There is something especially pleasing in the behaviour of a lovingly obedient child, that wins “favour”both “with God and man” (Luke 2:52). The law of filial obedience has its creative ground “in him” (ch. 1:16), and is an essential part of the Christian order of life, which is the natural order restored and perfected. “Well-pleasing” is a favourite word of St. Paul’s (comp. ch. 1:10; Eph. 5:10; Phil. 4:8; Rom. 14:18; Titus 2:9, etc.; used also in Hebrews). Ver. 21.—Ye fathers, do not irritate your