Epistula ad Philippenses

Polycarp

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

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.

I am deeply sorry for Valens, who was once[*](Valens) made a presbyter among you, that he so little understands the place which was given to him. I advise, therefore, that you keep from avarice, and be pure and truthful. Keep yourselves from all evil.