Seek the LORD, and you shall live; lest he break out like fire in the house of Joseph, and devour it, and there be none to quench it in Bethel.
Read Chapter 5
Cyprian of Carthage
AD 258
Therefore, while there is time, look to the true and eternal salvation, and, since the end of the world is now at hand, out of fear of God turn your minds to God. Let not your powerless and vain dominion in the world over the just and the meek delight you. Remember that in the fields the tares and the darnel have dominion over the cultivated and fruitful corn, and you should not say that evils happen because your gods are not worshiped by us. But you should realize that this is God’s anger, this is God’s censure, so that he who is not recognized for his blessings may at least be recognized for his judgments. “Seek God, and your soul shall live.” Acknowledge God even though it is late. For Christ advises and teaches this, saying, “Now this is everlasting life, that they may know you the only true God and him whom you have sent, Jesus Christ.” Believe him who by no means deceives. Believe him who has foretold that all these things would come to pass. Believe him who will give the reward ...
Joseph. His two grandchildren gave name to the principal tribes of the kingdom.
Bethel. Septuagint, "Israel "which seems preferable. (Calmet)
Yet Bethel may stand, as it denotes the apostate Israelites.
