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Nicene and Post-Nicene Church Fathers Series 2 - The Still Small ...

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pathise with her like a father, I am indifferent to her troubles, <strong>and</strong> regard the sufferings of<br />

others too philosophically.<br />

For it is not, she urged, the loss of money that you bid me disregard; nor the endurance<br />

of bodily sufferings; but a damaged reputation, an injury involving loss upon the <strong>Church</strong><br />

at large.<br />

This is her appeal; <strong>and</strong> now I pray you, most excellent sir, consider what answer you<br />

would have me make her. <strong>The</strong> decision I have come to in my own mind is, not to surrender<br />

offenders to the magistrates; yet not to rescue those already in their custody, since it has<br />

long ago been declared by the Apostle, that the magistrates should be a terror to them in<br />

their evil-doings; for, it is said, “he beareth not the sword in vain.” 3252 To surrender him,<br />

then, is contrary to my humanity; while to release him would be an encouragement to his<br />

violence.<br />

Perhaps, however, you will defer taking action until my arrival. I will then shew you<br />

that I can effect nothing from there being none to obey me.<br />

3252 Rom. xiii. 4.<br />

Without address. Concerning an afflicted woman.<br />

859

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