The Epistles of Clement
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Reprinted from the translation given in the 1st vol. of the
Ante-Nicene Fathers. Completed and revised from a manuscript
discovered after the publication of that volume.
by Rev. John Keith, D.D.
Text edited by Rev. Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson and
first published by T&T Clark in Edinburgh in 1867. Additional
introductionary material and notes provided for the American
edition by A. Cleveland Coxe, 1886.
Introductory Notice to 1st Clement.
The first Epistle, bearing the name of Clement, has been preserved to
us in a single manuscript only. Though very frequently referred to by
ancient Christian writers, it remained unknown to the scholars of
Western Europe until happily discovered in the Alexandrian
manuscript. This ms. of the sacred Scriptures (known and generally
referred to as Codex A) was presented in 1628 by Cyril, Patriarch of
Constantinople, to Charles I., and is now preserved in the British
Museum. Subjoined to the books of the New Testament contained in it,
there are two writings described as the Epistles of one Clement. Of
these, that now before us is the first. It is tolerably perfect, but
there are many slight lacunæ, or gaps, in the ms., and one whole leaf
is supposed to have been lost towards the close. These lacunæ,
however, so numerous in some chapters, do not generally extend beyond
a word or syllable, and can for the most part be easily supplied.
Who the Clement was to whom these writings are ascribed, cannot with
absolute certainty be determined. The general opinion is, that he is
the same as the person of that name referred to by St. Paul (Phil. iv.
3). The writings themselves contain no statement as to their author.
The first, and by far the longer of them, simply purports to have been
written in the name of the church at Rome to the church at Corinth.
But in the catalogue of contents prefixed to the ms. they are both
plainly attributed to one Clement; and the judgment of most scholars
is, that, in regard to the first epistle at least, this statement is
correct, and that it is to be regarded as an authentic production of
the friend and fellow worker of St. Paul. This belief may be traced
to an early period in the history of the church. It is found in the
writings of Eusebius (Hist. Eccl., iii. 15), of Origen (Comm. in
Joan., i. 29), and others. The internal evidence also tends to
support this opinion. The doctrine, style, and manner of thought are
all in accordance with it; so that, although, as has been said,
positive certainty cannot be reached on the subject, we may with great
probability conclude that we have in this epistle a composition of
that Clement who is known to us from Scripture as having been an
associate of the great apostle.
The date of this epistle has been the subject of considerable
controversy. It is clear from the writing itself that it was composed
soon after some persecution (chap. i.) which the Roman church had
endured; and the only question is, whether we are to fix upon the
persecution under Nero or Domitian. If the former, the date will be
about the year 68; if the latter, we must place it towards the close
of the first century or the beginning of the second. We possess no
external aid to the settlement of this question. The lists of early
Roman bishops are in hopeless confusion, some making Clement the
immediate successor of St. Peter, others placing Linus, and others
still Linus and Anacletus, between him and the apostle. The internal
evidence, again, leaves the matter doubtful, though it has been
strongly pressed on both sides. The probability seems, on the whole,
to be in favour of the Domitian period, so that the epistle may be
dated about a.d. 97.
This epistle was held in very great esteem by the early church. The
account given of it by Eusebius (Hist. Eccl., iii. 16) is as follows:
"There is one acknowledged epistle of this Clement (whom he has just
identified with the friend of St. Paul), great and admirable, which he
wrote in the name of the church of Rome to the church at Corinth,
sedition having then arisen in the latter church. We are aware that
this epistle has been publicly read in very many churches, both in old
times and also in our own day." The epistle before us thus appears to
have been read in numerous churches, as being almost on a level with
the canonical writings. And its place in the Alexandrian ms.,
immediately after the inspired books, is in harmony with the position
thus assigned it in the primitive church. There does indeed appear a
great difference between it and the inspired writings in many
respects, such as the fanciful use sometimes made of Old Testament
statements, the fabulous stories which are accepted by its author, and
the general diffuseness and feebleness of style by which it is
distinguished. But the high tone of evangelical truth which pervades
it, the simple and earnest appeals which it makes to the heart and
conscience, and the anxiety which its writer so constantly shows to
promote the best interests of the church of Christ, still impart an
undying charm to this precious relic of later apostolic times.
Additional Introduction.
Towards the close of 1875, at Constantinople, Philotheus Bryennius,
Metropolitan of Serræ, published the first complete edition of the
epistles ascribed to Clement. This he was enabled to do by the
discovery of a ms. in the library of the Holy Sepulchre at Fanari in
Constantinople. This ms., of vellum, consists of one hundred and
twenty leaves in small octavo, nearly seven and a half inches in
length and six in breadth. The ms. bears the date 1056, and was
written by one Leo. Its contents are:
1. Chrysostom's Synopsis of the Old Testament (the New also being
included in the title).
2. Epistle of Barnabas.
3. Clement to the Corinthians I.
4. Clement to the Corinthians II.
5. Teaching of the Twelve Apostles.
6. Ignatian Epistles.
The ms. is written with comparative accuracy and clearness. Internal
evidence seems to establish its independent value; e.g., words
carelessly omitted in the Codex Alexandrinus are found in this ms. It
also supplies the lacunæ, notably chapters 57 (concluding
sentence)--63 inclusive of the first Epistle and chapters 12
(concluding sentences)--20, being the close of the second Epistle.
Harnack seems to prove that the new ms. is as complete as the original
Alexandrian.
The lacuna of the first Epistle consists mainly of a prayer, the
writer somewhat abruptly passing from the oratio obliqua to the oratio
recta. The prayer is indicative of intense earnestness and emotion
rather than official authority. It is marked by wealth of quotation,
especially from the Septuagint. Perhaps, too, the nature of the
sufferings referred to in the opening chapters may be inferred from
the petitions of this prayer.
In the Notes the old ms. is indicated by A, the recently discovered
ms. by I.
.
The First Epistle of Clement to the Corinthians. [3998]
Chapter I.--The Salutation. Praise of the Corinthians Before the
Breaking Forth of Schism Among Them.
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.
Owing, dear brethren, to the sudden and successive calamitous events
[3999] 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. [4000]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? [4001]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 ye 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. Ye enjoined young men
to be of a sober and serious mind, ye instructed your wives to do all
things with a blameless, becoming, and pure conscience, loving their
husbands as in duty bound; and ye taught them that, living in the rule
of obedience, they should manage their household affairs becomingly,
and be in every respect marked by discretion.
Footnotes
[3998] According to I, the title is "Clement's (Epistle) to the
Corinthians." A includes in a Table of Contents of the New Testament
after the Apocalypse: "Clement's Epistle I." "Clement's Epistle II."
The space for the title for the 1st Epistle is mutilated, and we find
only "....Corinthians I.;" the 2d Epistle has no title. On the
authority of Eusebius, Jerome, Georgius Syncellus, the earlier
editions give the titles, "First Epistle of Saint Clement, Bishop of
Rome, to the Corinthians, written in name of the Church of Rome,"
"Second Epistle of Saint Clement, Bishop of Rome, to the Corinthians."
[3999] I, peristaseis (critical experiences).
[4000] Literally "is greatly blasphemed."
[4001] Literally, "did not prove your all-virtuous and firm faith."
Chapter II.--Praise of the Corinthians Continued.
Moreover, ye were all distinguished by humility, and were in no
respect puffed up with pride, but yielded obedience rather than
extorted it, [4002] and were more willing to give than to receive.
[4003]Content with the provision which God [4004] had made for you,
and carefully attending to His words, ye were inwardly filled [4005]
with His doctrine, and His sufferings were before your eyes. Thus a
profound and abundant peace was given to you all, and ye had an
insatiable desire for doing good, while a full outpouring of the Holy
Spirit was upon you all. Full of holy designs, ye 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 ye had
been guilty of any involuntary transgression. Day and night ye were
anxious for the whole brotherhood, [4006] that the number of God's
elect might be saved with mercy [4007] and a good conscience. [4008]
Ye were sincere and uncorrupted, and forgetful of injuries between one
another. Every kind of faction and schism was abominable in your
sight. Ye mourned over the transgressions of your neighbours: their
deficiencies you deemed your own. Ye never grudged any act of
kindness, being "ready to every good work." [4009]Adorned by a
thoroughly virtuous and religious life, ye did all things in the fear
of God. The commandments and ordinances of the Lord were written upon
the tablets of your hearts. [4010]
Footnotes
[4002] Eph. v. 21; 1 Pet. v. 5.
[4003] Acts xx. 35.
[4004] I. Christou (Christ). In the monophysite controversy, the
theologians of Alexandria preferred to call the Lord "God" rather than
"Christ."
[4005] Literally, "ye embraced it in your bowels."
[4006] 1 Pet. ii. 17.
[4007] I. deous (fear).
[4008] So in the ms., but many have suspected that the text is here
corrupt. Perhaps the best emendation is that which substitutes
sunaistheseos "compassion," for suneideseos "conscience."
[4009] Tit. iii. 1.
[4010] Prov. vii. 3.
Chapter III.--The Sad State of the Corinthian Church After Sedition
Arose in It from Envy and Emulation.
Every kind of honour and happiness [4011] was bestowed upon you, and
then was fulfilled that which is written, "My beloved did eat and
drink, and was enlarged and became fat, and kicked." [4012]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 is become blind in
His faith, [4013] neither walks in the ordinances of His appointment,
nor acts a part becoming a Christian, [4014] but walks after his own
wicked lusts, resuming the practice of an unrighteous and ungodly
envy, by which death itself entered into the world. [4015]
Footnotes
[4011] Literally, "enlargement."
[4012] Deut. xxxii. 15.
[4013] It seems necessary to refer autou to God, in opposition to the
translation given by Abp. Wake and others.
[4014] Literally, "Christ;" comp. 2 Cor. i. 21; Eph. iv. 20.
