My little children] See on chap. 2. 1.
let us not love in word] Not in word onely; as Hosea 6:6. Matthew 9:13. and Matthew 12:7. Romans 2:28. By giving good words, without actuall relief, which is nothing worth, James 2:15.
and in truth] Not giving to avoid the importunity of the poor, as Luke 18:4-5. but out of love to them, and pitie of their wants. Or, in deed and in truth. Because that is true charity, which is manifested by deeds.