Thesin of Israel was not simple whoredom, which may be done in the dark, but avowed, effronted idolatry. Whence learn--
1. Such is the stupidity of grossest sinners, that they neither see the ill nor danger of their way, unless it be much and frequently inculcated.
2. A visible church declining, will readily turn impudent in sin. The more corruption hath been hemmed in by the external bonds of order, it swells the more over all banks and bounds; and God justly giveth such up to be filled with their own devices.
3. It is a great aggravation of the sin of idolatry, that idols do become lovers, and do bewitch and draw the heart from God.
4. As it is a great sin to depart from God and His true worship, so especially it is a shameful way of departing from Him, when men’s ends are so low and base, that they will follow any way of religion for interest and advantage, and account the thriving way to be the best way.
5. It is also a great evidence of impudence, when men do not sin through infirmity or temptation, but deliberately, and do wilfully follow their resolutions, whatever may be said to the contrary. For, herein also she did shamefully, in that she said, “I will go after my lovers.” She avowed it, and was obstinate in it against all warnings. (George Hutcheson.)
