The Bruised Reed and Smoking Flax

Again, considering ¹this gracious nature in CHRIST, let us think with our selves thus, when he is so kind unto us, shall we be cruel against him, in his name, in his truth, in his children? how shall those that delight to be so terrible to the meek of the earth, hope to look so gracious a Saviour in the face: they that are so boisterous ⟨p. 196⟩towards his Spouse, shall know one day they had to deal with himself in his Church. So it cannot but cut the heart of those that have felt this love of CHRIST, to hear him wounded who is the life of their lives, and the foul of their souls: this maketh those that have felt mercy weep over CHRIST whom they have pierced with their fins; there cannot but be a mutual and quick sympathy between the Head and the Members. When we are tempted to any sin, if we will not pity our selves, yet we should ⟨p. 197⟩spare CHRIST in not putting him to new torments. The Apostle could not find out a more heartbreaking argument to enforce a sacrificing our selves to GOD, than to conjure us by the mercies ²of GOD in CHRIST. This mercy of CHRIST likewise should move us to ³commiserate the estate of the poor Church torn by enemies without, and renting it self by divisions at home. It cannot but work upon any soul that ever felt comfort from Christ, to consider what an affectionate entreaty the Apostle useth to mutual agreement ⟨p. 198⟩in judgement & affection, If any consolation ⁴in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, any bowels and mercies, fulfil my joy, be like minded. As if he should say, unless you will disclaim all consolation in Christ, &c. labour to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace: What a joyful spectacle is this to Satan and his faction, to see those that are separated from the world, fall in pieces among themselves. Our discord is our enemies melody.