# 2 Clement - Author: Anonymous - Latin title: *Clementis ad Corinthios epistula secunda* - Date: ca. 100–150 (disputed) - Source: Kirsopp Lake, ed. and trans., The Apostolic Fathers, vol. 1, LCL 24 (London: Heinemann; New York: Macmillan, 1912), 128–161 (Greek text: K. Lake, The Apostolic Fathers (LCL, 1912-1913), digitized by the First Thousand Years of Greek project (Open Greek and Latin), CC BY-SA 4.0) - Translation: Claude, from the original text; each passage below gives the model and date - Work page: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/ - Passages: 118 ## 2 Clement 1.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:128 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Think of Christ as of God, the judge of all, and do not think lightly of salvation. ### Greek text Ἀδελφοί, οὕτως δεῖ ἡμᾶς φρονεῖν περὶ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, ὡς περὶ θεοῦ, ὡς περὶ κριτοῦ ζώντων καὶ νεκρῶν· καὶ οὐ δεῖ ἡμᾶς μικρὰ φρονεῖν περὶ τῆς σωτηρίας ἡμῶν. ### English translation (Claude) Brothers, we must think of Jesus Christ as we think of God, as of the judge of the living and the dead; and we must not think little of our salvation. ### Scripture references - Acts 10:42: allusion, medium confidence - 2 Tim 4:1: allusion, medium confidence - 1 Pet 4:5: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - 2 Clement is not a letter but the oldest surviving Christian sermon after the New Testament. It was transmitted with 1 Clement under Clement's name, but its author is unknown. - “As we think of God” (ὡς περὶ θεοῦ): an early and plain statement of Christ's divinity. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 1.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/1/). ## 2 Clement 1.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:128 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Thinking little of Christ is itself a sin; remember what he suffered for us. ### Greek text ἐν τῷ γὰρ φρονεῖν ἡμᾶς μικρὰ περὶ αὐτοῦ, μικρὰ καὶ ἐλπίζομεν λαβεῖν· καὶ οἱ ἀκούοντες ὡς περὶ μικρῶν ἁμαρτάνουσιν, καὶ ἡμεῖς ἁμαρτάνομεν οὐκ εἰδότες, πόθεν ἐκλήθημεν καὶ ὑπὸ τίνος καὶ εἰς ὃν τόπον, καὶ ὅσα ὑπέμεινεν Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς παθεῖν ἕνεκα ἡμῶν. ### English translation (Claude) For when we think little of him, we also hope to receive little. And those who listen as though these were small matters sin, and we ourselves sin, not knowing from where we were called, and by whom, and to what place, and how much Jesus Christ endured to suffer for our sake. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 1.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/2/). ## 2 Clement 1.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:128 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: What can we give Christ in return for all he has given? ### Greek text τίνα οὖν ἡμεῖς αὐτῷ δώσομεν ἀντιμισθίαν, ἢ τίνα καρπὸν ἄξιον οὗ ἡμῖν αὐτὸς ἔδωκεν; πόσα δὲ αὐτῷ ὀφείλομεν ὅσια; ### English translation (Claude) What repayment, then, shall we give him, or what fruit worthy of what he himself has given us? And how many holy duties do we owe him? ### Translation notes - “Holy duties” (ὅσια): literally “holy things”; perhaps “benefits”, the things he has done for us, which we owe in return. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 1.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/3/). ## 2 Clement 1.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:128 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Christ gave light, made us sons, and saved us. ### Greek text τὸ φῶς γὰρ ἡμῖν ἐχαρίσατο, ὡς πατὴρ υἱοὺς ἡμᾶς προσηγόρευσεν, ἀπολλυμένους ἡμᾶς ἔσωσεν. ### English translation (Claude) For he graciously gave us the light; as a father he called us sons; when we were perishing, he saved us. ### Translation notes - “As a father”: the sermon speaks of Christ here in fatherly terms; compare 1.6–8. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 1.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/4/). ## 2 Clement 1.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:128 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: How can we repay him? ### Greek text ποῖον οὖν αἶνον αὐτῷ δώσομεν ἢ μισθὸν ἀντιμισθίας ὧν ἐλάβομεν; ### English translation (Claude) What praise, then, shall we give him, or what payment in return for what we have received? ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 1.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/5/). ## 2 Clement 1.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/6/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:128–130 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Once blind idol-worshipers, we have been given sight. ### Greek text πηροὶ ὄντες τῇ διανοίᾳ, προσκυνοῦντες λίθους καὶ ξύλα καὶ χρυσὸν καὶ ἄργυρον καὶ χαλκόν, ἔργα ἀνθρώπων· καὶ ὁ βίος ἡμῶν ὅλος ἄλλο οὐδὲν ἦν εἰ μὴ θάνατος. ἀμαύρωσιν οὖν περικείμενοι καὶ τοιαύτης ἀχλύος γέμοντες ἐν τῇ ὁράσει, ἀνεβλέψαμεν ἀποθέμενοι ἐκεῖνο ὃ περικείμεθα νέφος τῇ αὐτοῦ θελήσει. ### English translation (Claude) We were maimed in understanding, worshiping stones and wood and gold and silver and bronze, the works of men; and our whole life was nothing but death. So then, wrapped in darkness and our sight full of such a mist, we recovered our sight, laying aside by his will the cloud that surrounded us. ### Scripture references - Ps 115:4 (113:12 LXX): echo, medium confidence - Rev 9:20: echo, low confidence ### Translation notes - The hearers were former pagans, Gentile converts. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 1.6 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/6/). ## 2 Clement 1.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/7/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:130 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: God saved us out of mercy when we had no hope. ### Greek text ἠλέησεν γὰρ ἡμᾶς καὶ σπλαγχνισθεὶς ἔσωσεν, θεασάμενος ἐν ἡμῖν πολλὴν πλάνην καὶ ἀπώλειαν, καὶ μηδεμίαν ἐλπίδα ἔχοντας σωτηρίας, εἰ μὴ τὴν παρʼ αὐτοῦ. ### English translation (Claude) For he had mercy on us and in compassion saved us, when he saw in us much error and destruction, and that we had no hope of salvation except that which comes from him. ### Scripture references - Eph 2:12: echo, low confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 1.7 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/7/). ## 2 Clement 1.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/8/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:130 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: God called us into being from nothing. ### Greek text ἐκάλεσεν γὰρ ἡμᾶς οὐκ ὄντας καὶ ἠθέλησεν ἐκ μὴ ὄντος εἶναι ἡμᾶς. ### English translation (Claude) For he called us when we were not, and willed that out of what was not we should come to be. ### Scripture references - Rom 4:17: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 1.8 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/1/8/). ## 2 Clement 2.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:130 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Isaiah's barren woman is the church, once childless, now fruitful. ### Greek text Εὐφράνθητι, στεῖρα ἡ οὐ τίκτουσα, ῥῆξον καὶ βόησον, ἡ οὐκ ὠδίνουσα, ὅτι πολλὰ τὰ τέκνα τῆς ἐρήμου μᾶλλον ἢ τῆς ἐχούσης τὸν ἄνδρα. ὃ εἶπεν· Εὐφράνθητι, στεῖρα ἡ οὐ τίκτουσα, ἡμᾶς εἶπεν· στεῖρα γὰρ ἦν ἡ ἐκκλησία ἡμῶν πρὸ τοῦ δοθῆναι αὐτῇ τέκνα. ### English translation (Claude) “Rejoice, O barren one who does not bear; break forth and cry out, you who are not in labor; for the children of the desolate are more than of her who has the husband.” When he said, “Rejoice, O barren one who does not bear,” he meant us: for our church was barren before children were given to it. ### Scripture references - Isa 54:1: quotation, high confidence - Gal 4:27: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - The sermon's first scripture text; the preacher explains it phrase by phrase (2.1–3). ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 2.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/1/). ## 2 Clement 2.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:130 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Pray to God sincerely and without growing weary. ### Greek text ὃ δὲ εἶπεν· Βόησον, ἡ οὐκ ὠδίνουσα, τοῦτο λέγει· τὰς προσευχὰς ἡμῶν ἁπλῶς ἀναφέρειν πρὸς τὸν θεόν. μὴ ὡς αἱ ὠδίνουσαι ἐγκακῶμεν, ### English translation (Claude) And when he said, “Cry out, you who are not in labor,” he means this: that we should offer our prayers to God sincerely, and not grow weary like women in labor. ### Translation notes - “Not grow weary like women in labor”: the sense is uncertain; perhaps “not lose heart, as women in labor do.” ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 2.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/2/). ## 2 Clement 2.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:130 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The Gentile believers now outnumber those who seemed to have God. ### Greek text ὃ δὲ εἶπεν· Ὅτι πολλὰ τὰ τέκνα τῆς ἐρήμου μᾶλλον ἢ τῆς ἐχούσης τὸν ἄνδρα· ἐπεὶ ἔρημος ἐδόκει εἶναι ἀπὸ τοῦ θεοῦ ὁ λαὸς ἡμῶν. νυνὶ δὲ πιστεύσαντες πλείονες ἐγενόμεθα τῶν δοκούντων ἔχειν θεόν. ### English translation (Claude) And when he said, “For the children of the desolate are more than of her who has the husband,” he meant that our people seemed to be deserted by God, but now that we have believed we have become more numerous than those who seem to have God. ### Translation notes - “Those who seem to have God”: probably the Jewish people. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 2.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/3/). ## 2 Clement 2.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:130 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Another scripture: Christ came to call sinners. ### Greek text καὶ ἑτέρα δὲ γραφὴ λέγει, ὅτι οὐκ ἦλθον καλέσαι δικαίους, ἀλλὰ ἁμαρτωλούς· ### English translation (Claude) And another scripture also says, “I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” ### Scripture references - Matt 9:13: quotation, high confidence - Mark 2:17: quotation, high confidence - Luke 5:32: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - A saying of Jesus is cited as “scripture” (γραφή), one of the earliest such uses for a Gospel. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 2.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/4/). ## 2 Clement 2.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:130 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The perishing must be saved. ### Greek text τοῦτο λέγει, ὅτι δεῖ τοὺς ἀπολλυμένους σώζειν. ### English translation (Claude) He means this: that those who are perishing must be saved. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 2.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/5/). ## 2 Clement 2.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/6/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:130 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The greatness of saving what is falling. ### Greek text ἐκεῖνο γάρ ἐστιν μέγα καὶ θαυμαστὸν οὐ τὰ ἑστῶτα στηρίζειν, ἀλλὰ τὰ πίπτοντα. ### English translation (Claude) For that is great and marvelous: not to support what is standing, but what is falling. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 2.6 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/6/). ## 2 Clement 2.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/7/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:130–132 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Christ came to save the perishing, and called us. ### Greek text οὕτως καὶ ὁ Χριστὸς ἠθέλησεν σῶσαι τὰ ἀπολλύμενα, καὶ ἔσωσεν πολλούς, ἐλθὼν καὶ καλέσας ἡμᾶς ἤδη ἀπολλυμένους. ### English translation (Claude) So also Christ willed to save what was perishing, and he saved many, coming and calling us who were already perishing. ### Scripture references - Luke 19:10: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 2.7 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/2/7/). ## 2 Clement 3.