BibleWare/BibWare.bin/bibref/mhc.exe/EZE.TXT

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** Ezekiel was one of the priests; he was carried captive to
Chaldea with Jehoiachin. All his prophecies appear to have been
delivered in that country, at some place north of Babylon. Their
chief object appears to have been to comfort his brethren in
captivity. He is directed to warn of the dreadful calamities
coming upon Judea, particularly upon the false prophets, and the
neighbouring nations. Also to announce the future restoration of
Israel and Judah from their several dispersions, and their happy
state in their latter days, under the Messiah. Much of Christ
will be found in this book, especially in the conclusion.

* Ezekiel's vision of God, and of the angelic host. (1-14) The
conduct of Divine Providence. (15-25) A revelation of the Son of
man upon his heavenly throne. (26-28)

#1-14 It is a mercy to have the word of God brought to us, and a
duty to attend to it diligently, when we are in affliction. The
voice of God came in the fulness of light and power, by the Holy
Spirit. These visions seem to have been sent to possess the
prophet's mind with great and high thoughts of God. To strike
terror upon sinners. To speak comfort to those that feared God,
and humbled themselves. In ver. #4-14|, is the first part of the
vision, which represents God as attended and served by a vast
company of angels, who are all his messengers, his ministers,
doing his commandments. This vision would impress the mind with
solemn awe and fear of the Divine displeasure, yet raise
expectations of blessings. The fire is surrounded with a glory.
Though we cannot by searching find out God to perfection, yet we
see the brightness round about it. The likeness of the living
creatures came out of the midst of the fire; angels derive their
being and power from God. They have the understanding of a man,
and far more. A lion excels in strength and boldness. An ox
excels in diligence and patience, and unwearied discharge of the
work he has to do. An eagle excels in quickness and piercing
sight, and in soaring high; and the angels, who excel man in all
these respects, put on these appearances. The angels have wings;
and whatever business God sends them upon, they lose no time.
They stood straight, and firm, and steady. They had not only
wings for motion, but hands for action. Many persons are quick,
who are not active; they hurry about, but do nothing to purpose;
they have wings, but no hands. But wherever the angels' wings
carried them, they carried hands with them, to be doing what
duty required. Whatever service they went about, they went every
one straight forward. When we go straight, we go forward; when
we serve God with one heart, we perform work. They turned not
when they went. They made no mistakes; and their work needed not
to be gone over again. They turned not from their business to
trifle with any thing. They went whithersoever the Spirit of God
would have them go. The prophet saw these living creatures by
their own light, for their appearance was like burning coals of
fire; they are seraphim, or "burners;" denoting the ardour of
their love to God, and fervent zeal in his service. We may learn
profitable lessons from subjects we cannot fully enter into or
understand. But let us attend to the things which relate to our
peace and duty, and leave secret things to the Lord, to whom
alone they belong.

#15-25 Providence, represented by the wheels, produces changes.
Sometimes one spoke of the wheel is uppermost, sometimes
another; but the motion of the wheel on its own axletree is
regular and steady. We need not despond in adversity; the wheels
are turning round and will raise us in due time, while those who
presume in prosperity know not how soon they may be cast down.
The wheel is near the living creatures; the angels are employed
as ministers of God's providence. The spirit of the living
creatures was in the wheels; the same wisdom, power, and
holiness of God, that guide and govern the angels, by them order
all events in this lower world. The wheel had four faces,
denoting that the providence of God exerts itself in all parts.
Look every way upon the wheel of providence, it has a face
toward you. Their appearance and work were as a wheel in the
middle of a wheel. The disposals of Providence seem to us dark,
perplexed, and unaccountable, yet are all wisely ordered for the
best. The motion of these wheels was steady, regular, and
constant. They went as the Spirit directed, therefore returned
not. We should not have to undo that by repentance which we have
done amiss, if we followed the guidance of the Spirit. The
rings, or rims of the wheels were so vast, that when put in
motion the prophet was afraid to look upon them. The
consideration of the height and depth of God's counsel should
awe us. They were full of eyes round about. The motions of
Providence are all directed by infinite Wisdom. All events are
determined by the eyes of the Lord, which are in every place
beholding the evil and the good; for there is no such thing as
chance or fortune. The firmament above was a crystal, glorious,
but terribly so. That which we take to be a dark cloud, is to
God clear as crystal, through which he looks upon all the
inhabitants of the earth. When the angels had roused a careless
world, they let down their wings, that God's voice might be
plainly heard. The voice of Providence is to open men's ears to
the voice of the word. Sounds on earth should awaken our
attention to the voice from heaven; for how shall we escape, if
we turn away from Him that speaks from thence.

#26-28 The eternal Son, the second Person in the Trinity, who
afterwards took the human nature, is here denoted. The first
thing observed was a throne. It is a throne of glory, a throne
of grace, a throne of triumph, a throne of government, a throne
of judgment. It is good news to men, that the throne above the
firmament is filled with One who appears, even there, in the
likeness of a man. The throne is surrounded with a rainbow, the
well-known emblem of the covenant, representing God's mercy and
covenanted love to his people. The fire of God's wrath was
breaking out against Jerusalem, but bounds should be set to it;
he would look upon the bow, and remember the covenant. All the
prophet saw was only to prepare him for what he was to hear.
When he fell on his face, he heard the voice of One that spake.
God delights to teach the humble. Let sinners, then, humble
themselves before him. And let believers think upon his glory,
that they may be gradually changed into his image by the Spirit
of the Lord.
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* The prophet is directed what he is to do. (1-5) And encouraged
to be resolute, faithful, and devoted. (6-10)

#1-5 Lest Ezekiel should be lifted up with the abundance of the
revelations, he is put in mind that still he is a son of man, a
weak, mortal creature. As Christ usually called himself the Son
of man, it was also an honourable distinction. Ezekiel's posture
showed reverence, but his standing up would be a posture of
greater readiness and fitness for business. God will speak to
us, when we stand ready to do what he commands us. As Ezekiel
had not strength of his own, the Spirit entered into him. God is
graciously pleased to work in us whatever he requires of us. The
Holy Spirit sets us upon our feet, by inclining our wills to our
duty. Thus, when the Lord calls upon the sinner to awake, and
attend to the concerns of his soul, the Spirit of life and grace
comes with the call. Ezekiel is sent with a message to the
children of Israel. Many might treat his message with contempt,
yet they should know by the event that a prophet had been sent
to them. God will be glorified, and his word made honourable,
whether it be a savour of life unto life, or of death unto
death.

#6-10 Those who will do any thing to purpose in the service of
God, must not fear men. Wicked men are as briers and thorns; but
they are nigh unto cursing, and their end is to be burned. The
prophet must be faithful to the souls of those to whom he was
sent. All who speak from God to others, must obey his voice. The
discoveries of sin, and the warnings of wrath, should be matter
of lamentation. And those acquainted with the word of God, will
clearly perceive it is filled with woe to impenitent sinners;
and that all the precious promises of the gospel are for the
repenting, believing servants of the Lord.
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* The preparation of the prophet for his work. (1-11) His
office, as that of a watchman. (12-2) The restraining and
restoring his speech. (22-27)

#1-11 Ezekiel was to receive the truths of God as the food for
his soul, and to feed upon them by faith, and he would be
strengthened. Gracious souls can receive those truths of God
with delight, which speak terror to the wicked. He must speak
all that, and that only, which God spake to him. How can we
better speak God's mind than with his words? If disappointed as
to his people, he must not be offended. The Ninevites were
wrought upon by Jonah's preaching, when Israel was unhumbled and
unreformed. We must leave this unto the Divine sovereignty, and
say, Lord, thy judgments are a great deep. They will not regard
the word of the prophet, for they will not regard the rod of
God. Christ promises to strengthen him. He must continue earnest
in preaching, whatever the success might be.

#12-21 This mission made the holy angels rejoice. All this was
to convince Ezekiel, that the God who sent him had power to bear
him out in his work. He was overwhelmed with grief for the sins
and miseries of his people, and overpowered by the glory of the
vision he had seen. And however retirement, meditation, and
communion with God may be sweet, the servant of the Lord must
prepare to serve his generation. The Lord told the prophet he
had appointed him a watchman to the house of Israel. If we warn
the wicked, we are not chargeable with their ruin. Though such
passages refer to the national covenant made with Israel, they
are equally to be applied to the final state of all men under
every dispensation. We are not only to encourage and comfort
those who appear to be righteous, but they are to be warned, for
many have grown high-minded and secure, have fallen, and even
died in their sins. Surely then the hearers of the gospel should
desire warnings, and even reproofs.

#22-27 Let us own ourselves for ever indebted to the mediation
of Christ, for the blessed intercourse between God and man; and
a true believer will say, I am never less alone than when thus
alone. When the Lord opened Ezekiel's mouth, he was to deliver
his message boldly, to place life and death, the blessing and
the curse, before the people, and leave them to their choice.
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* The siege of Jerusalem. (1-8) The famine the inhabitants would
suffer. (9-17)

#1-8 The prophet was to represent the siege of Jerusalem by
signs. He was to lie on his left side for a number of days,
supposed to be equal to the years from the establishment of
idolatry. All that the prophet sets before the children of his
people, about the destruction of Jerusalem, is to show that sin
is the provoking cause of the ruin of that once flourishing
city.

#9-17 The bread which was Ezekiel's support, was to be made of
coarse grain and pulse mixed together, seldom used except in
times of urgent scarcity, and of this he was only to take a
small quantity. Thus was figured the extremity to which the Jews
were to be reduced during the siege and captivity. Ezekiel does
not plead, Lord, from my youth I have been brought up
delicately, and never used to any thing like this; but that he
had been brought up conscientiously, and never had eaten any
thing forbidden by the law. It will be comfortable when we are
brought to suffer hardships, if our hearts can witness that we
have always been careful to keep even from the appearance of
evil. See what woful work sin makes, and acknowledge the
righteousness of God herein. Their plenty having been abused to
luxury and excess, they were justly punished by famine. When men
serve not God with cheerfulness in the abundance of all things,
God will make them serve their enemies in the want of all
things.
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* A type of hair, showing the judgments about to come upon the
Jews. (1-4) These awful judgments are declared. (5-17)

#1-4 The prophet must shave off the hair of his head and beard,
which signifies God's utter rejecting and abandoning that
people. One part must be burned in the midst of the city,
denoting the multitudes that should perish by famine and
pestilence. Another part was to be cut in pieces, representing
the many who were slain by the sword. Another part was to be
scattered in the wind, denoting the carrying away of some into
the land of the conqueror, and the flight of others into the
neighbouring countries for shelter. A small quantity of the
third portion was to be bound in his shirts, as that of which he
is very careful. But few were reserved. To whatever refuge
sinners flee, the fire and sword of God's wrath will consume
them.

