Imitation of the Mercy of God
James Biddoch, M. A. Luke 6:36 Be you therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. What can be a more endearing motive to the mind of man, than to propose to him a resemblance to the most high God; to urge the conduct of the Father of the universe, as an example for his imitation. 1. The first excellence in the mercy of God which will naturally occur to our thoughts, as deserving our imitation, is its entire disinterestedness and perfect liberality. Our goodness, therefore, must be void of selfish and earthly motives. 2. Its universality. We must endeavour to do all the good we can to all around us, neither slighting the ignorant, nor despising the mean and indigent, nor abandoning the vicious and unworthy in their distress. (1) Although our mercy may and ought to be universal in will and intention, yet, in consequence of our little power, it must be very limited in reality and in effect (2 Corinthians 8:12). (2) This example of the unconfined extent of the Divine mercy does not hinder us from having a more particular regard to certain persons, and peculiar situations of distress (Galatians 6:10). 3. Its unwearied perseverance. Let us, like God, be "not weary in well-doing." 4. Its long-suffering patience. 5. Its readiness and willingness to forgive. (James Biddoch, 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.