out by God, and the apostles by Christ. Both of these commissions were carried out in an orderly manner, according to God's will. Having received their instructions and being fully confident because of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, and strengthened in God's word with complete assurance from the Holy Spirit, they went out announcing that the kingdom of God was near. And so, as they preached throughout regions and cities, they appointed the first converts, having first tested them by the Spirit, to serve as bishops and deacons for those who would later believe. This was not something new, since indeed many years earlier it had been written about bishops and deacons. For Scripture says in a certain place, I will appoint their bishops in righteousness, and their deacons in faith.

The apostles have preached the gospel to us from the Lord Jesus Christ; Jesus Christ [has done so] from God. Christ therefore was sent forth by God, and the apostles by Christ. Both these appointments, then, were made in an orderly way, according to the will of God. Having therefore received their orders, and being fully assured by the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, and established in the word of God, with full assurance of the Holy Ghost, they went forth proclaiming that the kingdom of God was at hand. And thus preaching through countries and cities, they appointed the first fruits [of their labours], having first proved them by the Spirit, to be bishops and deacons of those who should afterwards believe. Nor was this any new thing, since indeed many ages before it was written concerning bishops and deacons. For thus says the Scripture in a certain place, I will appoint their bishops in righteousness, and their deacons in faith.

And is it any surprise that those in Christ who were entrusted with such a responsibility by God appointed the ministers mentioned earlier, when the blessed Moses, a faithful servant in all God's house, recorded in the sacred books all the commands given to him, and the other prophets who came after him also confirmed with unanimous agreement the regulations he had established? For when rivalry arose concerning the priesthood, and the tribes were competing among themselves over which of them should be honored with that glorious title, he commanded the twelve leaders of the tribes to bring him their rods, each one inscribed with the name of the tribe. He took them, bound them together, sealed them with the rings of the tribal leaders, and placed them in the tabernacle of witness on the table of God. After shutting the doors of the tabernacle, he sealed the keys, just as he had sealed the rods, and said to them: Men and brothers, the tribe whose rod blossoms is the one God has chosen to fulfill the office of the priesthood and to serve him. When morning came, he gathered all Israel—six hundred thousand men—showed the seals to the tribal leaders, opened the tabernacle of witness, and brought out the rods. Aaron's rod was found not only to have blossomed but also to bear fruit. What do you think, beloved? Did Moses not know beforehand that this would happen? Without doubt he knew, but he acted this way so that there would be no rebellion in Israel, and so that the name of the true and only God might be glorified—to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

And what wonder is it if those in Christ who were entrusted with such a duty by God, appointed those [ministers] before mentioned, when the blessed Moses also, a faithful servant in all his house, noted down in the sacred books all the injunctions which were given him, and when the other prophets also followed him, bearing witness with one consent to the ordinances which he had appointed? For, when rivalry arose concerning the priesthood, and the tribes were contending among themselves as to which of them should be adorned with that glorious title, he commanded the twelve princes of the tribes to bring him their rods, each one being inscribed with the name of the tribe. And he took them and bound them [together], and sealed them with the rings of the princes of the tribes, and laid them up in the tabernacle of witness on the table of God. And having shut the doors of the tabernacle, he sealed the keys, as he had done the rods, and said to them, Men and brethren, the tribe whose rod shall blossom has God chosen to fulfil the office of the priesthood, and to minister unto Him. And when the morning had come, he assembled all Israel, six hundred thousand men, and showed the seals to the princes of the tribes, and opened the tabernacle of witness, and brought forth the rods. And the rod of Aaron was found not only to have blossomed, but to bear fruit upon it. What think ye, beloved? Did not Moses know beforehand that this would happen? Undoubtedly he knew; but he acted thus, that there might be no sedition in Israel, and that the name of the true and only God might be glorified; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Our apostles also knew, through our Lord Jesus Christ, that there would be conflict over the office of the episcopate. For this reason, since they had complete foreknowledge of this, they appointed those ministers already mentioned, and afterwards gave instructions that when these died, other approved men should take over their ministry. We believe, therefore, that those appointed by them, or later by other distinguished men, with the agreement of the whole church, and who have served the flock of Christ blamelessly in a humble, peaceful, and unselfish spirit, and have for a long time held the good opinion of all, cannot be justly removed from the ministry. For our sin will not be small if we throw out of the episcopate those who have blamelessly and holily carried out its duties. Blessed are those presbyters who, having finished their course already, have obtained a fruitful and complete departure from this world, for they have no fear that anyone will take away the place now given to them. But we see that you have removed some men of excellent conduct from the ministry, which they carried out blamelessly and with honor.