[4015] Wisd. ii. 24.
Chapter IV.--Many Evils Have Already Flowed from This Source in
Ancient Times.
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 art thou grieved, and why
is thy countenance fallen? If thou offerest rightly, but dost not
divide rightly, hast thou not sinned? Be at peace: thine offering
returns to thyself, and thou shalt 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." [4016]Ye 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. [4017]Envy
made Joseph be persecuted unto death, and to come into bondage. [4018]
Envy compelled Moses to flee from the face of Pharaoh king of Egypt,
when he heard these words from his fellow-countryman, "Who made thee a
judge or a ruler over us? Wilt thou kill me, as thou didst kill the
Egyptian yesterday?" [4019]On account of envy, Aaron and Miriam had
to make their abode without the camp. [4020]Envy brought down
Dathan and Abiram alive to Hades, through the sedition which they
excited against God's servant Moses. [4021]Through envy, David not
only underwent the hatred of foreigners, but was also persecuted by
Saul king of Israel. [4022]
Footnotes
[4016] Gen. iv. 3-8. The writer here, as always, follows the reading
of the Septuagint, which in this passage both alters and adds to the
Hebrew text. We have given the rendering approved by the best
critics; but some prefer to translate, as in our English version,
"unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him." See,
for an ancient explanation of the passage, Irenæus, Adv. Hær., iv. 18,
3.
[4017] Gen. xxvii. 41, etc.
[4018] Gen. xxxvii.
[4019] Ex. ii. 14.
[4020] Num. xii. 14, 15.
[4021] Num. xvi. 33.
[4022] 1 Kings xviii. 8, etc.
Chapter V.--No Less Evils Have Arisen from the Same Source in the Most
Recent Times. The Martyrdom of Peter and Paul.
But not to dwell upon ancient examples, let us come to the most recent
spiritual heroes. [4023]Let us take the noble examples furnished in
our own generation. Through envy [4024] and jealousy the greatest and
most righteous pillars [of the church] have been persecuted and put to
death. [4025]Let us set before our eyes the illustrious [4026]
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 [4027] the reward of patient endurance, after being seven
times thrown into captivity, [4028] compelled [4029] to flee, and
stoned. After preaching both in the east and west, he gained the
illustrious reputation due to his faith, having taught righteousness
[4030] to the whole world, and come to the extreme limit of the west,
[4031] and suffered martyrdom under the prefects. [4032]Thus was he
removed from the world, and went into the holy place, having proved
himself a striking example of patience.
Footnotes
[4023] Literally, "those who have been athletes."
[4024] I. erin (strife).
[4025] I. heos thanatou ethlesan (contended unto death).
[4026] Literally "good."
[4027] I. edeixen (displayed).
[4028] Seven imprisonments of St. Paul are not referred to in
Scripture.
[4029] I. phugadeutheis (having become a fugitive). Archbishop Wake
here reads "scourged." We have followed the most recent critics in
filling up the numerous lacunæ in this Chapter.
[4030] I. punctuates elabe dikaiosunen, (received righteousness,
having taught).
[4031] Some think Rome, others Spain, and others even Britain, to be
here referred to.
[4032] That is, under Tigellinus and Sabinus, in the last year of the
Emperor Nero; but some think Helius and Polycletus referred to; and
others, both here and in the preceding sentence, regard the words as
denoting simply the witness borne by Peter and Paul to the truth of
the gospel before the rulers of the earth.
Chapter VI.--Continuation. Several Other Martyrs.
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 [4033] and
Dircæ, being persecuted, after they had suffered terrible and
unspeakable torments, finished the course of their faith with
stedfastness, [4034] 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." [4035]Envy and strife have overthrown [4036]
great cities, and rooted up mighty nations.
Footnotes
[4033] Some suppose these to have been the names of two eminent female
martyrs under Nero; others regard the clause as an interpolation.
[4034] Literally, "have reached to the stedfast course of faith."
[4035] Gen. ii. 23.
[4036] I. kateskapsen (razed to the ground).
Chapter VII.--An Exhortation to Repentance.
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. [4037]Let us
attend to what is good, pleasing, and acceptable in the sight of Him
who formed us. Let us look stedfastly to the blood of Christ, and see
how precious that blood is to God [4038] which, having been shed for
our salvation, has set the grace of repentance before the whole world.
[4039]Let us turn to [4040] 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. [4041]Jonah
proclaimed destruction to the Ninevites; [4042] but they, repenting of
their sins, propitiated God by prayer, and obtained salvation,
although they were aliens [to the covenant] of God.
Footnotes
[4037] I. tes paradoseos hemon (of our tradition).
[4038] I. to patri autou to theo (to His Father God).
[4039] I. epenenken (conferred).
[4040] I. dielthomen (traverse, trace).
[4041] Gen. vii; 1 Pet. iii. 20; 2 Pet. ii. 5.
[4042] Jonah iii.
Chapter VIII.--Continuation Respecting Repentance.
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, saith the Lord, I desire not the death
of the sinner, but rather his repentance;" [4043] adding, moreover,
this gracious declaration, "Repent, O house of Israel, of your
iniquity." [4044]Say to the children of my people, Though your sins
reach from earth to heaven, and though they be redder [4045] than
scarlet, and blacker than sack-cloth, yet if ye turn to me with your
whole heart, and say, Father! I will listen to you, as to a holy
[4046] people. And in another place He speaks thus: "Wash you and
become clean; put away the wickedness of your souls from before mine
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 ye be willing and obey me, ye shall eat the good of the land;
but if ye refuse, and will not hearken unto me, the sword shall devour
you, for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken these things." [4047]
Desiring, therefore, that all His beloved should be partakers of
repentance, He has, by His almighty will, established [these
declarations].
Footnotes
[4043] Ezek. xxxiii. 11.
[4044] Ezek. xviii. 30.
[4045] Comp. Isa. i. 18.
[4046] These words are not found in Scripture, though they are quoted
again by Clem. Alex. (Pædag. i. 10) as from Ezekiel.
[4047] Isa. i. 16-20.
Chapter IX.--Examples of the Saints.
Wherefore, let us yield obedience to His excellent and glorious will;
and imploring His mercy and loving-kindness, while we forsake all
fruitless labours [4048] and strife, and envy, which leads to death,
let us turn and have recourse to His compassions. Let us stedfastly
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. [4049]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.
Footnotes
[4048] Some read mataiologian, vain talk.
[4049] Gen. v. 24; Heb. xi. 5. Literally, "and his death was not
found."
Chapter X.--Continuation of the Above.
Abraham, styled "the friend," [4050] 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 thee out from
thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, into
the land which I shall show thee. And I will make thee a great
nation, and will bless thee, and make thy name great, and thou shalt
be blessed. And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse them
that curse thee; and in thee shall all the families of the earth be
blessed." [4051]And again, on his departing from Lot, God said to
him, "Lift up thine eyes, and look from the place where thou now art,
northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward; for all the land
which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever.
And I will make thy seed as the dust of the earth, [so that] if a man
can number the dust of the earth, then shall thy seed also be
numbered." [4052]And again [the Scripture] saith, "God brought
forth Abram, and spake unto him, Look up now to heaven, and count the
stars if thou be able to number them; so shall thy seed be. And Abram
believed God, and it was counted to him for righteousness." [4053]
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. [4054]
Footnotes
[4050] Isa. xli. 8; 2 Chron. xx. 7; Judith viii. 19; James ii. 23.
[4051] Gen. xii. 1-3.
[4052] Gen. xiii. 14-16.
[4053] Gen. xv. 5, 6; Rom. iv. 3.
[4054] Gen. xii. 22; Heb. xi. 17.
Chapter XI.--Continuation. Lot.
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. [4055]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. [4056]
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 [4057] and become a sign to all succeeding generations.
Footnotes
[4055] Gen. xix; comp. 2 Pet. ii. 6-9.
[4056] So Joseph., Antiq., i. 11. 4; Irenæus, Adv. Hær., iv. 31.
[4057] Literally, "become a judgment and sign."
Chapter XII.--The Rewards of Faith and Hospitality. Rahab.
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 were 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 thee who are to spy out our land; bring them forth, for so the
king commands," she answered them, "The two men whom ye 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 hath given you this city, for the fear and dread of you
have fallen on its inhabitants. When therefore ye shall have taken
it, keep ye me and the house of my father in safety." And they said
to her, "It shall be as thou hast spoken to us. As soon, therefore,
as thou knowest that we are at hand, thou shalt gather all thy family
under thy roof, and they shall be preserved, but all that are found
outside of thy dwelling shall perish." [4058]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. [4059]Ye see, beloved, that there was not only faith, but
prophecy, in this woman.
Footnotes
[4058] Josh. ii; Heb. xi. 31.
[4059] Others of the fathers adopt the same allegorical
interpretation, e. g., Justin Mar., Dial. c. Tryph., n. 111; Irenæus,
Adv. Hær., iv. 20.
Chapter XIII.--An Exhortation to Humility.
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 saith,
"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 glorieth glory in the Lord, in diligently seeking Him,
and doing judgment and righteousness" [4060] ), being especially
mindful of the words of the Lord Jesus which He spake teaching us
meekness and long-suffering. For thus He spoke: "Be ye merciful,
that ye may obtain mercy; forgive, that it may be forgiven to you; as
ye do, so shall it be done unto you; as ye judge, so shall ye be
judged; as ye are kind, so shall kindness be shown to you; with what
measure ye mete, with the same it shall be measured to you." [4061]
By this precept and by these rules let us stablish ourselves, that we
walk with all humility in obedience to His holy words. For the holy
word saith, "On whom shall I look, but on him that is meek and
peaceable, and that trembleth at my words?" [4062]
Footnotes
[4060] Jer. ix. 23, 24; 1 Cor. i. 31; 2 Cor. x. 17.
