The Shepherd of Hermas

But since you ask accurately concerning all things, I will explain this also to you without giving an excuse to those who in the future shall believe or to

For those, then, who were called before these days, did the Lord appoint repentance, for the Lord knows the heart, and knowing all things beforehand he knew the weakness of man and the subtlety of the devil, that he will do some evil to the servants of God, and will do them mischief.

The Lord, therefore, being merciful, had mercy on his creation, and established this repentance, and to me was the control of this repentance given.

But I tell you, said he, after that great and holy calling, if a man be tempted by the devil and sin, he has one repentance, but if he sin and repent repeatedly it is unprofitable for such a man, for scarcely shall he live.

I said to him, I attained life when I heard these things thus accurately from you, for I know that if I do not again add to my sins I shall be saved. You shall be saved, said he, and all who do these things.

I asked him again, saying, Sir, since you for[*](Second marriages) once endure me explain this also to me. Say on, said he. If, sir, said I, a wife, or on the other hand a husband, die, and the survivor marry, does

He does not sin, said he, but if he remain single he gains for himself more exceeding honour and great glory with the Lord, but even if he marry he does not sin.

Preserve therefore purity and holiness, and you shall live to God. Keep from henceforth, from the day on which you were handed over to me, these things which I tell you and shall tell you, and I will dwell in your house.