48
They rescued the law out of the hands of the Gentiles and kings, and they never let the sinner gain the upper hand.
49
Now the days drew near for Mattathias to die, and he said to his sons: "Arrogance and scorn have now become strong; it is a time of ruin and furious anger.
50
Now, my children, show zeal for the law, and give your lives for the covenant of our ancestors.
51
"Remember the deeds of the ancestors, which they did in their generations; and you will receive great honor and an everlasting name.
52
Was not Abraham found faithful when tested, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness?
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.