Second Part. (continued 26)

But it were fearful presumption, to boast, or say, yea, to think, without God and a good conscience toward him, that we can do anything of ourselves. Such arrogancy, boasting and self strength, as in the case of inconsiderate Peter, are nothing, even as the independent, severed branch, without abiding in its vine, can do nothing. John 15:6. And as those impotent individuals who took upon them to cast out Satan in the name of Jesus, whom Paul preached (Acts 19:13), even so can no powerless man boast without God; he must first calculate whether he dare with ten thousand go out against twenty thousand, according to the counsel and words of Christ. Luke 14:31. Therefore, he that would glory, let him glory in the Lord: If the Lord will, and we live. Jer. 9:23; 1 Cor. 1:31; James 4:15. And if he be with him, no one can be against him. Rom. 8:31. And God is with them if they are with God. Then they can do all things through Christ, which strengthened them. By their God they can leap over a wall, run through a troop, and overcome the world. The gates of hell cannot prevail against them; for love with its patient hope and firm faith can do all things through the grace of God. Mark well, they who thus closely, firmly and boldly cleave to God, become stronger in the conflict, as Sirach says. Sir. 2:3. Cleave therefore unto God, and depart or waver neither to the right nor left, that you may continually wax stronger.

Mark: God said to Joshua, whom he appointed in Moses’ office and stead: “I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Be strong and of a good courage.” Josh. 1:5,6. Again: “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” Deut. 31:6. Mark here the advantage of freely trusting in God’s promise. Hence such a pious people say thus in their hearts: “O Lord God of Israel, there is no God like thee in the heaven, nor in the earth; which keepest covenant, and shewest mercy unto thy servants, that walk before thee with all their hearts.” 2 Chron. 6:14. Observe well who they are: he says, [that walk before thee] with all their hearts. Whose rock and fortress is the Lord; who is their God, deliverer, consolation, and shield; the horn of their salvation; their high tower and refuge; their Savior who saves them from all violence. 2 Sam. 22:2,3. These are also they who have set the Lord always before them; hence he is at their right hand, and they shall therefore not be moved, says David. Ps. 16:8. Mark here boldness, and its power. But the fear of man bringeth a snare: (mark) but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe. Ps. 29:25. Mark: he that is with God, and with whom God is. David says: The salvation of the righteous is of the Lord: he is their strength in the time of trouble. Ps. 37:39.

But, dear friends, if one is not pious, pure in heart, and prepared for temptation as a servant of God, when this temptation assails and terrifies him; if he is not found in a pure conscience, genuine love of God and his neighbor, in a pious life, firm faith, sober vigilance, and armed against every assault; but is an impotent follower, a niggard, a sleeper, or hypocrite, then, O friends, God will forsake him; for David says: “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” Ps. 66:18. “The Lord is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.” Prov. 15:29. Yea, it is true; for God heareth not sinners (mark, those who continue in sin); but if any man fear God, and doeth his will (doeth, it says), him he heareth. John 9:31.

Hence I conclude and counsel with wise Jesus Sirach: “My son, if thou come to serve the Lord, prepare thy soul for temptation;” he says, prepare thy soul for temptation. Sir. 2:1. Again, also with Christ: Strive to enter in at the strait gate. Yea, take heed that thy fear of God be not hypocrisy; lest God discover thy secrets, and cast thee down thereby in the midst of the congregation, because thou camest not in truth to the Lord, and thy heart was full of deceit and falseness. Sir. 1:28. Behold, such cannot overcome; but only those who are in favor with their God, as is mentioned in Judith 5.

Now, there is further to be noticed the patience of which the pious have need in many tribulations. Heb. 10:36. Also, what great advantage, profit, gain, and acquisition are, and will be, obtained by tribulation and patience, follows here in part. Meditate on it.

In the first place, the encouraging words of Judith: Thus Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and all whom God loved, remained steadfast and had to overcome much affliction (he says: much affliction). But the others, who would not receive affliction in fear of God, but blasphemed and murmured with impatience against God, were destroyed by the destroyer and by serpents. Let us therefore not be impatient in this affliction, but confess that it is a punishment from God, much less than our sins deserve, and believe that we are chastised as his servants, for correction, and not for destruction. Judith 8. O how wisely does Solomon speak of it: He that is patient is prudent, and it is his glory to pass over a transgression. Prov. 19:11. Again: He that is patient is wise; but he that is impatient reveals his folly. 14:29. And again: A patient man is better than a strong man; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. 16:32. Mark how lovely, praiseworthy and advantageous godly patience is, as Jeremiah testifies: It is a precious thing to be patient, and to wait for the help of the Lord; Yea, that a man that is forsaken, be patient when something befalleth him; and puts his mouth in the dust, and wait for the help of the Lord, and give his cheek to the smiter, and suffer much reproach, for the Lord will not cast off forever. Lam. 3:26.

Again, Sirach says: An humble man will wait for the time which will bring him comfort. For though his cause be oppressed for a time, yet shall the pious praise his wisdom. Sir. 1:23,24. Of this we have examples in Job and in “the end of the Lord.” Jas. 5:11. Also in Tobit, for God permitted affliction to come upon him—why? That posterity might have an example of patience in him, as also in holy Job. An angel said to this Tobit (when he complained that he could not see the light of heaven); Have patience, God shall soon help thee, which also came to pass. Tob. 5:12. Paul does truly say that whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and the comfort of the Scriptures, might have hope. But, friends, mark well, where no promise nor godly tribulation is, there is certainly no need of patience; but where the aforesaid are, O there is need of patience. Heb. 10:36. For we know, says Paul, that tribulation worketh patience, and patience, experience; and experience, hope; and hope maketh not ashamed. Again, also, Christ’s own words concerning patience: “Ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake. But there shall not a hair of your head perish. In your patience possess ye your souls”. Luke 21:17–19.

Again, Paul advises us to all patience in all our distress, and to approve ourselves therein as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in stripes, in imprisonments, (yea, in imprisonments), in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by long-suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report, yea, as deceivers and yet true. Mark, in how many things a patient minister of God is tried, that is, in these and similar things (2 Cor. 6:4),—mark, a minister of God, and whereby he is shown to be such. Again, James would have us count it all joy when we fall into divers temptations; knowing this (he says), that your faith, if it be genuine, worketh patience. But patience must be constant unto the end. Jas. 1:2.

Behold, thus we must with patience (with patience, says Paul), run the race that is set before us, looking unto the Captain of our faith, the young man who will set the crown of reward upon our heads, on Mount Sion. Heb. 12:1; 2 Esd. 2:43.

Behold, all this is obtained as the profit and reward of patience, as in the case of Christ, and of all holy martyrs; and it must all be seen by faith, and waited for with patience, as James advises, saying: “Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of our Lord, and like the husbandman, let us also wait for our harvest and joyful time of reaping. Jas. 5:7. O then the liberal sowers, who have sowed to the Spirit shall reap without ceasing. Gal. 6:9.

Dear friends, let us now, as at the right time, also at the right time, sow liberally to the Spirit and in hope, with joy and not wearying; for in due time it will fill our garner with sheaves as large as in 1 Pet. 1:16.304 For God will not forget our work and labor, as has already been said.

To sum it all up in a few words: “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation; for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life; which God hath, promised to them that love him.” Jas. 1:12. Now, this promise, inheritance, reward, and crown meets the wants of every one; but only few relish the notable conditions upon which these is promised, namely, obedience to the word of God, complete renunciation of ourselves, and the cheerful, voluntary bearing of our cross. For Paul says: “Unto us it is given, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.” Philip. 1:29.

Mark, friends, that it is certainly his pleasure, that the servant be as his lord. Matt. 10:25. Hence Christ in his time assured his servants and disciples of so much sorrow, tribulation, reproach, suffering, and of death, for his name’s sake. He did not give it to them as his opinion, not as something which might eventually, or perhaps come to pass, but positively assured them that it should befall them, as will here follow, and, in part, be shown.

In the first place, Christ’s own words: “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. But beware of men: for they will deliver you up (he says, they will deliver you up) to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues; and ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles.” Matt. 10:16–18.

Again: “The brother shall,” he says, shall, “deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child; and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. And ye shall” he says, shall, “be hated of all men for my name’s sake.” Verses 21, 22.

Again: “Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord, nor the disciple above his master. If they have persecuted me, they will (he says, they will) also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for my name’s sake.” John 15:20,21.

And again: These things have I spoken unto you that ye should not be offended. They shall (he says, they shall) put you out of the synagogues; yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me. But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, (mark well) ye may remember that I told you of them. 16:1–4. Paul, also, says that we must through much tribulation (he says, must through much tribulation) enter into the kingdom of God: Acts 14:22. And that all (he says, all) that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 2 Tim. 3:12.

