2 Esdras 16:59-69

59 He has spread out the heaven like a dome and made it secure upon the waters;
60 he has put springs of water in the desert, and pools on the tops of the mountains, so as to send rivers from the heights to water the earth.
61 He formed human beings and put a heart in the midst of each body, and gave each person breath and life and understanding
62 and the spirit of Almighty God, who surely made all things and searches out hidden things in hidden places.
63 He knows your imaginations and what you think in your hearts! Woe to those who sin and want to hide their sins!
64 The Lord will strictly examine all their works, and will make a public spectacle of all of you.
65 You shall be put to shame when your sins come out before others, and your own iniquities shall stand as your accusers on that day.
66 What will you do? Or how will you hide your sins before the Lord and his glory?
67 Indeed, God is the judge; fear him! Cease from your sins, and forget your iniquities, never to commit them again; so God will lead you forth and deliver you from all tribulation.
68 The burning wrath of a great multitude is kindled over you; they shall drag some of you away and force you to eat what was sacrificed to idols.
69 And those who consent to eat shall be held in derision and contempt, and shall be trampled under foot.

Footnotes 4

  • [a]. Or [breath]
  • [b]. Other ancient authorities read [of the Lord Almighty]
  • [c]. Other ancient authorities read [the Lord]
  • [d]. Other ancient authorities read [the Lord]
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.