#5-17 The sentence passed upon Jerusalem is very dreadful, the
manner of expression makes it still more so. Who is able to
stand in God's sight when he is angry? Those who live and die
impenitent, will perish for ever unpitied; there is a day coming
when the Lord will not spare. Let not persons or churches, who
change the Lord's statutes, expect to escape the doom of
Jerusalem. Let us endeavour to adorn the doctrine of God our
Saviour in all things. Sooner or later God's word will prove
itself true.
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* The Divine judgments for idolatry. (1-7) A remnant shall be
saved. (8-10) The calamities are to be lamented. (11-14)

#1-7. War desolates persons, places, and things esteemed most
sacred. God ruins idolatries even by the hands of idolaters. It
is just with God to make that a desolation, which we make an
idol. The superstitions to which many trust for safety, often
cause their ruin. And the day is at hand, when idols and
idolatry will be as thoroughly destroyed from the professedly
Christian church as they were from among the Jews.

#8-10 A remnant of Israel should be left; at length they should
remember the Lord, their obligations to him, and rebellion
against him. True penitents see sin to be that abominable thing
which the Lord hates. Those who truly loathe sin, loathe
themselves because of sin. They give glory to God by their
repentance. Whatever brings men to remember Him, and their sins
against him, should be regarded as a blessing.

#11-14 It is our duty to be affected, not only with our own sins
and sufferings, but to look with compassion upon the miseries
wicked people bring upon themselves. Sin is a desolating thing;
therefore, stand in awe, and sin not. If we know the worth of
souls, and the danger to which unbelievers are exposed, we shall
deem every sinner who takes refuge in Jesus from the wrath to
come, an abundant recompence for all contempt or opposition we
may meet with.
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* The desolation of the land. (1-15) The distress of the few who
should escape. (16-22) The captivity. (23-27)

#1-15 The abruptness of this prophecy, and the many repetitions,
show that the prophet was deeply affected by the prospect of
these calamities. Such will the destruction of sinners be; for
none can avoid it. Oh that the wickedness of the wicked might
end before it bring them to an end! Trouble is to the impenitent
only an evil, it hardens their hearts, and stirs up their
corruptions; but there are those to whom it is sanctified by the
grace of God, and made a means of much good. The day of real
trouble is near, not a mere echo or rumour of troubles. Whatever
are the fruits of God's judgments, our sin is the root of them.
These judgments shall be universal. And God will be glorified in
all. Now is the day of the Lord's patience and mercy, but the
time of the sinner's trouble is at hand.

#16-22 Sooner or later, sin will cause sorrow; and those who
will not repent of their sin, may justly be left to pine away in
it. There are many whose wealth is their snare and ruin; and the
gaining the world is the losing of their souls. Riches profit
not in the day of wrath. The wealth of this world has not that
in it which will answer the desires of the soul, or be any
satisfaction to it in a day of distress. God's temple shall
stand them in no stead. Those are unworthy to be honoured with
the form of godliness, who will not be governed by its power.

#23-27 Whoever break the bands of God's law, will find
themselves bound and held by the chains of his judgments. Since
they encouraged one another to sin, God would dishearten them.
All must needs be in trouble, when God comes to judge them
according to their deserts. May the Lord enable us to seek that
good part which shall not be taken away.
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* The idolatries committed by the Jewish rulers. (1-6) The
superstitions to which the Jews were then devoted, the Egyptian.
(7-12) The Phoenician. (13,14) The Persian. (15,16) The
heinousness of their sin. (17,18)

#1-6 The glorious personage Ezekiel beheld in vision, seemed to
take hold upon him, and he was conveyed in spirit to Jerusalem.
There, in the inner court of the temple, was prepared a place
for some base idol. The whole was presented in vision to the
prophet. If it should please God to give any man a clear view of
his glory and majesty, and of all the abominations committing in
any one city, he would then admit the justice of the severest
punishments God should inflict thereon.

#7-12 A secret place was, as it were, opened, where the prophet
saw creatures painted on the walls, and a number of the elders
of Israel worshipped before them. No superiority in worldly
matters will preserve men from lust, or idolatries, when they
are left to their own deceitful hearts; and those who are soon
wearied in the service of God, often grudge no toil nor expense
when following their superstitions. When hypocrites screen
themselves behind the wall of an outward profession, there is
some hole or other left in the wall, something that betrays them
to those who look diligently. There is a great deal of secret
wickedness in the world. They think themselves out of God's
sight. But those are ripe indeed for ruin, who lay the blame of
their sins upon the Lord.

#13-18 The yearly lamenting for Tammuz was attended with
infamous practices; and the worshippers of the sun here
described, are supposed to have been priests. The Lord appeals
to the prophet concerning the heinousness of the crime; "and lo,
they put the branch to their nose," denoting some custom used by
idolaters in honour of the idols they served. The more we
examine human nature and our own hearts, the more abominations
we shall discover; and the longer the believer searches himself,
the more he will humble himself before God, and the more will he
value the fountain open for sin, and seek to wash therein.
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* A vision denoting the destruction of the inhabitants of
Jerusalem, and the departure of the symbol of the Divine
presence.

