Deuteronomy 21

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XXI.—Murder ought by all means to be rendered as horrible and detested as possible: and every mean should be used to discover and bring murderers to condign punishment, and to avoid being partakers with other men in their sins: but, at the same time, no selfish affection ought to be regarded, either in the giving or executing justice. However secretly sin be committed, God will discover and punish it at last: and if we cannot put away sin from our land, let us labour to pray it away.—Converts from idolatry ought not too rashly to be admitted into close connection with us: and, before we take a partner for life, it is of infinite moment that we agree in religion.—Sudden passions ought to be restrained, till grace be given, and time taken for reflection: and we should labour to wear our affections from that which we inordinately love.—Kindness ought to be shewn to such as God has sovereignly reduced to misery and trouble; and indulgence be allowed to sorrows which flow from natural affection.—Our engagements ought never to be rashly formed, lest our honour or conscience be afterwards wounded by them: and such as have been any ways wronged by us are entitled to all possible satisfaction. But surely still greater regard ought to be shewn to human souls, and care taken to prevent men’s everlasting infamy and woe. But in these figures let me behold Jesus, the seed of the woman, brought down to our world, and slain by the rulers of Israel as an expiation for our murderous crimes!—Jesus reserving a bride for himself, a glorious church of the Gentiles, and betrothing her to himself for ever in loving-kindness and in mercies!—Jesus, with whom there is no respect of persons, redeeming us from the curse of the law, and, by his crucifixion in our stead, removing the iniquity of the land in one day!