James 2:13 For he shall have judgment without mercy, that has showed no mercy; and mercy rejoices against judgment. 1. The condition of men under the covenant of works is very miserable. They meet with justice without any temper of mercy. 2. Unmerciful men find no mercy. (1) It is a sin most unsuitable to grace. Kindness maketh us pity misery: "Thou wast a stranger, be kind to strangers." God's love to us melteth the soul, and affecteth us not only with contrition towards God, but compassion to our brethren. At Zurich, when the gospel was first preached, they gave liberty to their captives and prisoners, out of a sense of their own deliverance by Christ. (2) It is unlike to God; He giveth and forgiveth. How will you look God in the face, if you should be so contrary to Him? 3. God usually retaliates and dealeth with men according to the manner and way of their wickedness. 4. God exercises acts of mercy with delight; His mercy rejoices over justice (Micah 7:18; Jeremiah 32:41). 5. Mercy in us is a sign of our interest in God's mercy (Matthew 5:7). It is manifested — (1) In pitying miseries (Matthew 15:32). (2) In relieving wants by counsel or contribution. (3) In forgiving injuries and offences(Matthew 18:22). (T. Manton.) Parallel Verses KJV: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.WEB: For judgment is without mercy to him who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment. |
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