#1-4 It is a great comfort to believers, that in the midst of
destroyers and destructions, there is a Mediator, a great High
Priest, who has an interest in heaven, and in whom saints on
earth have an interest. The representation of the Divine glory
from above the ark, removed to the threshold, denoted that the
Lord was about to leave his mercy-seat, and to pronounce
judgment on the people. The distinguishing character of this
remnant that is to be saved, is such as sigh and cry to God in
prayer, because of the abominations in Jerusalem. Those who keep
pure in times of general wickedness, God will keep safe in times
of general trouble and distress.

#5-11 The slaughter must begin at the sanctuary, that all may
see and know that the Lord hates sin most in those nearest to
him. He who was appointed to protect, reported the matter.
Christ is faithful to the trust reposed in him. Is he commanded
by his Father to secure eternal life to the chosen remnant? He
says, Of all that thou hast given me, I have lost none. If
others perish, and we are saved, we must ascribe the difference
wholly to the mercy of our God, for we too have deserved wrath.
Let us still continue to plead in behalf of others. But where
the Lord shows no mercy he does no injustice; he only
recompenses men's ways.
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* A vision of the burning of the city. (1-7) The Divine glory
departing from the temple. (8-22)

#1-7 The fire being taken from between the wheels, under the
cherubim, ch. #1:13|, seems to have signified the wrath of God
to be executed upon Jerusalem. It intimated that the fire of
Divine wrath, which kindles judgment upon a people, is just and
holy; and in the great day, the earth, and all the works that
are therein, will be burnt up.

#8-22 Ezekiel sees the working of Divine providence in the
government of the lower world, and the affairs of it. When God
is leaving a people in displeasure, angels above, and all events
below, further his departure. The Spirit of life, the Spirit of
God, directs all creatures, in heaven and on earth, so as to
make them serve the Divine purpose. God removes by degrees from
a provoking people; and, when ready to depart, would return to
them, if they were a repenting, praying people. Let this warn
sinners to seek the Lord while he may be found, and to call on
him while he is near, and cause us all to walk humbly and
watchfully with our God.
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* Divine judgments against the wicked at Jerusalem. (1-13)
Divine favour towards those in captivity. (14-21) The Divine
presence forsakes the city. (22-25)

#1-13 Where Satan cannot persuade men to look upon the judgment
to come as uncertain, he gains his point by persuading them to
look upon it as at a distance. These wretched rulers dare to
say, We are as safe in this city as flesh in a boiling pot; the
walls of the city shall be to us as walls of brass, we shall
receive no more damage from the besiegers than the caldron does
from the fire. When sinners flatter themselves to their own
ruin, it is time to tell them they shall have no peace if they
go on. None shall remain in possession of the city but those who
are buried in it. Those are least safe who are most secure. God
is often pleased to single out some sinners for warning to
others. Whether Pelatiah died at that time in Jerusalem, or when
the fulfilment of the prophecy drew near, is uncertain. Like
Ezekiel, we ought to be much affected with the sudden death of
others, and we should still plead with the Lord to have mercy on
those who remain.

#14-21 The pious captives in Babylon were insulted by the Jews
who continued in Jerusalem; but God made gracious promises to
them. It is promised, that God will give them one heart; a heart
firmly fixed for God, and not wavering. All who are made holy
have a new spirit, a new temper and dispositions; they act from
new principles, walk by new rules, and aim at new ends. A new
name, or a new face, will not serve without a new spirit. If any
man be in Christ, he is a new creature. The carnal heart, like a
stone, cannot be made to feel. Men live among the dead and
dying, and are neither concerned nor humbled. He will make their
hearts tender and fit to receive impressions: this is God's
work, it is his gift by promise; and a wonderful and happy
change is wrought by it, from death to life. Their practices
shall be agreeable to those principles. These two must and will
go together. When the sinner feels his need of these blessings,
let him present the promises as prayers in the name of Christ,
they will be performed.

#22-25 Here is the departure of God's presence from the city and
temple. It was from the Mount of Olives that the vision went up,
typifying the ascension of Christ to heaven from that very
mountain. Though the Lord will not forsake his people, yet he
may be driven away from any part of his visible church by their
sins, and woe will be upon them when He withdraws his presence,
glory, and protection.
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* The approaching captivity. (1-16) An emblem of the
consternation of the Jews. (17-20) Answers to the objections of
scoffers. (21-28)

#1-16 By the preparation for removal, and his breaking through
the wall of his house at evening, as one desirous to escape from
the enemy, the prophet signified the conduct and fate of
Zedekiah. When God has delivered us, we must glorify him and
edify others, by acknowledging our sins. Those who by
afflictions are brought to this, are made to know that God is
the Lord, and may help to bring others to know him.

#17-20 The prophet must eat and drink in care and fear, with
trembling, that he might express the condition of those in
Jerusalem during the siege. When ministers speak of the ruin
coming upon sinners, they must speak as those that know the
terrors of the Lord. Afflictions are happy ones, however
grievous to flesh and blood, that improve us in the knowledge of
God.

#21-28 From that forbearance of God, which should have led them
to repent, the Jews hardened themselves in sin. It will not
serve for an excuse in speaking evil, to plead that it is a
common saying. There is but a step between us and an awful
eternity; therefore it concerns us to get ready for a future
state. No one will be able to put from himself the evil day,
unless by seeking peace with the Lord.
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* Heavy judgments against lying prophets. (1-9) The
insufficiency of their work. (10-16) Woes against false
prophetesses. (17-23)

#1-9 Where God gives a warrant to do any thing, he gives wisdom.
What they delivered was not what they had seen or heard, as that
is which the ministers of Christ deliver. They were not praying
prophets, had no intercourse with Heaven; they contrived how to
please people, not how to do them good; they stood not against
sin. They flattered people into vain hopes. Such widen the
breach, by causing men to think themselves deserving of eternal
life, when the wrath of God abides upon them.

