16 They abstain from the eucharist, and from the public offices; because they confess not the eucharist to be the flesh of our Saviour Jesus Christ which suffered for our sins, and which the Father of his goodness raised again from the dead. 17 And for this cause contradicting the gift of God, they die in their disputes; but much better would it be for them to receive it, that they might one day rise through it. 18 It will therefore become you. to abstain from such persons, and not to speak with them, neither in public nor in private. 19 But to hearken to the prophets, and especially to the Gospel, in which both Christ's passion is manifested unto us, and his resurrection perfectly declared. 20 But flee all divisions, as the beginning of evils. CHAPTER III. 1 Exhorts them to follow their bishop and pastors; but especially their bishop. 6 Thanks them for their kindness, 11 and acquaints them with the ceasing of the persecution at Antioch. SEE that ye all follow your bishop, as Jesus Christ, the Father; and the presbytery, as the Apostles; and reverence the deacons, as the command of God. 2 Let no man do any thing of what belongs to the church separately from the bishop. 3 Let that eucharist be looked upon as well established, which is either offered by the bishop, or by him to whom the bishop has given. his consent. 4 Wheresoever the bishop shall appear, there let the people also be: as where Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic church. 5 It is not lawful without the bishop; neither to baptize, nor to celebrate the Holy Communion but whatsoever he shall approve of, that is also pleasing unto God; that so whatever is done, may be sure and well done. 6 For what remains, it is very reasonable that we should repent whilst there is yet time to return unto God. 7 It is a good thin to have a due regard both to God, and to the bishop: he that honours the bishop, shall be honoured of God; but he that does any thing without his knowledge, ministers unto the devil. 8 Let all things therefore abound to you in charity; seeing that ye are worthy. 9 Ye have refreshed me in all things; so shall Jesus Christ you. Ye have loved me both when I was present with you, and now being absent, ye cease not to do so. 10 May God be your reward, for whom whilst ye undergo all things, ye shall attain unto him. 11 Ye have done well in that ye have received Philo, and Rheus Agathopus, who followed me for the word of God, as the deacons of Christ our God. 12 Who also gave thanks unto the Lord for you, forasmuch as ye have refreshed them in all things. Nor shall any thing that you have done be lost to you. 13 My soul be for yours, and my bonds which ye have not despised, nor been ashamed of. Wherefore neither shall. Jesus Christ, our perfect faith, be ashamed of you.