Now, dear friends, mark, if it must be so, and also will be so; as has been mentioned in part, and is certain, then, in the name of God, let it be [borne] willingly, and let us not regard the fearful tribulation and distress, but look far beyond, as said before, and be mindful of the comfort contained in the declaration that this temporal tribulation is not worthy to be compared with the eternal glory (Rom. 8:18); and let us also remember that this evil and unrighteous world is not fit for, and was not worthy of, that blessed crown for suffering for righteousness’ sake. Heb. 11:38.

But they are fit who have followed Christ in the regeneration, and forsaken all that is dear to them here. Matt. 19:28. Remember also, brethren, that they who are, or would be, without this chastisement, are bastards, and not sons. Heb. 12:8. Thus, tribulation is certainly promised us believers, as has been heard.

With regard to this, I counsel with Sirach and many others. If we would serve God, let us do it with earnestness, lest we tempt him (Sir. 18:23); for he that would be God’s servant, must prepare (mark, prepare) himself for temptation, and always labor in the work of the Lord, that, whether we be present with him, or whether we be here, absent from him, we may always please God; and every one of us must strive to be (not to think, or boast [of being], but to be), the chief in good works, as also Peter says: “Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for his coming, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.” 2 Pet. 3:14. O how we must be prepared then with a holy conversation, and with godliness. Every man that hath this hope in him must purify himself, even as he (whom we look for) is pure. 1 John 3:3. He that is holy, must become still holier; and he that is pure, still purer. To become holier and holier behooves us, since we call upon such an Holy One as our Father, who judges without respect of persons, as Peter says, and this according to every man’s work. Hence, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear, and it will then be with us as Peter says: Let all them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him with good works (mark, with good works), as unto a faithful Creator. 1 Peter 4:19. Let no one here understand salvation by good works, but salvation with good works; good works without meriting salvation, (mark well) for salvation is of grace, thanks to our Lord Christ, as in Gal. 2:16, and still clearer in Eph. 2:7.305 This I say is my advice, that we also thus prepare our souls, and commit them to him as unto a faithful [Creator], with good works without boasting (without boasting), as his unprofitable servants, who would fain be perfect. Luke 17:10. Finally, dear friends, let us not seek to save our life, which, at all events, we must eventually lose; but let us always entreat our God for strength to suffer, that we may finish our course as valiant adventurers. Amen, dear Lord, Amen.

Here now follow instances of exemplary adventurers of former times—pious persons that were persecuted, greatly hated, and put to death; mark, how, by whom, and also why these things always happened; namely, in order that we need not think it strange, when we become partakers of the same sufferings and death.

In the first place, pious, good Abel was slain by Cain, out of hatred on account of his piety. Lot was greatly vexed by the wanton Sodomites, because of his virtue and righteousness. David was persecuted by Saul, Shimei, and by Absalom his son, for his glory and own kingdom. The man of God from Judah was threatened by Jeroboam, because of his prophesying against Jeroboam’s gods and his altar. 1 Kings 13. The holy and mighty prophet of God, Elijah, and many others who were put to death in his time; he had to flee from the place, and was greatly persecuted by Jezebel, on account of his prophetic miracles which he wrought through God. 1 Kings 19. Micaiah was imprisoned by the king, who fed him with the water and bread of affliction, because he opposed the four hundred false prophets of Jezebel with the Spirit and holy word of God. 1 Kings 22:27. Urijah, a prophet, and also a fugitive, was brought back, and slain with the sword by King Jehoiakim, on account of his message from God, the prophecy against Jerusalem and the land of Judah. Jer. 26:20–23. Jeremiah, a prophet of God, was cast by the princes into the miry pit to die, because he would not cease to preach and prophesy in the name of the Lord. Jer. 38:6. Zechariah, a priest’s son, and prophet of the Lord, was stoned at the commandment of the king, because he had prophesied nothing but calamity for them, because they had forsaken that which was good, and transgressed the word of God. 2 Chron. 24:21. Mark, for what reason each one of these was put to death.

The three young men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, were by King Nebuchadnezzar cast into a furnace heated seven times more than it was wont to be heated—in which God nevertheless preserved them on account of their trust in him—and this because they would not honor neither worship the King’s self-made image, idol and buffoonery. Daniel 3:19. Daniel, a most worthy and holy prophet of God, was by the worshipers of the dragon, out of hatred and envy, cast into the den of lions, against the will and power of the king; God, however, preserved and delivered him. This was done, because he, fearing no man, nor the king’s plain and strict commandment, openly worshiped, honored and confessed his God alone, with the windows open toward Jerusalem. Hist. of the Destr. of the Drag. Dan. 6:10. Mark, are not the pious subtilly sought? Yes, sought and found. O Lord, all the steadfast pious in Israel were scattered, and most atrociously slain by Antiochus. Why? Mark, because they circumcised their children, according to God’s commandment, would eat no swine’s flesh, according to the prohibition of the law, and refused to follow the heathen customs, since they were unclean and contrary to the law. 1 Macc. 1. Again, on another occasion, all the Jews were everywhere caught like wild beasts, bound, chased, dragged off, conveyed away in ships, and doomed to a general massacre, from which latter, however, they were miraculously delivered by the hand of God. They were thus tormented by King Ptolemy, because they would not be compelled by him to depart from the law of God, sacrifice to idols, and adopt heathen customs. 3 Macc. No fair reason, friends; and so it is still. Again, in the second book of the Maccabees the same thing is enacted. A cruel decree of said King Ptolemy, which whoever should not obey, was to be put to death instantly. 2 Macc. 6:9.

Some were burnt. Two women had their infants tied or hanged to their breasts, and were thus led in derision round about the city, and finally cast headlong over the walls. Mark, why? Because they adhered steadfastly to the law of God, and had circumcised their children. Thus also Eleazar, an aged man of ninety, was slain by Antiochus. Why? Because of his unfeigned steadfastness in refusing to eat swine’s flesh, or to pretend to eat it. Again, also a pious mother and seven steadfast sons were by King Antiochus roasted in red-hot pans, with the skin of their heads pulled off, and their tongues cut out. 2 Macc. 7. Why? Mark, because they would in no wise eat swine’s flesh contrary to the law, because it was forbidden. And similar instances in the Old Testament.

In the New Testament, also, we find instances of a like character.

In the first place, the holy forerunner of Christ, John the Baptist, was beheaded by Herod. That good man; why did he kill him? Mark, because he reproved Herod for an improper and shameful liaison. The good Christ Jesus was also hated by the world, because he testified of its evil works. Yea, without guilt or cause worthy of death, Pontius Pilate the judge, through the hatred of the Jews, delivered him up, and put him to death. The holy apostles, also, were frequently apprehended, scourged, and forbidden to preach in the name of Jesus, by the council of the priests. Why? In order that the name, doctrine and church of Jesus should not spread and increase.

Stephen, a deacon, and pious witness of Jesus, was stoned by the stiff-necked. Why? Because they could not resist his spirit, wisdom, and doctrine. The church at Jerusalem, in the beginning, was dispersed and scattered abroad throughout the land of Judea, by the Jews. And Saul, the persecutor, went hither and thither with letters and authority to apprehend and vex any whom he should find of this way or persuasion, in order to hinder the doctrine, faith and way of Christ. And, yet, to be brief, some were vexed by Herod; he killed James with the sword, and seeing that it pleased the people, he apprehended also Peter, and guarded him with sixteen servants, and bound him with two chains, with doors closed, through the hatred of the Jews; but an angel delivered him. Acts 12:1. Let us therefore not wonder at this as though it was something strange.

Now, in conclusion, receive my eternal adieu, and brotherly greeting.

Behold, I have written this to my dear friends, brethren and sisters in the Lord, in humility, with a good intention, and in love, for three special reasons. The first reason is, to communicate to you welcome news, namely, an account of my prosperity, good health and cheerfulness, in both respects, that is, in soul and body; and to stir you up to aid me in praising, thanking, and praying to God for all his grace and comfort, shown towards me unworthy one here, and also towards us all. Of this comfort (by which I also am comforted of God) it has been my endeavor to communicate to you a share, according to your wish and desire already referred to, and I send it to you as a honey-comb, perfume of roses, balm, incense and myrrh, from Eden’s pleasure garden as it were, fruits of the heavenly paradise; as a fruit, sample, perfume and delectation for you, to be inwardly contemplated with attention; yea, as a signal token to you of my joy and peace which I feel to have with God, in union and in one spirit. O, I, unworthy and unprofitable servant of my Lord, that I enjoy peace with my Christ, and the fellowship of his Spirit. Rom. 8:15; 1 Cor. 6:17; Gal. 3:26. Be it said to his praise, it is all through his merciful faithfulness, and great, unmerited grace. I glory in the Lord, and in his power; we have received from him this precious treasure in our weak earthen vessels; hence, if it is preserved, the excellency of the power is of God, and not of us; O not of us, but by grace we are what we are. Jer. 9:24; 2 Cor. 4:7.

