As righteousness [tendeth] to life: so he that pursueth evil [pursueth it] to his own death.
Ver. 19. As righteousness tendeth to life.] Heb., Lives; for "godliness hath the promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come." 1Ti 4:8 And this is that sure reward spoken of in the former verse; for "he that soweth to the Spirit, shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting," Gal 6:8 which indeed is the only life that deserveth so to be called and counted.
So he that pursueth evil.] That follows it hotfoot - as Asael followed Abner; that is, wholly carried after it, and thinks to have a great catch of it, that works "all uncleanness with greediness." Eph 4:19 This the prophet calls a "spirit of whoredom," a strong inclination, a vehement impetus to that and other sins, an "adding drunkenness to thirst, rebellion to sin"; till wrath come upon them to the utmost. Hell gapes for such sinners.