he manifold sins of Israel. (1-7) Their senselessness and
hypocrisy. (8-16)
Verses 1-7: A practical disbelief of God's government was at the bottom
of all israel's wickedness; as if God could not see it or did
not heed it. Their sins appear on every side of them. Their
hearts were inflamed by evil desires, like a heated oven. In the
midst of their troubles as a nation, the people never thought of
seeking help from God. The actual wickedness of men's lives
bears a very small proportion to what is in their hearts. But
when lust is inwardly cherished, it will break forth into
outward sin. Those who tempt others to drunkenness never can be
their real friends, and often design their ruin. Thus men
execute the Divine vengeance on each other. Those are not only
heated with sin, but hardened in sin, who continue to live
without prayer, even when in trouble and distress.
Verses 8-16: Israel was as a cake not turned, half burnt and half
dough, none of it fit for use; a mixture of idolatry and of the
worship of Jehovah. There were tokens of approaching ruin, as
grey hairs are of old age, but they noticed them not. The pride
which leads to break the law of God leads to self-flattery. The
mercy and grace of God are the only refuge to which obstinate
sinners never think of fleeing. Though they may howl forth their
terrors in the form of prayers, they seldom cry to God with
their hearts. Even their prayers for earthly mercies only seek
fuel for their lusts. Their turning from one sect, sentiment,
form, or vice, to another, still leaves them far short of Christ
and holiness. Such are we by nature. And such shall we prove if
left to ourselves. Create in us a clean heart, O God, and renew
a right spirit within us.
he manifold sins of Israel. (1-7) Their senselessness and
hypocrisy. (8-16)