#10-16 One false prophet built the wall, set up the notion that
Jerusalem should be victorious, and made himself acceptable by
it. Others made the matter yet more plausible and promising;
they daubed the wall which the first had built; but they would,
ere long, be undeceived when their work was beaten down by the
storm of God's just wrath; when the Chaldean army desolated the
land. Hopes of peace and happiness, not warranted by the word of
God, will cheat men; like a wall well daubed, but ill built.

#17-23 It is ill with those who had rather hear pleasing lies
than unpleasing truths. The false prophetesses tried to make
people secure, signified by laying them at ease, and to make
them proud, signified by the finery laid on their heads. They
shall be confounded in their attempts, and God's people shall be
delivered out of their hands. It behoves Christians to keep
close to the word of God, and in every thing to seek the
teaching of the Holy Spirit. Let us so trust the promises of God
as to keep his commandments.
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* Threatenings against hypocrites. (1-11) God's purpose to
punish the guilty Jews, but a few should be saved. (12-23)

#1-11 No outward form or reformation can be acceptable to God,
so long as any idol possesses the heart; yet how many prefer
their own devices and their own righteousness, to the way of
salvation! Men's corruptions are idols in their hearts, and are
of their own setting up; God will let them take their course.
Sin renders the sinner odious in the eyes of the pure and holy
God; and in his own eyes also, whenever conscience is awakened.
Let us seek to be cleansed from the guilt and pollution of sins,
in that fountain which the Lord has opened.

#12-23 National sins bring national judgments. Though sinners
escape one judgment, another is waiting for them. When God's
professing people rebel against him, they may justly expect all
his judgments. The faith, obedience, and prayers of Noah
prevailed to the saving of his house, but not of the old world.
Job's sacrifice and prayer in behalf of his friends were
accepted, and Daniel had prevailed for the saving his companions
and the wise men of Babylon. But a people that had filled the
measure of their sins, was not to expect to escape for the sake
of any righteous men living among them; not even of the most
eminent saints, who could be accepted in their own case only
through the sufferings and righteousness of Christ. Yet even
when God makes the greatest desolations by his judgments, he
saves some to be monuments of his mercy. In firm belief that we
shall approve the whole of God's dealings with ourselves, and
with all mankind, let us silence all rebellious murmurs and
objections.
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* Jerusalem like an unfruitful vine.

- If a vine be fruitful, it is valuable. But if not fruitful, it
is worthless and useless, it is cast into the fire. Thus man is
capable of yielding a precious fruit, in living to God; this is
the sole end of his existence; and if he fails in this, he is of
no use but to be destroyed. What blindness then attaches to
those who live in the total neglect of God and of true religion!
This similitude is applied to Jerusalem. Let us beware of an
unfruitful profession. Let us come to Christ, and seek to abide
in him, and to have his words abide in us.
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* A parable showing the first low estate of the Jewish nation,
its prosperity, idolatries, and punishment.

#1-58 In this chapter God's dealings with the Jewish nation, and
their conduct towards him, are described, and their punishment
through the surrounding nations, even those they most trusted
in. This is done under the parable of an exposed infant rescued
from death, educated, espoused, and richly provided for, but
afterwards guilty of the most abandoned conduct, and punished
for it; yet at last received into favour, and ashamed of her
base conduct. We are not to judge of these expressions by modern
ideas, but by those of the times and places in which they were
used, where many of them would not sound as they do to us. The
design was to raise hatred to idolatry, and such a parable was
well suited for that purpose.

#59-63 After a full warning of judgments, mercy is remembered,
mercy is reserved. These closing verses are a precious promise,
in part fulfilled at the return of the penitent and reformed
Jews out of Babylon, but to have fuller accomplishment in gospel
times. The Divine mercy should be powerful to melt our hearts
into godly sorrow for sin. Nor will God ever leave the sinner to
perish, who is humbled for his sins, and comes to trust in His
mercy and grace through Jesus Christ; but will keep him by his
power, through faith unto salvation.
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* A parable relative to the Jewish nation. (1-10) to which an
explanation is added. (11-21) A direct promise of the Messiah.
(22-24)

#1-10 Mighty conquerors are aptly likened to birds or beasts of
prey, but their destructive passions are overruled to forward
God's designs. Those who depart from God, only vary their crimes
by changing one carnal confidence for another, and never will
prosper.

#11-21 The parable is explained, and the particulars of the
history of the Jewish nation at that time may be traced.
Zedekiah had been ungrateful to his benefactor, which is a sin
against God. In every solemn oath, God is appealed to as a
witness of the sincerity of him that swears. Truth is a debt
owing to all men. If the professors of the true religion deal
treacherously with those of a false religion, their profession
makes their sin the worse; and God will the more surely and
severely punish it. The Lord will not hold those guiltless who
take his name in vain; and no man shall escape the righteous
judgment of God who dies under unrepented guilt.