[4061] Comp. Matt. vi. 12-15, vii. 2; Luke vi. 36-38.
[4062] Isa. lxvi. 2.
Chapter XIV.--We Should Obey God Rather Than the Authors of Sedition.
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, [4063] 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." [4064]And again [the Scripture] saith, "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." [4065]
Footnotes
[4063] I. eis haireseis (sects).
[4064] Prov. ii. 21, 22.
[4065] Ps. xxxvii. 35-37. "Remnant" probably refers either to the
memory or posterity of the righteous.
Chapter XV.--We Must Adhere to Those Who Cultivate Peace, Not to Those
Who Merely Pretend to Do So.
Let us cleave, therefore, to those who cultivate peace with godliness,
and not to those who hypocritically profess to desire it. For [the
Scripture] saith in a certain place, "This people honoureth me with
their lips, but their heart is far from me." [4066]And again:
"They bless with their mouth, but curse with their heart." [4067]
And again it saith, "They loved Him with their month, and lied [4068]
to Him with their tongue; but their heart was not right with Him,
neither were they faithful in His covenant." [4069]"Let the
deceitful lips become silent, [4070] [and "let the Lord destroy all
the lying lips, [4071] ] 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, saith the Lord: I will place him in safety;
I will deal confidently with him." [4072]
Footnotes
[4066] Isa. xxix. 13; Matt. xv. 8; Mark vii. 6.
[4067] Ps. lxii. 4.
[4068] I. epsexan (blamed).
[4069] Ps. lxxviii. 36, 37.
[4070] Ps. xxxi. 18.
[4071] These words within brackets are not found in the ms., but have
been inserted from the Septuagint by most editors.
[4072] Ps. xii. 3-5.
Chapter XVI.--Christ as an Example of Humility.
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 hath
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 openeth
not His mouth. He was brought as a sheep to the slaughter, and as a
lamb before her shearer is dumb, so He openeth 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, [4073]
because He did no iniquity, neither was guile found in His mouth. And
the Lord is pleased to purify him by stripes. [4074]If ye make
[4075] 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, [4076] to
justify the Just One who ministereth 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." [4077]And again
He saith, "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 delighteth in Him." [4078]
Ye 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?
Footnotes
[4073] The Latin of Cotelerius, adopted by Hefele and Dressel,
translates this clause as follows: "I will set free the wicked on
account of His sepulchre, and the rich on account of His death."
[4074] The reading of the ms., is tes pleges, "purify, or free Him,
from stripes." We have adopted the emendation of Junius.
[4075] Wotton reads, "If He make."
[4076] Or, "fill Him with understanding," if plesai should be read
instead of plasai as Grabe suggests.
[4077] Isa. liii. The reader will observe how often the text of the
Septuagint, here quoted, differs from the Hebrew as represented by our
authorized English version.
[4078] Ps. xxii. 6-8.
Chapter XVII.--The Saints as Examples of Humility.
Let us be imitators also of those who in goat-skins and sheep-skins
[4079] 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." [4080]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." [4081]But bringing an accusation against
himself, he said, "No man is free from defilement, even if his life be
but of one day." [4082]Moses was called faithful in all God's
house; [4083] and through his instrumentality, [4084] 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 Thou sendest me?
I am a man of a feeble voice and a slow tongue." [4085]And again he
said, "I am but as the smoke of a pot." [4086]
Footnotes
[4079] Heb. xi. 37.
[4080] Gen. xviii. 27.
[4081] Job i. 1.
[4082] Job xiv. 4, 5.
[4083] Num. xii. 7; Heb. iii. 2.
[4084] I. huperesias (service).
[4085] Ex. iii. 11, iv. 10.
[4086] This is not found in Scripture.
Chapter XVIII.--David as an Example of Humility.
But what shall we say concerning David, to whom such testimony was
borne, and of whom [4087] God said, "I have found a man after mine own
heart, David the son of Jesse; and in everlasting mercy have I
anointed him?" [4088]Yet this very man saith to God, "Have mercy on
me, O Lord, according to Thy great mercy; and according to the
multitude of Thy compassions, blot out my transgression. [4089]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 Thee
only have I sinned, and done that which is evil in Thy sight; that
Thou mayest be justified in Thy sayings, and mayest overcome when Thou
[4090] art judged. For, behold, I was conceived in transgressions,
and in sins did my mother conceive me. For, behold, Thou hast loved
truth; the secret and hidden things of wisdom hast Thou shown me.
Thou shalt sprinkle me with hyssop, and I shall be cleansed; Thou
shalt wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Thou shalt make me to
hear joy and gladness; my bones, which have been humbled, shall
exult. Turn away Thy 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. [4091]Cast me not away from Thy presence, and
take not Thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Thy
salvation, and establish me by Thy governing Spirit. I will teach
transgressors Thy ways, and the ungodly shall be converted unto Thee.
Deliver me from blood-guiltiness, [4092] O God, the God of my
salvation: my tongue shall exult in Thy righteousness. O Lord, Thou
shalt open my mouth, and my lips shall show forth Thy praise. For if
Thou hadst desired sacrifice, I would have given it; Thou wilt not
delight in burnt-offerings. The sacrifice [acceptable] to God is a
bruised spirit; a broken and a contrite heart God will not despise."
[4093]
Footnotes
[4087] Or, as some render "to whom."
[4088] Ps. lxxxix. 21.
[4089] "Wash me...." and following verses omitted in I.
[4090] Or, "when Thou judgest."
[4091] Literally, "in my inwards."
[4092] Literally, "bloods."
[4093] Ps. li. 1-17.
Chapter XIX.--Imitating These Examples, Let Us Seek After Peace.
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; [4094] and let us look
stedfastly 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.
Footnotes
[4094] Literally, "Becoming partakers of many great and glorious
deeds, let us return to the aim of peace delivered to me from the
beginning." Comp. Heb. xii. 1.
Chapter XX.--The Peace and Harmony of the Universe.
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, [4095] never passes beyond the bounds placed around it, but
does as He has commanded. For He said, "Thus far shalt thou come, and
thy waves shall be broken within thee." [4096]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 [4097] to one another. The winds in their
several quarters [4098] 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.
Footnotes
[4095] Or, "collections."
[4096] Job xxxviii. 11.
[4097] I. metaprodidoasi (transfer from one to another).
[4098] Or "stations."
Chapter XXI.--Let Us Obey God, and Not the Authors of Sedition.
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] saith in a certain place, "The Spirit of
the Lord is a candle searching the secret parts of the belly." [4099]
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,
[4100] whose blood was given for us; let us esteem those who have the
rule over us; [4101] let us honour the aged [4102] 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 [4103] of speaking; let them display their
love, not by preferring [4104] 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 [4105] 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.
Footnotes
[4099] Prov. xx. 27.
[4100] I. omits "Christ."
[4101] Comp. Heb. xiii. 17; 1 Thess. v. 12, 13.
[4102] Or, "the presbyters."
[4103] I. siges (silence).
[4104] I. proskleseis (summonses). Comp. 1 Tim. v. 21.
[4105] Some translate, "who turn to Him."
Chapter XXII.--These Exhortations are Confirmed by the Christian
Faith, Which Proclaims the Misery of Sinful Conduct.
Now the faith which is in Christ confirms all these [admonitions].
For He Himself by the Holy Ghost thus addresses us: "Come, ye
children, hearken unto me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
[4106]What man is he that desireth life, and loveth to see good
days? Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy 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." [4107]
"Many are the stripes [appointed for] the wicked; but mercy shall
compass those about who hope in the Lord." [4108]
Footnotes
[4106] I. omits rest of quotation as far us "Many," etc.
[4107] Ps. xxxiv. 11-17.
[4108] Ps. xxxii. 10.
Chapter XXIII.--Be Humble, and Believe that Christ Will Come Again.
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 [4109] 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;" [4110] Ye foolish ones! compare yourselves
to a tree; take [for instance] the vine. First of all, it sheds its
leaves, [4111] then it buds, next it puts forth leaves, and then it
flowers; after that comes the sour grape, and then follows the ripened
fruit. Ye 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;" [4112] and, "The Lord shall
suddenly come to His temple, even the Holy One, for whom ye look."
[4113]
Footnotes
[4109] Or, as some render, "neither let us have any doubt of."
[4110] Some regard these words as taken from an apocryphal book,
others as derived from a fusion of James i. 8 and 2 Pet. iii. 3, 4.
[4111] I. omits.
[4112] Hab. ii. 3; Heb. x. 37.
[4113] Mal. iii. 1.
Chapter XXIV.--God Continually Shows Us in Nature that There Will Be a
Resurrection.
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 [4114] the first-fruits [4115] by raising Him from
the dead. Let us contemplate, beloved, the resurrection which is at
all times [4116] 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 [4117] the
fruits [of the earth], how the sowing of grain takes place. The sower
[4118] goes forth, and casts it into the ground, [4119] 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.
Footnotes
[4114] I. omits "Christ."
[4115] Comp. 1 Cor. xv. 20; Col. i. 18.
[4116] I. kata kairon (in due season).
[4117] I. labomen (let us take).
[4118] Comp. Luke viii. 5.
[4119] I. adds hekaston ton spermaton (the seeds severally.)
Chapter XXV.--The Phoenix an Emblem of Our Resurrection.
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 phoenix. 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 deed 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 [4120] from the land of Arabia into Egypt,
to the city called Heliopolis. And, in open day, flying [4121] 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. [4122]
Footnotes
[4120] I. dianuei (accomplishes its journey).
[4121] I. omits epiptas (on the wing, flying).
[4122] This fable respecting the phoenix is mentioned by Herodotus
(ii. 73), and by Pliny (Nat. Hist., x. 2). and is used as above by
Tertullian (De Resurr., § 13), and by others of the fathers.
