A number of examples of noble and heroic resistances to trial and temptation are cited (Heb. xi. 32-40, xii. 1-4); the writer of the Epistle evidently expected that similar experiences will be the lot of the congregation he was addressing. FIRST EPISTLE OF S. PETER, _CIRCA_ A.D. 65-7 The second writing, which will be examined at rather greater length, is of the utmost importance as a witness to the view of the perpetual persecution to which after A.D. 64 the sect was exposed. The First Epistle of S. Peter[94] was put out _circa_ 65-7. It was written manifestly in a time of persecution; the keynote of the Epistle is consolation and encouragement for the distant congregations addressed. The persecution was evidently raging in Rome, whence the letter was written, but it was rapidly spreading also in the provinces of the Empire. The language used shows it was no isolated capricious onslaught, but a systematic and legalized attack on the religion of Jesus. To quote a few passages: “Now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness by reason of manifold temptations: that the trial of your faith, being more precious than of gold which perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ” (i. 6, 7). “If ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye; and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled.... It is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing” (iii. 14-17). “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you” (iv. 12). “If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you.... If any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf” (iv. 14-16). “Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world” (v. 9). REVELATION OF S. JOHN, _CIRCA_ A.D. 90 The Apocalypse of S. John is now generally dated _circa_ A.D. 90; the _keynote_ of this strange and in many parts beautiful writing--so unlike, save in certain sections, the other acknowledged books of the New Testament Canon--is _the suffering of the Church_: just a quarter of a century had elapsed since Nero and his advisers resolved upon the persecution of the congregations of the believers in Jesus.