#22-24 The unbelief of man shall not make the promise of God of
none effect. The parable of a tree, used in the threatening, is
here presented in the promise. It appears only applicable to
Jesus, the Son of David, the Messiah of God. The kingdom of
Satan, which has borne so long, so large a sway, shall be
broken, and the kingdom of Christ, which was looked upon with
contempt, shall be established. Blessed be God, our Redeemer is
seen even by the ends of the earth. We may find refuge from the
wrath to come, and from every enemy and danger, under his
shadow; and believers are fruitful in him.
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* God has no respect of persons. (1-20) The Divine providence is
vindicated. (21-29) A gracious invitation to repentance. (30-32)

#1-20 The soul that sinneth it shall die. As to eternity, every
man was, is, and will be dealt with, as his conduct shows him to
have been under the old covenant of works, or the new covenant
of grace. Whatever outward sufferings come upon men through the
sins of others, they deserve for their own sins all they suffer;
and the Lord overrules every event for the eternal good of
believers. All souls are in the hand of the great Creator: he
will deal with them in justice or mercy; nor will any perish for
the sins of another, who is not in some sense worthy of death
for his own. We all have sinned, and our souls must be lost, if
God deal with us according to his holy law; but we are invited
to come to Christ. If a man who had shown his faith by his
works, had a wicked son, whose character and conduct were the
reverse of his parent's, could it be expected he should escape
the Divine vengeance on account of his father's piety? Surely
not. And should a wicked man have a son who walked before God as
righteous, this man would not perish for his father's sins. If
the son was not free from evils in this life, still he should be
partaker of salvation. The question here is not about the
meritorious ground of justification, but about the Lord's
dealings with the righteous and the wicked.

#21-29 The wicked man would be saved, if he turned from his evil
ways. The true penitent is a true believer. None of his former
transgressions shall be mentioned unto him, but in the
righteousness which he has done, as the fruit of faith and the
effect of conversion, he shall surely live. The question is not
whether the truly righteous ever become apostates. It is certain
that many who for a time were thought to be righteous, do so,
while ver. #26,27| speaks the fulness of pardoning mercy: when
sin is forgiven, it is blotted out, it is remembered no more. In
their righteousness they shall live; not for their
righteousness, as if that were an atonement for their sins, but
in their righteousness, which is one of the blessings purchased
by the Mediator. What encouragement a repenting, returning
sinner has to hope for pardon and life according to this
promise! In verse #28| is the beginning and progress of
repentance. True believers watch and pray, and continue to the
end, and they are saved. In all our disputes with God, he is in
the right, and we are in the wrong.

#30-32 The Lord will judge each of the Israelites according to
his ways. On this is grounded an exhortation to repent, and to
make them a new heart and a new spirit. God does not command
what cannot be done, but admonishes us to do what is in our
power, and to pray for what is not. Ordinances and means are
appointed, directions and promises are given, that those who
desire this change may seek it from God.
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* A parable lamenting the ruin of Jehoahaz and Jehoiakim. (1-9)
Another describing the desolation of the people. (10-14)

#1-9 Ezekiel is to compare the kingdom of Judah to a lioness. He
must compare the kings of Judah to a lion's whelps; they were
cruel and oppressive to their own subjects. The righteousness of
God is to be acknowledged, when those who have terrified and
enslaved others, are themselves terrified and enslaved. When
professors of religion form connexions with ungodly persons,
their children usually grow up following after the maxims and
fashions of a wicked world. Advancement to authority discovers
the ambition and selfishness of men's hearts; and those who
spend their lives in mischief, generally end them by violence.

#10-14 Jerusalem was a vine, flourishing and fruitful. This vine
is now destroyed, though not plucked up by the roots. She has by
wickedness made herself like tinder to the sparks of God's
wrath, so that her own branches serve as fuel to burn her.
Blessed be God, one Branch of the vine here alluded to, is not
only become a strong rod for the sceptre of those that rule, but
is Himself the true and living Vine. This shall be for a
rejoicing to all the chosen people of God throughout all
generations.
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* The elders of Israel are reminded of the idolatry in Egypt.
(1-9) In the wilderness. (10-26) In Canaan. (27-32) God promises
to pardon and restore them. (33-44) Prophecy against Jerusalem.
(45-49)

#1-9. Those hearts are wretchedly hardened which ask God leave
to go on in sin, and that even when suffering for it; see ver.
#32|. God is justly angry with those who are resolved to go on
still in their trespasses. Cause the people to know the evil
deeds of their fathers, that they may see how righteous it was
with God to cut them off.

#10-26. The history of Israel in the wilderness is referred to
in the new Testament as well as in the Old, for warning. God did
great things for them. He gave them the law, and revived the
ancient keeping of the sabbath day. Sabbaths are privileges;
they are signs of our being his people. If we do the duty of the
day, we shall find, to our comfort, it is the Lord that makes us
holy, that is, truly happy, here; and prepares us to be happy,
that is, perfectly holy, hereafter. The Israelites rebelled, and
were left to the judgments they brought upon themselves. God
sometimes makes sin to be its own punishment, yet he is not the
Author of sin: there needs no more to make men miserable, than
to give them up to their own evil desires and passions.

#27-32 The Jews persisted in rebellion after they settled in the
land of Canaan. And these elders seem to have thought of uniting
with the heathen. We make nothing by our profession if it be but
a profession. There is nothing got by sinful compliances; and
the carnal projects of hypocrites will stand them in no stead.

