37. But shun thou every diabolical
operation, and believe not the apostate Serpent, whose transformation
from a good nature was of his own free choice: who can
over-persuade the willing, but can compel no one. Also give heed
neither to observations of the stars nor auguries, nor omens, nor to
the fabulous divinations of the Greeks Compare xix. 8. where
all such acts of divination are said to be service of the devil.. Witchcraft, and enchantment, and the
wicked practices of necromancy, admit not even to a hearing. From
every kind of intemperance stand aloof, giving thyself neither to
gluttony nor licentiousness, rising superior to all covetousness and
usury. Neither venture thyself at heathen assemblies for public
spectacles, nor ever use amulets in sicknesses; shun also all the
vulgarity of tavern-haunting. Fall not away either into the sect
of the Samaritans, or into Judaism: for Jesus Christ henceforth
hath ransomed thee. Stand aloof from all observance of
Sabbaths Compare Gal. iv. 10, “Ye observe days.”, and from calling any
indifferent meats common or unclean. But especially abhor
all the assemblies of wicked heretics; and in every way make thine own
soul safe, by fastings, prayers, almsgivings, and reading the oracles
of God; that having lived the rest of thy life in the flesh in
soberness and godly doctrine, thou mayest enjoy the one salvation which
flows from Baptism; and thus enrolled in the armies of heaven by God
and the Father, mayest also be deemed worthy of the heavenly crowns, in
Christ Jesus our Lord, to Whom be the glory for ever and ever.
Amen.