Matthew Poole and continuators on James 5:20

20 Let him know that he which converts a sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death , and shall hide a multitude of sins.

Of his Life and Actions, which is contrary to the way which God hath prescribed.

Men are said to save in the same way as to convert, viz. Instrumentally.

The Soul of him that is thus converted, 1 Tim. 4.16. Soul for person, as chap. 1.21.

Eternal Death unto which he was hastening while he continued in the error of his way, which led him toward destruction.

In the same sense as before he is said to convert and save his Soul, viz. in being instrumental to bring him to Faith and Repentance, upon which God pardons, i. e. hides his Sins (Psal. 32.1.) though not from the eye of his Omniscience, yet from the eye of his vindictive Justice, and so as not to bring them forth in Judgment against him.

Marginal references: Prov. 10.12. 1 Pet. 4.8.