Our apostles also knew, through our Lord Jesus Christ, that there would be strife on account of the office of the episcopate. For this reason, therefore, inasmuch as they had obtained a perfect fore- knowledge of this, they appointed those [ministers] already mentioned, and afterwards gave instructions, that when these should fall asleep, other approved men should succeed them in their ministry. We are of opinion, therefore, that those appointed by them, or afterwards by other eminent men, with the consent of the whole church, and who have blamelessly served the flock of Christ, in a humble, peaceable, and disinterested spirit, and have for a long time possessed the good opinion of all, cannot be justly dismissed from the ministry. For our sin will not be small, if we eject from the episcopate those who have blamelessly and holily fulfilled its duties. Blessed are those presbyters who, having finished their course before now, have obtained a fruitful and perfect departure [from this world]; for they have no fear lest any one deprive them of the place now appointed them. But we see that you have removed some men of excellent behaviour from the ministry, which they fulfilled blamelessly and with honour.

You are quarrelsome, brothers and sisters, and full of passion about things that have nothing to do with salvation. Look carefully into the Scriptures, which are the true words of the Holy Spirit. Notice that nothing unjust or false is written in them. You will not find that righteous people were rejected by those who were themselves holy. The righteous were indeed persecuted, but only by the wicked. They were thrown into prison, but only by the ungodly; they were stoned, but only by lawbreakers; they were killed, but only by the accursed and by those who harbored an unjust envy against them. Subjected to such suffering, they endured it with glory. For what can we say, brothers and sisters? Was Daniel thrown into the lions' den by people who feared God? Were Ananias, Azarias, and Michael locked in a furnace of fire by those who practiced the great and glorious worship of the Most High? May such a thought be far from us! Who, then, were the ones who did such things? Those filled with hatred and complete wickedness were stirred up to such a level of rage that they inflicted torture on those who served God with a holy and blameless purpose of heart, not realizing that the Most High is the Defender and Protector of all who with a pure conscience honor His most excellent name; to Him be glory forever and ever. Amen. But those who endured these things with confidence are now heirs of glory and honor, and have been lifted up and made famous by God in their memory forever and ever. Amen.

You are fond of contention, brethren, and full of zeal about things which do not pertain to salvation. Look carefully into the Scriptures, which are the true utterances of the Holy Spirit. Observe that nothing of an unjust or counterfeit character is written in them. There you will not find that the righteous were cast off by men who themselves were holy. The righteous were indeed persecuted, but only by the wicked. They were cast into prison, but only by the unholy; they were stoned, but only by transgressors; they were slain, but only by the accursed, and such as had conceived an unrighteous envy against them. Exposed to such sufferings, they endured them gloriously. For what shall we say, brethren? Was Daniel Daniel 6:16 cast into the den of lions by such as feared God? Were Ananias, and Azarias, and Michael shut up in a furnace Daniel 3:20 of fire by those who observed the great and glorious worship of the Most High? Far from us be such a thought! Who, then, were they that did such things? The hateful, and those full of all wickedness, were roused to such a pitch of fury, that they inflicted torture on those who served God with a holy and blameless purpose [of heart], not knowing that the Most High is the Defender and Protector of all such as with a pure conscience venerate His all-excellent name; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. But they who with confidence endured [these things] are now heirs of glory and honour, and have been exalted and made illustrious by God in their memorial for ever and ever. Amen.

Brothers, we should follow examples like these, because it is written: Hold fast to the holy, for those who hold fast to them will themselves be made holy. And again, in another place, Scripture says: With a blameless person you will prove yourself blameless, and with a chosen person you will be chosen, and with a crooked person you will show yourself shrewd. Therefore, let us hold fast to the innocent and righteous, since these are God's chosen ones. Why are there conflicts, disturbances, divisions, schisms, and fighting among you? Don't we all have one God and one Christ? Isn't there one Spirit of grace poured out on us? And don't we have one calling in Christ? Why do we split apart and tear to pieces the members of Christ, and stir up conflict against our own body, and reach such a level of madness that we forget we are members of one another? Remember the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, how He said: Woe to that person by whom offenses come! It would be better for him if he had never been born than that he should put a stumbling block before one of my chosen ones. Yes, it would be better for him to have a millstone hung around his neck and be thrown into the depths of the sea than that he should put a stumbling block before one of my little ones. Your schism has undermined the faith of many, has discouraged many, has caused doubt in many, and has brought grief to us all. And still your rebellion continues.

Such examples, therefore, brethren, it is right that we should follow; since it is written, Cleave to the holy, for those that cleave to them shall [themselves] be made holy. And again, in another place, [the Scripture] says, With a harmless man you shall prove yourself harmless, and with an elect man you shall be elect, and with a perverse man you shall show yourself perverse. Let us cleave, therefore, to the innocent and righteous, since these are the elect of God. Why are there strifes, and tumults, and divisions, and schisms, and wars among you? Have we not [all] one God and one Christ? Is there not one Spirit of grace poured out upon us? And have we not one calling in Christ? Ephesians 4:4-6 Why do we divide and tear in pieces the members of Christ, and raise up strife against our own body, and have reached such a height of madness as to forget that we are members one of another? Romans 12:5 Remember the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, how He said, Woe to that man [by whom offenses come]! It were better for him that he had never been born, than that he should cast a stumbling-block before one of my elect. Yea, it were better for him that a millstone should be hung about [his neck], and he should be sunk in the depths of the sea, than that he should cast a stumbling-block before one of my little ones. Your schism has subverted [the faith of] many, has discouraged many, has given rise to doubt in many, and has caused grief to us all. And still your sedition continues.

Pick up the letter of the blessed Apostle Paul. What did he write to you when the gospel was first being preached? Truly, under the inspiration of the Spirit, he wrote to you about himself, Cephas, and Apollos, because even back then factions had formed among you. But that preference for one person over another brought less guilt on you, since your favoritism was directed toward apostles who already had high reputations and toward a man they had approved. But now consider who these people are who have corrupted you and diminished the reputation of your well-known brotherly love. It is shameful, beloved, yes, extremely shameful and unworthy of your Christian profession, that such a thing should be reported—that the most faithful and ancient church of the Corinthians should rebel against its presbyters because of one or two people. And this report has reached not only us but also those who have no connection with us, so that through your recklessness the name of the Lord is blasphemed, while you also bring danger upon yourselves.

Take up the epistle of the blessed Apostle Paul. What did he write to you at the time when the gospel first began to be preached? Truly, under the inspiration of the Spirit, he wrote to you concerning himself, and Cephas, and Apollos, because even then parties had been formed among you. But that inclination for one above another entailed less guilt upon you, inasmuch as your partialities were then shown towards apostles, already of high reputation, and towards a man whom they had approved. But now reflect who those are that have perverted you, and lessened the renown of your far-famed brotherly love. It is disgraceful, beloved, yea, highly disgraceful, and unworthy of your Christian profession, that such a thing should be heard of as that the most steadfast and ancient church of the Corinthians should, on account of one or two persons, engage in sedition against its presbyters. And this rumour has reached not only us, but those also who are unconnected with us; so that, through your infatuation, the name of the Lord is blasphemed, while danger is also brought upon yourselves.

Let us therefore quickly put an end to this situation, and let us fall down before the Lord and beg Him with tears that He would mercifully be reconciled to us and restore us to our former proper and holy practice of brotherly love. For this conduct is the gate of righteousness, which stands open for gaining life, as it is written, "Open to me the gates of righteousness; I will go in by them, and will praise the Lord: this is the gate of the Lord: the righteous shall enter in by it." Although many gates have been opened, this gate of righteousness is the gate in Christ through which blessed are all those who have entered in and have directed their lives in holiness and righteousness, doing all things in an orderly way. Let a person be faithful, let him be skilled in expressing knowledge, let him be wise in discerning what is said, let him be pure in all his actions—yet the more he appears to be superior to others in these ways, the more humble-minded he ought to be, and to seek the common good of all, not just his own benefit.

Let us therefore, with all haste, put an end to this [state of things]; and let us fall down before the Lord, and beseech Him with tears, that He would mercifully be reconciled to us, and restore us to our former seemly and holy practice of brotherly love. For [such conduct] is the gate of righteousness, which is set open for the attainment of life, as it is written, Open to me the gates of righteousness; I will go in by them, and will praise the Lord: this is the gate of the Lord: the righteous shall enter in by it. Although, therefore, many gates have been set open, yet this gate of righteousness is that gate in Christ by which blessed are all they that have entered in and have directed their way in holiness and righteousness, doing all things without disorder. Let a man be faithful: let him be powerful in the utterance of knowledge; let him be wise in judging of words; let him be pure in all his deeds; yet the more he seems to be superior to others [in these respects], the more humble-minded ought he to be, and to seek the common good of all, and not merely his own advantage.

Let anyone who has love in Christ keep Christ's commandments. Who can describe the blessed bond of God's love? What person is able to express the excellence of its beauty as it deserves? The height to which love lifts us cannot be put into words. Love unites us to God. Love covers a multitude of sins. Love endures all things and is patient in all things. There is nothing degrading or proud in love. Love creates no divisions. Love stirs up no rebellions. Love does everything in unity. Through love all God's chosen people have been made perfect. Without love nothing pleases God. The Lord has drawn us to himself in love. Because of the love he had for us, Jesus Christ our Lord gave his blood for us according to God's will—his flesh for our flesh and his soul for our souls.

Let him who has love in Christ keep the commandments of Christ. Who can describe the [blessed] bond of the love of God? What man is able to tell the excellence of its beauty, as it ought to be told? The height to which love exalts is unspeakable. Love unites us to God. Love covers a multitude of sins. Love bears all things, is long-suffering in all things. There is nothing base, nothing arrogant in love. Love admits of no schisms: love gives rise to no seditions: love does all things in harmony. By love have all the elect of God been made perfect; without love nothing is well-pleasing to God. In love has the Lord taken us to Himself. On account of the love He bore us, Jesus Christ our Lord gave His blood for us by the will of God; His flesh for our flesh, and His soul for our souls.

