besides this, there is an unalterable chasm between us and you, so that the passage from one place to the other is impracticable to those who should attempt it.

though we expected he would have been the Messiah, that was to deliver Israel: and besides all this, it is now three days since these things were done.

Giving

Wherefore be the more diligent, my brethren, to secure your vocation and election by your virtuous actions, for by so doing, you will never relapse:

since then, my dear brethren, your expectations are such, take care to appear before him, without any defect or blemish, in order to be happy; and be persuaded,

work not for the food which perisheth, but for that which endureth unto everlasting life, and which the son of man shall give unto you, for to him it is that the father, that is God, has given his credentials.

Wherefore, my beloved, as you have always obey'd the gospel, not only when I was with you, but much more now while I am absent, continue the work of your own salvation, whatever persecutions you apprehend:

but we desire that every one of you may shew the same concern, continuing to discharge the condition upon which your hopes are founded: that ye be not unactive,

now without faith it is impossible to be acceptable to him: for he that presents himself to God, cannot but believe he exists, and that he is a rewarder of those who make their addresses to him.

take care not to deprive yourselves of the divine favour: and that no poisonous root spring up, and spread a general infection among you.

Virtue

It is thus his divine power has given us every thing conducive to life and piety, by making us acquainted with him, who has called us by his illustrious power;

Finally, my brethren, whatever has the character of truth, of dignity, of justice, of chastity, whatever can procure you esteem and reputation, in a word, if there be any thing virtuous or praise-worthy, let that be the object of your enquiry.

General references

in the sincere practice of holiness and justice, all our days.