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Translation
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What the Fathers say
Eastern Fathers
Theophylact of Ohrid
If we have forgiven our neighbors the sins they committed against us and from our possessions share a portion with the poor, then the mercy of God will also receive us when He judges our deeds. The accomplishment of this is important. On the contrary, severe condemnation awaits those who did not show goodwill toward their fellows. Those who did not have pity on their neighbors who sinned against them will be overtaken by the condemnation of the wicked servant (Matt. 18:32–35). …
Oecumenius
For judgment without mercy to him that has not done mercy. And mercy exalts itself above judgment. "For judgment without mercy to him that has not done mercy." If we have forgiven our neighbors the sins they have committed against us, and have made the needy among us sharers in our alms, then God's mercy will deliver us from judgment. God will also welcome the merciful. …
Western Saints
Augustine of Hippo
He who judges without mercy will be judged without mercy. And in this sense only is the "same measure" to be understood, that the mercy which he did not show will not be shown to him, and that the judgment which he makes will be eternal, even though the thing judged cannot be eternal.
Bede
But mercy exalts over judgment. For as the one condemned in God's judgment will grieve who did not show mercy, so the one who did will rejoice and exult when rewarded. Alternatively: Mercy exalts over judgment. It is not said: Mercy overcomes judgment. For it is not opposed to judgment but exalts over it, because many are gathered through mercy, but those who have shown mercy. For blessed are the merciful, since God will have mercy on them (Matthew 5). Again, Mercy exalts over judgment, that is, mercy is placed above judgment. …
Bonaventure
In the second petition, the consummation of human salvation is sought, which is not obtained except through the gift of piety: "Judgment without mercy shall be done to him who has not shown mercy." This gift is touched upon when he says: "Thy kingdom come."
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