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/3/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:132 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: To know the Father is not to deny Christ, through whom we know him. ### Greek text Τοσοῦτον οὖν ἔλεος ποιήσαντος αὐτοῦ εἰς ἡμᾶς, πρῶτον μέν, ὅτι ἡμεῖς οἱ ζῶντες τοῖς νεκροῖς θεοῖς οὐ θύομεν καὶ οὐ προσκυνοῦμεν αὐτοῖς, ἀλλὰ ἔγνωμεν διʼ αὐτοῦ τὸν πατέρα τῆς ἀληθείας· τίς ἡ γνῶσις ἡ πρὸς αὐτόν, ἢ τὸ μὴ ἀρνεῖσθαι διʼ οὗ ἔγνωμεν αὐτόν; ### English translation (Claude) Since, then, he has shown us such mercy, first of all that we who are living do not sacrifice to dead gods or worship them, but through him have come to know the Father of truth: what is knowledge of him, except not to deny him through whom we have known him? ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 3.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/3/1/). ## 2 Clement 3.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/3/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:132 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Christ will confess those who confess him. ### Greek text λέγει δὲ καὶ αὐτός· Τὸν ὁμολογήσαντά με ἐνώπιον τῶν ἀνθρώπων, ὁμολογήσω αὐτὸν ἐνώπιον τοῦ πατρός μου. ### English translation (Claude) And he himself also says, “Whoever confesses me before men, I will confess him before my Father.” ### Scripture references - Matt 10:32: quotation, high confidence - Luke 12:8: echo, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 3.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/3/2/). ## 2 Clement 3.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/3/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:132 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Our reward is to confess the one who saved us. ### Greek text οὗτος οὖν ἐστὶν ὁ μισθὸς ἡμῶν, ἐὰν οὖν ὁμολογήσωμεν διʼ οὗ ἐσώθημεν. ### English translation (Claude) This, then, is our reward, if we confess him through whom we were saved. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 3.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/3/3/). ## 2 Clement 3.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/3/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:132 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: We confess Christ by obeying him wholeheartedly. ### Greek text ἐν τίνι δὲ αὐτὸν ὁμολογοῦμεν; ἐν τῷ ποιεῖν ἃ λέγει καὶ μὴ παρακούειν αὐτοῦ τῶν ἐντολῶν, καὶ μὴ μόνον χείλεσιν αὐτὸν τιμᾶν, ἀλλὰ ἐξ ὅλης καρδίας καὶ ἐξ ὅλης τῆς διανοίας. ### English translation (Claude) But how do we confess him? By doing what he says and not disobeying his commandments, and by honoring him not only with our lips but with our whole heart and our whole mind. ### Scripture references - Mark 12:30: echo, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 3.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/3/4/). ## 2 Clement 3.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/3/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:132 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Isaiah: honoring God with the lips alone. ### Greek text λέγει δὲ καὶ ἐν τῷ Ἡσαΐᾳ· Ὁ λαὸς οὗτος τοῖς χείλεσίν με τιμᾷ, ἡ δὲ καρδία αὐτῶν πόρρω ἄπεστιν ἀπʼ ἐμοῦ. ### English translation (Claude) And he says also in Isaiah, “This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.” ### Scripture references - Isa 29:13: quotation, high confidence - Matt 15:8: echo, medium confidence - Mark 7:6: echo, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 3.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/3/5/). ## 2 Clement 4.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/4/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:132 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Calling Christ “Lord” is not enough. ### Greek text Μὴ μόνον οὖν αὐτὸν καλῶμεν κύριον· οὐ γὰρ τοῦτο σώσει ἡμᾶς. ### English translation (Claude) Let us, then, not merely call him Lord, for this will not save us. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 4.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/4/1/). ## 2 Clement 4.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/4/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:132 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Not all who say “Lord, Lord” will be saved. ### Greek text λέγει γάρ· Οὐ πᾶς ὁ λέγων μοι· Κύριε, κύριε, σωθήσεται, ἀλλʼ ὁ ποιῶν τὴν δικαιοσύνην. ### English translation (Claude) For he says, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will be saved, but the one who does righteousness.” ### Scripture references - Matt 7:21: quotation, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 4.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/4/2/). ## 2 Clement 4.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/4/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:132–134 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Confess Christ by works of love, purity, and generosity. ### Greek text ὥστε οὖν, ἀδελφοί, ἐν τοῖς ἔργοις αὐτὸν ὁμολογῶμεν, ἐν τῷ ἀγαπᾶν ἑαυτούς, ἐν τῷ μὴ μοιχᾶσθαι μηδὲ καταλαλεῖν ἀλλήλων μηδὲ ζηλοῦν, ἀλλʼ ἐγκρατεῖς εἶναι, ἐλεήμονας, ἀγαθούς· καὶ συμπάσχειν ἀλλήλοις ὀφείλομεν, καὶ μὴ φιλαργυρεῖν. ἐν τούτοις τοῖς ἔργοις ὁμολογῶμεν αὐτὸν καὶ μὴ ἐν τοῖς ἐναντίοις· ### English translation (Claude) So then, brothers, let us confess him in our works, by loving one another, by not committing adultery, nor speaking against one another, nor being jealous, but by being self-controlled, merciful, and good. And we ought to sympathize with one another and not love money. By these works let us confess him, and not by their opposites. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 4.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/4/3/). ## 2 Clement 4.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/4/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:134 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Fear God, not people. ### Greek text καὶ οὐ δεῖ ἡμᾶς φοβεῖσθαι τοὺς ἀνθρώπους μᾶλλον, ἀλλὰ τὸν θεόν. ### English translation (Claude) And we must not fear men rather than God. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 4.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/4/4/). ## 2 Clement 4.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/4/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:134 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: A saying of the Lord: those who do not obey will be cast out. ### Greek text διὰ τοῦτο, ταῦτα ὑμῶν πρασσόντων, εἶπεν ὁ κύριος· Ἐὰν ἦτε μετʼ ἐμοῦ συνηγμένοι ἐν τῷ κόλπῳ μου καὶ μὴ ποιῆτε τὰς ἐντολάς μου, ἀποβαλῶ ὑμᾶς καὶ ἐρῶ ὑμῖν· Ὑπάγετε ἀπʼ ἐμοῦ, οὐκ οἶδα ὑμᾶς, πόθεν ἐστέ, ἐργάται ἀνομίας. ### English translation (Claude) For this reason, if you do these things, the Lord said, “Even if you are gathered with me in my bosom and do not do my commandments, I will cast you out and say to you, ‘Depart from me; I do not know you, where you are from, you workers of lawlessness.’” ### Scripture references - Matt 7:23: allusion, medium confidence - Luke 13:27: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - “If you do these things”: that is, the opposite works just mentioned. - This saying is not found in this form in the canonical Gospels; its end is close to Matt 7:23 and Luke 13:27. Its source is unknown. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 4.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/4/5/). ## 2 Clement 5.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:134 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: We are only sojourners; do God's will and do not fear leaving this world. ### Greek text Ὅθεν, ἀδελφοί, καταλείψαντες τὴν παροικίαν τοῦ κόσμου τούτου ποιήσωμεν τὸ θέλημα τοῦ καλέσαντος ἡμᾶς, καὶ μὴ φοβηθῶμεν ἐξελθεῖν ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου τούτου. ### English translation (Claude) Therefore, brothers, let us leave our sojourn in this world and do the will of him who called us, and let us not be afraid to depart from this world. ### Scripture references - 1 Pet 1:17: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - “Sojourn” (παροικία): living as a resident foreigner; compare the greeting of 1 Clement and 1 Pet 1:17. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 5.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/1/). ## 2 Clement 5.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:134 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The Lord: you will be like lambs among wolves. ### Greek text λέγει γὰρ ὁ κύριος Ἔσεσθε ὡς ἀρνία ἐν μέσῳ λύκων. ### English translation (Claude) For the Lord says, “You will be like lambs in the midst of wolves.” ### Scripture references - Luke 10:3: quotation, high confidence - Matt 10:16: echo, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 5.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/2/). ## 2 Clement 5.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:134 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Peter asks what if the wolves tear the lambs apart. ### Greek text ἀποκριθεὶς δὲ ὁ Πέτρος αὐτῷ λέγει· Ἐὰν οὖν διασπαράξωσιν οἱ λύκοι τὰ ἀρνία; ### English translation (Claude) And Peter answered and said to him, “What if the wolves tear the lambs to pieces?” ### Translation notes - This dialogue between Jesus and Peter (5.2–4) is not in the canonical Gospels; its source is unknown. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 5.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/3/). ## 2 Clement 5.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:134 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Jesus: do not fear those who kill the body, but God who judges. ### Greek text εἶπεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς τῷ Πέτρῳ· Μὴ φοβείσθωσαν τὰ ἀρνία τοὺς λύκους μετὰ τὸ ἀποθανεῖν αὐτά· καὶ ὑμεῖς μὴ φοβεῖσθε τοὺς ἀποκτέννοντας ὑμᾶς καὶ μηδὲν ὑμῖν δυναμένους ποιεῖν, ἀλλὰ φοβεῖσθε τὸν μετὰ τὸ ἀποθανεῖν ὑμᾶς ἔχοντα ἐξουσίαν ψυχῆς καὶ σώματος τοῦ βαλεῖν εἰς γέενναν πυρός. ### English translation (Claude) Jesus said to Peter, “Let the lambs not fear the wolves after they are dead. And you, do not fear those who kill you and can do nothing more to you, but fear him who after you are dead has power over soul and body to cast them into the Gehenna of fire.” ### Scripture references - Matt 10:28: allusion, high confidence - Luke 12:4: allusion, high confidence - Luke 12:5: allusion, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 5.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/4/). ## 2 Clement 5.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:134–136 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Life here is short; Christ's promise of rest and eternal life is great. ### Greek text καὶ γινώσκετε, ἀδελφοί, ὅτι ἡ ἐπιδημία ἡ ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ τούτῳ τῆς σαρκὸς ταύτης μικρά ἐστιν καὶ ὀλιγοχρόνιος, ἡ δὲ ἐπαγγελία τοῦ Χριστοῦ μεγάλη καὶ θαυμαστή ἐστιν, καὶ ἀνάπαυσις τῆς μελλούσης βασιλείας καὶ ζωῆς αἰωνίου. ### English translation (Claude) And know, brothers, that the stay of this flesh in this world is short and brief, but the promise of Christ is great and marvelous: rest in the kingdom to come and in eternal life. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 5.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/5/). ## 2 Clement 5.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/6/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:136 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Live holy lives and do not desire worldly things. ### Greek text τί οὖν ἐστὶν ποιήσαντας ἐπιτυχεῖν αὐτῶν, εἰ μὴ τὸ ὁσίως καὶ δικαίως ἀναστρέφεσθαι καὶ τὰ κοσμικὰ ταῦτα ὡς ἀλλότρια ἡγεῖσθαι καὶ μὴ ἐπιθυμεῖν αὐτῶν; ### English translation (Claude) What, then, must we do to obtain these things, except to live in holiness and righteousness, and to regard these worldly things as not our own, and not to desire them? ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 5.6 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/6/). ## 2 Clement 5.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/7/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:136 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Desire for worldly goods turns us from the right way. ### Greek text ἐν γὰρ τῷ ἐπιθυμεῖν ἡμᾶς κτήσασθαι ταῦτα ἀποπίπτομεν τῆς ὁδοῦ τῆς δικαίας. ### English translation (Claude) For in desiring to gain these things we fall away from the righteous way. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 5.7 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/5/7/). ## 2 Clement 6.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:136 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: No one can serve God and money. ### Greek text Λέγει δὲ ὁ κύριος· Οὐδεὶς οἰκέτης δύναται δυσὶ κυρίοις δουλεύειν. ἐὰν ἡμεῖς θέλωμεν καὶ θεῷ δουλεύειν καὶ μαμωνᾷ, ἀσύμφορον ἡμῖν ἐστίν. ### English translation (Claude) And the Lord says, “No servant can serve two masters.” If we wish to serve both God and mammon, it is of no profit to us. ### Scripture references - Luke 16:13: quotation, high confidence - Matt 6:24: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - “Mammon”: wealth. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 6.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/1/). ## 2 Clement 6.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:136 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: What profit is the whole world if the soul is lost? ### Greek text τί γὰρ τὸ ὄφελος, ἐάν τις τὸν κόσμον ὅλον κερδήσῃ, τὴν δὲ ψυχὴν ζημιωθῇ; ### English translation (Claude) “For what is the profit if someone gains the whole world but forfeits his soul?” ### Scripture references - Matt 16:26: quotation, high confidence - Mark 8:36: echo, medium confidence - Luke 9:25: echo, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 6.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/2/). ## 2 Clement 6.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:136 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: This age and the age to come are enemies. ### Greek text ἔστιν δὲ οὗτος ὁ αἰὼν καὶ ὁ μέλλων δύο ἐχθροί. ### English translation (Claude) And this age and the one to come are two enemies. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 6.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/3/). ## 2 Clement 6.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:136 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: This age urges vice; the coming age renounces it. ### Greek text οὗτος λέγει μοιχείαν καὶ φθορὰν καὶ φιλαργυρίαν καὶ ἀπάτην, ἐκεῖνος δὲ τούτοις ἀποτάσσεται. ### English translation (Claude) This one speaks of adultery and corruption and love of money and deceit, but that one renounces these things. ### Translation notes - “Corruption” (φθορά): moral corruption, often sexual. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 6.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/4/). ## 2 Clement 6.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:136 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: We cannot befriend both ages; renounce this one. ### Greek text οὐ δυνάμεθα οὖν τῶν δύο φίλοι εἶναι· δεῖ δὲ ἡμᾶς τούτῳ ἀποταξαμένους ἐκείνῳ χρᾶσθαι ### English translation (Claude) We cannot, then, be friends of both; we must renounce this one and make use of that one. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 6.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/5/). ## 2 Clement 6.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/6/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:136 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Hate what perishes here; love the imperishable goods to come. ### Greek text οἰόμεθα ὅτι βέλτιόν ἐστιν τὰ ἐνθάδε μισῆσαι, ὅτι μικρὰ καὶ ὀλιγοχρόνια καὶ φθαρτά, ἐκεῖνα δὲ ἀγαπῆσαι, τὰ ἀγαθὰ τὰ ἄφθαρτα. ### English translation (Claude) We think that it is better to hate the things here, because they are small and brief and perishable, and to love those, the good things that are imperishable. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 6.6 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/6/). ## 2 Clement 6.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/7/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:136 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Doing Christ's will brings rest; disobedience, eternal punishment. ### Greek text ποιοῦντες γὰρ τὸ θέλημα τοῦ Χριστοῦ εὑρήσομεν ἀνάπαυσιν· εἰ δὲ μήγε, οὐδὲν ἡμᾶς ῥύσεται ἐκ τῆς αἰωνίου κολάσεως, ἐὰν παρακούσωμεν τῶν ἐντολῶν αὐτοῦ. ### English translation (Claude) For if we do the will of Christ we shall find rest; but if not, nothing will rescue us from eternal punishment, if we disobey his commandments. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 6.7 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/7/). ## 2 Clement 6.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/8/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:136 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Ezekiel: even Noah, Job, and Daniel cannot save their children. ### Greek text λέγει δὲ καὶ ἡ γραφὴ ἐν τῷ Ἰεζεκιήλ, ὅτι ἐὰν ἀναστῇ Νῶε καὶ Ἰὼβ καὶ Δανιήλ, οὐ ῥύσονται τὰ τέκνα αὐτῶν ἐν τῇ αἰχμαλωσίᾳ. ### English translation (Claude) And the scripture also says in Ezekiel that “if Noah and Job and Daniel should arise, they will not rescue their children in the captivity.” ### Scripture references - Ezek 14:14: allusion, high confidence - Ezek 14:20: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 6.8 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/8/). ## 2 Clement 6.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/9/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:136–138 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: If even the righteous cannot save others, we must keep our baptism pure. ### Greek text εἰ δὲ καὶ οἱ τοιοῦτοι δίκαιοι οὐ δύνανται ταῖς ἑαυτῶν δικαιοσύναις ῥύσασθαι τὰ τέκνα αὐτῶν, ἡμεῖς, ἐὰν μὴ τηρήσωμεν τὸ βάπτισμα ἁγνὸν καὶ ἀμίαντον, ποίᾳ πεποιθήσει εἰσελευσόμεθα εἰς τὸ βασίλειον τοῦ θεοῦ; ἢ τίς ἡμῶν παράκλητος ἔσται, ἐὰν μὴ εὑρεθῶμεν ἔργα ἔχοντες ὅσια καὶ δίκαια; ### English translation (Claude) But if even such righteous men as these cannot by their own righteous deeds rescue their children, with what confidence shall we enter the kingdom of God if we do not keep our baptism pure and undefiled? Or who will be our advocate if we are not found to have holy and righteous works? ### Translation notes - “Advocate” (παράκλητος): one who pleads for another. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 6.9 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/6/9/). ## 2 Clement 7.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/7/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:138 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Like athletes, let us compete for the crown. ### Greek text Ὥστε οὖν, ἀδελφοί μου, ἀγωνισώμεθα εἰδότες, ὅτι ἐν χερσὶν ὁ ἀγὼν καὶ ὅτι εἰς τοὺς φθαρτοὺς ἀγῶνας καταπλέουσιν πολλοί, ἀλλʼ οὐ πάντες στεφανοῦνται, εἰ μὴ οἱ πολλὰ κοπιάσαντες καὶ καλῶς ἀγωνισάμενοι. ### English translation (Claude) So then, my brothers, let us compete, knowing that the contest is at hand, and that many sail in to the perishable contests, but not all are crowned, only those who have toiled hard and competed well. ### Scripture references - 1 Cor 9:24: echo, medium confidence - 1 Cor 9:25: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - The image is the athletic games, such as the Isthmian Games held near Corinth, to which competitors “sailed in.” Some have taken this as a hint that the sermon was preached at Corinth. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 7.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/7/1/). ## 2 Clement 7.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/7/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:138 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Compete so that all may be crowned. ### Greek text ἡμεῖς οὖν ἀγωνισώμεθα, ἵνα πάντες στεφανωθῶμεν. ### English translation (Claude) Let us, then, compete, so that we may all be crowned. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 7.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/7/2/). ## 2 Clement 7.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/7/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:138 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Run the imperishable race; at least come near the crown. ### Greek text ὥστε θέωμεν τὴν ὁδὸν τὴν εὐθείαν, ἀγῶνα τὸν ἄφθαρτον, καὶ πολλοὶ εἰς αὐτὸν καταπλεύσωμεν καὶ ἀγωνισώμεθα, ἵνα καὶ στεφανωθῶμεν· καὶ εἰ μὴ δυνάμεθα πάντες στεφανωθῆναι, κἂν ἐγγὺς τοῦ στεφάνου γενώμεθα. ### English translation (Claude) So let us run the straight course, the imperishable contest, and let many of us sail in to it and compete, so that we may also be crowned. And if we cannot all be crowned, let us at least come near the crown. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 7.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/7/3/). ## 2 Clement 7.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/7/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:138 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Cheaters in the games are flogged and thrown out. ### Greek text εἰδέναι ἡμᾶς δεῖ, ὅτι ὁ τὸν φθαρτὸν ἀγῶνα ἀγωνιζόμενος, ἐὰν εὑρεθῇ φθείρων, μαστιγωθεὶς αἴρεται καὶ ἔξω βάλλεται τοῦ σταδίου. ### English translation (Claude) We must know that the one who competes in the perishable contest, if he is found cheating, is flogged, removed, and thrown out of the stadium. ### Translation notes - “Cheating” (φθείρων): literally “corrupting” the contest, breaking its rules. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 7.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/7/4/). ## 2 Clement 7.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/7/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:138 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: What will happen to one who cheats in the contest for eternal life? ### Greek text τί δοκεῖτε; ὁ τὸν τῆς ἀφθαρσίας ἀγῶνα φθείρας τί παθεῖται; ### English translation (Claude) What do you think? The one who cheats in the contest of incorruption, what will he suffer? ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 7.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/7/5/). ## 2 Clement 7.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/7/6/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:138–140 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Those who break the seal of baptism face unending punishment. ### Greek text τῶν γὰρ μὴ τηρησάντων, φησίν, τὴν σφραγῖδα ὁ σκώληξ αὐτῶν οὐ τελευτήσει καὶ τὸ πῦρ αὐτῶν οὐ σβεσθήσεται, καὶ ἔσονται εἰς ὅρασιν πάσῃ σαρκί. ### English translation (Claude) For of those who have not kept the seal, he says, “Their worm will not die and their fire will not be quenched, and they will be a spectacle to all flesh.” ### Scripture references - Isa 66:24: quotation, high confidence - Mark 9:48: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - “The seal” (σφραγίς): baptism, as in 8.6. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 7.6 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/7/6/). ## 2 Clement 8.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/8/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:140 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Repent while on earth. ### Greek text Ὡς οὖν ἐσμὲν ἐπὶ γῆς, μετανοήσωμεν. ### English translation (Claude) While, then, we are on earth, let us repent. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 8.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/8/1/). ## 2 Clement 8.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/8/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:140 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Like clay before firing, we can still be reshaped: repent now. ### Greek text πηλὸς γάρ ἐσμεν εἰς τὴν χεῖρα τοῦ τεχνίτου· ὃν τρόπον γὰρ ὁ κεραμεύς, ἐὰν ποιῇ σκεῦος καὶ ἐν ταῖς χερσὶν αὐτοῦ διαστραφῇ ἣ συντριβῇ, πάλιν αὐτὸ ἀναπλάσσει, ἐὰν δὲ προφθάσῃ εἰς τὴν κάμινον τοῦ πυρὸς αὐτὸ βαλεῖν, οὐκέτι βοηθήσει αὐτῷ· οὕτως καὶ ἡμεῖς, ἕως ἐσμὲν ἐν τούτῳ τῷ κόσμῳ, ἐν τῇ σαρκὶ ἃ ἐπράξαμεν πονηρὰ μετανοήσωμεν ἐξ ὅλης τῆς καρδίας, ἵνα σωθῶμεν ὑπὸ τοῦ κυρίου, ἕως ἔχομεν καιρὸν μετανοίας. ### English translation (Claude) For we are clay in the hand of the craftsman. Just as the potter, if he makes a vessel and it is twisted or broken in his hands, shapes it again, but if he has already put it into the fiery kiln, he can no longer help it: so also we, while we are in this world, let us repent with our whole heart of the evil things we have done in the flesh, so that we may be saved by the Lord while we have an opportunity for repentance. ### Scripture references - Jer 18:4: allusion, medium confidence - Jer 18:6: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 8.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/8/2/). ## 2 Clement 8.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/8/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:140 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: After death there is no more repentance. ### Greek text μετὰ γὰρ τὸ ἐξελθεῖν ἡμᾶς ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου οὐκέτι δυνάμεθα ἐκεῖ ἐξομολογήσασθαι ἢ μετανοεῖν ἔτι. ### English translation (Claude) For after we have departed from the world we can no longer confess or repent there. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 8.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/8/3/). ## 2 Clement 8.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/8/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:140 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Do God's will, keep the flesh pure, and receive eternal life. ### Greek text ὥστε, ἀδελφοί, ποιήσαντες τὸ θέλημα τοῦ πατρὸς καὶ τὴν σάρκα ἁγνὴν τηρήσαντες καὶ τὰς ἐντολὰς τοῦ κυρίου φυλάξαντες ληψόμεθα ζωὴν αἰώνιον. ### English translation (Claude) So, brothers, if we do the will of the Father and keep the flesh pure and guard the commandments of the Lord, we shall receive eternal life. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 8.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/8/4/). ## 2 Clement 8.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/8/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:140 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The gospel: faithful in little, faithful in much. ### Greek text λέγει γὰρ ὁ κύριος ἐν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ· Εἰ τὸ μικρὸν οὐκ ἐτηρήσατε, τὸ μέγα τίς ὑμῖν δώσει; λέγω γὰρ ὑμῖν, ὅτι ὁ πιστὸς ἐν ἐλαχίστῳ καὶ ἐν πολλῷ πιστός ἐστιν. ### English translation (Claude) For the Lord says in the gospel, “If you did not keep what is small, who will give you what is great? For I tell you that whoever is faithful in very little is faithful also in much.” ### Scripture references - Luke 16:10: quotation, high confidence - Luke 16:11: allusion, medium confidence - Luke 16:12: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - “In the gospel”: one of the earliest uses of the word for a written Gospel. The first sentence is not found in the canonical Gospels; the second is close to Luke 16:10. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 8.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/8/5/). ## 2 Clement 8.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/8/6/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:140 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Keep the flesh pure and the seal of baptism unstained. ### Greek text ἆρα οὖν τοῦτο λέγει· τηρήσατε τὴν σάρκα ἁγνὴν καὶ τὴν σφραγῖδα ἄσπιλον, ἵνα τὴν αἰώνιον ζωὴν ἀπολάβωμεν. ### English translation (Claude) So he means this: keep the flesh pure and the seal unstained, so that we may receive eternal life. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 8.6 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/8/6/). ## 2 Clement 9.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:140 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The flesh will be judged and will rise. ### Greek text Καὶ μὴ λεγέτω τις ὑμῶν, ὅτι αὕτη ἡ σὰρξ οὐ κρίνεται οὐδὲ ἀνίσταται. ### English translation (Claude) And let none of you say that this flesh is not judged and does not rise again. ### Translation notes - Aimed at those who denied the resurrection of the body. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 9.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/1/). ## 2 Clement 9.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:140 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: We were saved in the flesh. ### Greek text γνῶτε· ἐν τίνι ἐσώθητε, ἐν τίνι ἀνεβλέψατε, εἰ μὴ ἐν τῇ σαρκὶ ταύτῃ ὄντες; ### English translation (Claude) Understand: in what were you saved, in what did you recover your sight, if not while you were in this flesh? ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 9.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/2/). ## 2 Clement 9.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:140–142 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Guard the flesh as God's temple. ### Greek text δεῖ οὖν ἡμᾶς ὡς ναὸν θεοῦ φυλάσσειν τὴν σάρκα· ### English translation (Claude) We must, then, guard the flesh as a temple of God. ### Scripture references - 1 Cor 6:19: allusion, medium confidence - 1 Cor 3:16: allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 9.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/3/). ## 2 Clement 9.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:142 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Called in the flesh, we will come to judgment in the flesh. ### Greek text ὃν τρόπον γὰρ ἐν τῇ σαρκὶ ἐκλήθητε, καὶ ἐν τῇ σαρκὶ ἐλεύσεσθε. ### English translation (Claude) For just as you were called in the flesh, you will also come in the flesh. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 9.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/4/). ## 2 Clement 9.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:142 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Christ became flesh; so we will be rewarded in the flesh. ### Greek text εἰ Χριστός, ὁ κύριος ὁ σώσας ἡμᾶς, ὢν μὲν τὸ πρῶτον πνεῦμα, ἐγένετο σὰρξ καὶ οὕτως ἡμᾶς ἐκάλεσεν· οὕτως καὶ ἡμεῖς ἐν ταύτῃ τῇ σαρκὶ ἀποληψόμεθα τὸν μισθόν. ### English translation (Claude) If Christ, the Lord who saved us, being first spirit, became flesh and so called us, so also we shall receive our reward in this flesh. ### Scripture references - John 1:14: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - “Being first spirit, became flesh”: the preacher's way of speaking of the incarnation; compare John 1:14. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 9.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/5/). ## 2 Clement 9.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/6/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:142 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Love one another, to enter God's kingdom together. ### Greek text ἀγαπῶμεν οὖν ἀλλήλους, ὅπως ἔλθωμεν πάντες εἰς τὴν βασιλείαν τοῦ θεοῦ. ### English translation (Claude) Let us, then, love one another, so that we may all come into the kingdom of God. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 9.6 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/6/). ## 2 Clement 9.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/7/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:142 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Give yourselves to God the healer while there is time. ### Greek text ὡς ἔχομεν καιρὸν τοῦ ἰαθῆναι, ἐπιδῶμεν ἑαυτοὺς τῷ θεραπεύοντι θεῷ, ἀντιμισθίαν αὐτῷ διδόντες. ### English translation (Claude) While we have opportunity to be healed, let us give ourselves over to God who heals us, giving him a repayment. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 9.7 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/7/). ## 2 Clement 9.8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/8/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:142 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The repayment God wants is sincere repentance. ### Greek text ποίαν; τὸ μετανοῆσαι ἐξ εἰλικρινοῦς καρδίας. ### English translation (Claude) What repayment? To repent from a sincere heart. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 9.8 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/8/). ## 2 Clement 9.9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/9/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:142 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: God knows our hearts. ### Greek text προγνώστης γάρ ἐστιν τῶν πάντων καὶ εἰδὼς ἡμῶν τὰ ἐν καρδίᾳ. ### English translation (Claude) For he knows all things beforehand and knows what is in our hearts. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 9.9 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/9/). ## 2 Clement 9.10 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/10/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:142 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Praise God from the heart, not only the lips. ### Greek text δῶμεν οὖν αὐτῷ αἶνον, μὴ ἀπὸ στόματος μόνον, ἀλλὰ καὶ ἀπὸ καρδίας, ἵνα ἡμᾶς προσδέξηται ὡς υἱούς. ### English translation (Claude) Let us, then, give him praise, not from the mouth only but also from the heart, so that he may receive us as sons. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 9.10 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/10/). ## 2 Clement 9.11 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/11/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:142 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Christ's brothers are those who do the Father's will. ### Greek text καὶ γὰρ εἶπεν ὁ κύριος· Ἀδελφοί μου οὗτοί εἰσιν οἱ ποιοῦντες τὸ θέλημα τοῦ πατρός μου. ### English translation (Claude) For the Lord said, “My brothers are these who do the will of my Father.” ### Scripture references - Matt 12:50: quotation, high confidence - Mark 3:35: echo, medium confidence - Luke 8:21: echo, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 9.11 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/9/11/). ## 2 Clement 10.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/10/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:142 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Pursue virtue and flee vice and ungodliness. ### Greek text Ὥστε, ἀδελφοί μου, ποιήσωμεν τὸ θέλημα τοῦ πατρὸς τοῦ καλέσαντος ἡμᾶς, ἵνα ζήσωμεν, καὶ διώξωμεν μᾶλλον τὴν ἀρετήν, τὴν δὲ κακίαν καταλείψωμεν ὡς προοδοιπόρον τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν ἡμῶν, καὶ φύγωμεν τὴν ἀσέβειαν, μὴ ἡμᾶς καταλάβῃ κακά. ### English translation (Claude) So, my brothers, let us do the will of the Father who called us, so that we may live; and let us rather pursue virtue, and abandon vice as the forerunner of our sins, and flee ungodliness, so that evils may not overtake us. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 10.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/10/1/). ## 2 Clement 10.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/10/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:142 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Doing good brings peace. ### Greek text ἐὰν γὰρ σπουδάσωμεν ἀγαθοποιεῖν, διώξεται ἡμᾶς εἰρήνη. ### English translation (Claude) For if we are eager to do good, peace will pursue us. ### Scripture references - Ps 34:14 (33:15 LXX): echo, low confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 10.