You see, beloved, how great and wonderful love is, and that its perfection cannot be fully expressed. Who is worthy to be found in it, except those whom God has graciously made worthy? Let us pray, therefore, and ask for His mercy, that we may live blamelessly in love, free from all human favoritism of one person over another. All the generations from Adam until this very day have passed away; but those who, through the grace of God, have been made perfect in love, now have a place among the godly, and will be revealed at the revelation of the kingdom of Christ. For it is written, Enter into your secret chambers for a little time, until my wrath and fury pass away; and I will remember a propitious day, and will raise you up out of your graves. Blessed are we, beloved, if we keep the commandments of God in the harmony of love; so that through love our sins may be forgiven us. For it is written, Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will not impute to him, and in whose mouth there is no guile. This blessedness comes upon those who have been chosen by God through Jesus Christ our Lord; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

You see, beloved, how great and wonderful a thing is love, and that there is no declaring its perfection. Who is fit to be found in it, except such as God has vouchsafed to render so? Let us pray, therefore, and implore of His mercy, that we may live blameless in love, free from all human partialities for one above another. All the generations from Adam even unto this day have passed away; but those who, through the grace of God, have been made perfect in love, now possess a place among the godly, and shall be made manifest at the revelation of the kingdom of Christ. For it is written, Enter into your secret chambers for a little time, until my wrath and fury pass away; and I will remember a propitious day, and will raise you up out of your graves. Isaiah 26:20 Blessed are we, beloved, if we keep the commandments of God in the harmony of love; that so through love our sins may be forgiven us. For it is written, Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will not impute to him, and in whose mouth there is no guile. This blessedness comes upon those who have been chosen by God through Jesus Christ our Lord; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Let us therefore ask forgiveness for all those sins which we have committed through any prompting of the adversary. And those who have been the leaders of rebellion and disagreement ought to consider the common hope. For people who live in fear and love would rather suffer themselves than see their neighbors suffer. And they prefer to bear blame themselves, rather than see the harmony which has been well and piously handed down to us be damaged. For it is better that a person should acknowledge his sins than that he should harden his heart, as the hearts of those were hardened who stirred up rebellion against Moses the servant of God, and whose condemnation was made clear to all. For they went down alive into Hades, and death swallowed them up. Pharaoh with his army and all the princes of Egypt, and the chariots with their riders, were sunk in the depths of the Red Sea, and perished for no other reason than that their foolish hearts were hardened, after so many signs and wonders had been performed in the land of Egypt by Moses the servant of God.

Let us therefore implore forgiveness for all those transgressions which through any [suggestion] of the adversary we have committed. And these who have been the leaders of sedition and disagreement ought to have respect to the common hope. For such as live in fear and love would rather that they themselves than their neighbours should be involved in suffering. And they prefer to bear blame themselves, rather than that the concord which has been well and piously handed down to us should suffer. For it is better that a man should acknowledge his transgressions than that he should harden his heart, as the hearts of those were hardened who stirred up sedition against Moses the servant of God, and whose condemnation was made manifest [unto all]. For they went down alive into Hades, and death swallowed them up. Pharaoh with his army and all the princes of Egypt, and the chariots with their riders, were sunk in the depths of the Red Sea, and perished, Exodus xiv for no other reason than that their foolish hearts were hardened, after so many signs and wonders had been wrought in the land of Egypt by Moses the servant of God.

Brothers, the Lord needs nothing, and He wants nothing from anyone except that they confess to Him. For the chosen David says, I will confess to the Lord, and that will please Him more than a young bull with horns and hoofs. Let the poor see it and rejoice. And again he says, Offer to God the sacrifice of praise, and fulfill your vows to the Most High. And call on me in the day of your trouble: I will rescue you, and you will glorify me. For the sacrifice of God is a broken spirit.

The Lord, brethren, stands in need of nothing; and He desires nothing of any one except that confession be made to Him. For, says the elect David, I will confess unto the Lord; and that will please Him more than a young bullock that has horns and hoofs. Let the poor see it, and be glad. And again he says, Offer unto God the sacrifice of praise, and pay your vows unto the Most High. And call upon me in the day of your trouble: I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me. For the sacrifice of God is a broken spirit.

You understand, beloved, you understand well the sacred Scriptures, and you have looked very earnestly into the oracles of God. Remember these things. When Moses went up the mountain and stayed there, fasting and humbling himself for forty days and forty nights, the Lord said to him, "Moses, Moses, get down quickly from here, for your people whom you brought out of the land of Egypt have committed iniquity. They have quickly departed from the way I commanded them to walk and have made molten images for themselves." And the Lord said to him, "I have spoken to you once and again, saying, 'I have seen this people, and look, it is a stiff-necked people. Let me destroy them and blot out their name from under heaven, and I will make you a great and wonderful nation, one much more numerous than this.'" But Moses said, "Far be it from you, Lord. Pardon the sin of this people, or else blot me also out of the book of the living." O marvelous love! O unsurpassable perfection! The servant speaks freely to his Lord and asks forgiveness for the people, or begs that he himself might perish along with them.

