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3.
1
NOW forasmuch as the church of Antioch in Syria, [*191:3] is, as I am told, [one word illegible.--JBH] through your prayers; I also have been the more comforted [*191:4] and without care in God; if so be that by suffering, I shall attain unto God; that through your prayers I may be found a disciple of Christ.
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3.
2
It will be very fit, O most worthy Polycarp, to call a [*191:5] select council, and choose some one whom ye particularly love, and who is patient of labour; that he may be the messenger of God; and that going unto Syria, he may glorify your incessant love, to the praise of Christ.
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3.
3
A Christian has not the power of himself: but must be always at leisure for God's service. Now this work is both God's and your's: when ye shall have perfected it.
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4
For I trust through the grace of God that ye are ready to every good work that is fitting for you in the Lord.
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5
Knowing therefore your earnest affection for the truth, I have exhorted you by [*191:6] these short letters.
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3.
6
But forasmuch as I have not been able to write to all the churches, because I must suddenly sail from Troas to Neapolis; (for so is the command of those to whose pleasure I am subject;) do you write to the churches that are near you, as being instructed in the will of God, that they also may do in like manner.
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3.
7
Let those that are able send [*191:7] messengers; and let the rest send their letters by those who shall be sent by you: that you may be glorified to all eternity, of which you are worthy.
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3.
8
I salute all by name, particularly the wife of Epitropus, with all her house and children. I salute Attalus my well-beloved.
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3.
9
I salute him who shall be thought worthy to be sent by you into Syria. Let grace be ever with him, and with Polycarp who sends him.
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3.
10
I wish you all happiness in our God, Jesus Christ; in whom continue, in the unity and protection of God.
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3.
11
I salute Alce my well-beloved. Farewell in the Lord.
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3.
Footnotes ^191:3 It has been manifested unto me.
^191:4 In the security of God.
^191:5 Most becoming God.
^191:6 Viz. To the Smyrnaeans, and this to himself. See Pearson in loc.
^191:7 Footmen.
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