The Shepherd of Hermas

Hermas

Hermas. The Apostolic Fathers with an English translation by Kirsopp Lake. In Two Volumes. Vol. II. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press; London: William Heinemann Ltd. 1913

Among men; therefore; the elm appears as if it bore no fruit; and they do not know nor understand that if there is drought the elm which has water nourishes the vine; and the vine, having water continuously; gives double fruit; both for itself and for the elm. So also the poor; interceding with the Lord for the rich; complement[*](The idea in πληροφοροῦσι is that of filling up that which is lacking,—a ὑστέρημα.) their wealth; and again; the rich helping the poor with their necessities complement their prayers.

Both; therefore; share in the righteous work. Therefore he who does these things shall not be deserted by God; but shall be inscribed in the books of the living.

Blessed are they who are wealthy and understand that their riches are from the Lord; for he who understands this will also be able to do some good service.