Colossians 3:13

13. Forbearing As to present offences, thus emphasizing the last two virtues.

Forgiving The past, freely, absolutely, lovingly.

Quarrel Better, ground of complaint.

Even as Christ Here is the model for our forgiving. For the maintenance of governmental authority he must require the offender to ask forgiveness. So may we when we are, like him, upholders of law. But the spirit which led him to the cross, that he might buy the chance to forgive, will, if it be in us, beget forgiveness of our brethren without the asking.