Epistula ad Philippenses

Polycarp

Polycarp. The Apostolic Fathers, Volume 1. Lake, Kirsopp, translator. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press; London: William Heinemann Ltd. 1912.

Stand fast therefore in these things and follow[*](Perseverance in philanthropy and good works.) the example of the Lord, firm and unchangeable in faith, loving the brotherhood, affectionate to one another, joined together in the truth, forestalling one another in the gentleness of the Lord, despising no man.

When you can do good defer it not, for almsgiving sets free from death; be ye all subject one to the other, having your conversation blameless among the Gentiles, that you may receive praise for your good works and that the Lord be not blasphemed in you.

But woe to him

through whom the name of the Lord is blasphemed. Therefore teach sobriety to all and show it forth in your own lives.