has come down to them, need the gospel. In point of fact, the light which they enjoy does not lead them to God and holiness, vs. 21 — 23.
6. Error (on moral and religious subjects) has its root in depravity. Men are ignorant of God and duty, because they do not like to retain him in their knowledge, vs. 21, 28.
7. God often punishes one sin by abandoning the sinner to the com- mission of others. Paul repeats this idea three times, vs. 24, 26, 28. This judicial abandonment is consistent with the holiness of God, and the free agency of man. God does not impel or entice to evil. He ceases to restrain. He says of the sinner. Let him alone, vs. 24 — 28.
8. Religion is the only true foundation, and the only effectual safe- guard of morality. Those who abandon God, he abandons. Irreligion and immorality, therefore, have ever been found inseparably connected, vs. 24—28.
9. It evinces, in general, greater depravity to encourage others in the commission of crimes, and to rejoice in their commission, than to commit them one's self, v. 32.
10. The most reprobate sinner carries about with him a knowledge of his just exposure to the wrath of God. Conscience can never be entirely extirpated, v. 32.