…We ought carefully to preserve Christian love and peace with our brethren, and that if at any time a breach happens, we should labour for a reconciliation, by confessing our fault, humbling ourselves to our brother, begging his pardon, and making restitution, or offering satisfaction for wrong done in word or deed, according as the nature of the thing is; and that we should do this quickly for two reasons: 1. Because, till this be done, we are utterly unfit for communion with God in holy ordinances…The case supposed is, “That thy brother have somewhat against thee,” that thou has injured and offended him, either really or in his apprehension…if the quarrel began on thy side, and the fault was either at first or afterwards thine, so that thy brother has a controversy with thee, go and be reconciled to him before thou offer thy gift at the altar, before thou approach solemnly to God in the gospel-services of prayer and praise, hearing the word or the sacraments. 2. Because, till this be done, we lie exposed to much danger….It is at our peril if we do not labour after an agreement, and that quickly...This is very applicable to the great business of our reconciliation to God through Christ; Agree with him quickly, whilst thou art in the way. – Matthew Henry |