You understand, beloved, you understand well the sacred Scriptures, and you have looked very earnestly into the oracles of God. Call then these things to your remembrance. When Moses went up into the mount, and abode there, with fasting and humiliation, forty days and forty nights, the Lord said to him, Moses, Moses, get you down quickly from hence; for your people whom you brought out of the land of Egypt have committed iniquity. They have speedily departed from the way in which I commanded them to walk, and have made to themselves molten images. And the Lord said to him, I have spoken to you once and again, saying, I have seen this people, and, behold, it is a stiff-necked people: let me destroy them, and blot out their name from under heaven; and I will make you a great and wonderful nation, and one much more numerous than this. But Moses said, Far be it from You, Lord: pardon the sin of this people; else blot me also out of the book of the living. Exodus 32:32 O marvellous love! O insuperable perfection! The servant speaks freely to his Lord, and asks forgiveness for the people, or begs that he himself might perish along with them.

Who among you is noble-minded? Who is compassionate? Who is full of love? Let such a person declare, If sedition, disagreement, and schisms have arisen because of me, I will leave. I will go wherever you want, and I will do whatever the majority commands. Just let the flock of Christ live in peace with the presbyters who are set over it. The person who does this will gain great glory in the Lord, and every place will welcome him. For the earth is the Lord's, and everything in it. Those who live a godly life that will never be regretted have done these things and will always do them.

Who then among you is noble-minded? Who compassionate? Who full of love? Let him declare, If on my account sedition and disagreement and schisms have arisen, I will depart, I will go away wherever ye desire, and I will do whatever the majority commands; only let the flock of Christ live on terms of peace with the presbyters set over it. He that acts thus shall procure to himself great glory in the Lord; and every place will welcome him. For the earth is the Lord's, and the fullness thereof. These things they who live a godly life that is never to be repented of, both have done and always will do.

To provide some examples from among the heathen: Many kings and princes, during times of plague, when they had been instructed by an oracle, have given themselves to death so that by their own blood they might rescue their fellow citizens from destruction. Many have left their own cities so that civil strife might be ended within them. We know many among ourselves who have given themselves to imprisonment so that they might set others free. Many, too, have surrendered themselves to slavery so that with the price they received for themselves, they might provide food for others. Many women also, being strengthened by the grace of God, have performed numerous courageous deeds. The blessed Judith, when her city was besieged, asked the elders for permission to go out into the camp of the foreigners; and, exposing herself to danger, she went out because of the love she had for her country and people then under siege; and the Lord delivered Holofernes into the hands of a woman. Esther also, being perfect in faith, exposed herself to no less danger in order to rescue the twelve tribes of Israel from impending destruction. For with fasting and humiliation she pleaded with the everlasting God, who sees all things; and He, perceiving the humility of her spirit, rescued the people for whose sake she had faced peril.

To bring forward some examples from among the heathen: Many kings and princes, in times of pestilence, when they had been instructed by an oracle, have given themselves up to death, in order that by their own blood they might deliver their fellow citizens [from destruction]. Many have gone forth from their own cities, that so sedition might be brought to an end within them. We know many among ourselves who have given themselves up to bonds, in order that they might ransom others. Many, too, have surrendered themselves to slavery, that with the price which they received for themselves, they might provide food for others. Many women also, being strengthened by the grace of God, have performed numerous manly exploits. The blessed Judith, when her city was besieged, asked of the elders permission to go forth into the camp of the strangers; and, exposing herself to danger, she went out for the love which she bare to her country and people then besieged; and the Lord delivered Holofernes into the hands of a woman. Judith 8:30 Esther also, being perfect in faith, exposed herself to no less danger, in order to deliver the twelve tribes of Israel from impending destruction. For with fasting and humiliation she entreated the everlasting God, who sees all things; and He, perceiving the humility of her spirit, delivered the people for whose sake she had encountered peril.

Let us pray for those who have fallen into sin, that they may be given meekness and humility so they will submit not to us, but to the will of God. In this way they will receive from us a fruitful and complete remembrance, along with our compassion for them, both in our prayers to God and in our mention of them to the saints. Let us accept correction, beloved, and no one should be upset about this. The exhortations through which we admonish one another are both good in themselves and highly beneficial, for they help unite us to the will of God. For the holy Word says: The Lord has severely chastened me, yet has not given me over to death. For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives. The righteous, it says, shall chasten me in mercy, and reprove me; but let not the oil of sinners make fat my head. And again he says, Blessed is the man whom the Lord reproves, and reject not the warning of the Almighty. For He causes sorrow, and again restores to gladness; He wounds, and His hands make whole. He shall deliver you in six troubles, yea, in the seventh no evil shall touch you. In famine He shall rescue you from death, and in war He shall free you from the power of the sword. From the scourge of the tongue will He hide you, and you shall not fear when evil comes. You shall laugh at the unrighteous and the wicked, and shall not be afraid of the beasts of the field. For the wild beasts shall be at peace with you: then shall you know that your house shall be in peace, and the habitation of your tabernacle shall not fail. You shall know also that your seed shall be great, and your children like the grass of the field. And you shall come to the grave like ripened grain which is reaped in its season, or like a heap of the threshing-floor which is gathered together at the proper time. You see, beloved, that protection is given to those who are disciplined by the Lord; for since God is good, He corrects us so that we may be instructed by His holy discipline.

