may attain to God. See,^ then, that they be instructed by your works, if in no other way. Be ye meek in response to their wrath, humble in opposition to their boasting : to their blasphemies return ■♦ your prayers ; in contrast to their error, be ye stedfast 5 in the faith ; and for their cruelty, manifest your gentleness. While we take care not to imitate their conduct, let us be found their brethren in all true kindness ; and let us seek to be followers of the Lord (who ever more ^ unjustly treated, more destitute, more condemned ?) , that so no plant of the devil may be found in you, but ye may remain in all holiness and sobriety in Jesus Christ, both with respect to the flesh and spirit.