The Second Epistle of Clement to the Corinthians

So great a gift of life and immortality has this flesh the power to receive, if the Holy Spirit be joined to it, nor can any man express or speak of the things which the Lord hath prepared for his elect.

Now I think that I have given no mean advice[*](Exhortation to holiness and prayer) concerning self-control, and if any man follow it, he shall have no regret, but shall save both himself and me his counsellor; for it is no small reward to turn to salvation a soul that is wandering and perishing.

For this is the recompense which we can pay to God, who created us, if he who speaks and hears both speak and hear with faith and love.

Let us then remain righteous and holy in our faith, that we may pray with confidence to God, who says, While thou art speaking I will say. Behold here am I.