far from being a man such as God approves who does not " rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep," v. 15.
6. A wrong estimate of ourselves is a fruitful source of evil. Viewed in relation to God, and in our own absolute insignificance, w^e have little reason to be wise or important in our own conceits. A proper self- knowledge will preserve us from pride, ambition, and contempt of others, V. 16.
7. Abstaining from evil is but one half of duty. It is not enough to avoid imprecating evil upon our enemies ; we must sincerely desire and pray for their welfare. Nor is it sufficient not to recompense evil for evil, we must return good for evil, vs. 17 — 21.
8. The prerogatives of judgment and vengeance belong to God, we have no right therefore to arrogate them to ourselves, except in those cases in which, for his glory and the good of society, he has given us authority. All condemnation of others for self-gratification, and all pri- vate revenge, is inconsistent with the gospel, vs. 11 — 21.