2 Esdras 14:9-19

9 You will be taken out of this world into the heavenly world where you and others like you will live with my son until the end of time.
10 The world is no longer young; it is rapidly approaching old age.
11 The whole history of the world is divided into twelve periods, and the tenth period has already arrived
12 and it is half over; only two and a half parts remain.
13 So set your house in order, warn your people, comfort those who are humble, and teach those who are wise. Then say good-bye to this mortal life.
14 Put earthly cares away from you, throw down your human burdens, and lay aside your weak human nature.
15 Put all your anxieties aside, and get ready to leave this world quickly.
16 You have seen many evil things already, but far worse things are about to happen.
17 As the world grows older and weaker, the evils that will come upon its people will multiply.
18 Truth will depart and falsehood will draw ever nearer. The eagle you saw in your vision is just about to arrive."
19 I replied, "Let me speak in your presence, Lord.

Footnotes 2

  • [a]. [Some ancient translations] teach . . . wise; [Latin does not have these words.]
  • [b]. [Some ancient translations] Let me speak; [Latin does not have these words.]
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.