Epistles

Now I say this, beloved, not because I know[*](Warning as to the true faith) that there are any of you that are thus, but because I wish to warn you, though I am less than you, not to fall into the snare of vain doctrine, but to be convinced of the birth and passion and resurrection which took place at the time of the procuratorship of Pontius Pilate; for these things were truly and certainly done by Jesus Christ, our hope, from which God grant that none of you be turned aside.

Let me have joy of you in all things, if I be[*](Praise of the Magnesians) but worthy. For even though I am in bonds I am not to be compared to one of you that have been set free. I know that you are not puffed up; for you have Jesus Christ in yourselves. And I know that when I praise you your modesty increases the more, as it is written, The righteous man is his own accuser.

Be diligent therefore to be confirmed in the[*](Firmness in tho faith) ordinances of the Lord and the Apostles, in order that you may prosper in all things whatsoever ye do in the flesh and in the spirit, in faith and love, in the Son and the Father and the Spirit, at the beginning and at the end, together with your revered bishop and with your presbytery, that aptly woven spiritual crown, and with the godly deacons.