The Apocryphon of James (vegetarian): From the Gnostic Nag Hammadi Library, Part 2 of 2

The Apocryphon Of James CODEX I “‘If you consider how long the world existed [before] you, and how long it will exist after you, you will find that your life is one single day, and your sufferings one single hour. For the good will not enter into the world. Scorn death, therefore, and take thought for life! Remember my cross and my death, and you will live!’”

“‘Hasten to be saved without being urged! Instead, be eager of your own accord, and, if possible, arrive even before me; for thus the Father will love you.’”

“‘Become earnest about the word! For as to the word, its first part is faith; the second, love; the third, works; for from these comes life. For the word is like a grain of wheat; when someone had sown it, he had faith in it; and when it had sprouted, he loved it, because he had seen many grains in place of one. And when he had worked, he was saved, because he had prepared it for food, (and) again he left (some) to sow. So also, can you yourselves receive the Kingdom of Heaven; unless you receive this through knowledge, you will not be able to find it.’”

“‘Behold, I shall depart from you and go away, and do not wish to remain with you any longer, just as you yourselves have not wished it. Now, therefore, follow me quickly. This is why I say unto you, “For your sakes I came down.” You are the beloved; you are they who will be the cause of life in many. Invoke the Father, implore God often, and He will give to you. Blessed is he who has seen you with Him when He was proclaimed among the angels, and glorified among the saints; yours is life. Rejoice, and be glad, as sons of God. Keep His will, that you may be saved; accept reproof from me and save yourselves. I intercede on your behalf with the Father, and He will forgive you much.’”