Chapter 4

¹ I urge these things upon you, beloved, knowing that you too hold the same view. But I’m guarding you from those beasts in human form—not only must you not receive them, but if possible not even meet them; only pray for them, if somehow they may repent, though that is difficult. Yet Jesus Christ has authority over this, our true life.

² For if these things were done only in appearance by our Lord, then I too am bound only in appearance. Why then have I given myself over to death, to fire, to sword, to wild beasts? But near the sword is near to God; among the beasts is among God. Only in the name of Jesus Christ, to suffer with him, I endure all things, as he strengthens me, the perfect man.