Acts 5:27-29 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,… Basil being offered the alternative of conforming to the Arian creed or of resigning his bishopric, he answered the prefect, who was interrogating him, with calm dignity, that he could not obey the emperor's will, "because it was inconsistent with that of his Sovereign Lord, and he could not worship any human creature, being himself a subject of that Lord, and commanded to be like Him." "Do you know his dignity to whom you speak?" asked Modestus. "I do," was the reply, "and I respect it, but that of God is greater. We are both His servants, and among Christians greatness depends not upon rank, but upon faith." The prefect threatened him with pains and penalties. The bishop smiled as he answered, "What are such threats to me? He who has nothing to lose can scarce fear confiscation, and I have no possession save these mean garments and some few books. Neither does he fear exile who counts no spot on earth his home, being here but a pilgrim and sojourner, seeking safer place of rest; heaven is my home. Nor do I fear torture; my frail body would endure but little — you could strike but one blow, and my pain is past; I should but depart the sooner to Him, for whose service alone I am willing to live, and after whom my soul yearns." Modestus could not forbear expressing his surprise at the boldness of the bishop's speech. "Perhaps," was the answer, "you have not before met with a Christian bishop, or under such circumstances you would have found the same conduct." The emperor yielded, and, his child being dangerously ill, the Empress Dominica even sought Basil's prayers on the young Galatus' behalf. Parallel Verses KJV: And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,WEB: When they had brought them, they set them before the council. The high priest questioned them, |
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