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The law is characterised by six names and nine epithets and by nine effects. The names are law, testimony, statutes, commandments, fear, judgments. To it are applied nine epithets, namely, perfect, sure, right, pure, holy, true, righteous, desirable, sweet. To it are ascribed nine effects, namely, it converts the soul, makes wise the simple, rejoices the heart, enlightens the eyes, endures forever, enriches like gold, satisfies like honey, warns against sin, rewards the obedient. The central thought or conception about which all gathers is that of law. There is a profound philosophy in this passage. It presents Jehovah as Lord, i.e. "Law-ward, or guardian of law. We are to conceive of God's law as —

1. A perfect rule of duty, having a basis of common law beneath all its statutory provisions, an eternal basis of essential right and wrong. "Thou shalt" and "thou shalt not," based upon eternal principles, not upon an arbitrary will. We are to think of this fabric of law as —

2. Supported like a grand arch, upon two great pillars: reward and penalty.The whole passage is therefore a challenge to our adoring homage and obedience.

1. The law is a perfect product of infinite wisdom and love, (Romans 7:12, 14) "holy, just, good, spiritual."

2. It is enforced by Divine sanctions of reward and penalty, and these are each equally necessary to sustain the law and government of God. The testimonies and the judgment are equally perfect. The love that rewards and the wrath that punishes are equally beautiful and perfect.The transcendent thought of the whole passage is that obedience is a privilege.

1. Law is the voice of love, not simply of authority, therefore only love can truly fulfil.

2. Obedience is self-rewarding and disobedience self-avenging.The general thought of this whole passage is, obedience the highest privilege.

1. The law is the expression of Divine perfection; hence leads to perfection.

2. Of the highest love; hence must be interpreted by love and fulfilled by love.

3. Of the highest bliss — key to blessing; hence the door to promises.

4. "Our schoolmaster to lead us to Christ." Cannot justify, but only conduct to the obedient One who can justify.

(Homiletic Monthly.)

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KJV: The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.

WEB: Yahweh's law is perfect, restoring the soul. Yahweh's testimony is sure, making wise the simple.