19
Let us test him with insult and torture, so that we may find out how gentle he is, and make trial of his forbearance.
20
Let us condemn him to a shameful death, for, according to what he says, he will be protected."
21
Thus they reasoned, but they were led astray, for their wickedness blinded them,
22
and they did not know the secret purposes of God, nor hoped for the wages of holiness, nor discerned the prize for blameless souls;
23
for God created us for incorruption, and made us in the image of his own eternity,
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, 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.