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This is one of those sublime declarations of Scripture which taken together are a proof of its inspiration; one of those

"Jewels five words long,
That on the stretch'd forefinger of all time
Sparkle for ever."

I. THIS PRINCIPLE IS CONTRARY TO THE CUSTOMARY BELIEFS REGARDING RELIGION. There is a tendency in human nature to degrade religion into a matter of ceremony. Religions which in their beginnings enunciate great spiritual truths often sink into schemes of ritual, transactions between devotee and priest, a routine of sacrifices and formal observances. Even the best religions - those which originate in the Divine wisdom - are not superior to the debasing influence of this tendency.

II. THIS PRINCIPLE IS SANCTIONED BY THE WHOLE TEACHING AND TENOR OF SCRIPTURE. It was grandly expressed by Samuel the seer, whose spiritual intuitions were never more strikingly evident than in its enunciation in the memorable words, "To obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams." It was repeated by the great Teacher himself, "Go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice." And when the scribe summed up morality and religion in the memorable saying, "To love God... and his neighbor... is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices," this judgment was stamped at once with the approval and commendation of the Lord.

III. THIS PRINCIPLE IS IN HARMONY WITH AN ELEVATED AND JUST VIEW OF THE CHARACTER OF GOD. The deities imagined by the heathen were in many cases of such a character that they may have been well supposed to take pleasure rather in offerings than in virtue, in justice, and benevolence. But the God who is himself all holy, and who is the Searcher of hearts, must needs detest the hypocrisy that is scrupulous in all outward observances, but neglects the weightier matters of the Law.

IV. THE PRINCIPLE IS ONE THE PRACTICAL ADOPTION' OF WHICH MUST PROMOTE THE TRUE WELFARE OF MAN. It is well known that the ceremonial system of religion which is consistent with a low standard of morality, debases society; whilst, on the other hand, they who cultivate an intelligent religion, based on "the knowledge of God," and a practical religion displayed in the exercise of mercy, are the very salt of society. The practice of thoughtful inquiry and of virtuous living gives a depth to piety, and renders a profession of religion, which otherwise would become a laughing-stock, honorable and estimable in the view of men. - T.

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Parallel Verses

KJV: For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.

WEB: For I desire mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.