The way of the Lord; i.e. the way in which he has commanded, men to walk—the way of his commandments (Psalms 25:12; Psalms 119:27), that which the Pharisees confessed that Christ taught (Matthew 22:16).
The Septuagint renders, "the fear of the Lord," which practically gives the meaning. Or "the Lord's way" may be his moral government of the world. Strength; better a fortress (Proverbs 10:15). Doing his simple duty, a good man is safe; for, as St.
Peter says, "Who is he that will harm you, if ye be zealous of that which is good?" (1 Peter 3:13). But destruction shall be; better, but it (the way of Jehovah) is destruction. The two effects of the Law of God are contrasted, according as it is obeyed or neglected.
While it is protection to the righteous, it is condemnation and ruin to sinners (see on Proverbs 21:15) So Christ at one time calls himself "the Way" (John 14:6); at another says, "For judgment I am come into this world" (John 9:39); and Simeon declares of him (Luke 2:34), "This Child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel".