The Epistle of Barnabas

I have therefore reckoned that, if I make it my care in your behalf to communicate somewhat of that which I received, it shall bring me the reward of having ministered to such spirits, and I hasten to send you a short letter in order that

There are then three doctrines [*](Or possibly ordinances or decrees.) of the Lord:[*](The three doctrines) the hope of life is the beginning and end of our faith; and righteousness is the beginning and end of judgment; love of joy and of gladness is the testimony of the works of righteousness.

For the Lord[*](Prophecy) made known to us through the prophets things past and things present and has given us the firstfruits of the taste of things to come; and when we see these things coming to pass one by one, as he said, we ought to make a richer and deeper offering for fear of him.

But I will show you a few things, not as a teacher but as one of yourselves, in which you shall rejoice at this present time.

Seeing then that the days are evil, and that[*](The need of virtue) the worker of evil himself is in power, we ought to give heed to ourselves, and seek out the ordinances of the Lord.

Fear then, and patience are the helpers of our faith, and long-suffering and continence are our allies.

While then these things remain in holiness towards the Lord, wisdom, prudence, understanding, and knowledge rejoice

For he has made plain to us through[*](The abolition of Jewish sacrifices) all the Prophets that he needs neither sacrifices nor burnt-offerings nor oblations, saying in one place,

What is the multitude of your sacrifices unto me? saith the Lord. I am full of burnt offerings and desire not the fat of lambs and the blood of bulls and goats, not even when ye come to appear before me. For who has required these things at your hands? Henceforth shall ye tread my court no more. If ye bring flour, it is vain. Incense is an abomination to me. I cannot away with your new moons and sabbaths.