Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked?” says the Lord GOD, “and not rather that he should return from his way, and live?
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 23. Will. God sincerely wishes that the sinner should be converted. If he refuse grace, it is only in punishment of former transgressions. Saint Augustine ep. 217.—He wills antecedently their salvation, (1 Timothy 2:4) though he has a consequent will to punish them, as they speak in the schools, because they themselves will not be saved. Sanct. Calmet.—God’s absolute will is always fulfilled, not that which is conditional. S. Jo. Dam. (Fide ii. 29.) Saint Thomas Aquinas p. 1. q. 19. a. 6.—He does enough by offering his graces and the death of Christ, to shew that his will is sincere; though by a consequent will his justice punishes the impenitent. Thus a virtuous judge would have all to observe the laws and live: but finding some transgress, so as to become pernicious, he punishes them with death. Worthington.