But what is commanded here is something primarily between Christians. What a difference kindness makes.
How much God has forgiven us for Christ’s sake! We would find it impossible to count up all our offences to God and yet each one has had to be accounted for if we are to be truly justified before God.
Who would not want to be among the Lord’s people when such an atmosphere prevails? Some who do not know the Lord are still attracted to the company of Christians because there is a genuine kindness found among them that is not found in the world. How rare is tenderheartedness in the world! Where it does appear, it is often tinged with an undercurrent of self-seeking, and there is certainly a limit to all human kindness.