Chapter XXVI.--We Shall Rise Again, Then, as the Scripture Also
Testifies.
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? [4123]For [the
Scripture] saith in a certain place, "Thou shalt raise me up, and I
shall confess unto Thee"; [4124] and again, "I laid me down, and
slept"; "I awaked, because Thou art with me;" [4125] and again, Job
says, "Thou shalt raise up this flesh of mine, which has suffered all
these things." [4126]
Footnotes
[4123] Literally, "the mightiness of His promise."
[4124] Ps. xxviii. 7, or from some apocryphal book.
[4125] Comp. Ps. iii. 6.
[4126] Job xix. 25, 26.
Chapter XXVII.--In the Hope of the Resurrection, Let Us Cleave to the
Omnipotent and Omniscient God.
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. [4127]Let His faith therefore be stirred
up again within us, and let us consider that all things are nigh unto
Him. By the word of His might [4128] He established all things, and
by His word He can overthrow them. "Who shall say unto Him, What hast
thou done? or, Who shall resist the power of His strength?" [4129]
When, and as He pleases, He will do all things, and none of the things
determined by Him shall pass away. [4130]All things are open before
Him, and nothing can be hidden from His counsel. "The heavens [4131]
declare the glory of God, and the firmament showeth His handy-work.
[4132]Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth
knowledge. And there are no words or speeches of which the voices are
not heard." [4133]
Footnotes
[4127] Comp. Tit. i. 2; Heb. vi. 18.
[4128] Or "majesty."
[4129] Wisd. xii. 12, xi. 21.
[4130] Comp. Matt. xxiv. 35.
[4131] Literally, "if the heavens," etc.
[4132] I. omits.
[4133] Ps. xix. 1-3. I. omits Ps. xix. 2-4, with the exception of the
concluding words, akouontai hai phonai auton (their voices are heard),
which are connected with the opening words of the following Chapter.
Chapter XXVIII.--God Sees All Things: Therefore Let Us Avoid
Transgression.
Since then all things are seen and heard [by God], let us fear Him,
and forsake those wicked works which proceed from evil [4134] desires;
[4135] 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 saith in a certain place, "Whither shall I go, and
where shall I be hid from Thy presence? If I ascend into heaven, Thou
art there; if I go away even to the uttermost parts of the earth,
there is Thy right hand; [4136] if I make my bed in the abyss, there
is Thy Spirit." [4137]Whither, then, shall anyone go, or where
shall he escape from Him who comprehends all things?
Footnotes
[4134] I. blaberas (hurtful).
[4135] Literally, "abominable lusts of evil deeds."
[4136] I. su ekei ei (Thou art there).
[4137] Ps. cxxxix. 7-10.
Chapter XXIX.--Let Us Also Draw Near to God in Purity of Heart.
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. [4138]For
thus it is written, "When the Most High divided the nations, when He
scattered [4139] 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. [4140]
And in another place [the Scripture] saith, "Behold, the Lord taketh
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." [4141]
Footnotes
[4138] Literally, "has made us to Himself a part of election."
[4139] Literally, "sowed abroad."
[4140] Deut. xxxii. 8, 9.
[4141] Formed apparently from Num. xviii. 27 and 2 Chron. xxxi. 14.
Literally, the closing words are, "the holy of holies."
Chapter XXX.--Let Us Do Those Things that Please God, and Flee from
Those He Hates, that We May Be Blessed.
Seeing, therefore, that we are the portion of the Holy One, [4142] 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, [4143] all abominable lusts,
detestable adultery, and execrable pride. "For God," [saith the
Scripture], "resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble."
[4144]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] saith, "He that speaketh much, shall also hear much in
answer. And does he that is ready in speech deem himself righteous?
Blessed [4145] is he that is born of woman, who liveth but a short
time: be not given to much speaking." [4146]Let our praise be in
God, and not of ourselves; for God hateth those that commend
themselves. Let testimony to our good [4147] deeds be borne by
others, as it was in the case of our righteous forefathers. Boldness,
and arrogance, and audacity belong to [4148] those that are accursed
of God; but moderation, humility, and meekness to such as are blessed
by Him.
Footnotes
[4142] I. hagia mere (holy parts.)
[4143] Some translate, "youthful lusts."
[4144] Prov. iii. 34; James iv. 6; 1 Pet. v. 5.
[4145] I. omits.
[4146] Job xi. 2, 3. The translation is doubtful.
[4147] I. omits.
[4148] I. edothe (was given).
Chapter XXXI.--Let Us See by What Means We May Obtain the Divine
Blessing.
Let us cleave then to His blessing, and consider what are the means
[4149] of possessing it. Let us think [4150] 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, [4151] with perfect confidence, as if
knowing what was to happen, [4152] cheerfully yielded himself as a
sacrifice. [4153]Jacob, through reason [4154] 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.
Footnotes
[4149] Literally, "what are the ways of His blessing."
[4150] Literally, "unroll."
[4151] Comp. James ii. 21.
[4152] Some translate, "knowing what was to come."
[4153] Gen. xxii. 6-10.
[4154] So Jacobson: Wotton reads, "fleeing from his brother."
Chapter XXXII.--We are Justified Not by Our Own Works, But by Faith.
Whosoever will candidly consider each particular, will recognise the
greatness of the gifts which were given by him. [4155]For from him
[4156] 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. [4157]From him [arose] kings, princes, and
rulers of the race of Judah. Nor are his other tribes in small glory,
[4158] inasmuch as God had promised, "Thy seed shall be as the stars
of heaven." [4159]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 [4160] 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.
Footnotes
[4155] The meaning here is very doubtful. Some translate, "the gifts
which were given to Jacob by Him," i.e. God.
[4156] ms. auton, referring to the gifts: we have followed the
emendation autou, adopted by most editors. Some refer the word to
God, and not Jacob.
[4157] Comp. Rom. ix. 5.
[4158] I. taxei (rank).
[4159] Gen. xxii. 17, xxviii. 4.
[4160] I. omits.
Chapter XXXIII.--But Let Us Not Give Up the Practice of Good Works and
Love. God Himself is an Example to Us of Good Works.
What shall we do, [4161] 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 [4162] into existence. So likewise, when He
had formed [4163] the sea, and the living creatures which are in it,
He enclosed them [within their proper bounds] by His own power. Above
all, [4164] 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." [4165]
Having thus finished all these things, He approved them, and blessed
them, and said, "Increase and multiply." [4166]We see, [4167] 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.
Footnotes
[4161] I. eroumin (shall we say).
[4162] Or, "commandment."
[4163] I. proetoimasas (having previously prepared).
[4164] Or, "in addition to all."
[4165] Gen. i. 26, 27.
[4166] Gen. i. 28.
[4167] Or, "let us consider."
Chapter XXXIV.--Great is the Reward of Good Works with God. Joined
Together in Harmony, Let Us Implore that Reward from Him.
The good servant [4168] 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 [cometh], and His reward is before His face, to
render to every man according to his work." [4169]He exhorts us,
therefore, [4170] with our whole heart to attend to this, [4171] 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 saith, "Ten thousand times
ten thousand stood around Him, and thousands of thousands ministered
unto Him, [4172] and cried, Holy, holy, holy, [is] the Lord of
Sabaoth; the whole creation [4173] is full of His glory." [4174]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] saith, "Eye hath
not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man,
the things which He hath prepared for them that wait for [4175] Him."
[4176]
Footnotes
[4168] Or, "labourer."
[4169] Isa. xl. 10, lxii. 11; Rev. xxii. 12.
[4170] I. pisteuontas (believing).
[4171] The text here seems to be corrupt. Some translate, "He warns
us with all His heart to this end, that," etc.
[4172] Dan. vii. 10.
[4173] I. ge (earth).
[4174] Isa. vi. 3.
[4175] I. agaposin (love).
[4176] 1 Cor. ii. 9.
Chapter XXXV.--Immense is This Reward. How Shall We Obtain It?
How blessed and wonderful, beloved, are the gifts of God! Life in
immortality, splendour in righteousness, truth in perfect confidence,
[4177] 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, [4178] the Most Holy, [4179] 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 [4180] 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, [4181] along with all covetousness,
[4182] strife, evil practices, deceit, whispering, and evil-speaking,
all hatred of God, pride and haughtiness, vain glory and ambition.
[4183]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. [4184]For the Scripture saith, "But to the sinner God said,
Wherefore dost thou declare my statutes, and take my covenant into thy
mouth, seeing thou hatest instruction, and castest my words behind
thee? When thou sawest a thief, thou consentedst with [4185] him, and
didst make thy portion with adulterers. Thy mouth has abounded with
wickedness, and thy tongue contrived [4186] deceit. Thou sittest, and
speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest [4187] thine own
mother's son. These things thou hast done, and I kept silence; thou
thoughtest, wicked one, that I should be like to thyself. But I will
reprove thee, and set thyself before thee. Consider now these things,
ye that forget God, lest He tear you in pieces, like a lion, and there
be none to deliver. [4188]The sacrifice of praise will glorify me,
and a way is there by which I will show him the salvation of God."
[4189]
Footnotes
[4177] Some translate, "in liberty."
[4178] Or, "of the ages."
[4179] I. ho demiourgos ton aionon kai poter panagios (the Creator
Eternal and Father All-Holy.)
[4180] I. ta agatha (good things) added.
[4181] I. ponerian (wickedness).
[4182] I. omits pleonexia (covetousness).
[4183] The reading is doubtful: some have aphiloxenian, "want of a
hospitable spirit."
[4184] Rom. i. 32.
[4185] Literally, "didst run with."
[4186] Literally, "did weave."
[4187] Or, "layest a snare for."