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/10/2/). ## 2 Clement 10.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/10/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:142–144 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Those who prefer present pleasure cannot find peace. ### Greek text διὰ ταύτην γὰρ τὴν αἰτίαν οὐκ ἔστιν εὑρεῖν ἄνθρωπον, οἵτινες παράγουσι φόβους ἀνθρωπίνους, προῃρημένοι μᾶλλον τὴν ἐνθάδε ἀπόλαυσιν ἢ τὴν μέλλουσαν ἐπαγγελίαν. ### English translation (Claude) For this reason it is not possible for a man to find it: they bring in human fears, preferring the enjoyment here to the promise to come. ### Translation notes - The Greek of this sentence is difficult and probably damaged (“a man… they”); editors propose various corrections. The sense seems to be that those who spread fear and love present pleasure cannot find peace. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 10.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/10/3/). ## 2 Clement 10.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/10/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:144 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Present pleasure brings torment; the promise brings delight. ### Greek text ἀγνοοῦσιν γὰρ ἡλίκην ἔχει βάσανον ἡ ἐνθάδε ἀπόλαυσις, καὶ οἵαν τρυφὴν ἔχει ἡ μέλλουσα ἐπαγγελία. ### English translation (Claude) For they do not know how great a torment the enjoyment here brings, and what delight the promise to come holds. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 10.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/10/4/). ## 2 Clement 10.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/10/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:144 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: False teachers and their hearers will face double judgment. ### Greek text καὶ εἰ μὲν αὐτοὶ μόνοι ταῦτα ἔπρασσον, ἀνεκτὸν ἦν· νῦν δὲ ἐπιμένουσιν κακοδιδασκαλοῦντες τὰς ἀναιτίους ψυχάς, οὐκ εἰδότες, ὅτι δισσὴν ἕξουσιν τὴν κρίσιν, αὐτοί τε καὶ οἱ ἀκούοντες αὐτῶν. ### English translation (Claude) And if they did these things by themselves alone, it would be bearable; but as it is, they persist in teaching evil to innocent souls, not knowing that they will receive a double judgment, both they and those who listen to them. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 10.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/10/5/). ## 2 Clement 11.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:144 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Serve God with a pure heart and trust his promise. ### Greek text Ἡμεῖς οὖν ἐν καθαρᾷ καρδίᾳ δουλεύσωμεν τῷ θεῷ, καὶ ἐσόμεθα δίκαιοι· ἐὰν δὲ μὴ δουλεύσωμεν διὰ τὸ μὴ πιστεύειν ἡμᾶς τῇ ἐπαγγελίᾳ τοῦ θεοῦ, ταλαίπωροι ἐσόμεθα. ### English translation (Claude) Let us, then, serve God with a pure heart, and we shall be righteous; but if we do not serve him because we do not believe the promise of God, we shall be wretched. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 11.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/1/). ## 2 Clement 11.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:144 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The prophetic word warns the doubters who say the promises never come. ### Greek text λέγει γὰρ καὶ ὁ προφητικὸς λόγος· Ταλαίπωροί εἰσιν οἱ δίψυχοι, οἱ διστάζοντες τῇ καρδίᾳ, οἱ λέγοντες· Ταῦτα πάλαι ἠκούσαμεν καὶ ἐπὶ τῶν πατέρων ἡμῶν, ἡμεῖς δὲ ἡμέραν ἐξ ἡμέρας προσδεχόμενοι οὐδὲν τούτων ἑωράκαμεν. ### English translation (Claude) For the prophetic word also says, “Wretched are the double-minded, who doubt in their heart, who say, ‘We heard these things long ago, even in our fathers' time, but we, waiting day after day, have seen none of them.’ ### Translation notes - The same unidentified quotation appears in 1 Clem. 23.3–4, where it is called “scripture”; its source is unknown (perhaps a lost apocryphal book). ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 11.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/2/). ## 2 Clement 11.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:144 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The vine ripens in stages; so do God's promises. ### Greek text ἀνόητοι, συμβάλετε ἑαυτοὺς ξύλῳ· λάβετε ἄμπελον· πρῶτον μὲν φυλλοροεῖ, εἶτα βλαστὸς γίνεται, μετὰ ταῦτα ὄμφαξ, εἶτα σταφυλὴ παρεστηκυῖα. ### English translation (Claude) You fools, compare yourselves to a tree; take a vine: first it sheds its leaves, then comes a shoot, after this a sour grape, then a ripe cluster. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 11.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/3/). ## 2 Clement 11.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:144 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: After affliction, God's people will receive good things. ### Greek text οὕτως καὶ ὁ λαός μου ἀκαταστασίας καὶ θλίψεις ἔσχεν· ἔπειτα ἀπολήψεται τὰ ἀγαθά. ### English translation (Claude) So also my people has had turmoil and afflictions; afterward it will receive the good things.” ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 11.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/4/). ## 2 Clement 11.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:144 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Do not doubt; hope and endure for the reward. ### Greek text ὥστε, ἀδελφοί μου, μὴ διψυχῶμεν, ἀλλὰ ἐλπίσαντες ὑπομείνωμεν, ἵνα καὶ τὸν μισθὸν κομισώμεθα. ### English translation (Claude) So, my brothers, let us not be double-minded, but let us hope and endure, so that we may also obtain the reward. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 11.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/5/). ## 2 Clement 11.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/6/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:144 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: God is faithful to reward each one's works. ### Greek text πιστὸς γάρ ἐστιν ὁ ἐπαγγειλάμενος τὰς ἀντιμισθίας ἀποδιδόναι ἐκάστῳ τῶν ἔργων αὐτοῦ. ### English translation (Claude) For faithful is he who promised to pay back to each the reward of his works. ### Scripture references - Heb 10:23: echo, medium confidence - Matt 16:27: echo, medium confidence - Rom 2:6: echo, low confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 11.6 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/6/). ## 2 Clement 11.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/7/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:144–146 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The righteous will receive promises beyond imagining. ### Greek text ἐὰν οὖν ποιήσωμεν τὴν δικαιοσύνην ἐναντίον τοῦ θεοῦ, εἰσήξομεν εἰς τὴν βασιλείαν αὐτοῦ καὶ ληψόμεθα τὰς ἐπαγγελίας, ἅς οὖς οὐκ ἤκουσεν οὐδὲ ὀφθαλμὸς εἶδεν, οὐδὲ ἐπὶ καρδίαν ἀνθρώπου ἀνέβη. ### English translation (Claude) If, then, we do righteousness before God, we shall enter his kingdom and receive the promises, “which ear has not heard, nor eye seen, nor has it entered into the heart of man.” ### Scripture references - 1 Cor 2:9: quotation, high confidence - Isa 64:4 (64:3 LXX): allusion, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 11.7 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/11/7/). ## 2 Clement 12.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/12/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:146 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Wait for God's kingdom hour by hour, for the day is unknown. ### Greek text Ἐκδεχώμεθα οὖν καθʼ ὥραν τὴν βασιλείαν τοῦ θεοῦ ἐν ἀγάπῃ καὶ δικαιοσύνῃ, ἐπειδὴ οὐκ οἴδαμεν τὴν ἡμέραν τῆς ἐπιφανείας τοῦ θεοῦ. ### English translation (Claude) Let us, then, wait hour by hour for the kingdom of God in love and righteousness, since we do not know the day of God's appearing. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 12.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/12/1/). ## 2 Clement 12.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/12/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:146 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: A saying of the Lord: the kingdom comes when the two are one. ### Greek text ἐπερωτηθεὶς γὰρ αὐτὸς ὁ κύριος ὑπό τινος, πότε ἥξει αὐτοῦ ἡ βασιλεία, εἶπεν· Ὅταν ἔσται τὰ δύο ἕν, καὶ τὸ ἔξω ὡς τὸ ἔσω, καὶ τὸ ἄρσεν μετὰ τῆς θηλείας οὔτε ἅρσεν οὔτε θῆλυ. ### English translation (Claude) For when the Lord himself was asked by someone when his kingdom would come, he said, “When the two are one, and the outside as the inside, and the male with the female neither male nor female.” ### Scripture references - Gal 3:28: echo, low confidence ### Translation notes - This saying is not in the canonical Gospels. Similar sayings appear in the Gospel of Thomas (22) and, according to Clement of Alexandria, in the Gospel of the Egyptians. The preacher gives it a moral sense (12.3–5). ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 12.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/12/2/). ## 2 Clement 12.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/12/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:146 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: “Two are one” means truthfulness and oneness of soul. ### Greek text τὰ δύο δὲ ἕν ἐστιν, ὅταν λαλῶμεν ἑαυτοῖς ἀλήθειαν καὶ ἐν δυσὶ σώμασιν ἀνυποκρίτως εἴη μία ψυχή. ### English translation (Claude) Now “the two are one” when we speak truth to one another, and there is one soul in two bodies without hypocrisy. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 12.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/12/3/). ## 2 Clement 12.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/12/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:146 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: “Outside as inside”: let the soul show itself in good works. ### Greek text καὶ τὸ ἔξω ὡς τὸ ἔσω, τοῦτο λέγει· τὴν ψυχὴν λέγει τὸ ἔσω, τὸ δὲ ἔξω τὸ σῶμα λέγει. ὃν τρόπον οὖν σου τὸ σῶμα φαίνεται, οὕτως καὶ ἡ ψυχή σου δῆλος ἔστω ἐν τοῖς καλοῖς ἔργοις. ### English translation (Claude) And “the outside as the inside” means this: by “the inside” he means the soul, and by “the outside” he means the body. As your body is visible, so let your soul also be evident in good works. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 12.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/12/4/). ## 2 Clement 12.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/12/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:146–148 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: “Neither male nor female”: brothers and sisters without lustful thoughts. ### Greek text καὶ τὸ ἄρσεν μετὰ τῆς θηλείας, οὔτε ἄρσεν οὔτε θῆλυ, τοῦτο λέγει· ἵνα ἀδελφὸς ἰδὼν ἀδελφὴν οὐδὲν φρονῇ περὶ αὐτῆς θηλυκόν, μηδὲ φρονῇ τι περὶ αὐτοῦ ἀρσενικόν. ### English translation (Claude) And “the male with the female neither male nor female” means this: that a brother seeing a sister should have no thought of her as a woman, and she should have no thought of him as a man. ### Translation notes - That is, without sexual desire; the preacher applies the saying to purity in the church. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 12.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/12/5/). ## 2 Clement 12.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/12/6/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:148 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Doing these things brings the Father's kingdom. ### Greek text ταῦτα ὑμῶν ποιούντων, φησίν, ἐλεύσεται ἡ βασιλεία τοῦ πατρός μου. ### English translation (Claude) When you do these things, he says, the kingdom of my Father will come. