The Shepherd of Hermas

But, if, sir, said I, there was any previous ignorance before these words were heard, how can the man who defiled his flesh be saved? For the former ignorances, said he, it is possible for God

if, for the future, you defile neither the flesh nor the spirit; for both are in communion, and neither can be defiled without the other. Keep, therefore, both pure, and you shall live to God.[*](This is directed against the Gnostic tendency to divide flesh and spirit, and to regard the acts of the flesh as unimportant. Against this the church insisted on purity of life now, and on the hope of a resurrection of the flesh hereafter.)

While I was seated in my house, and was[*](Introduction) glorifying the Lord for all that I had seen, and enquiring about the commandments because they were beautiful and joyful and glorious, and able to save the soul, of man, I said in myself: I shall be blessed if I walk in these commandments, and whoever shall walk in them shall be blessed.

While I said this in myself I suddenly saw him seated by me, and saying this: Why are you double-minded concerning the commandments which I commanded you? They are beautiful. Be not double-minded at all, but put on the faith of the Lord, and you shall walk in them, for I will strengthen you in them.

These commandments are helpful to those who are going to repent, for if they do not walk in them their repentance is in vain.