[4188] I. omit "su de emisesas...ho rhuomenos Ps. l. 17-22, and
connects by en to telei (in the end).
[4189] Ps. l. 16-23. The render will observe how the Septuagint
followed by Clement differs from the Hebrew.
Chapter XXXVI.--All Blessings are Given to Us Through Christ.
This is the way, beloved, in which we find our Saviour, [4190] 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 [4191] up anew towards His
marvellous light. By Him the Lord has willed that we should taste of
immortal knowledge, [4192] "who, being the brightness of His majesty,
is by so much greater than the angels, as He hath by inheritance
obtained a more excellent name than they." [4193]For it is thus
written, "Who maketh His angels spirits, and His ministers a flame of
fire." [4194]But concerning His Son [4195] the Lord spoke thus:
"Thou art my Son, to-day have I begotten Thee. Ask of me, and I will
give Thee the heathen for Thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts
of the earth for Thy possession." [4196]And again He saith to Him,
"Sit Thou at my right hand, until I make Thine enemies Thy footstool."
[4197]But who are His enemies? All the wicked, and those who set
themselves to oppose the will of God. [4198]
Footnotes
[4190] Literally, "that which saves us."
[4191] Or, "rejoices to behold."
[4192] Or, "knowledge of immortality."
[4193] Heb. i. 3, 4.
[4194] Ps. civ. 4; Heb. i. 7.
[4195] Some render, "to the Son."
[4196] Ps. ii. 7, 8; Heb. i. 5.
[4197] Ps. cx. 1; Heb. i. 13.
[4198] Some read, "who oppose their own will to that of God."
Chapter XXXVII.--Christ is Our Leader, and We His Soldiers.
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, [4199]
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.
[4200]Let us take our body for an example. [4201]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 [4202] harmoniously together, and are
under one common rule [4203] for the preservation of the whole body.
Footnotes
[4199] I. hektikos (habitually).
[4200] Literally, "in these there is use."
[4201] 1 Cor. xii. 12, etc.
[4202] Literally, "all breathe together."
[4203] Literally, "use one subjection."
Chapter XXXVIII.--Let the Members of the Church Submit Themselves, and
No One Exalt Himself Above Another.
Let our whole body, then, be preserved in Christ Jesus; [4204] and let
every one be subject to his neighbour, according to the special gift
[4205] bestowed upon him. Let the strong not despise [4206] 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 hath 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. [4207]Let him that is pure
in the flesh not grow proud [4208] 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. [4209]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.
Footnotes
[4204] I. omits "Jesus."
[4205] Literally, "according as he has been placed in his charism."
[4206] I. temeleito (attend to).
[4207] Comp. Prov. xxvii. 2.
[4208] The ms. is here slightly torn, and we are left to conjecture.
[4209] Comp. Ps. cxxxix. 15.
Chapter XXXIX.--There is No Reason for Self-Conceit.
Foolish and inconsiderate [4210] men, who have neither wisdom [4211]
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 mine eyes, only I heard a sound, [4212] 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 [4213] 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 thee, or if thou wilt
look to any of the holy angels; for wrath destroys the foolish man,
and envy killeth 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 [4214] 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." [4215]
Footnotes
[4210] I omits kai asunetoi (and without understanding).
[4211] Literally, "and silly and uninstructed."
[4212] Literally, "a breath."
[4213] Or, "has perceived."
[4214] Some render, "they perished at the gates."
[4215] Job iv. 16-18, 19-21, v. 1-5, xv. 15.
Chapter XL.--Let Us Preserve in the Church the Order Appointed by God.
These things therefore being manifest to us, and since we look into
the depths of the divine knowledge, it behoves us to do all things in
[their proper] order, which the Lord has commanded us to perform at
stated times. [4216]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. [4217]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.
Footnotes
[4216] Some join kata kairous tetagmenous, "at stated times," to the
next sentence.
[4217] Literally, "to His will."
Chapter XLI.--Continuation of the Same Subject.
Let every one of you, brethren, give thanks [4218] 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. Ye see, [4219]
brethren, that the greater the knowledge that has been vouchsafed to
us, the greater also is the danger to which we are exposed.
Footnotes
[4218] I. euaresteito (be well-pleasing).
[4219] Or, "consider."
Chapter XLII.--The Order of Ministers in the Church.
The apostles have preached the gospel to us from [4220] the Lord Jesus
Christ; Jesus [4221] Christ [has done so] from God. Christ therefore
was sent forth by God, [4222] and the apostles by Christ. Both these
appointments, [4223] 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 [4224] 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, [4225] 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
saith the Scripture in a certain place, "I will appoint their bishops
[4226] in righteousness, and their deacons [4227] in faith." [4228]
Footnotes
[4220] Or, "by the command of."
[4221] A. "the Christ," I. "Christ."
[4222] I. omits.
[4223] Literally, "both things were done."
[4224] Or, "confirmed by."
[4225] Or, "having tested them in spirit."
[4226] Or, "overseers."
[4227] Or, "servants."
[4228] Isa. lx. 17, Sept.; but the text is here altered by Clement.
The LXX. have, "I will give thy rulers in peace, and thy overseers in
righteousness."
Chapter XLIII.--Moses of Old Stilled the Contention Which Arose
Concerning the Priestly Dignity.
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," [4229]
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 [4230] 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 was 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. [4231]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.
Footnotes
[4229] Num. xii. 10; Heb. iii. 5.
[4230] Literally, "every tribe being written according to its name."
[4231] See Num xvii.
Chapter XLIV.--The Ordinances of the Apostles, that There Might Be No
Contention Respecting the Priestly Office.
Our apostles also knew, through our Lord Jesus Christ, that there
would be strife on account of the office [4232] 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, [4233] 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,
[4234] 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 [4235] those who have blamelessly and holily fulfilled
its duties. [4236]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 ye have
removed some men of excellent behaviour from the ministry, which they
fulfilled blamelessly and with honour.
Footnotes
[4232] Literally, "on account of the title of the oversight " Some
understand this to mean, "in regard to the dignity of the episcopate;"
and others simply, "on account of the oversight." I. for epinome
gives epidomeBryennius conjectures epidoche, which perhaps, may be
rendered "Succession" (diadoche).
[4233] The meaning of this passage is much controverted. Some render,
"left a list of other approved persons;" while others translate the
unusual word epinome, which causes the difficulty, by "testamentary
direction," and many others deem the text corrupt. We have given what
seems the simplest version of the text as it stands.
[4234] i.e. the apostles.
[4235] Or, "oversight."
[4236] Literally, "presented the offerings."
Chapter XLV.--It is the Part of the Wicked to Vex the Righteous.
Ye 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
[4237] that nothing of an unjust or counterfeit character is written
in them. There [4238] 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
[4239] cast into the den of lions by such as feared God? Were
Ananias, and Azarias, and Michael shut up in a furnace [4240] of fire
by those who observed [4241] 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 [4242] 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 [4243] by God in their memorial for
ever and ever. Amen.
Footnotes
[4237] Or, "Ye perceive."
[4238] Or, "For."
[4239] Dan. vi. 16.
[4240] Dan. iii. 20.
[4241] Literally, "worshipped."
[4242] Literally, "serve."
[4243] Or, "lifted up." I. engraphoi (inscribed).
Chapter XLVI.--Let Us Cleave to the Righteous: Your Strife is
Pernicious.
Such examples, therefore, brethren, it is right that we should follow;
[4244] since it is written, "Cleave to the holy, for those that cleave
to them shall [themselves] be made holy." [4245]And again, in
another place, [the Scripture] saith, "With a harmless man thou shalt
prove [4246] thyself harmless, and with an elect man thou shalt be
elect, and with a perverse man thou shalt show [4247] thyself
perverse." [4248]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 [4249] 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?
[4250]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?"
[4251]Remember the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, how [4252] He
said, "Woe to that man [by whom [4253] offences 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." [4254]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 continueth.
Footnotes
[4244] Literally, "to such examples it is right that we should
cleave."
[4245] Not found in Scripture.
[4246] Literally, "be."
[4247] Or, "thou wilt overthrow."
[4248] Ps. xviii. 25, 26.
[4249] Or, "war." Comp. James iv. 1.
[4250] Comp. Eph. iv. 4-6.
[4251] Rom. xii. 5.
[4252] This clause is wanting in the text.
[4253] This clause is wanting in the text.
[4254] Comp. Matt. xviii. 6, xxvi. 24; Mark ix. 42; Luke xvii. 2.
Chapter XLVII.--Your Recent Discord is Worse Than the Former Which
Took Place in the Times of Paul.
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? [4255]
Truly, under the inspiration [4256] of the Spirit, he wrote to you
concerning himself, and Cephas, and Apollos, [4257] because even then
parties [4258] 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, [4259] that
such a thing should be heard of as that the most stedfast 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 [4260] with
us; so that, through your infatuation, the name of the Lord is
blasphemed, while danger is also brought upon yourselves.
Footnotes
[4255] Literally, "in the beginning of the gospel."
[4256] Or, "spiritually."
[4257] 1 Cor. iii. 13, etc.
[4258] Or, "inclinations for one above another." I. proskleseis
(summonses) throughout for proskliseis.
[4259] Literally, "of conduct in Christ." I. agape (love).
[4260] Or, "aliens from us," i.e. the Gentiles.
Chapter XLVIII.--Let Us Return to the Practice of Brotherly Love.
Let us therefore, with all haste, put an end [4261] to this [state of
things]; and let us fall down before the Lord, and beseech Him with
tears, that He would mercifully [4262] 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." [4263]
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.
Footnotes
[4261] Literally, "remove."
[4262] Literally, "becoming merciful."
[4263] Ps. cxviii. 19, 20.
Chapter XLIX--The Praise of Love.
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. [4264]Love beareth all things, is
long-suffering in all things. [4265]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.
