Kindness and tenderheartedness profit little unless they are given expression in the forgiving spirit. Kindness may be merely a kind of courtesy or politeness if it is not willing to take the step of forgiveness. The forgiving spirit is more than an ideal or even a virtue; it is a certain attitude of heart and soul.

 The Lord Himself is the only model we should attempt to follow (Matt. 6:12; Luke 6:36). Forgiveness for men was purchased at infinite cost, whereas it costs men nothing, except the sacrifice of some personal pride, to forgive others. Our forgiveness is to be measured against the divine forgiveness (cf. Matt. 18:32, 33), a fact that becomes the more startling the more it is pondered.

 Gr. eusplagchnos, “compassionate,” “tenderhearted.” The word is translated “pitiful” in Peter 3:8. Compare the expression “bowels of mercies” (Col. 3:12), which implies a tender regard for the weaknesses and needs of others. A callous indifference to suffering is wholly incompatible with the Christian spirit (cf. Luke 6:36; Phil. 2:4; 1 Peter 3:8).

 Gr. chrēstoi, “gentle,” “gracious.” Simple kindness or gentleness (chrēstotēs) is one of the profoundest recommendations of the Christian, and is a fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22). It is the opposite of the malice of Eph. 4:31. By a spiritual alchemy, conversion changes malice into kindness.

 Literally, “in Christ,” the key phrase in the epistle (see on ch. 1:1). There is no basis for the translation, “for Christ’s sake.” Such a reading gives support to the unfortunate concept that the Father had to be persuaded by Christ to give up His harsh intentions toward the sinner before forgiveness could be exercised (see 2 Cor. 5:19; see on Rom. 5:10).

Important textual evidence may be cited (cf. p. 10) for the reading “us.”