He did this to make come true what the prophet had said, "I will use parables when I speak to them; I will tell them things unknown since the creation of the world."

Finally Job broke the silence and cursed the day on which he had been born.

Listen, my people, to my teaching, and pay attention to what I say.

I am going to use wise sayings and explain mysteries from the past,

Listen to my excellent words; all I tell you is right.

"Speak up for people who cannot speak for themselves. Protect the rights of all who are helpless.

Speak for them and be a righteous judge. Protect the rights of the poor and needy."

Jesus looked at his disciples and said, "Happy are you poor; the Kingdom of God is yours!

"Happy are you when people hate you, reject you, insult you, and say that you are evil, all because of the Son of Man!

"But how terrible for you who are rich now; you have had your easy life!

"How terrible when all people speak well of you; their ancestors said the very same things about the false prophets.

Then Philip began to speak; starting from this passage of scripture, he told him the Good News about Jesus.

Peter began to speak: "I now realize that it is true that God treats everyone on the same basis.

Paul was about to speak when Gallio said to the Jews, "If this were a matter of some evil crime or wrong that has been committed, it would be reasonable for me to be patient with you Jews.

And pray also for me, that God will give me a message when I am ready to speak, so that I may speak boldly and make known the gospel's secret.