The Letters of Nerses the Gracious

the foundation of the apostles and prophets, not of wood, hay, and reeds, according to the words and deeds of schismatics and the carnal-minded, but with the wisdom of orthodoxy and the works of varied virtues. Which compares to gold, silver, and precious stones; with which they adorned not only themselves in the beauty of the image in likeness to the Original referring to God/Christ, but also many who became followers of their virtues.

But I, being incomparable in every way to these examples of virtues, how shall I undertake with a weary soul and weak body, beyond the strength of my person and worthiness, the work and the ministry? How shall I dare the service of this pastorate, where the brave shepherd laid down his life for the sheep, and those who are his imitators; and I, who have not even grazed my own self according to the laws of God, according to the accusations of the prophets...