Luke 6:36 Be you therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. All that is really good is the outcome of the law of love, and its first result and inseparable companion is mercy. I. FORBEAR. 1. A passion for judging others seems to exist in men. Every one, however backward to amend himself, is ready to correct others. The origin of this spirit is too clear. Deep in man's native selfishness. Exalts self, depresses others. 2. Are we never, then, to judge? (1) One cannot help forming opinions. It would be indicative of a perverted conscience to regard all with equal complacency. Yes, but this is different from the glad readiness to judge. (2) Sometimes needful to speak as well as to judge. But not in a censorious spirit, or overbearing tone. (3) The example of Jesus is the solution of the difficulty. Reprove only when needful. Then in righteous indignation, or in sorrowful rebuke. II. FORGIVE. 1. Revenge is as natural to man as passing judgment. 2. Often as false and hypocritical, hiding itself under similar disguises. 3. Its root is ultimately the same. Selfishness — contradiction of the law of love. 4. Consequently condemned by example and spirit of Christ. His forgiving mercy was habitual, ready, cordial. III. GIVE. The more active side of mercy. Opposed to bargaining or exchange — no thought of return. An evidence of sonship of God. When we are merciful, we come nearest to the Divine perfection. (W. R. Clark, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.WEB: Therefore be merciful, even as your Father is also merciful. |
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