is the nature of this law? Is it ceremonial or moral? Manifestly there is in it nothing of a ceremonial kind. Whichever of the two interpretations be correct, it is moral—designed to regulate the conduct of rational creatures, to direct the intercourse of near relations, and prevent their sinning against their Creator.
Is this law permanent or temporary? Was it intended for the Church in all ages, or only while she remained under the Jewish economy? Why should it be limited to one period? Do not Christians need a directory for marriage, as well as the Israelites? Or, if it be regarded as not pertaining to marriage, but only as forbidding single incestuous acts, must not the prohibitions extend to them? None will plead for liberty to practise the lewdness contemplated in these prohibitory statutes.
In support of the perpetuity of this divine law we might argue from what is said by the Lawgiver in the preface: "Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, I am the LORD your God. After the doings of the land of Egypt, wherein ye dwelt, shall ye not do: and after the doings of the land of Canaan, whither
