1. '' The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord"—
[Where so strong an assertion is used in reference to any character, it is obvious, that we ought to understand, very clearly and distinctly, who they are that are designated by that character. For instance, suppose that under this general term, " the wicked," we were to comprehend those only who are grossly and openly immoral, we should release all others from any participation in the feelings which the assertion respecting them is intended to create. But this we cannot do : for Solo- mon himself has accurately defined the character which he is here speaking of; and after defining it, has annexed to that very definition the same declaration as occurs in my text : " He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even nis prayer shall be abomination^." You will observe then, that the wicked is one who is inattentive to the commands of God in his word, and averse to comply with the requisitions of his Law and of his Gospel^
Now such an one, even though he be guilty of no flagrant sins, is an abomination to the Lord. The rebellious state of his mind is most offensive to God : and therefore every thing that he does is hateful to him: "A high look, and a proud heart, and even the ploughing of the wicked, is sin '^." No act can be more innocent than that of ploughing : but the most innocent ads of such a person participate in the guilt of his general state and habit of mind.
His most religious acts too are hateful to God : his very " sacrifices" are an abomination. In the first chapter of Isaiah's prophecies, the Jews are represented as bringing the offerings ajypointed by the Law, as bringing the best too, and in great number, and at the seasons ordaiiied by God himself; and as accompanying those sacrifices with fervent prayer ; and yet as being, at the same time, objects of God's utter abhorrence, because their conduct was altogether at variance with their professions'". In another chapter he speaks of them as " taking delight in approaching to God," and as abounding in the self-denying exercises of fasting and prayer ; and yet as altogether hateful in his sight''. The prophet Amos speaks strongly to the same effect ^ To what an extent the services of such persons are abhorred, God himself has told us: "He that killeth an ox, is as if he slew a man : he that sacrificeth a
a Prov. xxviii. 9.
'^ This distinction should be more fully opened, in order that all may know how deeply they are interested in what follows.
c Prov. xxi. 4. <^ Isai. i. 11 — 13. ^ jgaj, iy\\\^ 2.
f Amos. v. 21 — 23. This and the two preceding quotations should be recited at full length, and with the emphasis due to them.