Shepherd of Hermas 24

1I asked her about the four colors that the beast had on its head. But she answered me and says, "Again you are curious about such matters." "Yes, my Lady," I say; "make known to me what these things are."

2She says, "Listen: the black is this world, in which you dwell. And the fiery and blood-red is because this world must be destroyed by blood and fire. But the golden portion is you who have escaped this world. For just as gold is tested by fire and becomes useful, so also you are being tested in them. Therefore, those who remain and are burned by it will be purified. Just as gold casts off its dross, so also you will cast off every grief and distress, and you will be purified and will be useful for the building of the tower.

3"But the white portion is the age that is coming, in which the elect of God will dwell; because those chosen by God for eternal life will be spotless and pure.

4"You, therefore, do not cease speaking in the ears of the holy ones. You also have the pattern of the great tribulation that is coming; but if you are willing, it will be nothing. Remember the things written beforehand."

5Having said these things, she went away, and I did not see to what place she went; for a noise occurred. And I turned around in fear, thinking that the beast was coming.