Shepherd of Hermas — Similitude 9 · Chapter 14

Greek (Lake printed edition)

Similitude 9.14.1 I said, “What, then, sir, if these people, being as they are, repent and cast off their desires for these women, return to the virgins, and walk in their power and their works? Will they not enter God's house?”

Greek (Lake printed edition)

Similitude 9.14.2 He said, “They will enter, if they cast off these women's works, take up the virgins' power, and walk in their works. For this very reason there was a pause in the building, so that, if these people repent, they may go into the building of the tower. But if they do not repent, others will enter, and these will be cast out completely.”

Greek (Lake printed edition)

Similitude 9.14.3 For all these things I gave thanks to the Lord, because He had compassion on all who call upon His name and sent out the angel of repentance to us who had sinned against Him. He renewed our spirit, and when we were already ruined and had no hope of living, He made our life new again.

Greek (Lake printed edition)

Similitude 9.14.4 I said, “Now, sir, disclose to me why the tower is not built on the ground, but upon the rock and the gateway.” He said, “Are you still foolish and without understanding?” I said, “Sir, I must ask you about everything, because I can understand absolutely nothing. For everything is great and glorious and difficult for human beings to understand.”

Greek (Lake printed edition)

Similitude 9.14.5 He said, “Listen: the name of the Son of God is great and cannot be contained, and it supports the whole world. If, then, all creation is supported through the Son of God, what do you think of those called by Him who bear the name of the Son of God and walk in His commandments?

Greek (Lake printed edition)

Similitude 9.14.6 Do you see, then, whom He supports? Those who bear His name with their whole heart. He has therefore become their foundation and gladly supports them, because they are not ashamed to bear His name.”