65. CHARITY AND GOOD WORKS.

1. They had all things in common, and divided them with all, and broke bread (Acts of the Apostles 2:42, 44-45; 4:32-37).

The charity of the Primitive Church, afterwards described in a few words (Acts of the Apostles 11:28-30).

Bless them that persecute you, curse not, being of the same mind one toward another, not minding high things, recompensing to no one evil for evil, providing things honest in the sight of all men. If thine enemy hunger, feed him; if thou doest this thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head. Be not overcome by evil, but overcome evil by good (Romans 12:14-21).

Render to all their dues, tribute to whom tribute; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. Owe no man anything except to love (Romans 13:7, 8).

He that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery; Thou shalt not kill; Thou shalt not steal; Thou shalt not be a false witness; Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment it is comprehended in this word, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. Love worketh no ill to the neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law (Romans 13:8-10).

Let us lay aside the works of darkness, and let us put on the arms of light (Romans 13:12).

Let everyone of us please his neighbor in good to edification (Romans 15:2).