Footnotes
[4264] James v. 20; 1 Pet. iv. 8.
[4265] Comp. 1 Cor. xiii. 4, etc.
Chapter L.--Let Us Pray to Be Thought Worthy of Love.
Ye 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, [4266]
therefore, and implore of His mercy, that we may live [4267] 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 [4268] of the kingdom of Christ. [4269]For it is
written, "Enter into thy secret chambers for a little time, until my
wrath and fury pass away; and I will remember a propitious [4270] day,
and will raise you up out of your graves." [4271]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. [4272]This blessedness
cometh upon those who have been chosen by God through Jesus Christ our
Lord; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Footnotes
[4266] I. gives indicative mood.
[4267] I. heurethomen (may be found).
[4268] Literally, "visitation."
[4269] I. theou (God).
[4270] Or, "good."
[4271] Isa. xxvi. 20.
[4272] Ps. xxxii. 1, 2.
Chapter LI.--Let the Partakers in Strife Acknowledge Their Sins.
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 [4273] 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 [4274] 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 [4275] of God, and whose
condemnation was made manifest [unto all]. For they went down alive
into Hades, and death swallowed them up. [4276]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, [4277] 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.
Footnotes
[4273] Or, "look to."
[4274] Or, "righteously."
[4275] I. anthropon (man).
[4276] Num. xvi. I thanatos poimanei autous--"Death shall feed on
them," Ps. xlix. 14 A.V.--should be, "Death shall tend them."
[4277] Ex. xiv.
Chapter LII.--Such a Confession is Pleasing to God.
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 [4278] that hath horns and hoofs. Let the poor
see it, and be glad." [4279]And again he saith, "Offer [4280] unto
God the sacrifice of praise, and pay thy vows unto the Most High. And
call upon me in the day of thy trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou
shalt glorify me." [4281]For "the sacrifice of God is a broken
spirit." [4282]
Footnotes
[4278] I. omits from Ps. lxix. 31, 32 the word following "bullock."
[4279] Ps. lxix. 31, 32.
[4280] Or, "sacrifice."
[4281] Ps. l. 14, l5. I. omits Ps. l. 15.
[4282] Ps. li. 17.
Chapter LIII.--The Love of Moses Towards His People.
Ye understand, beloved, ye understand well the sacred Scriptures, and
ye 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 unto him, "Moses, Moses, get thee down quickly
from hence; for thy people whom thou didst bring 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." [4283]And the Lord said unto him, "I have spoken to
thee 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 thee a great and wonderful
nation, and one much more numerous than this." [4284]But Moses
said, "Far be it from Thee, Lord: pardon the sin of this people; else
blot me also out of the book of the living." [4285]O marvellous
[4286] love! O insuperable perfection! The servant [4287] speaks
freely to his Lord, and asks forgiveness for the people, or begs that
he himself might perish [4288] along with them.
Footnotes
[4283] Ex. xxxii. 7, etc.; Deut. ix. 12, etc.
[4284] Ex. xxxii. 9, etc.
[4285] Ex. xxxii. 32.
[4286] Or, "mighty."
[4287] I. despotes (master).
[4288] Literally, "be wiped out."
Chapter LIV.--He Who is Full of Love Will Incur Every Loss, that Peace
May Be Restored to the Church.
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 whithersoever
ye desire, and I will do whatever the majority [4289] 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; [4290] and every place will welcome [4291] him. For "the
earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof." [4292]These things
they who live a godly life that is never to be repented of, both have
done and always will do.
Footnotes
[4289] Literally, "the multitude."
[4290] I. en Christo (in Christ).
[4291] Or, "receive."
[4292] Ps. xxiv. 1; 1 Cor. x. 26, 28.
Chapter LV.--Examples of Such Love.
To bring forward some examples [4293] 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 [4294] 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. [4295]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 [4296] God,
who seeth all things; and He, perceiving the humility of her spirit,
delivered the people for whose sake she had encountered peril. [4297]
Footnotes
[4293] I. hupomnemata (memorials).
[4294] Literally, "and having received their prices, fed others."
[4295] Judith viii. 30.
[4296] I. omits despoten (Lord).
[4297] Esther vii., viii.
Chapter LVI.--Let Us Admonish and Correct One Another.
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. [4298]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 [4299] us to the will of God. For
thus saith the holy Word: "The Lord hath severely chastened me, yet
hath not given me over to death." [4300]"For whom the Lord loveth
He chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom He receiveth." [4301]
"The righteous," [4302] saith it, "shall chasten me in mercy, and
reprove me; but let not the oil of sinners make fat my head." [4303]
And again he saith, "Blessed is the man whom the Lord reproveth, and
reject not thou the warning of the Almighty. For He causes sorrow,
and again restores [to gladness]; He woundeth, and His hands make
whole. He shall deliver thee in six troubles, yea, in the seventh no
evil shall touch thee. In famine He shall rescue thee from death, and
in war He shall free thee from the power [4304] of the sword. From
the scourge of the tongue will He hide thee, and thou shalt not fear
when evil cometh. Thou shalt laugh at the unrighteous and the wicked,
and shalt not be afraid of the beasts of the field. For the wild
beasts shall be at peace with thee: then shalt thou know that thy
house shall be in peace, and the habitation of thy tabernacle shall
not fail. [4305]Thou shalt know also that thy seed shall be great,
and thy children like the grass of the field. And thou shalt come to
the grave like ripened corn which is reaped in its season, or like a
heap of the threshing-floor which is gathered together at the proper
time." [4306]Ye see, beloved, that [4307] "protection is afforded
to those that are chastened of the Lord; for since God is good, [4308]
He corrects us, that we may be admonished" [4309] by His holy
chastisement.
Footnotes
[4298] Literally, "there shall be to them a fruitful and perfect
remembrance, with compassions both towards God and the saints."
[4299] Or "they unite."
[4300] Ps. cxviii. 18.
[4301] Prov. iii. 12; Heb. xii. 6.
[4302] I. kurios (Lord).
[4303] Ps. cxli. 5.
[4304] Literally, "hand."
[4305] Literally, "err" or "sin."
[4306] Job v. 17-26.
[4307] I. blepete posos (ye see how great).
[4308] I. (despotou) pater gar agathos on (being a good father).
[4309] I. eleethenai (be pitied).
Chapter LVII.--Let the Authors of Sedition Submit Themselves.
Ye 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 ye should occupy [4310] a humble but honourable
place in the flock of Christ, than that, being highly exalted, ye
should be cast out from the hope of His people. [4311]For thus
speaketh 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 ye did not hear; I held forth my words, and ye 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
cometh upon you, and when sudden confusion overtakes you, when
overturning presents itself like a tempest, or when tribulation and
oppression [4312] fall upon you. For it shall come to pass, that when
ye 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 [4313] with their own ungodliness. [4314]
...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 heareth me shall rest in hope and be undisturbed by the fear of
any evil."
Footnotes
[4310] Literally, "to be found small and esteemed."
[4311] Literally, "His hope."
[4312] I. adds otenochoria (straits).
[4313] Here begins the lacuna in the old text referred to in the
Introduction. The newly discovered portion of the Epistle extends
from this point to the end of Chap. lxiii.
[4314] Prov. i. 22-33.
Chapter LVIII.--Submission the Precursor of Salvation.
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 ye shall be without repentance.
For, as God liveth, 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 hath 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.
Chapter LIX.--Warning Against Disobedience. Prayer.
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 Thy name which is primal cause of every
creature,--having opened the eyes of our heart to the knowledge of
Thee, who alone "dost rest highest among the highest, holy among the
holy," [4315] who "layest low the insolence of the haughty," [4316]
who "destroyest the calculations of the heathen," [4317] who "settest
the low on high and bringest low the exalted;" [4318] who "makest rich
and makest poor," [4319] who "killest and makest to live," [4320] only
Benefactor of spirits and God of all flesh, [4321] 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 madest choice
of those who love Thee through Jesus Christ, Thy beloved Son, through
whom Thou didst instruct, sanctify, honour us. We would have Thee,
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 [4322] heal; the wandering ones of Thy 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 Thou art God
alone and Jesus Christ Thy Son, and we are Thy people and the sheep of
Thy pasture.
Footnotes
[4315] Is. lvii. 15.
[4316] Is. xiii. 11.
[4317] Ps. xxxiii. 10.
[4318] Job v. 11; Ezek. xvii. 24.
[4319] 1 Sam. ii. 7.
[4320] Deut. xxxii. 39.
[4321] Numb. xvi. 22, xxvii. 16; Jer. xxxii. 27.
[4322] I. gives asebeis (ungodly) where astheneis (sick) is
substituted.
Chapter LX.--Prayer Continued.
Thou didst make to appear the enduring fabric of the world by the
works of Thy hand; Thou, Lord, didst create the earth on which we
dwell,--Thou, who art 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 [4323] and faithful among them whose trust
is in Thee; O merciful and Compassionate One, forgive us our
iniquities and offences and transgressions and trespasses. Reckon not
every sin of Thy servants and handmaids, but Thou wilt purify us with
the purification of Thy truth; and direct our steps that we may walk
in holiness of heart and do what is good and well-pleasing in Thy
sight and in the sight of our rulers. Yea, Lord, make Thy face to
shine upon us for good in peace, that we may be shielded by Thy mighty
hand and delivered from every sin by Thine 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 Thou gavest to our fathers,
when they called upon Thee in faith and truth, submissive as we are to
Thine almighty and all-excellent Name.
Footnotes
[4323] sozomenois is the emendation of Harnack for horomenois (seen).
Chapter LXI.--Prayer Continued--For Rulers and Governors. Conclusion.
