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The Spirit of Prophecy Volume 2
ways by a kindness similar to that with which Christ treated them who
persecuted him. Jesus taught his followers that they should exercise
a Christian courtesy toward all who came within their influence, that
they should not be forgetful in deeds of mercy, and that when solicited
for favors, they should show a benevolence superior to that of the
worldling. The children of God should represent the spirit that rules in
Heaven. Their principles of action should not be of the same character
with the narrow, selfish spirit of the world. Perfection alone can meet
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the standard of Heaven. As God himself is perfect in his exalted sphere,
so should his children be perfect in the humble sphere they occupy.
Thus only can they be fit for the companionship of sinless beings in
the kingdom of Heaven. Christ addresses to his followers these words
that establish the standard of Christian character: “Be ye therefore
perfect, even as your Father which is in Heaven is perfect.”
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