3:12 {f} Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, {g} bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
(f) Put on in such a way, that you never put off.
(g) Those most tender affections of exceeding compassion.
3:12 Put on, therefore, as the elect of God. As a chosen, holy and beloved nation, put on these graces.
Bowels of mercies. A heart of compassion (Revised Version).
Kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering. These are all traits of Christ, and must be found in us if he is our life.
3:12 All who are thus renewed are elected of God, holy, and therefore the more beloved of him. Holiness is the consequence of their election, and God's superior love, of their holiness.
3:12-17 We must not only do no hurt to any, but do what good we can to all. Those who are the elect of God, holy and beloved, ought to be lowly and compassionate towards all. While in this world, where there is so much corruption in our hearts, quarrels will sometimes arise. But it is our duty to forgive one another, imitating the forgiveness through which we are saved. Let the peace of God rule in your hearts; it is of his working in all who are his. Thanksgiving to God, helps to make us agreeable to all men. The gospel is the word of Christ. Many have the word, but it dwells in them poorly; it has no power over them. The soul prospers, when we are full of the Scriptures and of the grace of Christ. But when we sing psalms, we must be affected with what we sing. Whatever we are employed about, let us do every thing in the name of the Lord Jesus, and in believing dependence on him. Those who do all in Christ's name, will never want matter of thanksgiving to God, even the Father.
