Shepherd of Hermas 27

1He says to me: Have simplicity, and become guileless, and you will be like the little ones who do not know the wickedness that destroys the life of human beings.

2First of all, slander no one, and do not listen with pleasure to someone who slanders; otherwise you too, the hearer, will be guilty of the slanderer’s sin if you believe the slander you hear. For by believing it, you yourself also will have something against your brother. Thus you will be guilty of the slanderer’s sin.

3Slander is evil; it is an unsettled demon, never at peace, but always dwelling amid divisions. So keep away from it, and you will always have prosperity with all.

4But clothe yourself with dignity, in which there is no evil stumbling block, but all things are smooth and cheerful. Do what is good, and from your labors, which God gives you, give simply to all who are in need, not hesitating as to whom you should give or to whom you should not give. Give to all, for God wants all to be given from his own gifts.

5Therefore those who receive will render an account to God why they received and for what; for those who receive while afflicted will not be judged, but those who receive in hypocrisy will pay the penalty.

6Therefore the one who gives is innocent; for just as he received from the Lord the ministry to carry out, he carried it out simply, making no distinction as to whom he should give or not give. Thus this ministry, having been carried out simply, became glorious before God. Therefore the one who thus ministers simply to God will live.

7So keep this commandment, as I have spoken to you, so that your repentance and that of your household may be found in simplicity, and your heart clean and unstained.