To our rulers and governors on the earth--to them Thou, Lord, gavest
the power of the kingdom by Thy glorious and ineffable might, to the
end that we may know the glory and honour given to them by Thee and be
subject to them, in nought resisting Thy will; to them, Lord, give
health, peace, concord, stability, that they may exercise the
authority given to them without offence. For Thou, 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 Thy
sight, that, devoutly in peace and meekness exercising the power given
them by Thee, they may find Thee propitious. O Thou, who only hast
power to do these things and more abundant good with us, we praise
Thee through the High Priest and Guardian of our souls Jesus Christ,
through whom be glory and majesty to Thee both now and from generation
to generation and for evermore. Amen.
Chapter LXII.--Summary and Conclusory--Concerning Godliness.
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 [4324] 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.
Footnotes
[4324] euaristein is emendation for eucharistein (give thanks).
Chapter LXIII.--Hortatory, Letter Sent by Special Messengers.
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 ye afford
us, if ye 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 amongst us,--the same shall
be witnesses between you and us. This we have done, that ye may know
that our whole concern has been and is that ye may be speedily at
peace.
Chapter LXIV.--Blessings Sought for All that Call Upon God.
May God, who seeth 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 [4325] people--grant to every soul that calleth
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.
Footnotes
[4325] Comp. Tit. ii. 14.
Chapter LXV.--The Corinthians are Exhorted Speedily to Send Back Word
that Peace Has Been Restored. The Benediction.
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, [4326] from everlasting to everlasting.
[4327]Amen.
Footnotes
[4326] Literally, "an eternal throne."
[4327] Literally, "from the ages to the ages of ages."
.
Introductory Notice.
[From Vol. VII., p. 515 of the Ante-Nicene Fathers.]
The first certain reference which is made by any early writer to this
so-called Epistle of Clement is found in these words of Eusebius
(Hist. Eccl., iii. 38): "We must know that there is also a second
Epistle of Clement. But we do not regard it as being equally notable
with the former, since we know of none of the ancients that have made
use of it." Several critics in modern times have endeavoured to
vindicate the authenticity of this epistle. But it is now generally
regarded. as one of the many writings which have been falsely ascribed
to Clement. Besides the want of external evidence, indicated even by
Eusebius in the above extract, the diversity of style clearly points
to a different writer from that of the first epistle. A commonly
accepted opinion among critics at the present day is, that this is not
an epistle at all, but a fragment of one of the many homilies falsely
ascribed to Clement. There can be no doubt, however, that in the
catalogue of writings contained in the Alexandrian ms. it is both
styled an epistle, and, as well as the other which accompanies it, is
attributed to Clement. As the ms. is certainly not later than the
fifth century, the opinion referred to must by that time have taken
firm root in the Church; but in the face of internal evidence, and in
want of all earlier testimony, such a fact goes but a small way to
establish its authenticity.
The second epistle differs from the first in several respects. The
range of Scriptural quotation is wider, the quotations of the first
epistle being taken mainly from the Septuagint version of the Old
Testament. The attitude of the writer is in accordance with this
fact; it is distinctively Gentile. For example, Chapter XII. contains
a report of words purporting to have been spoken by the Lord; these,
Clemens Alexandrinus states, are taken from the Apocryphal Gospel
according to the Egyptians, not now extant. The reference in Chapter
XIV. to the spiritual church, recalling Eph. i. 3-5, is parallel to
the Pastor of Hermas, Vision II. 4. These passages help to determine
the date; for the quotation from the Apocryphal Gospel would not have
been made after the four gospels of the New Testament obtained
exclusive authority--toward the close of the second century; while
similarity of idea and exposition would seem to make the second
epistle and the Pastor of Hermas somewhat contemporaneous.
The conclusion of the second epistle, as in the recently discovered
ms., goes to establish the speculation made before this ms. was
discovered, that it is a homily to be read in churches.
The Second Epistle of Clement. [4328]
Chapter I.--We Ought to Think Highly of Christ.
Brethren, it is fitting that you should think of Jesus Christ as of
God,--as the Judge of the living and the dead. And it does not become
us to think lightly of our salvation; for if we think little of Him,
we shall also hope but to obtain little [from Him]. And those of us
who hear carelessly of these things, as if they were of small
importance, commit sin, not knowing whence we have been called, and by
whom, and to what place, and how much Jesus Christ submitted to suffer
for our sakes. What return, then, shall we make to Him, or what fruit
that shall be worthy of that which He has given to us? For, indeed,
how great are the benefits [4329] which we owe to Him! He has
graciously given us light; as a Father, He has called us sons; He has
saved us when we were ready to perish. What praise, then, shall we
give to Him, or what return shall we make for the things which we have
received? [4330]We were deficient [4331] in understanding,
worshipping stones and wood, and gold, and silver, and brass, the
works of men's hands; [4332] and our whole life was nothing else than
death. Involved in blindness, and with such darkness [4333] before
our eyes, we have received sight, and through His will have laid aside
that cloud by which we were enveloped. For He had compassion on us,
and mercifully saved us, observing the many errors in which we were
entangled, as well as the destruction to which we were exposed, [4334]
and that we had no hope of salvation except it came to us from Him.
For He called us when we were not, [4335] and willed that out of
nothing we should attain a real existence. [4336]
Footnotes
[4328] No title, not even a letter, is preserved in A. I. inserts
"Clement's (Epistle) to the Corinthians II."
[4329] Literally, "holy things."
[4330] Comp. Ps. cxvi. 12.
[4331] Literally, "lame." I. poneroi (wicked).
[4332] Literally, "of men."
[4333] Literally, "being full of such darkness in our sight."
[4334] Literally, "having beheld in us much error and destruction."
[4335] Comp. Hos. ii. 23; Rom. iv. 17, ix. 25.
[4336] Literally, "willed us from not being to be."
Chapter II.--The Church, Formerly Barren, is Now Fruitful.
"Rejoice, thou barren that bearest not; break forth and cry, thou that
travailest not; for she that is desolate hath many more children than
she that hath an husband." [4337]In that He said, "Rejoice, thou
barren that bearest not," He referred to us, for our church was barren
before that children were given to her. But when He said, "Cry out,
thou that travailest not," He means this, that we should sincerely
offer up our prayers to God, and should not, like women in travail,
show signs of weakness. [4338]And in that He said, "For she that is
desolate hath many more children than she that hath an husband," [He
means] that our people seemed to be outcast from God, but now, through
believing, have become more numerous than those who are reckoned to
possess God. [4339]And another Scripture saith, "I came not to call
the righteous, but sinners." [4340]This means that those who are
perishing must be saved. For it is indeed a great and admirable thing
to establish not the things which are standing, but those that are
falling. Thus also did Christ [4341] desire to save the things which
were perishing, [4342] and has saved many by coming and calling us
when hastening to destruction. [4343]
Footnotes
[4337] Isa. liv. 1; Gal. iv. 27.
[4338] Some render, "should not cry out, like women in travail." The
text is doubtful. I. ekkakomen (faint).
[4339] It has been remarked that the writer here implies he was a
Gentile.
[4340] Matt. ix. 13; Luke v. 32.
[4341] I. Kurios (Lord).
[4342] Comp. Matt. xviii. 11.
[4343] Literally, "already perishing."
Chapter III.--The Duty of Confessing Christ.
Since, then, He has displayed so great mercy towards us, and
especially in this respect, that we who are living should not offer
sacrifices to gods that are dead, or pay them worship, [4344] but
should attain through Him to the knowledge of the true Father, [4345]
whereby shall we show that we do indeed know Him, [4346] but by not
denying Him through whom this knowledge has been attained? For He
himself declares, "Whosoever shall confess me before men, him will I
confess before my Father." [4347]This, then, is our reward if we
shall confess Him by whom we have been saved. But in what way shall
we confess Him? By doing what He says, and not transgressing His
commandments, and by honouring Him not with our lips only, but with
all our heart and all our mind. [4348]For He says in Isaiah, "This
people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me."
[4349]
Footnotes
[4344] I. omits.
[4345] I. tes aletheias (of truth).
[4346] Literally, "what is the knowledge which is towards Him."
[4347] Matt. x. 32.
[4348] Comp. Matt. xxii. 37.
[4349] Isa. xxix. 13.
Chapter IV.--True Confession of Christ.
Let us, then, not only call Him Lord, for that will not save us. For
He saith, "Not every one that saith to me, Lord, Lord, shall be saved,
but he that worketh righteousness." [4350]Wherefore, brethren, let
us confess Him by our works, by loving one another, by not committing
adultery, or speaking evil of one another, or cherishing envy; but by
being continent, compassionate, and good. We ought also to sympathize
with one another, and not be avaricious. By such works let us confess
Him, [4351] and not by those that are of an opposite kind. And it is
not fitting that we should fear men, but rather God. For this reason,
if we should do such [wicked] things, the Lord hath said, "Even though
ye were gathered together to [4352] me in my very bosom, yet if ye
were not to keep my commandments, I would cast you off, and say unto
you, Depart from me; I know you not whence ye are, ye workers of
iniquity." [4353]
Footnotes
[4350] Matt. vii. 21, loosely quoted.
[4351] Some read, "God."
[4352] Or, "with me."
[4353] The first part of this sentence is not found in Scripture; for
the second comp., Matt. vii. 23; Luke xiii. 27.
Chapter V.--This World Should Be Despised.
Wherefore, brethren, leaving [willingly] our sojourn in this present
world, let us do the will of Him that called us, and not fear to
depart out of this world. For the Lord saith, "Ye shall be as lambs
in the midst of wolves." [4354]And Peter answered and said unto
Him, [4355] "What, then, if the wolves shall tear in pieces the
lambs?" Jesus said unto Peter, "The lambs have no cause after they
are dead to fear [4356] the wolves; and in like manner, fear not ye
them that kill you, and can do nothing more unto you; but fear Him
who, after you are dead, has power over both soul and body to cast
them into hell-fire." [4357]And consider, [4358] brethren, that the
sojourning in the flesh in this world is but brief and transient, but
the promise of Christ is great and wonderful, even the rest of the
kingdom to come, and of life everlasting. [4359]By what course of
conduct, then, shall we attain these things, but by leading a holy and
righteous life, and by deeming these worldly things as not belonging
to us, and not fixing our desires upon them? For if we desire to
possess them, we fall away from the path of righteousness.
