ndence between the thoughts and ways of Christians.
Therefore it is not possible to keep this bond of perfection unbroken,
except there be a mutual condescendence. Self-love would have all
conformed to it, and if that be not, there is the rent presently. But
humbleness of mind can conform itself to all things, and this keeps the
bond fast. Then charity, by the link of humility, hath meekness chained
unto it, and kindness. Love is of a sweet complexion, meek and kind. Pride
is the mother of passion, humbleness the mother of meekness. The inward
affection is composed by meekness, and the outward actions adorned by
gentleness and kindness. O that sweet composure of spirit! The heart of
the wicked is as the troubled sea, no rest, no quiet in it, continual
tempests raising continual waves of disquiet. An unmeek spirit is like a
boiling pot, it troubles itself and annoys others. Then, at length,
charity, by lowliness and meekness, is the most durable, enduring,
long-suffering thing in the world, "with long suffering, forbearing one
another in love." These are the only principles of patience and
longanimity. Anger and passion is expressed in scripture under the name of
haste, and it is a sudden, furious, hasty thing, a rash, inconsiderate,
impatient thing, more hasty than speedy. Now the special exercises and
operations of these graces are in the 13th verse, "forbearing one another,
and forgiving one another," according to Christ's example. And indeed
these are so high and sublime works, as charity must yoke all the
fore-mentioned graces, unite them all in one troop, for the accomplishing
of them. And the great and sweet fruit of all this is comprehended in the
15th verse, "The peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which ye are
called in one body." Peace with God is not here meant, but the peace which
God hath made up between men. All were shattered and rent asunder. The
Lord hath by his Son Jesus Christ gathered so many into one body, the
church, and by one Spirit quickens all. Now where love is predominant,
there is a sweet peace and harmony between all the members of this one
body. And this peace and tranquillity of affections rules and predominates
over all these lusts, which are the mineries(409) of contentions, and
strifes, and wars.

V. Add unto this another special mark of excellency that this apostle puts
on charity, or Christian love. "The end of the commandment is charity, out
of a pure heart, of a good conscience