Let us then also pray for those who have fallen into any sin, that meekness and humility may be given to them, so that they may submit, not unto us, but to the will of God. For in this way they shall secure a fruitful and perfect remembrance from us, with sympathy for them, both in our prayers to God, and our mention of them to the saints. Let us receive correction, beloved, on account of which no one should feel displeased. Those exhortations by which we admonish one another are both good [in themselves], and highly profitable, for they tend to unite us to the will of God. For thus says the holy Word: The Lord has severely chastened me, yet has not given me over to death. For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives. The righteous, says it, shall chasten me in mercy, and reprove me; but let not the oil of sinners make fat my head. And again he says, Blessed is the man whom the Lord reproves, and reject not the warning of the Almighty. For He causes sorrow, and again restores [to gladness]; He wounds, and His hands make whole. He shall deliver you in six troubles, yea, in the seventh no evil shall touch you. In famine He shall rescue you from death, and in war He shall free you from the power of the sword. From the scourge of the tongue will He hide you, and you shall not fear when evil comes. You shall laugh at the unrighteous and the wicked, and shall not be afraid of the beasts of the field. For the wild beasts shall be at peace with you: then shall you know that your house shall be in peace, and the habitation of your tabernacle shall not fail. You shall know also that your seed shall be great, and your children like the grass of the field. And you shall come to the grave like ripened grain which is reaped in its season, or like a heap of the threshing-floor which is gathered together at the proper time. Job 5:17-26 You see, beloved, that protection is afforded to those that are chastened of the Lord; for since God is good, He corrects us, that we may be admonished by His holy chastisement.

You who started this rebellion, submit yourselves to the presbyters and accept correction that leads to repentance, bending the knees of your hearts. Learn to be submissive, putting aside the proud and arrogant self-confidence of your tongue. For it is better for you to hold a humble but honorable position in the flock of Christ than to be highly exalted and then cast out from the hope of His people. For all-virtuous Wisdom speaks in this way: Look, I will pour out to you the words of my Spirit, and I will teach you my speech. Since I called and you did not listen; I held out my words and you paid no attention, but dismissed my counsels and did not respond to my reproofs; therefore I too will laugh at your destruction; yes, I will rejoice when ruin comes upon you, and when sudden confusion overtakes you, when disaster strikes you like a storm, or when trouble and distress fall upon you. For it will happen that when you call upon me, I will not listen to you; the wicked will seek me and they will not find me. For they hated wisdom and did not choose the fear of the Lord; they would not listen to my counsels but despised my reproofs. Therefore they will eat the fruit of their own way, and they will be filled with their own ungodliness. For, as punishment for the wrongs they committed against innocent children, they will be killed, and investigation will bring death to the ungodly; but he who listens to me will rest in hope and be undisturbed by the fear of any evil.

You therefore, who laid the foundation of this sedition, submit yourselves to the presbyters, and receive correction so as to repent, bending the knees of your hearts. Learn to be subject, laying aside the proud and arrogant self-confidence of your tongue. For it is better for you that you should occupy a humble but honourable place in the flock of Christ, than that, being highly exalted, you should be cast out from the hope of His people. For thus speaks all- virtuous Wisdom: Behold, I will bring forth to you the words of my Spirit, and I will teach you my speech. Since I called, and you did not hear; I held forth my words, and you regarded not, but set at naught my counsels, and yielded not at my reproofs; therefore I too will laugh at your destruction; yea, I will rejoice when ruin comes upon you, and when sudden confusion overtakes you, when overturning presents itself like a tempest, or when tribulation and oppression fall upon you. For it shall come to pass, that when you call upon me, I will not hear you; the wicked shall seek me, and they shall not find me. For they hated wisdom, and did not choose the fear of the Lord; nor would they listen to my counsels, but despised my reproofs. Wherefore they shall eat the fruits of their own way, and they shall be filled with their own ungodliness. Proverbs 1:22-33…For, in punishment for the wrongs which they practised upon babes, shall they be slain, and inquiry will be death to the ungodly; but he that hears me shall rest in hope and be undisturbed by the fear of any evil.

Let us run away from the threats that Wisdom speaks against those who disobey, and submit ourselves to His all-holy and glorious name, so that we may place our trust in the most sacred name of His majesty. Accept our advice, and you will have no regrets. For, as God lives, and as the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit live—both the faith and hope of the elect—the person who with humility, with constant gentleness, and without regret has kept the rules and instructions given by God will receive a place and a name among those who are being saved through Jesus Christ, through whom is glory to Him forever and ever. Amen.

Let us, therefore, flee from the warning threats pronounced by Wisdom on the disobedient, and yield submission to His all- holy and glorious name, that we may stay our trust upon the most hallowed name of His majesty. Receive our counsel, and you shall be without repentance. For, as God lives, and as the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost live — both the faith and hope of the elect, he who in lowliness of mind, with instant gentleness, and without repentance has observed the ordinances and appointments given by God — the same shall obtain a place and name in the number of those who are being saved through Jesus Christ, through whom is glory to Him for ever and ever. Amen.

