Numbers 5:7

Then they shall confess their sin which they have done— Then he shall confess the wrong he hath done.

REFLECTIONS.—We have here,

1. The separation of the unclean from the camp and tabernacle till the cause of it was removed. Note; (1.) God's church and people must have no fellowship with the unholy and impure. (2.) Such should be cut off from the visible communion of saints. (3.) If not before, at death the separation will be made, and that final and eternal.

2. The restitution of unjust gain, or fraudulent acquisitions. Though it cover the delinquent with shame, confession must be made; and better take shame before man, than be covered with everlasting confusion before men and angels. Atonement to God must be offered, (figurative of the Great Atonement on the cross,) as well as restitution to man, with a fifth part over: if the injured person were dead, his near kinsman was entitled to it; if he had none, it was the priest's. Restitution must be made. The poor are now God's receivers, when the party injured cannot be found. The priest who officiated was entitled to the hallowed things of the atoning sacrifice; it is fit that he who doth the work should have the wages.