The second reason is, that, since you are partakers with me of the same hope, reward and comfort, I might awaken in you a refreshing, devotion, renewed joy in the promises, and inward gladness, by pointing out our comfort mentioned, consisting in doctrine and examples of the Scriptures, as noticed here in part, thereby showing my favor, love and affection towards you all, as remembering you in the Lord.

Thirdly and lastly, also for the reason that I might make many of you my debtors, to do the same in their turn, that is, to send us a letter, in token of your steadfast continuance in love, for our comfort and joy, and the acknowledgement of your remembrance of us, according to the doctrine, debt and obligation towards prisoners; as in Matt. 25:36; Acts 12:5; 2 Tim. 1:16; Heb. 13:3. This from you would be most acceptable to us three prisoners here—O as welcome as the perfume of opening roses, incense and myrrh from the bowers of Zion, the vineyard and pleasure-garden of our God; which has hitherto happened to us so very little, far too little, almost as though your love to us had ceased. Stop! lest I wound you or some one else by words spoken with no evil intent; for I do not have reference to the necessaries of life. O no; we thank God and our careful friends most heartily for these. Accept from me in good part all that is good, and interpret all my love according to love; this I earnestly pray for the Lord’s sake. Let no one misapprehend my labor of love, by interpreting it, or thinking, as though I had done this or the like from desire for honor and praise, or from any hankering after a gift from any one, or after any carnal or earthly communion; for it was love which, out of a pure intention, prompted me to it. O Lord, thou knowest it all.

Yes, my friends, pure love thinketh no evil; however, she sees, finds and reproves evil. Examples of this are, Ananias, Simon the sorcerer, the Corinthian fornicator, etc. Acts 5:1; 8:9; 1 Cor. 5:1.

And now, dear friends, brethren and sisters, I again commend you to God, and to the word of his grace (as the salutation of Paul), which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. Be saluted, strengthened, comforted, and of good cheer in the Lord.

Watch and pray. By me, Hendrick Alewijns, and my fellow prisoners, all of us of good cheer. Farewell. Given in November, A. D. 1568.

Yes, dear friends, before this letter left my hands, two of us were brought before the court; dear Gerrit Jans Duynherder, our pious brother and myself. And behold, we are kept in durance, as sufficiently sentenced, and both of us expect to die very soon now. O Lord! O Lord! into thy hands, O faithful Creator! we commend our soul and spirit. Amen.

O beloved church of God, take care of my three poor, dear little orphans, that are without parents, without possession, or inheritance.

Adieu, my dear children; adieu, all my friends. This is going before you all, and following after my Lord Christ, in his footsteps. Lord, assist thy servants unto the last, unworthy and unprofitable though they be.

THIS IS WHAT HENDRICK ALEWIJNS DELIVERED TO THE LORDS AT THE RACK.

Most worthy officers, justiciaries, and all my lords, who in the name and by the authority of the king are to be my judges and examiners, and are present here, give audience to me, the condemned, Hendrick Alewijns, now ready here for the torture, through your sentence. Behold, I find myself inwardly constrained, and incessantly urged, not to neglect to point out and make known to you all the outrages committed by you on me and those like me, who are innocent of wicked crimes and have not merited legal punishment.

In the first place, let it be clearly, sacredly and Scripturally shown, announced and declared to you, that our, or my matters, are not misdeeds or crimes, but a law of God, matters of faith, and of the spirit; hence they ought to and must be judged spiritually and with the spirit, for a natural man cannot comprehend them; they are foolishness to him. 1 Corinthians 2:14. Consider this freely and thoroughly.

In the second place, a Christian must be charged with articles of faith, and with the Scriptures, without being notorious for rebellious deeds of the flesh, as I am not, God be praised for it, that I am not under the punishment of justice, but entitled to protection and praise from the same. Rom. 13:3. Also, that the man of God who seeks in such simplicity the kingdom, honor and praise of God, is not amenable to your justice in matters of doctrine and worship. Concerning this you have doctrine and examples enough. But one must be subject to the authorities in good works. Tit. 3:1. Justiciary power is given of God only for the punishment of the wicked and the praise of the good, and for the protection of those who do well. The innocent and righteous slay thou not, says God. Ex. 23:7.

In the third place, there is shown to you clearly and with the testimony of the holy Scriptures, and this from love and in the spirit of meekness, the great crime of the tyrants who in this matter of the innocent, sin against God himself, and in his people touch the apple of his eye, yea, fight against God, and kick against his goads: likewise your certain woe, doom and career, in the time to come, when our Lord and righteous Prince shall sit in judgment, and take all your power away from you, as is written in Judith: Woe to the nation that rises up against my kindred; for God will take vengeance on you in the day of judgment; he will put fire and worms in their flesh, that they shall be burned, and feel it forever. Judith 16:17. They shall have no resurrection to eternal life. 2 Macc. 7:14. God will not spare them. 2 Esdr. 15:25. They shall groan and be terrified and amazed at the appearing of the children of God, seeing their glory, and shall say: These are they whom we distressed, oppressed, and deprived them, as being mad, erring spirits, of honor, possessions and life. And further: The wicked troubleth the righteous; he draws out his sword, and bends his bow. But the Lord laugheth at him; for he seeth that his day is coming; he helpeth the poor and needy. He slayeth the righteous; but his sword shall enter into his own heart, and his bow shall be broken in pieces. Ps. 37:12.

Christ himself reproves, condemns and threatens all these blood-guilty ones, saying: How can ye escape the damnation of hell? Matt. 23:33.

Thus also St. James reproves and laments most grievously, that they have condemned and killed the just, who did not resist them. Jas. 5:6. Not in vain it is written in Isaiah: Woe to you spoilers! Think ye that ye shall not also be spoiled? And ye despisers! Think ye that ye shall not also be despised? When ye shall have made an end of spoiling and despising, ye shall also be spoiled and despised, saith the Lord. Is. 33:1. Therefore, my lords, let it engage your hearty consideration; for it is not I that have written it. Like Gamaliel (Acts 5:35), let me, weak man, who am nevertheless a witness of the word, and truth of God, give you a friendly warning. This vengeance of God was understood and experienced by the cruel king and mighty tyrant, and he felt that it is an evil thing to touch the people of God, because of the help of their God, whose vengeance no one can escape, if any wrong is done to his people. 3 Macc. 1. This order he sent in great haste to all his governors: Desist from this people. Holofernes would not understand nor believe this instruction and warning of the wise Achior. Judith 5.

My lords, accept in good part this my favor to you. I have not done it in order to be absolved from the sentence pronounced, which is not customary, and hardly in your power, and you yet remain the friend of the world and the King, which you are determined at any rate to remain. James 4:4; John 19:12. But I pray you nevertheless, to deal mercifully with me, however, as far as is consistent with the proper course of the sentence imposed by you, and as you can answer for it at court. It is better that I suffer, than you; for I know why I suffer. I suffer for a good conscience toward God, and this is acceptable with God; and I am a partaker of Christ’s sufferings. 1 Pet. 2:19; 4:13. I am tortured in order to make me speak contrary to the great commandment of love (Matt. 22:38); but love doeth no evil; love endureth all things, beareth all things, and doth not become weary. 1 Cor. 13:7. O my lords, think whether it is not so. The wicked can appease you with lies, and say no when it is yes, and yes when it is no; but we can only suffer and speak the truth. Have compassion therefore; yea, as you would that it shall be done unto you when my Judge will come, when you will be greatly afraid, and stand in need of help. May God forgive you all wrong against me, as I forgive you, and as I would have it done to me in regard to all my sins. Amen.

O wise counsel of Gamaliel! where art thou heeded now? In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God. 1 John 3:10. “Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat.” Matt. 7:13.

A FATHERLY FAREWELL, TESTAMENT AND VERY CAREFUL SCRIPTURAL INSTRUCTION BY HENDRICK ALEWIJNS TO HIS CHILDREN.

ARTICLE I.

The paternal farewell, testament and an earnest scriptural instruction from Hendrick Alewijns to his children.

Hear me, your father, O my own, well-disposed, dear and greatly afflicted orphans, my three motherless and soon also fatherless children, of ten, eight, and six years, deprived of me, and without property, alas, O God! Once more I tell you, O my dear children, from one dear mother I received and kept you all; who most solemnly charged me at her end, as also the holy Scriptures teach and enjoin me concerning you, that I should, as becomes a father, bring you up in divine instruction (Eph. 6:4), to be good and orderly children and men of God, which I have hitherto, as became me, done with great carefulness and earnestness, but have not yet completed it. And behold, now my labor is taken away, and I cannot under these circumstances further fulfill towards you my fatherly love and debt of discipline. I have therefore now faithfully commended you henceforward to the God of heaven and to my fellow-believers, the friends; and I am fully confident that you will be well, very well, taken care of, out of love, for God’s sake and mine.

Be subject most obediently, as dear children, to the friends, and you will endear yourselves to them all. I have charged them with the guardianship over you, as though they were your parents; hence be very obedient; fear words, and you will not need stripes. Otherwise you will have to be beaten and chastised much, as the holy Scriptures require and teach, of which I shall write more explicitly hereafter.

My dear little children, it is true, it is true I say, you are yet too childish, the oldest as well as the youngest, to understand the holy Bible, and also that which I shall teach here; but I hope you will delight in reading in it frequently, and to have others read it to you. I also trust that your understanding will increase from day to day and that you will yourselves discern good and evil, and will wisely learn to know who are the true believers, and who the unbelievers; which are the children of God, and which are the children of the devil and the world; who bear the name of Christ justly, and who unjustly. I therefore write in this hope, and to acquit myself of the duty of fatherly instruction, which is still to be discharged towards you, and to the fulfillment of which much is lacking on my part, since I am taken away from you too soon, fully to discharge it. Nevertheless, I cannot forbear, through love, to offer and send you this from afar, my dear children, if peradventure I must shortly go with David the way of all this mortal earth. 1 Kings 2:2. Hence I instruct, enjoin, and counsel you after my departure, as many patriarchs and holy fathers did to their children, that you will be of good cheer and courage in patience, and that you will follow the ways, commandments, laws, and ordinances of the Lord, and do his whole will. Always do what is right and good; love honesty, modesty, courtesy, shame-facedness, virtue, praise (Phil. 4:8); and whatsoever is Christian-like and of good report, that do and think on it, and you will be holy and Christians. Then you shall have everlasting life and the beautiful heaven, that you may be with God and his angelic host, with all the elect of God, in eternal rest and joy of your souls; and you shall then not have to fear the second death, the fiery lake, eternal fire, the wages of sin, disinheritance from Christ’s kingdom, or exclusion by Christ. Matt. 25:10.

My dear children, lay this to heart. As soon as your little understanding can comprehend it, think of returning from the old rebellious man into the new man (Matt. 18:3); of the heavenly regeneration of water and of the Spirit (John 3:35); of the grace of God and improving the right time (2 Corinthians 6:1,2); of living peaceably with all men, if it be justly possible and lying in you (for the other half of peace lies with the other party); and also of holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord, or enter into Christ’s kingdom. Rom. 12:18; Hebrews 12:14.

This, my dear children, is my careful counsel and command to you, after my decease.

ARTICLE II.

The first foundation of virtue, or instruction concerning the beginning of wisdom in childhood.—Government of children.

Behold, my dear children, since you are still children in understanding, young in years, and little fitted for the knowledge of God, I now show you for the first, how you may attain to the foundation of virtue, and the beginning of wisdom, that is: Give good audience, and cry earnestly for wisdom, and ask for it; and gladly receive all good instruction from those who advise you for the best. For, behold, thus Sirach teaches: Keep only with such as fear God, whom thou knowest to keep God’s commandments, who are minded as thou art, who have compassion on thee, if thou stumble; and abide by their counsel (he says, abide by their counsel), for thou shalt find no more faithful counsel, and such an one can often see something better than seven watchmen that sit above in a high tower. Sir. 37:12. Again: The true beginning of wisdom is the desire of discipline. Wis. 6:17. And again: Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish. Prov. 12:1. Again: The ears that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise. And he that refuseth correction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding. 15:31,32. Moreover: He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth. 10:17. Again: A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool. 17:10. Behold, my dear children, open your ears, and receive instruction, and you shall become wise and honorable; if not, you must remain unwise, ungodly, worldly and in error, as follows here: Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction; but he that regardeth reproof shall be honored. 13:18.

Again: He that hateth to be reproved is already in the way of the ungodly. Sir. 21:6. Again: An ungodly man will not be reproved, but excuseth himself by the example of others in what he doeth. 32:17.

Behold, my dear children, what excellent instructions these are. Here you hear good counsel, how you can attain to virtue. And this you can do without many stripes of the rod, if you but attend to words, and fear your people in all they command you. Be very obedient to the people with whom you live, and beware of your innate evil nature, your wildness, your foolishness and childishness. Abandon that for which you are chastised; else you will have to be severely beaten without ceasing; for this belongs to foolish, froward and disobedient children, as follows here:

Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him. Prov. 22:15. The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame. 29:15. Again: “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” 22:6. “Withhold not correction from the child; for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die. Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell.” 23:13,14. Again: “Hast thou children? instruct them, and bow down their neck from their youth. Hast thou daughters? have a care of their body, and do not spoil them.” Sir. 7:23,24. “He that loveth his son causeth him oft to feel the rod, that he may have joy of him in the end. He that chastiseth his son, shall have joy in him, and shall rejoice in him among his acquaintance.” 30:1,2.

Behold, my children, this is what is said with regard to disobedient children. Thus must children be brought up by godfearing parents, the good with words, the evil with rods. Thus did Tobit with his son; thus was Susannah from her youth brought up in the fear of God; and to Abraham it was counted for righteousness that he should admonish his children to the fear of God after him. Sus. 2; Tob. 1:9; Gen. 18:19.

In short, this is the conclusion: Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well-pleasing unto the Lord. And, ye parents, be not bitter against them, lest they become dull, shy, or discouraged. Col. 3:20,21; Eph. 6:1.

See, my dear children, learn here what is becoming to you; see here, with what heavy duty of instruction and correction Christian parents are charged with regard to their children.

Those who neglect their children in regard to this discipline, and are too indulgent toward them, may remember the terrible example of evil recompense exhibited in Eli, the priest, who for this reason, by the hand of God, fell from off his seat backward, and brake his neck. 1 Sam. 4:18. Hence it is a grievous matter badly to bring up froward children, concerning which Sirach says: He that is too indulgent with his child lamenteth his stripes, and is terrified as often as he cries. A wanton child becometh willful, like a wild horse. Cocker thy child and he shall make thee afraid: play with him, and he will bring thee to heaviness. Laugh not with him, lest thou have sorrow with him, and lest thou gnash thy teeth in the end. Give him no liberty in his youth, and wink not at his follies. Bow down his neck while he is young, and beat him on the sides (he says beat him on the sides) while he is a child, lest he wax stubborn, and be disobedient unto thee. Instruct thy child, and suffer him not to go idle, lest thou be brought to shame through him. Sirach 30:7–13. Behold, what a solemn charge the believer has concerning his children, and also those that are committed to him as his own children. Hence, dear lambs, endure kind correction, and be afraid of words, and you will not have to suffer this severe cruelty: otherwise you must suffer it, as has been heard.

Behold, my children, in these holy instructions in correction I acquit myself of my duty towards you; and in all this I admonish you not only in your youth, but also in your riper years, to give ear to the advice of the wise and pious, and always to love the Christians, God’s dear children, the holy church, which by all men is considered a heresy, because they so firmly hope in the living God. Acts 24:14. Learn to know early in the Scriptures this living God of them that believe; for, says the apostle Paul, he that cometh to God must believe that there is a God, and that he will greatly reward those who, through the strait gate, seek him with such hardships, on the narrow way of tribulation. 1 Tim. 4:10; Heb. 11:6.

ARTICLE III.

Brief instruction concerning God, to learn to know him by his written name, glory, handiwork, wonderful deeds, voice, omnipotence, omniscience, by his being the terrible enemy of his enemies, and the faithful succorer of the pious, etc.

Mark, beloved, my simple children, this in the God of your father, the God of all the faithful, from the beginning of the world until now, the God of Abel, the God of Noah, the God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Israel, the God of Jesus Christ, and of all the saints. And this is the God that is not made or worshiped by any man or by human hands, but the God that was from everlasting and before all things, and shall be forever, the God of whom and by whom all things are created and made, yea, heaven, earth, sea, and all the works that therein are, were made by his word, Spirit and omnipotence. This our God is good to the good, and very terrible to his enemies. His power extends over all kingdoms and kings, and he is the Lord of lords. There is none like unto him. Thou art great, and thy name is great, and thou canst show it by the deed. Who should not fear thee, thou king of the heathen? Thou shouldest certainly be obeyed. His name is Governor, Lord, Lord Sabaoth, the God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Israel, and of the fathers; this is his name. His name is Wonderful, Counsellor, Power, Giant, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace, his government abideth upon him forever. Is. 9:6,7. His name is Immanuel, that is, God with us. 7:14. It is not possible fully to express his name; hence, for the completion of his impossible, unmentionable, inexpressible exalted name, he is further called Jehova, Shadai, Addonai, and by other names. Besides his general appellations, he is also called: Righteous, Merciful, Gracious God, Truth, Light, Right Hand, Holy consuming Fire.

See, my dear children, here you have heard of your father’s God, of his eternity without beginning and without end, and of his glorious and exalted names in the Holy Scriptures. There follows further now, of his glorious, incomprehensible, unmeasurable greatness, glory and the invisibleness of his divine shape, form and image; for God is a Spirit. Think, how great he must be: heaven is the throne and the earth his footstool. Acts 7:49. He sees, hears, and is, everywhere, and in all places; for thus he says through Jeremiah: “Am I a God at hand, and not afar off? Can any hide himself in secret, places that I shall not see him? Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the Lord.” Jeremiah 23:23,24. And in another place the Scripture declares: “He spanneth heaven with his three fingers.” Is. 40:12. When he walks, the mountains tremble, and the foundations of the earth quake. When he manifests himself, or permits himself to be heard, he causes fear and terror to come upon all men, as we read in Ex. 3, that the thorn-bush seemed to burn as a flame of fire, when he called Moses to him, to make him a prince over Israel, to lead them out of Egypt. And again, when Moses, while receiving the law of God, spoke with God on mount Sinai, the mount smoked, because the Lord descended upon it in fire; and the smoke thereof ascended as the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mount quaked greatly. And the voice of the trumpet waxed louder and louder, with thunders and lightnings, which frightened the people. And also Moses was terrified, and trembled. No one was permitted to touch the mount; no one could endure his voice, save Moses, however, with fear. Ex. 19. Thus does God show himself, says Moses, that his fear should be before your eyes, and you might not sin. Well may Moses say: “The Lord your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward.” Deut. 10:17.

Behold, my dear children, this great God alone is worthy to be feared, who can kill soul and body. Sirach says: The whole heaven everywhere, the sea and the earth tremble; mountain and valley quake, when he visiteth them; and shall he not see thy heart? Sir. 16:18.

Again: God is witness of all thoughts, and knoweth the conscience of every heart, and heareth every word. For the circuit of the world is full of the Spirit of the Lord (he says that the circuit of the world is full of the Spirit of the Lord), and he that knoweth the voice is everywhere; therefore he that speaketh unrighteous things cannot be hid. Wis. 1:6. Yea, my dear children, he knows who serves him in appearance and in the sight of the eyes, and who with a sincere heart. For the wisdom of God is great, and he is mighty, says Sirach, and beholdeth all things; and his eyes are upon them that fear him, and he knoweth well, what is done in righteousness, and what is hypocrisy. Sir. 14:18. I say he is worthy that men should fear him, keep his commandments, love him, be very small and humble before him, and this is what he requires of his people. Read Mic. 6, the law of Moses, and the Gospel of Christ. For he would have obedience, and not the pomp and deceitful semblance of sacrifices, as is exemplified in Saul, 1 Sam. 15:22. “Will ye not fear me, saith the Lord, who have placed the sand for the bound of the sea, that it cannot pass it?” Jeremiah 5:22.

Ah, ah, dear children, how good is this fear of the Lord, for it is the beginning of wisdom. It is the root of wisdom, and its branches flourish forever. Wis. 1:20.

This fear of the Lord driveth out sin; for he that is without fear cannot be justified. Wis. 1:21. For by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil. Proverbs 16:6. The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life to depart from the snares of death, 14:27. For those that fear the Lord, my children, walk in the right way; but he that feareth him not, or despiseth him, departeth from his way. 14:2.

Hereby, and by the vain boasting or thinking of having the fear of God, you may perceive the fear of God, and know those who fear him [and them that fear him not].

Read who are the truly godfearing; Ps. 1:2; 119:120; Sir. 2:17; 15:1; 16:2. Therefore, the fear of God is the sum and conclusion of all books. Read Eccl. 12:13. And as you have now heard of the great glory of God, which is well worthy that men should fear him on account of it, so I will now briefly show that he is also a most awful, terrible and inexorably stern avenger and enemy towards his enemies; and, on the other hand, a faithful succorer of his afflicted friends, as is written in Exodus: “I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me.” And again: “Shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.” Exodus 20:5,6.

Notice also the wonderful deeds of God in Egypt, on Pharaoh, who afflicted the children of Israel; how God afflicted the Egyptians in return, visiting their land with manifold plagues. Ultimately, how God delivered his people out of it, made a dry passage through the Red Sea, separated and protected them from Pharaoh by the dark pillar of cloud, and terrified Pharaoh and his host with a heavenly noise in the air, and drowned them all in the Red Sea, as a God of great power. Now when Israel had passed through the Red Sea, and was in the wilderness, king Amalek came to afflict them, whom God himself resisted, however, through Joshua, and the enemy and his people were discomfited and destroyed. Thus, again, in the days of Joshua, God fought with hailstones, and Israel with the sword; and sun and moon for their benefit stood still the whole day, as long as the battle lasted. Josh. 10. Yea, God also fought from heaven against Sisera, and the stars in their courses fought. Judg. 5:20. Again, at another time, when Samaria was besieged by the Syrians, God fought for Samaria, and terrified the enemies with a noise in the air, as the noise of chariots, horsemen and hosts, in the night, so that they fled and left everything behind them. 2 Kings 7:6,7. Thus read also of Zerah the Ethiopian, with his host of a thousand thousand, of whom not one escaped. 2 Chron. 14:9 Thus also, the children of Ammon and Moab, from Syria, afflicted Israel; and God fought for Israel, while Israel stood still and he ordered it so that the enemies destroyed one another. 2 Chron. 20.

In like manner we read concerning Gideon, that God so ordered it that the enemies, the Midianites, fell upon one another with their swords, and destroyed themselves, through the direction of God. Judg. 7:22.

Behold, my dear children, what an awful, inexorable enemy of his enemies, and faithful and victorious protector of his friends he is; for when his people went to battle with God’s consent, though they had neither bows, arrows, shields nor swords, God fought for them and gained the victory. No one could harm this people, save when they departed from the commandments of the Lord their God; then God delivered them into the hand of the enemy. We have a God that helps, the Lord Sabaoth, who delivers from death; thus extol the saints the help of God. When the people of God, in former times, were encompassed and assailed with war, and by wicked nations and kings, and then cried with confidence to this their God for protection, behold, their God only sent an angel to their assistance, who was able to direct all, and turned not away from thousands. Read 2 Kings 19:35; Is. 37:36. Read further 2 Macc. 11:10. We further read of five angels of God, armed and upon horses with bridles of gold, and what great execution they did. 2 Macc. 10:29. God sent two angels to Sodom, for the destruction of the wicked, and the preservation of the good. And other such examples; read 2 Macc. 12; Judg. 7:22; 1 Sam. 14:20; 17:52; 2 Chron. 20:23.

Behold, my dear children, the faithfulness of God towards his people, and his terribleness to the wicked, as has been heard; and this is only a moderate portion, much still remains to be told of so many examples contained in the holy Scriptures, and left for our confirmation, that we might hope in this God, suffer for his sake, and obey him. However, it must be understood with a due distinction of times and laws, as regards the ancient warfares of Israel, the taking of revenge on enemies, fighting and killing in the time of the law, and previous to it, which then was done by the will, command, permission, and also, help, of God, under the Old Testament, but now, in the Gospel and New Testament, it must not be so, and is now plainly prohibited, by the word and example of Christ, himself God and the Son of God, whose word must be heard. Prohibited, I say, plainly and clearly enough, not by men’s commandments, but by God himself; his people are denied and forbidden all revenge, and commanded to commit all vengeance unto God; not to resist evil; to give to him that taketh away the cloak also the coat, and to turn to him that smiteth thee on thy right cheek the other also, and the like; yea, to love one’s enemies, to pray for your persecutors, and to flee from them from one city into another. Matt. 5:39; Rom. 12:17; 1 Thess. 5:15. And they that are thus afflicted shall be blessed, and greatly comforted of God, with the promise of eternal life. In short, not to fight at all, and yet to fight, but this no longer with iron, steel, stone, wood, or any carnal weapons, but with spiritual weapons mighty before God. 2 Cor. 10:4. Read, my children, what weapons and warfare Christians now wield, as is plainly and very clearly set forth. Eph. 6. Christians have no other warfare at the present time. For, understand, the prophecy is fulfilled which said with reference to this time, that such people have beaten their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into sickles, rest from their works, and truly observe the spiritual Sabbath. Is. 2:4; Mic. 4:3; Ex. 20:10,11. Hence Christians may now not wage war any more. However I refer you to ancient warfare and God’s succor, as these are a demonstration and proof to you of the greatness and the terrible deeds of God; in order that you may learn to know, fear and obey him in whose presence the earth shakes, and the mountains tremble; for the disobedient toward his word, will and commandment shall find no hiding-place from his face when he shall appear with his angels, in flames of fire, to execute vengeance on all the disobedient. 2 Esd. 16:9.

Therefore, my children, learn to know and shun sin; for because of sin souls are damned forever.

ARTICLE IV.