#33-44 The wicked Israelites, notwithstanding they follow the
sinful ways of other nations, shall not mingle with them in
their prosperity, but shall be separated from them for
destruction. There is no shaking off God's dominion; and those
who will not yield to the power of his grace, shall sink under
the power of his wrath. But not one of God's jewels shall be
lost in the lumber of this world. He will bring the jews to the
land of Israel again; and will give them true repentance. They
will be overcome with his kindness: the more we know of God's
holiness, the more we see the hateful nature of sin. Those who
remain unaffected amidst means of grace, and would live without
Christ, like the world around them, may be sure it is the way to
destruction.

#45-49 Judah and Jerusalem had been full of people, as a forest
of trees, but empty of fruit. God's word prophesies against
those who bring not forth the fruits of righteousness. When He
will ruin a nation, who or what can save it? The plainest truths
were as parables to the people. It is common for those who will
not be wrought upon by the word, to blame it.
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* The ruin of Judah under the emblem of a sharp sword. (1-17)
The approach of the king of Babylon described. (18-27) The
destruction of the Ammonites. (28-32)

#1-17 Here is an explanation of the parable in the last chapter.
It is declared that the Lord was about to cut off Jerusalem and
the whole land, that all might know it was his decree against a
wicked and rebellious people. It behoves those who denounce the
awful wrath of God against sinners, to show that they do not
desire the woful day. The example of Christ teaches us to lament
over those whose ruin we declare. Whatever instruments God uses
in executing his judgments, he will strengthen them according to
the service they are employed in. The sword glitters to the
terror of those against whom it is drawn. It is a sword to
others, a rod to the people of the Lord. God is in earnest in
pronouncing this sentence, and the prophet must show himself in
earnest in publishing it.

#18-27 By the Spirit of prophecy Ezekiel foresaw
Nebuchadnezzar's march from Babylon, which he would determine by
divination. The Lord would overturn the government of Judah,
till the coming of Him whose right it is. This seems to foretell
the overturnings of the Jewish nation to the present day, and
the troubles of states and kingdoms, which shall make way for
establishing the Messiah's kingdom throughout the earth. The
Lord secretly leads all to adopt his wise designs. And in the
midst of the most tremendous warnings of wrath, we still hear of
mercy, and some mention of Him through whom mercy is shown to
sinful men.

#28-32 The diviners of the Ammonites made false prophecies of
victory. They would never recover their power, but in time would
be wholly forgotten. Let us be thankful to be employed as
instruments of mercy; let us use our understandings in doing
good; and let us stand aloof from men who are only skilful to
destroy.
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* The sins of Jerusalem. (1-16) Israel is condemned as dross.
(17-22) As the corruption is general, so shall be the
punishment. (23-31)

#1-16 The prophet is to judge the bloody city; the city of
bloods. Jerusalem is so called, because of her crimes. The sins
which Jerusalem stands charged with, are exceeding sinful.
Murder, idolatry, disobedience to parents, oppression and
extortion, profanation of the sabbath and holy things, seventh
commandment sins, lewdness and adultery. Unmindfulness of God
was at the bottom of all this wickedness. Sinners provoke God
because they forget him. Jerusalem has filled the measure of her
sins. Those who give up themselves to be ruled by their lusts,
will justly be given up to be portioned by them. Those who
resolve to be their own masters, let them expect no other
happiness than their own hands can furnish; and a miserable
portion it will prove.

#17-22 Israel, compared with other nations, had been as the gold
and silver compared with baser metals. But they were now as the
refuse that is consumed in the furnace, or thrown away when the
silver is refined. Sinners, especially backsliding professors,
are, in God's account, useless and fit for nothing. When God
brings his own people into the furnace, he sits by them as the
refiner by his gold, to see that they are not continued there
any longer than is fitting and needful. The dross shall be
wholly separated, and the good metal purified. Let those who
suffer pains, or lingering sickness, and find that their hearts
can scarcely bear these light and momentary afflictions, take
warning to flee from the wrath to come; for if these trials are
not sanctified by the power of the Holy Spirit, to the cleansing
their hearts and hands from sin, far worse things will come upon
them.

#23-31 All orders and degrees of men had helped to fill the
measure of the nation's guilt. The people that had any power
abused it, and even the buyers and sellers find some way to
oppress one another. It bodes ill to a people when judgments are
breaking in upon them, and the spirit of prayer is restrained.
Let all who fear God, unite to promote his truth and
righteousness; as wicked men of every rank and profession plot
together to run them down.
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* A history of the apostacy of God's people from him, and the
aggravation thereof.

- In this parable, Samaria and Israel bear the name Aholah, "her
own tabernacle;" because the places of worship those kingdoms
had, were of their own devising. Jerusalem and Judah bear the
name of Aholibah, "my tabernacle is in her," because their
temple was the place which God himself had chosen, to put his
name there. The language and figures are according to those
times. Will not such humbling representations of nature keep
open perpetual repentance and sorrow in the soul, hiding pride
from our eyes, and taking us from self-righteousness? Will it
not also prompt the soul to look to God continually for grace,
that by his Holy Spirit we may mortify the deeds of the body,
and live in holy conversation and godliness?
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* The fate of Jerusalem. (1-14) The extent of the sufferings of
the Jews. (15-27)

#1-14 The pot on the fire represented Jerusalem besieged by the
Chaldeans: all orders and ranks were within the walls, prepared
as a prey for the enemy. They ought to have put away their
transgressions, as the scum, which rises by the heat of the
fire, is taken from the top of the pot. But they grew worse, and
their miseries increased. Jerusalem was to be levelled with the
ground. The time appointed for the punishment of wicked men may
seem to come slowly, but it will come surely. It is sad to think
how many there are, on whom ordinances and providences are all
lost.

