Wisdom of Solomon 12:24–27

24 For verily they went astray very far in the ways of error,

Taking as gods those animals which even among their enemies were held in dishonour,

Deceived like foolish babes.

25 Therefore, as unto unreasoning children, thou didst send thy judgement to mock them.

26 But they that would not be admonished by a correction which was but as child’s play

Shall experience a judgement worthy of God.

27 For because through their own sufferings they were moved to indignation

Against those creatures which they thought to be gods,

Being punished by their means,

They saw, and recognized the true God whom before they refused to know;

Wherefore also the uttermost penalty came upon them.

Men being foolish by nature cannot know the true God, but worship, perhaps excusably, the works he has made.