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It was a frequent petition of the illustrious St. , "Lord, forgive other men's sins!" It is a petition which we all should constantly present to God; for we, all of us, in a greater or less degree, have been instrumental in producing that iniquity which deluges the world.

I. We are to show you BY WHAT MEANS WE MAY PARTAKE OF OTHER MEN'S SINS. We partake of other men's sins by uttering those sentiments which tend to subvert morality, or diminish our horror for guilt. If we propagate loose doctrines, if we scoff at serious piety, if we persuade men that an holy and heavenly life is not necessary, "if we call evil good and good evil," we are murdering souls.

II. That we may in future be more guarded, LET US ATTEND TO SOME OF THOSE MOTIVES WHICH ENFORCE THE INJUNCTION OF THE APOSTLE.

III. SOME DIRECTIONS, TO ENABLE YOU TO COMPLY WITH THE INJUNCTIONS OF THE APOSTLE.

1. Be careful that your own heart and life are holy. Sin is infectious; and as long as you are polluted with it, you must communicate its poison to those with whom you associate. Besides, if your own life is unholy, your conscience will prevent you from faithfully reproving sin in others, or your ill example will render your reproofs inefficacious.

2. Cultivate a high value and love for the souls of men. That which we love we shall not readily injure; and if we have a proper regard for immortal souls we shall rather forego many pleasures than give a wound to them.

3. Mourn before God for the sins of your brethren. When God passed through Jerusalem to smite it, He spared none but those who cried and sighed for the abominations that were done within it (Ezekiel 9:4).

4. If we would not partake of the sins of others, we must reprove them.

(H. Kollock.)

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KJV: Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure.

WEB: Lay hands hastily on no one, neither be a participant in other men's sins. Keep yourself pure.