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This shows that the vigorous endeavour of a prince to suppress vice, and reform the manners of his people is the most effectual way to support his government.

I. WHAT THE DUTY OF MAGISTRATES IS. To "take away the wicked"; to use their power for the terror of evil works and evil-workers, to banish those from the court who are vicious and profane, and to frighten them, and restrain them from spreading the infection of their wickedness among the people. Wicked people are the dross of a nation.

II. THE ADVANTAGE OF DOING THIS DUTY.

1. It will be the bettering of their subjects. They shall be made like silver refined; fit to be made vessels of honour.

2. It will be the settling of the prince. "His throne shall be established in this righteousness," for God will bless his government, the people will be pliable to it, and so it will become durable.

( Matthew Henry.)

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KJV: Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer.

WEB: Take away the dross from the silver, and material comes out for the refiner;