Footnotes
[4354] Matt. x. 16.
[4355] No such conversation is recorded in Scripture.
[4356] Or, "Let not the lambs fear."
[4357] Matt. x. 28; Luke xii. 4, 5.
[4358] Or, "know."
[4359] The text and translation are here doubtful.
Chapter VI.--The Present and Future Worlds are Enemies to Each Other.
Now the Lord declares, "No servant can serve two masters." [4360]If
we desire, then, to serve both God and mammon, it will be unprofitable
for us. "For what will it profit if a man gain the whole world, and
lose his own soul?" [4361]This world and the next are two enemies.
The one urges [4362] to adultery and corruption, avarice and deceit;
the other bids farewell to these things. We cannot, therefore, be the
friends of both; and it behoves us, by renouncing the one, to make
sure [4363] of the other. Let us reckon [4364] that it is better to
hate the things present, since they are trifling, and transient, and
corruptible; and to love those [which are to come,] as being good and
incorruptible. For if we do the will of Christ, we shall find rest;
otherwise, nothing shall deliver us from eternal punishment, if we
disobey His commandments. For thus also saith the Scripture in
Ezekiel, "If Noah, Job, and Daniel should rise up, they should not
deliver their children in captivity." [4365]Now, if men so
eminently righteous are not able by their righteousness to deliver
their children, how [4366] can we hope to enter into the royal
residence [4367] of God unless we keep our baptism holy and
undefiled? Or who shall be our advocate, unless we be found possessed
of works of holiness and righteousness?
Footnotes
[4360] Matt. vi. 24; Luke xvi. 13.
[4361] Matt. xvi. 26. I. omits holon (whole).
[4362] Literally, "speaks of."
[4363] Or, "enjoy. "
[4364] The ms. has, "we reckon."
[4365] Ezek. xiv. 14, 20.
[4366] Literally, "with what confidence shall we."
[4367] Wake translates "kingdom," as if the reading had been basileian
; but the ms. has basileion, "palace."
Chapter VII.--We Must Strive in Order to Be Crowned.
Wherefore, then, my brethren, let us struggle with all earnestness,
knowing that the contest is [in our case] close at hand, and that many
undertake long voyages to strive for a corruptible reward; [4368] yet
all are not crowned, but those only that have laboured hard and
striven gloriously. Let us therefore so strive, that we may all be
crowned. Let us run the straight [4369] course, even the race that is
incorruptible; and let us in great numbers set out [4370] for it, and
strive that we may be crowned. And should we not all be able to
obtain the crown, let us at least come near to it. We must remember
[4371] that he who strives in the corruptible contest, if he be found
acting unfairly, [4372] is taken away and scourged, and cast forth
from the lists. What then think ye? If one does anything unseemly in
the incorruptible contest, what shall he have to bear? For of those
who do not preserve the seal [4373] [unbroken], [the Scripture] saith,
"Their worm shall not die, and their fire shall not be quenched, and
they shall be a spectacle to all flesh." [4374]
Footnotes
[4368] Literally, "that many set sail for corruptible contests,"
referring probably to the concourse at the Isthmian games.
[4369] Or, "Let us place before us."
[4370] Or, "set sail."
[4371] Literally, "know."
[4372] Literally, "if he be found corrupting."
[4373] Baptism is probably meant.
[4374] Isa. lxvi. 24.
Chapter VIII.--The Necessity of Repentance While We are on Earth.
As long, therefore, as we are upon earth, let us practise repentance,
for we are as clay in the hand of the artificer. For as the potter,
if he make a vessel, and it be distorted or broken in his hands,
fashions it over again; but if he have before this cast it into the
furnace of fire, can no longer find any help for it: so let us also,
while we are in this world, repent with our whole heart of the evil
deeds we have done in the flesh, that we may be saved by the Lord,
while we have yet an opportunity of repentance. For after we have
gone out of the world, no further power of confessing or repenting
will there belong to us. Wherefore, brethren, by doing the will of
the Father, and keeping the flesh holy, and observing the commandments
of the Lord, we shall obtain eternal life. For the Lord saith in the
Gospel, "If ye have not kept that which was small, who will commit to
you the great? For I say unto you, that he that is faithful in that
which is least, is faithful also in much." [4375]This, then, is
what He means: "Keep the flesh holy and the seal undefiled, that
[4376] ye may receive eternal life." [4377]
Footnotes
[4375] Comp. Luke xvi. 10-12.
[4376] ms. has "we," which is corrected by all editors as above. I.
apolabete.
[4377] Some have thought this a quotation from an unknown apocryphal
book, but it seems rather an explanation of the preceding words.
Chapter IX.--We Shall Be Judged in the Flesh.
And let no one of you say that this very flesh shall not be judged,
nor rise again. Consider ye in what [state] ye were saved, in what ye
received sight, [4378] if not while ye were in this flesh. We must
therefore preserve the flesh as the temple of God. For as ye were
called in the flesh, ye shall also come [to be judged] in the flesh.
As Christ [4379] the Lord who saved us, though He was first a Spirit
[4380] became flesh, and thus called us, so shall we also receive the
reward in this flesh. Let us therefore love one another, that we may
all attain to the kingdom of God. While we have an opportunity of
being healed, let us yield ourselves to God that healeth us, and give
to Him a recompense. Of what sort? Repentance out of a sincere
heart; for He knows all things beforehand, and is acquainted with what
is in our hearts. Let us therefore give Him praise, not with the
mouth only, but also with the heart, that He may accept us as sons.
For the Lord has said, "Those are my brethren who do the will of my
Father." [4381]
Footnotes
[4378] Literally, "looked up."
[4379] The ms. has heis, "one," which Wake follows, but it seems
clearly a mistake for hos.
[4380] I. logos (word).
[4381] Matt. xii. 50.
Chapter X.--Vice is to Be Forsaken, and Virtue Followed.
Wherefore, my brethren, let us do the will of the Father who called
us, that we may live; and let us earnestly [4382] follow after virtue,
but forsake every wicked tendency [4383] which would lead us into
transgression; and flee from ungodliness, lest evils overtake us. For
if we are diligent in doing good, peace will follow us. On this
account, such men cannot find it [i.e. peace] as are [4384] influenced
by human terrors, and prefer rather present enjoyment [4385] to the
promise which shall afterwards be fulfilled. For they know not what
torment present enjoyment incurs, or what felicity is involved in the
future promise. And if, indeed, they themselves only did such things,
it would be [the more] tolerable; but now they persist in imbuing
innocent souls with their pernicious doctrines, not knowing that they
shall receive a double condemnation, both they and those that hear
them.
Footnotes
[4382] Literally, "rather."
[4383] Literally, "malice, as it were, the precursor of our sins."
Some deem the text corrupt.
[4384] Literally, according to the ms., "it is not possible that a man
should find it who are"--the passage being evidently corrupt.
[4385] I. anapausin (rest).
Chapter XI.--We Ought to Serve God, Trusting in His Promises.
Let us therefore serve God with a pure heart, and we shall be
righteous; but if we do not serve Him, because we believe not the
promise of God, we shall be miserable. For the prophetic word also
declares, "Wretched are those of a double mind, and who doubt in their
heart, who say, All these things [4386] have we heard even in the
times of our fathers; but though we have waited day by day, we have
seen none of them [accomplished]. Ye fools! compare yourselves to a
tree; take, for instance, the vine. First of all it sheds its leaves,
then the bud appears; after that the sour grape, and then the
fully-ripened fruit. So, likewise, my people have borne disturbances
and afflictions, but afterwards shall they receive their good things."
[4387]Wherefore, my brethren, let us not be of a double mind, but
let us hope and endure, that we also may obtain the reward. For He is
faithful who has promised that He will bestow on every one a reward
according to his works. If, therefore, we shall do righteousness in
the sight of God, we shall enter into His kingdom, and shall receive
the promises, which "ear hath not heard, nor eye seen, neither have
entered into the heart of man." [4388]
Footnotes
[4386] I. palai (long ago).
[4387] The same words occur in Clement's first epistle, chap. xxiii.
[4388] 1 Cor. ii. 9.
Chapter XII.--We are Constantly to Look for the Kingdom of God.
Let us expect, therefore, hour by hour, the kingdom of God in love and
righteousness, since we know not the day of the appearing of God. For
the Lord Himself, being asked by one when His kingdom would come,
replied, "When two shall be one, that which is without as that which
is within, and the male with the female, neither male nor female."
[4389]Now, two are one when we speak the truth one to another, and
there is unfeignedly one soul in two bodies. And "that which is
without as" that which is within meaneth this: He calls the soul
"that which is within," and the body "that which is without." As,
then, thy body is visible to sight, so also let thy soul be manifest
by good works. And "the male, with the female, neither male nor
female," this [4390] He saith, that brother seeing sister may have no
thought concerning her as female, and that she may have no thought
concerning him as male. "If ye do these things," saith He, "the
kingdom of my Father shall come." [4391]
Footnotes
[4389] These words are quoted (Clem. Alex., Strom., iii. 9, 1.) from
the Gospel according to the Egyptians, no longer extant.
[4390] Here the piece formerly broke off. From this point to the end
the text of Gebhardt, Harnack, Zahn has been followed.
[4391] Comp. 1 Cor. vii. 29.
Chapter XIII.--God's Name Not to Be Blasphemed.
Brethren, then, le