Sermons preached

Secondly, In Forgiving, the same Rule holds. A necessary Duty. For while we are here in the World, there will be Weaknesses and Offences, and we need mutually to forgive, and to take Pardon. It is said, Col. 3. 13. Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any Man have a quarrel against any; Even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. See the same, Eph. 4. 32. Forgiving one another, as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Mark, he proceeds upon this Principle that Christ layeth down; Whatsoever ye would, &c. We are in the World and in the Flesh, and therefore should not rigidly exact upon the failings of others; lest they or others deal so with us when our turn comes. We need Pardon in this kind, for we give Offence: Eccl. 7. 21, 22. Take no heed unto all Words that are spoken, lest thou hear thy Servant curse thee: for oftentimes also thine Heart knoweth that thou thy self likewise hast cursed others. The meaning is, we should not be over-affected with others speaking ill of us, because we know we have spoken ill of others, and should pass it by with meekness and neglect; therefore the consideration of our Passions, and of our Infirmities should move us to Pardon. We have been, or may be as bad as they. We have been once, Tit. 3. 3. Foolish and Disobedient, led by our unruly Appetites and Desires, therefore we should show Meekness to them. I and we may be surprised again, James 3. 1. My Brethren, be not many Masters, for in many things we offend all: Be not many Masters, that is, severe, masterly, or supercilious, if another be fallen and hath offended us, for we shall receive the greater Condemnation.

Secondly, In Forgiving, the same Rule holds. A necessary Duty. For while we are here in the World, there will be Weaknesses and Offences, and we need mutually to forgive, and to take Pardon. It is said, Col. 3. 13. Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any Man have a quarrel against any; Even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. See the same,