What sin is, and whereby sin became sin; and what are and will be the wages of sin, before God, or God’s punishment of sinners hereafter.

What sin is, is clearly shown by the holy Scriptures. The prophet Samuel said to Saul, when the latter had transgressed the commandment of the Lord: Disobedience is as the sin (mark, sin) of witchcraft. 1 Sam. 15:23. John says: All unrighteousness is sin. 1 John 5:17. James says: To him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. Jas. 4:17. (Mark what sin is). Paul says: Whatsoever is not of faith is sin. Rom. 14:23.

From this and the like, my children, learn to know sin; as Paul says: By the law is the knowledge of sin. I had not known sin but by the law. The law causes sin to become exceeding sinful; for when it says: Thou shalt not covet, sin takes occasion, and works in us all manner of concupiscence. Rom. 3:20; 7:7,13. From this we also perceive, whereby sin became sin, namely, by the command and prohibition of God.

Every one who transgresses the things which God has commanded, commits sin, and it is also called sin, and punished as sin, fully and abundantly, in both Testaments. The tree of knowledge was not unclean for Adam, except through the commandment; his transgression was also called sin. As regards the punishment for this sin, read Gen. 3:14. The heathen daughters and wives were not unclean for the Jews, save through the commandment of God, who would not have it. Concerning the punishment, read Judg. 3; Num. 25. The sanctuary, or ark of God, which was certainly clean, was not unclean for any tribe, to touch or bear it, except through the commandment. Num. 4:17. The gods of the heathen were not unclean for Israel, save through the prohibition and proscription of God, also the commandment and the punishment. 1 Kings 15.

Behold, thus you can perceive whereby sin becomes sin, namely, through the commandment, and the transgressing of the commandment; for where no commandment is, there is no sin, for without the law sin was dead. Rom. 4:15; 7:8. For sin, or sinful action was in the world; but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Rom. 5:13.

Now, dear children, as soon as you know sin, learn to shun it as you shun fire; for if you approach sin, it will embrace you; but the stings and wounds thereof cannot be healed. Sir. 21:2,3.

Therefore, learn now to understand further, what proceeds from sin, and what are the wages of sin, for these are damnation and death. Rom. 6:23. It is enmity against God, because it is not subject to the law of God. Rom. 8:7. Hence hear further the terrible, relentless and awful punishment of God upon sin and sinners, which has ever taken place and will yet take place. Take heed, my dear children, I counsel you, as much as you value your souls, to this special, eternal punishment of sin and sinners. Thus says the Lord: I have long time holden my peace; I have been still, and refrained myself: now will I cry like a travailing woman; I will destroy and devour at once. Who among you, he says, will give ear to this? Who will hearken and hear for the time to come? The day of the Lord cometh, cruel both with wrath and fierce anger, to lay the land desolate: and he shall destroy the sinners thereof out of it. It is the day of the Lord’s vengeance, and the year of recompense for the controversy of Zion. And the streams thereof shall be turned into pitch, and the dust thereof into brimstone, and the land thereof shall become burning pitch. It shall not be quenched night nor day. Is. 42:14,23; 13:9; 34:8, etc.

This impending calamity, the punishment and righteous judgment of God, was announced and promised a very long time; for when Enoch, the seventh from Adam, was upon earth, he said: Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousand of his saints, to execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him. Jude 14,15.

Mark, that God threatens and gives sufficient warning before, as he did to Assur: Woe be unto thee, Assur, thou that hidest the unrighteous in thee! O thou wicked people, remember what I did unto Sodom and Gomorrah; whose land lieth in clods of pitch and heaps of ashes; even so also will I do unto them that hear me not, saith the Almighty Lord. 2 Esd. 2:8,9.

The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity, and shall cast them into a furnace of fire. Matt. 13:41,42. Then shall the Lord say unto them on his left hand: “Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: for I was a hungered, and ye gave me no meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink.” Matt. 25:41,42. Behold, my dear children, thus shall it then go with those who do not now while it is time, regard this, being rich, filled and merry. For Christ says: Woe unto you that are rich, for ye have received your consolation. Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep. Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! Luke 6:24–26. When they lived, says Esdras, and received God’s benefits they did not regard it; they despised his counsel while they had yet liberty, and contemned repentance; therefore they must know it after death by torment. 2 Esd. 9:10–12. While we lived and committed iniquity, we considered not that we should suffer for it after death. 7:56. For the wages of sin is death. Rom. 6:23. But, after thy hardness and impenitent heart, thou treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath, and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, who will render to every man according to his deeds; to them who by patient continuance in well-doing, seek for glory, and honor, and immortality, eternal life; but unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness; indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil. Rom. 2:5–9.

Understand again, my dear children, into what great danger our evil flesh plunges us here, slaying the soul. The lust and works of the flesh cause eternal sorrow and loss of heaven. As Paul says: Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary the one to the other; so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. Now the works of the flesh are these; adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, evil lusts—(read to the end of the seventeen points mentioned). And he says that they which do such things shall not inherit or possess the kingdom of God. Gal. 5:16; 1 Cor. 6:9. Then it shall not be possible for any one to be spared from the vengeance of God, whether he know God, or whether he know him not; if he has been disobedient to the Gospel, he must bear the severity of God. For Paul says: When the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, in flaming fire, taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ; (mark) who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; when he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe. 2 Thess. 1:7–10.

To disobey the Gospel, is worthy of no small punishment; for he that, in the sight of two or three witnesses, transgressed the law of Moses (which is inferior to the Gospel in its saving power and operation, Rom. 8:3), had to die without mercy, says Paul, of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? Heb. 10:29. These must expect a terrible judgment, and the cruelty of the fire, which shall devour the adversaries. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God; for God is a consuming fire. 10:31; 12:9. We know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense. 10:30. See, since the Gospel is great of value and rich in saving power, therefore, on the other hand, the refusing, abusing, despising and transgressing of the same, is so much the greater crime and ingratitude, and deserving of sorer punishment, as Paul says, concerning Christ: “See that ye refuse not him that speaketh; for if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven: whose voice then shook the earth.” Heb. 12:25,26.

O my children, therefore this time of the Gospel, in which we now are, is a very precious, valuable and acceptable time, as also the Lord himself frequently declares in the Gospel: as: Had such mighty works been done in Tyre and Sidon. Why do ye not discern this acceptable time for you? Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see. Luke 10:23. Jesus says: Jerusalem shall be destroyed (on account of her sins); because they did not know the time of their visitation. Luke 19:44.

O my dear children, learn to discern good from evil; learn to know the wicked world, who think that they are holy men, Christians and believers in God, but are the synagogue of Satan (Rev. 2:9); which is evident from their whole spirit, life, and their wickedness; who because of their wickedness cannot bear, or tolerate among them, the lustre of the pious. But the Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation, and to reserve the evil and unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished; but chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness. What God intends to do with such, he has typified and shown to us by sinners of former times [as we read]: For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment, and spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly; and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them with an overthrow, making them an example unto those that after should live ungodly. 2 Pet. 2:4–6.

Understand here, that God spares neither the angels, nor the whole world, because they were great in number or highly esteemed and chosen; and thus it has often gone with great numbers, for the ungodly are not the better for being many. As also Sirach well says: Rely not upon this that the multitude of those with whom thou doest evil is great, but remember that punishment is not far from thee. Therefore humble thyself from the heart, for the vengeance of the ungodly is fire and worms. Sirach 7:17,18. For as one that cometh nigh wild beasts, and is torn by them, so it also goes with him that attacheth himself to the ungodly, and mingleth in their sins. 12:13,14. One child that fears the Lord is more acceptable to him than a thousand that are ungodly. Hence let no one depend upon this that his companions in wickedness are many, nor upon boasting of the mercy of God, before thy repentance; for when the fire of the punishment of God is kindled, it consumes all the wicked, great and small. Behold, the fire burned up the whole congregation of the ungodly; and wrath was kindled over the unbelieving. He spared not the old giants who perished with their strength. Neither did he spare those among whom Lot sojourned, but condemned them because of their pride, and destroyed the whole land without mercy, who had transgressed all bounds in sinning. Thus he took away six hundred thousand, because they were disobedient. How then should a single one that is disobedient escape unpunished? For though he is merciful, yet also wrath is with him. He can be appeased, but he also fearfully punishes. As his mercy is great, so is also his correction; he judgeth a man according to his works. The ungodly shall not escape with his spoils, and the patience of the godly shall not be frustrated. Behold, before God a great multitude is of little avail. He that sinneth must die. For every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished. Prov. 16:5. The strength of the ungodly is like a heap of tow which is consumed with fire. The way of sinners is made plain with stones (it is true), but at the end thereof is the pit of hell. Sir. 21:9,10. Hell also hath opened wide her mouth, to receive great and small, prince and multitude. Is. 5:14. Many be called, but few chosen. Wide is the gate, and broad the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which walk in it. I further say: The great majority will be damned and lost. This is too clear to be denied. 2 Esd. 8:3.