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 12.6 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/12/6/). ## 2 Clement 13.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/13/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:148 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Repent, and live so that outsiders do not blaspheme God's name. ### Greek text Ἀδελφοὶ οὖν, ἤδη ποτὲ μετανοήσωμεν, νήψωμεν ἐπὶ τὸ ἀγαθόν· μεστοὶ γάρ ἐσμεν πολλῆς ἀνοίας καὶ πονηρίας. ἐξαλείψωμεν ἀφʼ ἡμῶν τὰ πρότερα ἁμαρτήματα καὶ μετανοήσαντες ἐκ ψυχῆς σωθῶμεν, καὶ μὴ γινώμεθα ἀνθρωπάρεσκοι μηδὲ θέλωμεν μόνον ἑαυτοῖς ἀρέσκειν, ἀλλὰ καὶ τοῖς ἔξω ἀνθρώποις ἐπὶ τῇ δικαιοσύνῃ, ἵνα τὸ ὄνομα διʼ ἡμᾶς μὴ βλασφημῆται. ### English translation (Claude) Brothers, then, let us repent at last; let us be sober for what is good, for we are full of much folly and wickedness. Let us wipe away from ourselves our former sins, and repenting from the soul let us be saved. And let us not become people-pleasers, nor wish to please only ourselves, but also those outside, by our righteousness, so that the name may not be blasphemed because of us. ### Translation notes - “The name”: God's name, or the name “Christian.” ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 13.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/13/1/). ## 2 Clement 13.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/13/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:148 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: God's name is blasphemed when his people do not obey. ### Greek text λέγει γὰρ ὁ κύριος· Διὰ παντὸς τὸ ὄνομά μου βλασφημεῖται ἐν πᾶσιν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν, καὶ πάλιν· Οὐαὶ διʼ ὃν βλασφημεῖται τὸ ὄνομά μου. ἐν τίνι βλασφημεῖται; ἐν τῷ μὴ ποιεῖν ὑμᾶς ἃ βούλομαι. ### English translation (Claude) For the Lord says, “Continually my name is blasphemed among all the nations,” and again, “Woe to him because of whom my name is blasphemed.” In what is it blasphemed? In your not doing what I desire. ### Scripture references - Isa 52:5: quotation, high confidence - Rom 2:24: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - The second quotation is not found in scripture as such; it may be a free form of Isa 52:5. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 13.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/13/2/). ## 2 Clement 13.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/13/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:148 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Outsiders admire God's words but scoff when they see our deeds. ### Greek text τὰ ἔθνη γὰρ ἀκούοντα ἐκ τοῦ στόματος ἡμῶν τὰ λόγια τοῦ θεοῦ ὡς καλὰ καὶ μεγάλα θαυμάζει· ἔπειτα καταμαθόντα τὰ ἔργα ἡμῶν ὅτι οὐκ ἔστιν ἄξια τῶν ῥημάτων ὧν λέγομεν, ἔνθεν εἰς βλασφημίαν τρέπονται, λέγοντες εἶναι μῦθόν τινα καὶ πλάνην. ### English translation (Claude) For the nations, when they hear from our mouth the oracles of God, marvel at them as beautiful and great; then, when they learn that our works are not worthy of the words we speak, they turn from this to blasphemy, saying it is some myth and delusion. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 13.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/13/3/). ## 2 Clement 13.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/13/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:148–150 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Outsiders laugh when Christians fail to love even their friends. ### Greek text ὅταν γὰρ ἀκούσωσιν παρʼ ἡμῶν, ὅτι λέγει ὁ θεός· Οὐ χάρις ὑμῖν, εἰ ἀγαπᾶτε τοὺς ἀγαπῶντας ὑμᾶς, ἀλλὰ χάρις ὑμῖν, εἰ ἀγαπᾶτε τοὺς ἐχθροὺς καὶ τοὺς μισοῦντας ὑμᾶς· ταῦτα ὅταν ἀκούσωσιν, θαυμάζουσιν τὴν ὑπερβολὴν τῆς ἀγαθότητος· ὅταν δὲ ἴδωσιν, ὅτι οὐ μόνον τοὺς μισοῦντας οὐκ ἀγαπῶμεν, ἀλλʼ ὅτι οὐδὲ τοὺς ἀγαπῶντας, καταγελῶσιν ἡμῶν, καὶ βλασφημεῖται τὸ ὄνομα. ### English translation (Claude) For when they hear from us that God says, “It is no credit to you if you love those who love you, but it is a credit to you if you love your enemies and those who hate you,” when they hear these things, they marvel at the surpassing goodness; but when they see that we not only do not love those who hate us, but not even those who love us, they laugh us to scorn, and the name is blasphemed. ### Scripture references - Luke 6:32: allusion, high confidence - Luke 6:35: allusion, high confidence - Matt 5:44: echo, medium confidence - Matt 5:46: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - The saying of Jesus is introduced as “God says.” - “Credit” (χάρις): favor, thanks; compare Luke 6:32. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 13.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/13/4/). ## 2 Clement 14.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/14/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:150 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Doing God's will places us in the first, spiritual church, created before the sun and moon. ### Greek text Ὥστε, ἀδελφοί, ποιοῦντες τὸ θέλημα τοῦ πατρὸς ἡμῶν θεοῦ ἐσόμεθα ἐκ τῆς ἐκκλησίας τῆς πρώτης, τῆς πνευματικῆς, τῆς πρὸ ἡλίου καὶ σελήνης ἐκτισμένης. ἐὰν δὲ μὴ ποιήσωμεν τὸ θέλημα κυρίου, ἐσόμεθα ἐκ τῆς γραφῆς τῆς λεγούσης· Ἐγενήθη ὁ οἶκός μου σπήλαιον λῃστῶν. ὥστε οὖν αἱρετισώμεθα ἀπὸ τῆς ἐκκλησίας τῆς ζωῆς εἶναι, ἵνα σωθῶμεν. ### English translation (Claude) So, brothers, if we do the will of God our Father, we shall belong to the first church, the spiritual one, which was created before the sun and moon; but if we do not do the will of the Lord, we shall be of the scripture that says, “My house has become a den of robbers.” So then let us choose to belong to the church of life, so that we may be saved. ### Scripture references - Jer 7:11: quotation, high confidence - Matt 21:13: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - The preacher teaches that the church existed spiritually before creation (compare Hermas, Vis. 2.4.1) and was revealed in Christ's flesh (14.2–3). ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 14.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/14/1/). ## 2 Clement 14.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/14/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:150 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The church, Christ's body and bride, existed from the beginning. ### Greek text οὐκ οἴομαι δὲ ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν, ὅτι ἐκκλησία ζῶσα σῶμά ἐστιν Χριστοῦ· λέγει γὰρ ἡ γραφή· Ἐποίησεν ὁ θεὸς τὸν ἄνθρωπον ἅρσεν καὶ θῆλυ· τὸ ἄρσεν ἐστὶν ὁ Χριστός, τὸ θῆλυ ἡ ἐκκλησία· καὶ ἔτι τὰ βιβλία καὶ οἱ ἀπόστολοι τὴν ἐκκλησίαν οὐ νῦν εἶναι λέγουσιν ἀλλὰ ἄνωθεν. ἦν γὰρ πνευματική, ὡς καὶ ὁ Ἰησοῦς ἡμῶν, ἐφανερώθη δὲ ἐπʼ ἐσχάτων τῶν ἡμερῶν, ἵνα ἡμᾶς σώσῃ. ### English translation (Claude) And I do not suppose that you are ignorant that the living church is the body of Christ; for the scripture says, “God made man male and female”: the male is Christ, the female is the church. And moreover the books and the apostles say that the church is not of the present but from the beginning. For it was spiritual, as was our Jesus also, but was made manifest in the last days so that he might save us. ### Scripture references - Gen 1:27: quotation, high confidence - Eph 1:22: allusion, medium confidence - Eph 1:23: allusion, medium confidence - Eph 5:23: allusion, medium confidence - Eph 5:32: allusion, medium confidence - 1 Pet 1:20: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - “The books and the apostles”: probably the Old Testament scriptures and the apostolic writings; an early witness to the two being named together. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 14.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/14/2/). ## 2 Clement 14.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/14/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:150–152 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Keep the flesh pure, the copy, to share in the Spirit, the original. ### Greek text ἡ ἐκκλησία δὲ πνευματικὴ οὖσα ἐφανερώθη ἐν τῇ σαρκὶ Χριστοῦ, δηλοῦσα ἡμῖν, ὅτι ἐάν τις ἡμῶν τηρήσῃ αὐτὴν ἐν τῇ σαρκὶ καὶ μὴ φθείρῃ, ἀπολήψεται αὐτὴν ἐν τῷ πνεύματι τῷ ἁγίῳ· ἡ γὰρ σὰρξ αὕτη ἀντίτυπός ἐστιν τοῦ πνεύματος· οὐδεὶς οὖν τὸ ἀντίτυπον φθείρας τὸ αὐθεντικὸν μεταλήψεται. ἄρα οὖν τοῦτο λέγει, ἀδελφοί· τηρήσατε τὴν σάρκα, ἵνα τοῦ πνεύματος μεταλάβητε. ### English translation (Claude) Now the church, being spiritual, was made manifest in the flesh of Christ, showing us that if any of us keeps it in the flesh and does not corrupt it, he will receive it in the Holy Spirit. For this flesh is the copy of the spirit; no one, then, who corrupts the copy will share in the original. So he means this, brothers: keep the flesh, so that you may share in the Spirit. ### Translation notes - “Copy… original” (ἀντίτυπος… αὐθεντικόν): the flesh is the image of the spirit, as a copy is of an original. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 14.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/14/3/). ## 2 Clement 14.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/14/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:152 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: To abuse the flesh is to abuse the church, and to lose the Spirit. ### Greek text εἰ δὲ λέγομεν εἶναι τὴν σάρκα τὴν ἐκκλησίαν καὶ τὸ πνεῦμα Χριστόν, ἄρα οὖν ὁ ὑβρίσας τὴν σάρκα ὕβρισεν τὴν ἐκκλησίαν. ὁ τοιοῦτος οὖν οὐ μεταλήψεται τοῦ πνεύματος, ὅ ἐστιν ὁ Χριστός. ### English translation (Claude) But if we say that the flesh is the church and the Spirit is Christ, then whoever has abused the flesh has abused the church. Such a person, then, will not share in the Spirit, which is Christ. ### Translation notes - “The Spirit, which is Christ”: the preacher's language about Christ and the Spirit is not yet precise; compare 9.5. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 14.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/14/4/). ## 2 Clement 14.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/14/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:152 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The flesh joined to the Spirit will share in indescribable life. ### Greek text τοσαύτην δύναται ἡ σὰρξ αὕτη μεταλαβεῖν ζωὴν καὶ ἀφθαρσίαν κολληθέντος αὐτῇ τοῦ πνεύματος τοῦ ἁγίου, οὔτε ἐξειπεῖν τις δύναται οὔτε λαλῆσαι ἃ ἡτοίμασεν ὁ κύριος τοῖς ἐκλεκτοῖς αὐτοῦ. ### English translation (Claude) So great a life and immortality this flesh is able to share in, when the Holy Spirit is joined to it, that no one can declare or speak “what the Lord has prepared” for his elect. ### Scripture references - 1 Cor 2:9: echo, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 14.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/14/5/). ## 2 Clement 15.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/15/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:152 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Following this counsel on self-control saves both hearer and preacher. ### Greek text Οὐκ οἴομαι δέ, ὅτι μικρὰν συμβουλίαν ἐποιησάμην περὶ ἐγκρατείας, ἣν ποιήσας τις οὐ μετανοήσει, ἀλλὰ καὶ ἑαυτὸν σώσει κἀμὲ τὸν συμβουλεύσαντα. μισθὸς γὰρ οὔκ ἐστιν μικρὸς πλανωμένην ψυχὴν καὶ ἀπολλυμένην ἀποστρέψαι εἰς τὸ σωθῆναι. ### English translation (Claude) Now I do not think that I have given small advice concerning self-control; whoever follows it will not regret it, but will save both himself and me who advised him. For it is no small reward to turn back a wandering and perishing soul to be saved. ### Scripture references - Jas 5:20: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - “Self-control” (ἐγκράτεια): here perhaps especially sexual self-control, as in 12.5 and 14.3. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 15.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/15/1/). ## 2 Clement 15.