152. We notice how the Apostle includes both
good-will and liberality, as well as the manner, the fruits of right
giving, and the persons concerned. The manner certainly, for he
gave advice to those not perfect: For only the imperfect suffer
anxiety. But if any priest or other cleric, being unwilling to
burden the Church, St. Ambrose,
allowing clergy to retain some of their patrimony so as not to burden
the Church, is less strict than St. Augustine, who would have them give
up everything and live in common. Serm. 355. does not give away
all that he has, but does honourably what his office demands, he does
not seem to me to be imperfect. I think also that the Apostle
here spoke not of anxiety of mind, but rather of domestic
troubles.