For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD:
For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord. Those who do not choose the fear of the Lord are condemned no less than those who hate it. Not to choose is virtually to dislike, and ends in positive hatred (Matthew 12:30). Men are free in choosing destruction, so that the blame rests wholly on themselves (Acts 13:46, "Ye judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life"). It is the Spirit who moves any to "choose the good part" (Luke 10:42). Many, when "the fear of the Lord" is set before them, apply the preacher's warning to others, not to themselves