CHAPTER I Priests are liable to correction for the sins of other men
CHAPTER I
Priests are liable to correction for the sins of other men
496. The things which pertain to the present are such as you have heard; but how shall we endure those of the future, when we are compelled to render an account for every one of those who have been committed to us? for the loss consists not in shame alone, but eternal punishment ensues.
497. For although I have mentioned it before, I will not even now be silent respecting this:—”Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves; for they watch for your souls as they that must give an account;” because the fear of this warning would continually agitate my soul.
498. For if it were better that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the sea, who offends one alone, even the least; and all who wound the conscience of their brethren sin against Christ himself,—what shall they suffer, and what punishment will befall them, who destroy not only one, or two, or three, but so many multitudes?
499. For they cannot ascribe it to inexperience, nor take refuge in ignorance, nor pretend necessity and compulsion. It would rather be possible for one of their subordinates, if any, to avail himself of this refuge for his personal sins, than for those who bear rule to do so for the sins of others.
500. Why so? Because he who has been appointed to correct the follies of others, and to forewarn them of their coming war with the devil, cannot pretend ignorance, nor say, “I heard not the trumpet; I foresaw not the war.”
501. For this has he been stationed, as Ezekiel says, that he may sound an alarm to others, and forewarn them of coming troubles; and therefore, punishment is unavoidable if so much as one should perish. For he says, “If when the sword comes, the watchman blow not the trumpet for the people, nor give them notice, and the sword come and take any soul, it is taken because of its iniquity, it is true, but its blood will I require of the watchman.”
502. Cease then to thrust me on to so inevitable a judgment.
503. For our concern is not about a generalship, nor a kingdom, but about a matter which demands angelic virtue.