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/15/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:152 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Speaking and hearing in faith and love is our return to God. ### Greek text ταύτην γὰρ ἔχομεν τὴν ἀντιμισθίαν ἀποδοῦναι τῷ θεῷ τῷ κτίσαντι ἡμᾶς, ἐὰν ὁ λέγων καὶ ἀκούων μετὰ πίστεως καὶ ἀγάπης καὶ λέγῃ καὶ ἀκούῃ. ### English translation (Claude) For this is the repayment we can give to God who created us: if the one who speaks and the one who listens both speak and listen with faith and love. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 15.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/15/2/). ## 2 Clement 15.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/15/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:152 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: God promises: while you are still speaking, I am here. ### Greek text ἐμμείνωμεν οὖν ἐφʼ οἷς ἐπιστεύσαμεν δίκαιοι καὶ ὅσιοι, ἵνα μετὰ παρρησίας αἰτῶμεν τὸν θεὸν τὸν λέγοντα· Ἔτι λαλοῦντός σου ἐρῶ· ἰδοὺ πάρειμι. ### English translation (Claude) Let us, then, remain righteous and holy in what we have believed, so that we may ask with confidence of God, who says, “While you are still speaking I will say, ‘Behold, here I am.’” ### Scripture references - Isa 58:9: quotation, high confidence - Isa 65:24: echo, low confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 15.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/15/3/). ## 2 Clement 15.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/15/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:152 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: God is readier to give than we are to ask. ### Greek text τοῦτο γὰρ τὸ ῥῆμα μεγάλης ἐστιν ἐπαγγελίας σημεῖον· ἑτοιμότερον γὰρ ἑαυτὸν λέγει ὁ κύριος εἰς τὸ διδόναι τοῦ αἰτοῦντος. ### English translation (Claude) For this word is the sign of a great promise; for the Lord says that he is more ready to give than the one who asks. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 15.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/15/4/). ## 2 Clement 15.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/15/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:152–154 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Do not miss such good things; the same words bring joy or condemnation. ### Greek text τοσαύτης οὖν χρηστότητος μεταλαμβάνοντες μὴ φθονήσωμεν ἑαυτοῖς τυχεῖν τοσούτων ἀγαθῶν. ὅσην γὰρ ἡδονὴν ἔχει τὰ ῥήματα ταῦτα τοῖς ποιήσασιν αὐτά, τοσαύτην κατάκρισιν ἔχει τοῖς παρακούσασιν. ### English translation (Claude) Since, then, we share in such great kindness, let us not begrudge ourselves the obtaining of such great good things. For as great as the pleasure these words bring to those who have done them, so great is the condemnation they bring to those who have disobeyed. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 15.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/15/5/). ## 2 Clement 16.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/16/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:154 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: While there is time, turn back to God who receives us. ### Greek text Ὥστε, ἀδελφοί, ἀφορμὴν λαβόντες οὐ μικρὰν εἰς τὸ μετανοῆσαι, καιρὸν ἔχοντες ἐπιστρέψωμεν ἐπὶ τὸν καλέσαντα ἡμᾶς θεόν, ἕως ἔτι ἔχομεν τὸν παραδεχόμενον ἡμᾶς. ### English translation (Claude) So, brothers, since we have received no small occasion for repentance, while we have time let us turn back to God who called us, while we still have one who receives us. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 16.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/16/1/). ## 2 Clement 16.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/16/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:154 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Master evil desires, and share in the mercy of Jesus. ### Greek text ἐὰν γὰρ ταῖς ἡδυπαθείαις ταύταις ἀποταξώμεθα καὶ τὴν ψυχὴν ἡμῶν νικήσωμεν ἐν τῷ μὴ ποιεῖν τὰς ἐπιθυμίας αὐτῆς τὰς πονηράς, μεταληψόμεθα τοῦ ἐλέους Ἰησοῦ. ### English translation (Claude) For if we renounce these pleasures and master our soul by not doing its evil desires, we shall share in the mercy of Jesus. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 16.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/16/2/). ## 2 Clement 16.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/16/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:154 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The day of judgment is coming like a furnace; every deed will be revealed. ### Greek text γινώσκετε δέ, ὅτι ἔρχεται ἤδη ἡ ἡμέρα τῆς κρίσεως ὡς κλίβανος καιόμενος, καὶ τακήσονταί τινες τῶν οὐρανῶν καὶ πᾶσα ἡ γῆ ὡς μόλιβος ἐπὶ πυρὶ τηκόμενος· καὶ τότε φανήσεται τὰ κρύφια καὶ φανερὰ ἔργα τῶν ἀνθρώπων. ### English translation (Claude) But you know that the day of judgment is already coming like a burning oven, and some of the heavens will melt, and the whole earth like lead melting in fire; and then the secret and the open works of men will be made manifest. ### Scripture references - Mal 4:1 (3:19 LXX): allusion, high confidence - Isa 34:4: allusion, medium confidence - 2 Pet 3:10: echo, medium confidence - 2 Pet 3:12: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - “Some of the heavens will melt”: so the text; some editors emend to “the powers of the heavens.” ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 16.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/16/3/). ## 2 Clement 16.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/16/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:154–156 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Almsgiving, fasting, prayer, and love: almsgiving lightens sin. ### Greek text καλὸν οὖν ἐλεημοσύνη ὡς μετάνοια ἁμαρτίας· κρείσσων νηστεία προσευχῆς, ἐλεημοσύνη δὲ ἀμφοτέρων· ἀγάπη δὲ καλύπτει πλῆθος ἁμαρτιῶν, προσευχὴ δὲ ἐκ καλῆς συνειδήσεως ἐκ θανάτου ῥύεται. μακάριος πᾶς ὁ εὑρεθεὶς ἐν τούτοις πλήρης· ἐλεημοσύνη γὰρ κούφισμα ἁμαρτίας γίνεται. ### English translation (Claude) Almsgiving, then, is good, as repentance from sin. Fasting is better than prayer, and almsgiving than both; and “love covers a multitude of sins,” and prayer from a good conscience rescues from death. Blessed is everyone who is found full of these; for almsgiving lightens sin. ### Scripture references - 1 Pet 4:8: quotation, high confidence - Prov 10:12: allusion, medium confidence - Jas 5:20: echo, low confidence ### Extrabiblical texts - Tob 12:8-9 (Tobit): allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - The ranking of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving is unusual, and the sentence may be corrupt. The teaching that almsgiving lessens sin follows Jewish tradition (Tob 12:8–9). ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 16.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/16/4/). ## 2 Clement 17.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:156 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: If we must win pagans, how much more must we not lose believers. ### Greek text Μετανοήσωμεν οὖν ἐξ ὅλης καρδίας, ἵνα μή τις ἡμῶν παραπόληται. εἰ γὰρ ἐντολὰς ἔχομεν ἵνα καὶ τοῦτο πράσσωμεν, ἀπὸ τῶν εἰδώλων ἀποσπᾶν καὶ κατηχεῖν, πόσῳ μᾶλλον ψυχὴν ἤδη γινώσκουσαν τὸν θεὸν οὐ δεῖ ἀπόλλυσθαι; ### English translation (Claude) Let us, then, repent with our whole heart, so that none of us may perish needlessly. For if we have commandments to do this also, to draw people away from idols and instruct them, how much more ought a soul that already knows God not to perish? ### Translation notes - “Perish needlessly” (παραπόληται): perish through neglect, when it could have been prevented. - “Instruct” (κατηχεῖν): teach new converts, the root of “catechize.” ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 17.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/1/). ## 2 Clement 17.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:156 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Help the weak and admonish one another so that all are saved. ### Greek text συλλάβωμεν οὖν ἑαυτοῖς καὶ τοὺς ἀσθενοῦντας ἀνάγειν περὶ τὸ ἀγαθόν, ὅπως σωθῶμεν ἅπαντες καὶ ἐπιστρέψωμεν ἀλλήλους καὶ νουθετήσωμεν. ### English translation (Claude) Let us, then, help one another to lead up the weak also in what is good, so that we may all be saved; and let us turn one another back and admonish one another. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 17.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/2/). ## 2 Clement 17.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:156 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Remember the teaching at home, and gather more often to grow in obedience. ### Greek text καὶ μὴ μόνον ἄρτι δοκῶμεν πιστεύειν καὶ προσέχειν ἐν τῷ νουθετεῖσθαι ἡμᾶς ὑπὸ τῶν πρεσβυτέρων, ἀλλὰ καὶ ὅταν εἰς οἶκον ἀπαλλαγῶμεν, μνημονεύωμεν τῶν τοῦ κυρίου ἐνταλμάτων καὶ μὴ ἀντιπαρελκώμεθα ἀπὸ τῶν κοσμικῶν ἐπιθυμιῶν, ἀλλὰ πυκνότερον προσερχόμενοι πειρώμεθα προκόπτειν ἐν ταῖς ἐντολαῖς τοῦ κυρίου, ἵνα πάντες τὸ αὐτὸ φρονοῦντες συνηγμένοι ὦμεν ἐπὶ τὴν ζωήν· ### English translation (Claude) And let us not seem to believe and pay attention only now, while we are being admonished by the presbyters; but also when we have gone home, let us remember the Lord's commandments, and not be dragged away by worldly desires, but coming together more often let us try to make progress in the commandments of the Lord, so that all of us, being of one mind, may be gathered together to life. ### Translation notes - The sermon was delivered in the assembly, where the presbyters admonished the congregation. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 17.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/3/). ## 2 Clement 17.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:156 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The Lord will come to gather all nations and redeem each by his works. ### Greek text εἶπεν γὰρ ὁ κύριος· Ἔρχομαι συναγαγεῖν πάντα τὰ ἔθνη, φυλὰς καὶ γλώσσας· τοῦτο δὲ λέγει τὴν ἡμέραν τῆς ἐπιφανείας αὐτοῦ, ὅτε ἐλθὼν λυτρώσεται ἡμᾶς, ἕκαστον κατὰ τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ. ### English translation (Claude) For the Lord said, “I am coming to gather all the nations, tribes, and tongues.” By this he means the day of his appearing, when he will come and redeem us, each according to his works. ### Scripture references - Isa 66:18: quotation, high confidence - Matt 16:27: echo, medium confidence ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 17.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/4/). ## 2 Clement 17.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:156–158 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Unbelievers will see Christ's glory and lament; their punishment has no end. ### Greek text καὶ ὄψονται τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ καὶ τὸ κράτος οἱ ἄπιστοι, καὶ ξενισθήσονται ἰδόντες τὸ βασίλειον τοῦ κόσμου ἐν τῷ Ἰησοῦ, λέγοντες· Οὐαὶ ἡμῖν, ὅτι σὺ ἦς, καὶ οὐκ ᾔδειμεν καὶ οὐκ ἐπιστεύομεν καὶ οὐκ ἐπειθόμεθα τοῖς πρεσβυτέροις τοῖς ἀναγγέλλουσιν ἡμῖν περὶ τῆς σωτηρίας ἡμῶν. καὶ ὁ σκώληξ αὐτῶν οὐ τελευτήσει καὶ τὸ πῦρ αὐτῶν οὐ σβεσθήσεται, καὶ ἔσονται εἰς ὅρασιν πάσῃ σαρκί, ### English translation (Claude) And the unbelievers “will see his glory” and power, and they will be astonished when they see the kingdom of the world in the hands of Jesus, saying, “Woe to us, because it was you, and we did not know, and did not believe, and did not obey the presbyters who told us about our salvation.” And “their worm will not die, and their fire will not be quenched, and they will be a spectacle to all flesh.” ### Scripture references - Isa 66:18: allusion, high confidence - Isa 66:24: quotation, high confidence - Rev 11:15: echo, low confidence ### Translation notes - “In the hands of Jesus” (ἐν τῷ Ἰησοῦ): literally “in Jesus”, that is, belonging to him. