Letters of Ignatius 11

1And pray also without ceasing for the rest of humanity, for there is in them a hope of repentance, that they may find God. Therefore, permit them to learn at least from your works.

2Against their outbursts of anger, be meek; against their proud words, be humble; against their insults, set your prayers; against their errors, be steadfast in the faith; against their fierceness, be gentle. And do not be zealous to imitate them by requital.

3Let us show ourselves to be their brothers by our forbearance; but let us be zealous to be imitators of the Lord, competing with one another over who shall suffer the greater wrong, who shall be defrauded, and who shall be set at nothing; that no herb of the devil may be found in you. But in all purity and self-control abide in Christ Jesus, with your flesh and with your spirit.