its own nature and notion, only
it is perfected by the addition of so many degrees as may suit that
blessed estate. Therefore methinks it should be the study of all saints
who believe immortality, and hope for eternal life, to put on that garment
of charity, which is the livery of all the inhabitants above. We might
have heaven upon earth as far as is possible if we dwelt in love, and love
dwelt in and possessed our hearts. What an unsuitable thing might a
believer think it, to hate him in this world whom he must love eternally,
and to contend and strive with these, even for matters of small moment,
with bitterness and rigidity, with whom he shall have an eternal,
uninterrupted unity and fellowship? Should we not be assaying here how
that glorious garment suits us? And truly there is nothing makes a man so
heaven-like or God like as this, much love and charity.

Now there is one consideration might persuade us the more unto it, that
here we know but darkly and in part, and therefore our knowledge, at best,
is but obscure and inevident, ofttimes subject to many mistakes and
misapprehensions of truth, according as _mediums_ represent them. And
therefore there must be some latitude of love allowed one to another in
this state of imperfection, else it is impossible to keep unity, and we
must conflict often with our own shadows, and bite and devour one another
for some deceiving appearances. The imperfection and obscurity of
knowledge should make all men jealous of themselves, especially in matters
of a doubtful nature, and not so clearly determined by scripture. Because
our knowledge is weak, shall our love be so? Nay, rather let charity grow
stronger, and aspire unto perfection, because knowledge is imperfect. What
is wanting in knowledge let us make up in affection, and let the gap of
difference in judgment be swallowed up with the bowels of mercies and
love, and humbleness of mind. And then we shall have hid our infirmity of
understanding as much as may be. Thus we may go hand in hand together to
our Father's house, where, at length, we must be together.

Chapter III.

I may briefly reduce the chief persuading motive to this so needful and so
much desiderated grace into some three or four heads. All things within
and without persuade to it, but especially the right consideration of the
love of God in Christ, the wise and the impartial reflection on ourselves,
the consideration of our brethren whom we are command