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 17.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/5/). ## 2 Clement 17.6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/6/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:158 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The day of judgment will expose those who perverted Christ's commandments. ### Greek text τὴν ἡμέραν ἐκείνην λέγει τῆς κρίσεως, ὅταν ὄψονται τοὺς ἐν ἡμῖν ἀσεβήσαντας καὶ παραλογισαμένους τὰς ἐντολὰς Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ. ### English translation (Claude) He speaks of that day of judgment, when they will see those among us who lived ungodly lives and perverted the commandments of Jesus Christ. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 17.6 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/6/). ## 2 Clement 17.7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/7/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:158 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The righteous will glorify God when they see the fate of those who denied Jesus. ### Greek text οἱ δὲ δίκαιοι εὐπραγήσαντες καὶ ὑπομείναντες τὰς βασάνους καὶ μισήσαντες τὰς ἡδυπαθείας τῆς ψυχῆς, ὅταν θεάσωνται τοὺς ἀστοχήσαντας καὶ ἀρνησαμένους διὰ τῶν λόγων ἢ διὰ τῶν ἔργων τὸν Ἰησοῦν, ὅπως κολάζονται δειναῖς βασάνοις πυρὶ ἀσβέστῳ, ἔσονται δόξαν διδόντες τῷ θεῷ αὐτῶν λέγοντες, ὅτι ἔσται ἐλπὶς τῷ δεδουλευκότι θεῷ ἐξ ὅλης καρδίας. ### English translation (Claude) But the righteous, who have done good and endured torments and hated the pleasures of the soul, when they see those who went astray and denied Jesus by their words or by their deeds being punished with terrible torments in unquenchable fire, will give glory to their God, saying, “There will be hope for the one who has served God with his whole heart.” ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 17.7 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/17/7/). ## 2 Clement 18.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/18/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:158 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Be among the thankful servants of God, not the ungodly. ### Greek text Καὶ ἡμεῖς οὖν γενώμεθα ἐκ τῶν εὐχαριστούντων, δεδουλευκότων τῷ θεῷ, καὶ μὴ ἐκ τῶν κρινομένων ἀσεβῶν. ### English translation (Claude) Let us, then, also be among those who give thanks, who have served God, and not among the ungodly who are judged. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 18.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/18/1/). ## 2 Clement 18.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/18/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:158 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The preacher confesses he is a sinner still striving for righteousness. ### Greek text καὶ γὰρ αὐτὸς πανθαμαρτωλὸς ὢν καὶ μήπω φυγὼν τὸν πειρασμόν, ἀλλʼ ἔτι ὢν ἐν μέσοις τοῖς ὀργάνοις τοῦ διαβόλου σπουδάζω τὴν δικαιοσύνην διώκειν, ὅπως ἰσχύσω κἂν ἐγγὺς αὐτῆς γενέσθαι, φοβούμενος τὴν κρίσιν τὴν μέλλουσαν. ### English translation (Claude) For I myself, being an utter sinner and not yet having escaped temptation, but still being in the midst of the devil's instruments, am eager to pursue righteousness, so that I may be able at least to come near it, fearing the judgment to come. ### Translation notes - The preacher speaks of himself; a rare personal glimpse in the sermon. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 18.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/18/2/). ## 2 Clement 19.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/19/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:158–160 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The preacher reads an appeal after the scripture reading: repent with the whole heart. ### Greek text Ὥστε, ἀδελφοὶ καὶ ἀδελφαί, μετὰ τὸν θεὸν τῆς ἀληθείας ἀναγινώσκω ὑμῖν ἔντευξιν εἰς τὸ προσέχειν τοῖς γεγραμμένοις, ἵνα καὶ ἑαυτοὺς σώσητε καὶ τὸν ἀναγινώσκοντα ἐν ὑμῖν. μισθὸν γὰρ αἰτῶ ὑμᾶς τὸ μετανοῆσαι ἐξ ὅλης καρδίας, σωτηρίαν ἑαυτοῖς καὶ ζωὴν διδόντας. τοῦτο γὰρ ποιήσαντες σκοπὸν πᾶσιν τοῖς νέοις θήσομεν, τοῖς βουλομένοις περὶ τὴν εὐσέβειαν καὶ τὴν χρηστότητα τοῦ θεοῦ φιλοπονεῖν. ### English translation (Claude) So, brothers and sisters, after the God of truth, I am reading you an appeal to pay attention to what has been written, so that you may save both yourselves and the one who reads among you. For as my reward I ask you to repent with your whole heart, giving yourselves salvation and life. For by doing this we shall set a goal for all the young who wish to labor for godliness and the goodness of God. ### Translation notes - “After the God of truth”: probably after the scripture has been read (the voice of God); the sermon was read aloud after the reading in worship. Many scholars think chapters 19–20 were added by a later hand. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 19.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/19/1/). ## 2 Clement 19.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/19/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:160 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Accept correction; doubt and desire blind us to our sins. ### Greek text καὶ μὴ ἀηδῶς ἔχωμεν καὶ ἀγανακτῶμεν οἱ ἄσοφοι, ὅταν τις ἡμᾶς νουθετῇ καὶ ἐπιστρέφῃ ἀπὸ τῆς ἀδικίας εἰς τὴν δικαιοσύνην. ἐνίοτε γὰρ πονηρὰ πράσσοντες οὐ γινώσκομεν διὰ τὴν διψυχίαν καὶ ἀπιστίαν τὴν ἐνοῦσαν ἐν τοῖς στήθεσιν ἡμῶν, καὶ ἐσκοτίσμεθα τὴν διάνοιαν ὑπὸ τῶν ἐπιθυμιῶν τῶν ματαίων. ### English translation (Claude) And let us not be displeased and indignant, fools that we are, when someone admonishes us and turns us from unrighteousness to righteousness. For sometimes when we do evil we do not know it, because of the double-mindedness and unbelief that is in our breasts, and we are darkened in our understanding by vain desires. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 19.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/19/2/). ## 2 Clement 19.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/19/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:160 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The obedient may suffer briefly but will reap the fruit of the resurrection. ### Greek text πράξωμεν οὖν τὴν δικαιοσύνην, ἵνα εἰς τέλος σωθῶμεν. μακάριοι οἱ τούτοις ὑπακούοντες τοῖς προστάγμασιν· κἂν ὀλίγον χρόνον κακοπαθήσωσιν ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ τούτῳ, τὸν ἀθάνατον τῆς ἀναστάσεως καρπὸν τρυγήσουσιν. ### English translation (Claude) Let us, then, do righteousness, so that we may be saved to the end. Blessed are those who obey these ordinances; even if they suffer evil for a short time in this world, they will gather the immortal fruit of the resurrection. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 19.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/19/3/). ## 2 Clement 19.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/19/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:160 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The godly who suffer now will live again and rejoice forever. ### Greek text μὴ οὖν λυπείσθω ὁ εὐσεβής, ἐὰν ἐπὶ τοῖς νῦν χρόνοις ταλαιπωρῇ· μακάριος αὐτὸν ἀναμένει χρόνος· ἐκεῖνος ἄνω μετὰ τῶν πατέρων ἀναβιώσας εὐφρανθήσεται εἰς τὸν ἀλύπητον αἰῶνα. ### English translation (Claude) Let not the godly, then, grieve if he is wretched in the present times; a blessed time awaits him. He will live again above with the fathers and will rejoice in an age without grief. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 19.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/19/4/). ## 2 Clement 20.1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/20/1/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:160 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Do not be troubled that the wicked prosper and God's servants suffer. ### Greek text Ἀλλὰ μηδὲ ἐκεῖνο τὴν διάνοιαν ὑμῶν ταρασσέτω, ὅτι βλέπομεν τοὺς ἀδίκους πλουτοῦντας καὶ στενοχωρουμένους τοὺς τοῦ θεοῦ δούλους. ### English translation (Claude) But do not let it trouble your minds either, that we see the unrighteous growing rich and the servants of God in hardship. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 20.1 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/20/1/). ## 2 Clement 20.2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/20/2/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:160 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: This life is training; the crown comes in the life to come. ### Greek text πιστεύωμεν οὖν, ἀδελφοὶ καὶ ἀδελφαί· θεοῦ ζῶντος πεῖραν ἀθλοῦμεν καὶ γυμναζόμεθα τῷ νῦν βίῳ, ἵνα τῷ μέλλοντι στεφανωθῶμεν. ### English translation (Claude) Let us, then, have faith, brothers and sisters. We are competing in the trial of the living God, and we are being trained by the present life, so that we may be crowned in the life to come. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 20.2 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/20/2/). ## 2 Clement 20.3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/20/3/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:160 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: The righteous wait for their reward. ### Greek text οὐδεὶς τῶν δικαίων ταχὺν καρπὸν ἔλαβεν, ἀλλʼ ἐκδέχεται αὐτόν. ### English translation (Claude) None of the righteous received his fruit quickly, but waits for it. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 20.3 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/20/3/). ## 2 Clement 20.4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/20/4/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:160–162 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: If reward were immediate, religion would become a business. ### Greek text εἰ γὰρ τὸν μισθὸν τῶν δικαίων ὁ θεὸς συντόμως ἀπεδίδου, εὐθέως ἐμπορίαν ἠσκοῦμεν καὶ οὐ θεοσέβειαν· ἐδοκοῦμεν γὰρ εἶναι δίκαιοι, οὐ τὸ εὐσεβές, ἀλλὰ τὸ κερδαλέον διώκοντες. καὶ διὰ τοῦτο θεία κρίσις ἔβλαψεν πνεῦμα μὴ ὂν δίκαιον, καὶ ἐβάρυνεν δεσμοῖς. ### English translation (Claude) For if God paid the wages of the righteous immediately, we would at once be practicing commerce and not godliness; for we would seem to be righteous while pursuing not what is godly but what is profitable. And for this reason divine judgment has harmed a spirit that is not righteous, and loaded it with chains. ### Translation notes - The last sentence is obscure; it may refer to a particular person or to the fallen angels. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 20.4 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/20/4/). ## 2 Clement 20.5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/20/5/ - Source: Lake, LCL 24:162 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-26 Summary: Closing doxology to the invisible God who sent the Savior. ### Greek text Τῷ μόνῳ θεῷ ἀοράτῳ, πατρὶ τῆς ἀληθείας, τῷ ἐξαποστείλαντι ἡμῖν τὸν σωτῆρα καὶ ἀρχηγὸν τῆς ἀφθαρσίας, διʼ οὗ καὶ ἐφανέρωσεν ἡμῖν τὴν ἀλήθειαν καὶ τὴν ἐπουράνιον ζωήν, αὐτῷ ἡ δόξα εἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας τῶν αἰώνων. ἀμήν. Κλήμεντος πρὸς Κορινθίους ἐπιστολὴ β. ### English translation (Claude) To the only God, invisible, the Father of truth, who sent forth to us the Savior and Author of incorruption, through whom he also revealed to us the truth and the heavenly life, to him be the glory forever and ever. Amen. [The second letter of Clement to the Corinthians.] ### Scripture references - 1 Tim 1:17: echo, medium confidence - Heb 2:10: echo, medium confidence - 2 Tim 1:10: echo, medium confidence ### Translation notes - The last line is the title under which the manuscript transmits the sermon. ### Citation (SBL) 2 Clem. 20.5 (trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/2-clement/20/5/).