Inference 5.
Was Christ yet more humbled by his own sympathy with others in their distresses.* 1.1 Hence we learn, that a compassionate spirit to∣wards such as labour under burdens of sin or affliction, is Christ-like, and truly excellent. This was the spirit of Christ; O be ye like him. Put on as the Elect of God, bowels of mercy, Col. 3.12. Weep with them that weep, and rejoyce with them that do re∣joyce, Rom. 12.15. It was Cain that said, am I my brothers keeper?* 1.2 Blessed Paul was of a contrary temper, 2 Cor. 11.29. Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended and I burn not? Three things promote sympathy in Christians; one is, the Lords pity for them; he doth as it were suffer with me; in all their afflictions he was afflicted. Isai. 63.9. Another is the rela∣tion we sustain to Gods afflicted people. They are members with us in one body, and the members should have the same care one of another. 1 Cor. 12.25. The last is, we know not how soon our selves may need from others, what others now need from us. Re∣store him with the spirit of meekness, considering thy self, lest thou also be tempted, Gal. 6.1.