Dear children, he that does not fear or believe God, does not regard these awful assurances and sure threats, as also the Scripture says: Such threatening is too far off, and when a wicked man heareth it, he yet cleaveth to his folly and error. How truly does Solomon say: Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil. Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God. Eccl. 8:11,12. I have long time holden my peace, says the Lord; I have been still, and refrained myself: now will I cry like a travailing woman; I will destroy and devour at once. Is. 42:14. When a child is about to be brought forth, the pains of travail slack not a moment; even so shall not the plagues be slack to come upon the earth; the world shall mourn, and sorrow shall come upon it. 2 Esd. 16:38,39.

O happy he who always fears; but he whose heart is hardened shall fall into misfortune, as has been sufficiently heard. Mark here the long-suffering of God toward sinners; but he nevertheless eventually punished them. How truly does Paul say: God is not mocked. Thinkest thou that I shall always hold my peace, saith the Lord, that thou dost not fear me at all? But I will declare thy righteousness, and thy works, that they are unprofitable. Then when thou shalt cry, let thy companies deliver thee; but the wind shall carry them away, and vanity shall take them, Is. 57:13. The holy Scriptures do justly call our God a consuming fire. As to what fire this is, read Is. 10:16; Joel 2:3; Nah. 3:15; Zech. 11:1. Manasses truly says: O God, thine angry threatening toward sinners is importable. Man. verse 5. Nahum speaks thus of the fierceness of the wrath of God: The mountains quake before him, and the hills fear. The earth shaketh before him, yea, the whole circuit of the earth, and all that dwell therein. Who can stand before his indignation? And who can abide before his anger? His fury burneth like fire, and the rocks burst in pieces before him. Nahum 1:5,6. Micah says: The Lord cometh forth out of his place, and will come down, and tread upon the high places of the earth. And the mountains shall be molten under him, and the valleys shall be cleft, as wax before the fire, and as the waters that are poured down a steep place. For the transgression of Jacob is all this, and for the sins of the house of Israel, Mic. 1:3–5.

O who could write enough of such scripture admonitions! Truly, my dear children, behold, he that recognizes the holy Scriptures, the Bible, as the sure word, testimony, word and sentence of God, and considers well worthy of belief what is written in the same concerning God, and especially regarding his faithful warning against all sin, the promised recompense for transgression, exemplified in his punishment of sin as exhibited in many, together with all his strict and solemn oaths in which he has denied his kingdom to the impenitent, as has already been mentioned here in part, and will yet briefly be pointed out; such a man, I say, may well tremble before God, and with David the skin and hair of his head may shudder. And if there be but one spark of the fear of God, and faith in his word, in his inmost heart, his laughter may and must turn into weeping till he obtains peace instead of enmity with God. In the first place I will speak of God’s warning against sin.

But, my dear lambs, I am deprived of time further to complete my purpose and intention. This however was almost finished, but I intended to improve it and to copy it in a far more legible and better form. However, it is now done, and I must and will now disengage myself, and prepare to die, as I think, in four days. And, behold, my dear children, I rejoice in this, and am of good cheer in the Lord, and trust not to spare my body for the truth, but to present it in worship as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God. And I trust by the grace of God, that I have been to you, my dear children, a father who have set you a good example, in my life and death. When you attain to the years of understanding, think thoroughly on it and so follow Christ with me, as he has gone before us, in all suffering and holiness; and we shall meet again, and this in eternal joy and in the kingdom of heaven, forever.

My dear children, though you do not live together, love one another the more ardently, and show your love in whatever way you can, as by greetings and instructive letters to one another. Make copies of this little book, so that each of you three children may have one.

I first send it to you my dear son Alewijn Hendricks, because you are the oldest. Remember what I have written for your instruction; communicate it also to your little sisters. Farewell now, an eternal farewell, my three little orphans.

Written by me, your dear father,

Hendrick Alewijns.

HERE FOLLOWS A LETTER WRITTEN BY HANS MARIJNS, WHICH HE SENT FROM HIS PRISON TO HIS BELOVED BRETHREN AND SISTERS.

Always have God before your eyes.

Grace, peace and joy from God our heavenly Father, wisdom, righteousness and truth, through Christ Jesus his beloved Son our Lord and Savior; together with the comfort and illumination of the Holy Ghost; these I wish you, much beloved brethren and sisters in the Lord, as a friendly greeting and eternal adieu in this sad world, where nothing is to be found but every sorrow of heart. I trust to go and rest, with all the elect saints of God, under the altar, and hope to wait for you there: to this end may the Lord grant us his grace, and may he keep me, miserable sinner, unto the end, as I hope and trust he will do. Amen.

Know, much beloved brethren and sisters in the Lord, that we are all well yet, the Lord be praised; and it is still the purpose of us all, to adhere to the holy truth of the Lord all the days of our life, for which we can never fully thank the Lord. O dear brethren and sisters, how could we fully thank him, that he so loves me unworthy one! I hope by his grace, that I shall suffer for his holy name, and I trust to hear with all the beloved saints of God: “Come, ye blessed of my Father and inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” Matt. 25:34. O dear brethren and sisters, what beautiful promises are given to them that overcome: That they shall shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father; that they shall be of the household of God; that they shall eat of the hidden manna, and of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God. Rev. 3:12; Matthew 13:43; Eph. 2:19; Rev. 2:17; 2:7.

O why should I write you much; I hope and trust, that you yourselves are all taught of God. Hence, dear brethren and sisters, I know of nothing special to write you, save that we should always take heed well to keep that which is committed to our trust, that no man take our crown, for Peter says: The devil walketh about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour: whom resist steadfast in the faith, 1 Tim. 6:20; Rev. 3:11; 1 Peter 5:8. O we shall be well rewarded, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end. Herewith I will commend you all unto the Lord, and to the rich word of his grace, which is able to build us all up for his heavenly kingdom. Amen. And I kindly pray you, also to see to my child a little as much as you can. I have also requested this of the sister at Vlissingen, and of Christian. You may advise together as is best; for I must now part from it, so that I cannot take care of it. But I am heartily satisfied with this, and am ready to forsake not only wife and child, but also body and life, if the Lord will only keep me, as he has hitherto done, and will yet do. O dear brethren and sisters, we are all of such good cheer. I and Hendrick and Gerrit greet you all much. Greet Hendrick and Maeyken much in my name, and Adrian and Gerrit Coelemey, and your companion Lieven, and Huybert; further, Yde and her husband, and Jacob Wit, and the rest of the brethren, and to all whom it is convenient to greet. Bid them all farewell in my name. Written on the third of February, in the year 1569, after I have been advised of my sentence. Farewell altogether, and be valiant always. I trust that we shall see one another again. Communicate to Geertgen occasionally something of the profit, as seems best to you; and do with her what is best, this I earnestly ask of you.

By me, Hans Marijns, your unworthy brother in the Lord, with what is in my ability for your best, for this time.

ANPLEUNIS VAN DEN BERGE, A. D. 1569.

This Anpleunis van den Berge, because he had permitted, in the year 1556, that the word of God was truly and openly preached on his land, and that he had lodged some of the brethren, had to leave his own house and property, and conceal himself, and sojourn with other good friends (so severe was then the persecution against the Christians), until, finally, while walking on the road, he was apprehended, and this only because one who saw him walking, said: There goes the man who permitted preaching on his land. And though he offered to give to the officer that apprehended him his purse containing fifty pounds Flemish, if he would let him go, he was nevertheless taken along into prison at Kortrijk, where he, after a bold confession of his faith, was very severely tortured, by scourging as well as otherwise; but as he would in no wise apostatize from his faith, or implicate any of his fellow-members, he was finally sentenced to death, and burned, in the year 1569, thus obtaining a house and inheritance which shall never be taken from him. 2 Cor. 5:1.

JASPER DEN TASCHRINKMAKER, A. D. 1569.

At Antwerp, about the year 1569, there was apprehended a brother, named Jasper den Taschrinkmaker, who, when he was examined concerning his faith, boldly confessed it, and would allow no entreaties, threats or tortures to swerve him from it, so that because of his steadfastness he was sentenced to death as a heretic, and offered up his sacrifice by fire. Hence the eternal fire shall not destroy that which he has built upon the foundation Jesus Christ.

DIRK ANOOT AND WILLEM DE ZAGER, IN THE YEAR 1569.

When the Duke of Alba tyrannized with great violence against the Gospel, as Antiochus against the law, 2 Macc. 7, there were brought prisoners into Ypres, in Flanders, in the year 1569, one Dirk Anoot, of Westvleteren, and one named Willem, a wood-sawyer, who, as they could in no wise be drawn from the truth by tribulation, fear, or any suffering inflicted upon them, were finally condemned and sentenced to the fire, and were then brought into the market place, before the city hall, with a stick fastened in their mouth, that they should not speak. There each was placed at a stake and burned. Thus they, as those who did not love their life, but delivered it up for the Gospel, offered up their bodies as a burnt sacrifice unto God, their Lord.

