Deuteronomy 13:6-10

I include these verses within one general observation, to preserve the thread of the narration unbroken. I beg the Reader to observe with me, the striking expression made use of in this precept; after, all the tender relations and charities of life are enumerated, the man of GOD, adds, the friend, which is as a man's own soul; intimating what our dear LORD taught, that even our own flesh, the eye, or the right hand; the one must be plucked out and the other cut off, if either come in competition with our attachment to our covenant GOD in CHRIST. For who is so near or so dear as he that is a Brother born for adversity, or the Friend that sticketh closer than a brother? Reader! is JESUS indeed thus precious to you? If so, no secret or open temptations will be sufficient to rob you of your happiness, or your GOD of his glory. See those Scriptures, Pro_17:17; Pro_18:24; Matthew 5:29; 1 Corinthians 10:13.