By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.
By mercy and truth iniquity is purged (Hebrew, yªkupar (H3722)) - 'is expiated' or 'atoned for.' By mercy on God's part, in devising and promising the atonement; and by His truth, in keeping His promise (Exodus 34:6; Ps. 85:19; Psalms 89:2-3). As the expression is general here, there is also meant, By mercy and truth on the part of men, flowing from faith in God's mercy and truth toward them, iniquity is shown to be purged. Also, God deals in mercy to them as they deal so to their fellow-men (Daniel 4:27; Proverbs 14:21-22).
And by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil. If the former clause be understood of mercy and truth on the part of men, then this clause declares the only principle from which mercy and truth must flow, so as to be acceptable to God-namely, true faith and filial fear toward God. If the former clause mean (as I prefer, because of the Hebrew kaapar (H3722)), By God's mercy and truth men's iniquity is purged through faith, then this clause expresses sanctification flowing from justification. God of His mere grace purges away our iniquity. Not that we may return to it, or wallow in sin, but that we may turn from it, and walk "in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life" (Luke 1:75).