Psalm 24:4

Verse 4. Who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, is read by Arius Montanus, "He that hath not received his soul in vain." Oh! how many receive their souls in vain, making no more use of them than the swine, of whom the philosopher observes, cujus anima pro sale, their souls are only for salt to keep their bodies from stinking. Who would not grieve to think that so choice a piece should be employed about so vain a use! George Swinnock.

Verse 4. Nor sworn deceitfully; or inured his tongue to any other kind of language of hell's rotten communication, to the dishonouring of God, or deceiving of others. Perjury is here instanced for the rest, as one of the most heinous. But Peraldus reckoneth up twenty-four several sins of the tongue, all which every burgess of the New Jerusalem is careful to avoid, as the devil's drivel, no way becoming his pure lip. John Trapp.

Verse 4. Now we come to the four conditions requisite to render such an ascent possible.

Verse 4. Heaven is not won with good words and a fair profession. The doing Christian is the man that shall stand, when the empty boaster of his faith shall fall. The great talkers of religion are often the least doers. His religion is in vain whose profession brings not letters testimonial from a holy life. William Gurnall.

HINTS FOR PASTORS AND LAYPERSONS

Verse 4. (first clause). Connection between outward morality and inward purity.

Verse 4. (second clause). Men judged by their delights.

Verse 4. "Clean hands."

Verse 4-5. Character manifested and favour received.