4 Maccabees 3:18-20

Common English Bible

¹⁸ It can overcome the most intense pain in the body and reject the emotions’ attempts at gaining control with the dignified character of clear thinking.

Setting: a lesson from history

¹⁹ But the present occasion invites us to give an illustration from history that demonstrates the power of self-controlled clear thinking. ²⁰ Our ancestors were enjoying peace and success because of their obedience to the Law. Even Seleucus Nicanor, king of Asia, set apart money to help support the temple worship and recognized the Jewish constitution.