15
Then the king's officials, who were forcing the people to turn from God, came to the town of Modein to force the people there to offer pagan sacrifices.
14
In their grief, Mattathias and his sons tore their clothes, put on sackcloth, and continued in deep mourning.
15
Then the king's officials, who were forcing the people to turn from God, came to the town of Modein to force the people there to offer pagan sacrifices.
16
Many of the Israelites came to meet them, including Mattathias and his sons.
17
The king's officials said to Mattathias, "You are a respected leader in this town, and you have the support of your sons and relatives.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.