1 Maccabees, 2
22. We will not obey the words of the king nor depart from our religion in the slightest degree."
22. We will not obey the words of the king nor depart from our religion in the slightest degree."
Chapter 2 of the book of 1 Maccabees narrates the revolt led by Matatias against Greek oppression and the defense of Jewish religion. Matatias, an elderly priest, refuses to obey the orders of the Greek King Antiochus IV Epiphanes to offer a sacrifice to the pagan gods and kills a Jew who tries to do so. Matatias escapes the mountains with their five children and other followers, and begins to organize resistance. He calls all the faithful Jews to join him in the struggle for freedom and faith. Below are five verses related to the topics covered in 1 Maccabees 2:
Deuteronomy 13:4 - You shall walk after the Lord your God, and you shall fear, and His commandments shall keep, and His voice shall hear, and shall serve Him, and thou shalt manage to Him. " This verse highlights the importance of obedience to God and the observance of the commandments in the face of the temptation to follow other beliefs and practices.
Psalm 119:89 - "Forever, O Lord, your word remains in heaven." This verse highlights the importance of God's Word and his eternity, encouraging loyalty to her rather than giving in to the pressures of culture or government.
Jeremiah 9:23-24-"Thus saith the Lord, Do not glorie the wise in His wisdom, nor glorie the strong in His strength; do not glorie the rich in His riches. In understanding and knowing me, that I am the Lord, that I make charity, judgment and justice on earth; for these things I like, say the Lord. " This verse highlights the importance of trusting God and his righteousness rather than depending on wisdom, strength or wealth.
Isaiah 41:10 - "Do not fear, because I am with you, do not haunt yourself, because I am your God; I strengthen you, and help you, and I support you with my faithful right hand." This verse highlights the importance of trust in God in times of difficulty and uncertainty.
2 Timothy 1:7 - "For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of fortress, and of love, and of moderation." This verse highlights the importance of inner strength, the love and moderation that God gives to his followers rather than the fear that can lead to submission to oppressors.
“O verdadeiro servo de Deus é aquele que usa a caridade para com seu próximo, que está decidido a fazer a vontade de Deus a todo custo, que vive em profunda humildade e simplicidade”. São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina
