2
In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be a disaster,
3
and their going from us to be their destruction; but they are at peace.
4
For though in the sight of others they were punished, their hope is full of immortality.
5
Having been disciplined a little, they will receive great good, because God tested them and found them worthy of himself;
6
like gold in the furnace he tried them, and like a sacrificial burnt offering he accepted them.
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.