If anyone disobeys the words spoken by Him through us, they should know that they will bring upon themselves transgression and serious danger. But we will be innocent of this sin. Being persistent in prayer and supplication, we ask that the Creator of all preserve intact the full number of His elect throughout the whole world through His beloved Son Jesus Christ, through whom He called us from darkness to light, from ignorance to knowledge of the glory of His name. Our hope rests on Your name, which is the first cause of all creation. You have opened the eyes of our heart to know You, who alone dwell highest among the highest, holy among the holy, who bring low the arrogance of the proud, who destroy the plans of the nations, who lift up the lowly and bring down the exalted, who make rich and make poor, who kill and make alive, the only Benefactor of spirits and God of all flesh, who see into the depths, the witness of human deeds, the helper of those in danger, the Savior of those in despair, the Creator and Guardian of every spirit, who multiply nations upon earth and from all have chosen those who love You through Jesus Christ, Your beloved Son, through whom You have instructed, sanctified, and honored us. We ask You, Lord, to be our help and support. Save those of us in affliction, have mercy on the lowly, raise up the fallen, show Yourself to those in need, heal the sick, turn back the wandering ones of Your people, feed the hungry, free those of us in chains, strengthen the weak, encourage the discouraged. Let all the nations know that You are God alone and Jesus Christ is Your Son, and we are Your people and the sheep of Your pasture.

If, however, any shall disobey the words spoken by Him through us, let them know that they will involve themselves in transgression and serious danger; but we shall be innocent of this sin, and, instant in prayer and supplication, shall desire that the Creator of all preserve unbroken the computed number of His elect in the whole world through His beloved Son Jesus Christ, through whom He called us from darkness to light, from ignorance to knowledge of the glory of His name, our hope resting on Your name which is primal cause of every creature — having opened the eyes of our heart to the knowledge of You, who alone rests highest among the highest, holy among the holy, Isaiah 57:15 who layest low the insolence of the haughty, Isaiah 13:11 who destroyest the calculations of the heathen, who settest the low on high and bringest low the exalted; who makest rich and makest poor, 1 Samuel 2:7 who killest and makest to live, Deuteronomy 32:39 only Benefactor of spirits and God of all flesh, who beholdest the depths, the eye- witness of human works, the help of those in danger, the Saviour of those in despair, the Creator and Guardian of every spirit, who multipliest nations upon earth, and from all made choice of those who love You through Jesus Christ, Your beloved Son, through whom You instructed, sanctify, honour us. We would have You, Lord, to prove our help and succour. Those of us in affliction save, on the lowly take pity; the fallen raise; upon those in need arise; the sick heal; the wandering ones of Your people turn; fill the hungry; redeem those of us in bonds; raise up those that are weak; comfort the faint-hearted; let all the nations know that You are God alone and Jesus Christ Your Son, and we are Your people and the sheep of Your pasture.

You made the lasting structure of the world appear through the works of Your hand; You, Lord, created the earth on which we live—You, who are faithful in all generations, just in judgments, wonderful in strength and majesty, creating with wisdom and establishing with understanding the things that were made, who are good among those who are being saved and faithful among those whose trust is in You; O merciful and Compassionate One, forgive us our iniquities and offenses and transgressions and trespasses. Do not count every sin of Your servants and handmaids, but purify us with the purification of Your truth; and guide our steps so that we may walk in holiness of heart and do what is good and pleasing in Your sight and in the sight of our rulers. Yes, Lord, make Your face shine upon us for good in peace, so that we may be protected by Your mighty hand and delivered from every sin by Your uplifted arm, and deliver us from those who hate us wrongfully. Give harmony and peace to us and all who live on the earth, just as You gave to our fathers when they called upon You in faith and truth, submissive as we are to Your almighty and all-excellent Name.

You made to appear the enduring fabric of the world by the works of Your hand; You, Lord, created the earth on which we dwell — You, who is faithful in all generations, just in judgments, wonderful in strength and majesty, with wisdom creating and with understanding fixing the things which were made, who art good among them that are being saved and faithful among them whose trust is in You; O merciful and Compassionate One, forgive us our iniquities and offenses and transgressions and trespasses. Reckon not every sin of Your servants and handmaids, but You will purify us with the purification of Your truth; and direct our steps that we may walk in holiness of heart and do what is good and well-pleasing in Your sight and in the sight of our rulers. Yea, Lord, make Your face to shine upon us for good in peace, that we may be shielded by Your mighty hand and delivered from every sin by Your uplifted arm, and deliver us from those who hate us wrongfully. Give concord and peace to us and all who dwell upon the earth, even as You gave to our fathers, when they called upon You in faith and truth, submissive as we are to Your almighty and all-excellent Name.

You, Lord, gave our earthly rulers and governors the power of the kingdom through Your glorious and unspeakable might, so that we may recognize the glory and honor You have given them and submit to them, not resisting Your will in anything. Grant them, Lord, health, peace, harmony, and stability, so they may exercise the authority given to them without giving offense. For You, heavenly Lord and eternal King, give glory, honor, and power over earthly things to human beings. Lord, direct their decisions according to what is good and pleasing in Your sight, so that by exercising the power You gave them devoutly in peace and gentleness, they may find You gracious. You alone have the power to do these things and even greater good for us. We praise You through the High Priest and Guardian of our souls, Jesus Christ, through whom be glory and majesty to You both now and from generation to generation forever. Amen.

To our rulers and governors on the earth — to them You, Lord, gave the power of the kingdom by Your glorious and ineffable might, to the end that we may know the glory and honour given to them by You and be subject to them, in nought resisting Your will; to them, Lord, give health, peace, concord, stability, that they may exercise the authority given to them without offense. For You, O heavenly Lord and King eternal, givest to the sons of men glory and honour and power over the things that are on the earth; do Thou, Lord, direct their counsel according to that which is good and well-pleasing in Your sight, that, devoutly in peace and meekness exercising the power given them by You, they may find You propitious. O Thou, who only has power to do these things and more abundant good with us, we praise You through the High Priest and Guardian of our souls Jesus Christ, through whom be glory and majesty to You both now and from generation to generation and for evermore. Amen.

Regarding the matters of our religious practice that are most beneficial for a good life to those who want to follow a godly and righteous path, we have written to you at sufficient length, brothers. For concerning faith and repentance and true love and self-control and moderation and patience, we have addressed every relevant passage, reminding you that you ought to please Almighty God in righteousness and truth and endurance with holiness, being united in mind—not holding grudges—in love and peace with sincere gentleness, just as our ancestors mentioned earlier found favor through the humility of their attitude toward the Father and God and Creator and all humanity. We remind you of these things with even greater pleasure, since we were confident that we were writing to men who are faithful and highly respected and who have studied deeply the scriptural teachings of God's instruction.

Concerning the things pertaining to our religious observance which are most profitable for a life of goodness to those who would pursue a godly and righteous course, we have written to you, men and brethren, at sufficient length. For concerning faith and repentance and true love and continence and soberness and patience, we have touched upon every passage, putting you in mind that you ought in righteousness and truth and long-suffering to be well-pleasing to Almighty God with holiness, being of one mind — not remembering evil — in love and peace with instant gentleness, even as also our fathers forementioned found favour by the humility of their thoughts towards the Father and God and Creator and all mankind. And of these things we put you in mind with the greater pleasure, since we were well assured that we were writing to men who were faithful and of highest repute and had peered into the oracles of the instruction of God.

It is right, therefore, to follow such good and numerous examples and to submit ourselves and fulfill the duty of obedience, so that, undisturbed by pointless division, we may reach the goal set before us in complete freedom from blame and in truth. You will bring us joy and gladness if you obey the words we have written and, through the Holy Spirit, uproot the unlawful anger of your jealousy in accordance with the appeal we have made for peace and unity in this letter. We have sent faithful and prudent men whose conduct from youth to old age has been blameless among us—these same men will serve as witnesses between you and us. We have done this so that you may know that our entire concern has been and continues to be that you may quickly be at peace.

Right is it, therefore, to approach examples so good and so many, and submit the neck and fulfil the part of obedience, in order that, undisturbed by vain sedition, we may attain unto the goal set before us in truth wholly free from blame. Joy and gladness will you afford us, if you become obedient to the words written by us and through the Holy Spirit root out the lawless wrath of your jealousy according to the intercession which we have made for peace and unity in this letter. We have sent men faithful and discreet, whose conversation from youth to old age has been blameless among us — the same shall be witnesses between you and us. This we have done, that you may know that our whole concern has been and is that you may be speedily at peace.

May God, who sees all things and is the Ruler of all spirits and the Lord of all flesh—who chose our Lord Jesus Christ and us through Him to be a special people—grant to every soul that calls upon His glorious and holy name faith, fear, peace, patience, long-suffering, self-control, purity, and sobriety, so that His name may be pleased, through our High Priest and Protector, Jesus Christ, through whom be to Him glory, majesty, power, and honor, both now and forever. Amen.

May God, who sees all things, and who is the Ruler of all spirits and the Lord of all flesh — who chose our Lord Jesus Christ and us through Him to be a peculiar Titus 2:14 people — grant to every soul that calls upon His glorious and holy name, faith, fear, peace, patience, long-suffering, self-control, purity, and sobriety, to the well-pleasing of His name, through our High Priest and Protector, Jesus Christ, by whom be to Him glory, and majesty, and power, and honour, both now and for evermore. Amen.

Send these messengers back to us quickly in peace and joy: Claudius Ephebus, Valerius Bito, and Fortunatus. This way they can report to us as soon as possible about the peace and harmony among you that we so deeply want and hope for, and we can rejoice more quickly over the restoration of good order among you. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you and with all people everywhere who are called by God through Him. Through Him, may glory, honor, power, majesty, and eternal rule belong to God forever and ever. Amen.

Send back speedily to us in peace and with joy these our messengers to you: Claudius Ephebus and Valerius Bito, with Fortunatus; that they may the sooner announce to us the peace and harmony we so earnestly desire and long for [among you], and that we may the more quickly rejoice over the good order re-established among you. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you, and with all everywhere that are the called of God through Him, by whom be to Him glory, honour, power, majesty, and eternal dominion, from everlasting to everlasting. Amen.