Exodus 23:2

Not follow a multitude. Omitting the word “do” in this first clause, which is not in the original Hebrew, this prohibition covers not only evil in deed but also in word and thought. Remembering the words of Jesus, we are not to take the manner of life of the many as our example (Matt. 7:13, 14). One of the chief dangers facing professed Christians is that of pliant willingness to follow the crowd, notwithstanding the Scriptural admonition against such a tendency.

To decline. That is, to turn aside. A better translation of the last half of this verse would be: “Neither shalt thou bear witness in a case by going aside after a multitude to pervert justice.” In connection with the next verse this may be taken as referring to one of the judges, who is not to follow the other judges in deciding a case but to have his own opinion and hold to it.