Ephesians 2:1 And you has he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;… When on a visit to a city in the neighbourhood of Ephesus, St. John commended to the care of the bishop a young man of fine stature, graceful countenance, and ardent mind, as suited to the work of the ministry. The bishop neglected his charge. The young man became idle and dissolute, and was at length prevailed on to join a band of robbers, such as commonly had their strongholds in the neighborhood of ancient Greek cities. He soon became their captain, and attained to notoriety in crime. Long after St. John entered the city again, and inquired for the young man. "He is dead," said the bishop, "dead to God." Having ascertained the particulars, the apostle exclaimed, "I left a fine keeper of a brother's soul!" then, mounting a horse, he rode into the country, and was taken prisoner. He attempted not to flee, but said, "For this purpose am I come, conduct me to your captain." He entered the presence of the armed bandit, who, recognizing the apostle, attempted to escape. "Why dost thou flee, my son," said he, "from thy father — thy defenceless, aged father? Fear not, thou still hast hopes of life. I will pray to Christ for thee. I will suffer death for thee. I will give my life for thine. Believe that Christ hath sent me." The young man was subdued, fell into the apostle's arms, prayed with many tears, became perfectly reformed, and returned to the communion of the Church. (Legend of St. John.) Parallel Verses KJV: And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;WEB: You were made alive when you were dead in transgressions and sins, |
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