1. Would the scenes witnessed in our streets, and the revelations of
police courts continue, if all men were characterised by the
righteousness contemplated in our text? Because men are unrighteous,
they encroach upon each other. The religion of Christ can be ill
spared. Where its influence prevails, society is better, happier,
more peaceful, more secure than elsewhere.
2. Think of the family. In the home all exhibit their true selves.
Selfishness and injustice may render it a place of incessant strife.
But our Christian homes, even where allowance has been made for
infirmities and peculiarities, are usually pervaded by an atmosphere
of peace and love. The influences that surround them produce mutual
forbearance and studiousness of others, restrain the harder and
develop the softer passions. Just in the measure in which the
subduing influences of Christian character prevail will our homes be
secure from strife and discomfort.
3. Think of the Church. There are divisions in the Church, it is
said. But there is less alienation of heart than is commonly
supposed. The common Christian's sentiments override the separated
denominations. So within the churches. Not many, in proportion to the
whole, are divided. Animosity, as arising from difference of opinion,
is restrained by Christian love. And if all were perfectly Christian,
there would be none.