TANNEKEN VAN DER MEULEN, JAECXKEN VAN HUSSELE, AND JAECXKEN TEERLINGS, IN THE YEAR OF OUR LORD 1569.

At Ghent in Flanders also three sisters were apprehended on account of the faith, namely Tanneken van der Meulen, Jaecxken van Hussele, and Jaecxken Teerlings, who had to leave, for the Lord’s sake, five little children, whom she commended to a faithful keeper and Provider, since she had to help her two imprisoned fellow sisters contend for his name, in which all three of them evinced such manful courage unto death, that even the tyrants were amazed at it, who shall be still more amazed, when they shall hear the sound of the trumpet, and see that these with all the children of God shall be taken up into everlasting joy and gladness, while they themselves standing on the left hand will have to go into everlasting sorrow, and that the time of repentance shall then be utterly taken away from them.

JOOST GOETHALS, ROELANDT AND PIETER STAYERT, JANNEKEN ROELANDS AND JANNEKEN DE JONCKHEERE, IN THE YEAR 1569.

In the year 1569, at Ghent, in Flanders, there were apprehended for the faith, three brethren and two sisters, namely, Joost Goethals, Roelandt and Pieter Stayert, Janneken Roelands and Janneken de Jonckheere. These had to resist many examinations, trials and temptations, but remained valiant in everything unto death, so that they were tried as gold in the fire; nor did that fail which they had built upon the corner stone Christ; wherefore they shall, for having been faithful here over a few things, be made rulers with the good and faithful servant over many things, and enter into heaven into the joy of their Lord. Matt. 25:23.

CHRISTOFFEL BUYZE, LAURENS VAN RENTERGEN, JOOST MEERSSENIER, AND GRIETGEN BAETS.

Not long after the above there were also apprehended at Ghent three brethren and one sister, namely, Christoffel Buyze, Laurens van Rentergen, Joost Meerssenier, and Grietgen Baets. These, in order to follow Christ, gladly took up his cross, and had to suffer much reproach, temptation, and pain in the narrow way; but in all this they courageously persevered, and could in no wise be induced to apostatize, so that they finally had to lay down their lives for the name of Christ, and with him press through the strait gate, in order that they might take the kingdom of God by force, where they in the new Jerusalem, shall have him for an everlasting light, and shall with all those who have valiantly contended for the truth, live in everlasting and imperishable joy.

OLD PIETER, JAN WATIER, JAN VAN RAES, WOUTER DENIJS, FRANCAIS THE CARPENTER, AND KALLEKEN, THE WIDOW OF ANPLEUNIS VAN DEN BERGE.

As the Jews did to the Shepherd, so their successors do still to his sheep, which was evident in the year 1569, when they, having come from Kortrijck to Meenen, apprehended there a brother named old Pieter; but not yet satisfied with this, they returned on the Friday before Easter, in the night, and apprehended Jan Watier, Jan van Raes, Wouter Denijs, Francais the Carpenter, and Kalleken, the widow of Anpleunis van den Berge (which latter had previously been offered up). These were so tightly bound that it was pitiful to behold. Jan Watier said: “If there is any one here from Komen, greet my wife, and tell her to fear God.” These were then conducted to Kortrijck, where they lay for three weeks, so closely guarded that no one could come to them, to comfort or speak to them. They were also very severely tortured, in order that they should mention others: but God kept their lips. The old man, Jan van Raes, was put on the rack twice, but he nevertheless betrayed no one. When John Watier was led back to prison, it was a lamentable sight to behold how he had been tortured, all his limbs appearing to have been broken.

When they were led to the court, they said: “Now truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter.” Is. 59:14. There they (the five brethren and one sister) comforted and cheered one another with the word of God. 1 Thess. 4:18. There the innocent were sentenced to be burned, and delivered to the hangman or executioner. Longing for their Father’s land, to be in peace with him forever, they boldly came forth, and Pieter sighed and cast up his eyes, saying: “O Lord, succor thy servant, and strengthen him in his last extremity; and do not account this as sin to them, but convert them; for they know not what they do.” Jan Watier said to the lords: “If we have done amiss to you in anything, do forgive us; we gladly forgive you all that you have done amiss to us; but let the innocent blood you have shed satisfy you, and do not shed any more.” Pieter said to the people: “If you would enter into life, seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all that you further need shall be added unto you.” Matt. 6:33. He further said: “This is the strait gate by which we enter in; here we are going home, where we shall be this evening.” Wouter Denijs said: “O Lord, reprove them with the hammer of thy divine word, that they may perceive, whom they have pierced, and be converted.” John 19:37. Pieter again said: “These members, which God has given me, I will gladly surrender for his honor; for hereafter, when I rise, he shall give them to me again.” 2 Macc. 7:11.

When they had all finished their prayer, and were standing bound at the stakes, they confidently exclaimed: “O heavenly Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.” Thus all these six friends passed through the conflict, as faithful regenerated children of God, and elect sheep of Christ, who remained steadfast unto the end, and with their sacrifice took their blessed departure out of this world.

Wouter Denijs also wrote several letters from prison, three of which have come into our hands, and follow here.

THE FIRST LETTER OF WOUTER DENIJS, TO HIS WIFE.

A cordial greeting to you, my beloved wife and children, and to father, and to my brothers, sisters and all my friends according to the flesh, and to all that are known to me, who fear God from a pure heart. This fear, from a pure heart, may the Almighty God grant you through his Son Jesus Christ.

My beloved wife, and my children, whom I love next to God, lay this to heart, for I have written it with great diligence. Behold, I think (and know nothing to the contrary) that you will receive nothing further from me; hence if you would be saved let my words abide in your ears, I therefore pray you from the depths of my heart, through Jesus Christ, always to instruct and admonish my and your children with great diligence in the fear of God, as long as the Lord will let you remain together. I further request you, always to restrain them, lest they rule over you. You have such a striking example in some whom I will not mention here, not deeming it best; but I will let it be as it is; every one will give an account of himself. Romans 14:12. Therefore, my dear and beloved, I pray you for Christ’s sake, to walk in the fear of the Lord; and use more diligence in seeking your salvation, than you have hitherto done; and be not ashamed to ask questions in matters pertaining to salvation, but let us be ashamed before the Lord of our misery and nakedness; for when the Lord visits us, every one would like to be found glorious and spotless, and blameless in weakness. For when one gets into bonds, it is such a blessed thing to have peace in one’s conscience; or even if one should be laid upon his death-bed. Hence Peter admonishes us: “Let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.” 1 Peter 4:19. And the apostle exhorts us that every one should seek to excel in good works. Tit. 3:8. And Christ says in his Gospel: He that forsaketh not lands and house, father and mother, wife and children, yea, his own life, is not worthy to be my disciple. Luke 14:26.

Therefore, every one that would be saved must obey his Savior, as the word of the Lord everywhere declares. Hence use diligence to hear and follow the word of God; for, without the word of God salvation cannot be found, however grandly the false prophets boast themselves. For from the beginning of the world the righteous had to suffer from the unrighteous, and be persecuted, for if the Prince of our salvation himself suffered, being an example and pattern unto us, that we should follow him; we may well see that the servant is not better than his Lord. Hence let every one that would be saved make entreaty to the Lord, from the depth of his heart and with tears, without ceasing. And I pray you, my dear wife, to teach our children to read and write, if it be possible for you, in order that they may be able to search for themselves. John 5:39.

Thus, my dear and much beloved wife, whom next to God I loved above all men, lay this to heart, and let the same be done by all that shall see it or hear it read. And I pray you, brother and sister, and all who truly know Christ, and love his appearing, that, when they attain to years of understanding, you will exercise an oversight and care not only over mine, but all that are in like condition; and charge Hansken at Proentken’s, occasionally to admonish Pieter, and to search whereunto we are called, and for what testimony his father was burned at Wervijke, in Flanders. Acts 23:11.

And I beseech every one that would be saved, not to neglect the grace of God. Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation; let every one take heed now. On the twenty-first day of April, about eleven o’clock, I received a letter here, which was welcome to me. However, I will pass this by, and go on. Know that we are still of good courage, and had I been able, I would have sent you something; but this I send you all as a greeting, and for a remembrance to my children, and I request of you who remain there, to keep this till they attain to their understanding, if it be possible for you, if peradventure the Lord should grant grace, and knowledge of the truth, as I trust he will do. I entreat every one from the depth of my heart, and with tears, before God, to excuse my weakness kindly and in love. I deplore it before God and men, that I have not been more of a light, and that the talent which I have received has gained so little profit.