And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.
Ver. 29. I would that all] Charity is no churl; there is no envy in spiritual things, because they may be divided in solidum: one may have as much as another, and all alike. Self-love writes, as that emperor did, τα εις εμαυτον, For mine own use only. It makes men like those envious Athenians, who sacrificed for none but themselves and their neighbours of Chios. But true Christian love wisheth well to the community. "I would to God" (said Mr Dad) "I were the worst minister in England" (and England had but a few better), not wishing himself worse than he was, but other men better.