4
Because as servants of his kingdom you did not rule rightly, nor keep the law, nor walk according to the purpose of God,
5
he will come upon you terribly and swiftly, because severe judgment falls on those in high places.
6
For the lowliest man may be pardoned in mercy, but mighty men will be mightily tested.
7
For the Lord of all will not stand in awe of any one, nor show deference to greatness; because he himself made both small and great, and he takes thought for all alike.
8
But a strict inquiry is in store for the mighty.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.