#15-27 Though mourning for the dead is a duty, yet it must be
kept under by religion and right reason: we must not sorrow as
men that have no hope. Believers must not copy the language and
expressions of those who know not God. The people asked the
meaning of the sign. God takes from them all that was dearest to
them. And as Ezekiel wept not for his affliction, so neither
should they weep for theirs. Blessed be God, we need not pine
away under our afflictions; for should all comforts fail, and
all sorrows be united, yet the broken heart and the mourner's
prayer are always acceptable before God.
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* Judgments against the Ammonites. (1-7) Against the Moabites,
Edomites, and Philistines. (8-17)

#1-7. It is wicked to be glad at the calamities of any,
especially of God's people; it is a sin for which he will surely
reckon. God will make it appear that he is the God of Israel,
though he suffers them for a time to be captives in Babylon. It
is better to know Him, and to be poor, than to be rich and
ignorant of him.

#8-17 Though one event seem to the righteous and wicked, it is
vastly different. Those who glory in any other defence and
protection than the Divine power, providence, and promise, will,
sooner or later, be ashamed of their glorying. Those who will
not leave it to God to take vengeance for them, may expect that
he will take vengeance on them. The equity of the Lord's
judgments is to be observed, when he not only avenges injuries
upon those that did them, but by those against whom they were
done. Those who treasure up old hatred, and watch for the
opportunity of manifesting it, are treasuring up for themselves
wrath against the day of wrath.
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* A prophecy against Tyre.

#1-14 To be secretly pleased with the death or decay of others,
when we are likely to get by it; or with their fall, when we may
thrive upon it, is a sin that easily besets us, yet is not
thought so bad as really it is. But it comes from a selfish,
covetous principle, and from that love of the world as our
happiness, which the love of God expressly forbids. He often
blasts the projects of those who would raise themselves on the
ruin of others. The maxims most current in the trading world,
are directly opposed to the law of God. But he will show himself
against the money-loving, selfish traders, whose hearts, like
those of Tyre, are hardened by the love of riches. Men have
little cause to glory in things which stir up the envy and
rapacity of others, and which are continually shifting from one
to another; and in getting, keeping, and spending which, men
provoke that God whose wrath turns joyous cities into ruinous
heaps.

#15-21 See how high, how great Tyre had been. See how low Tyre
is made. The fall of others should awaken us out of security.
Every discovery of the fulfilment of a Scripture prophecy, is
like a miracle to confirm our faith. All that is earthly is
vanity and vexation. Those who now have the most established
prosperity, will soon be out of sight and forgotten.
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* The merchandise of Tyre. (1-25) Its fall and ruin. (26-36)

#1-25 Those who live at ease are to be lamented, if they are not
prepared for trouble. Let none reckon themselves beautified, any
further than they are sanctified. The account of the trade of
Tyre intimates, that God's eye is upon men when employed in
worldly business. Not only when at church, praying and hearing,
but when in markets and fairs, buying and selling. In all our
dealings we should keep a conscience void of offence. God, as
the common Father of mankind, makes one country abound in one
commodity, and another in another, serviceable to the necessity
or to the comfort and ornament of human life. See what a
blessing trade and merchandise are to mankind, when followed in
the fear of God. Besides necessaries, an abundance of things are
made valuable only by custom; yet God allows us to use them. But
when riches increase, men are apt to set their hearts upon them,
and forget the Lord, who gives power to get wealth.

#26-36 The most mighty and magnificent kingdoms and states,
sooner or later, come down. Those who make creatures their
confidence, and rest their hopes upon them, will fall with them:
happy are those who have the God of Jacob for their Help, and
whose hope is in the Lord their God, who lives for ever. Those
who engage in trade should learn to conduct their business
according to God's word. Those who possess wealth should
remember they are the Lord's stewards, and should use his goods
in doing good to all. Let us seek first the kingdom of God and
his righteousness.
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* The sentence against the prince or king of Tyre. (1-19) The
fall of Zidon. (20-23) The restoration of Israel. (24-26)

#1-19 Ethbaal, or Ithobal, was the prince or king of Tyre; and
being lifted up with excessive pride, he claimed Divine honours.
Pride is peculiarly the sin of our fallen nature. Nor can any
wisdom, except that which the Lord gives, lead to happiness in
this world or in that which is to come. The haughty prince of
Tyre thought he was able to protect his people by his own power,
and considered himself as equal to the inhabitants of heaven. If
it were possible to dwell in the garden of Eden, or even to
enter heaven, no solid happiness could be enjoyed without a
humble, holy, and spiritual mind. Especially all spiritual pride
is of the devil. Those who indulge therein must expect to
perish.

#20-26. The Zidonians were borderers upon the land of Israel,
and they might have learned to glorify the Lord; but, instead of
that, they seduced Israel to the worship of their idols. War and
pestilence are God's messengers; but he will be glorified in the
restoring his people to their former safety and prosperity. God
will cure them of their sins, and ease them of their troubles.
This promise will at length fully come to pass in the heavenly
Canaan: when all the saints shall be gathered together, every
thing that offends shall be removed, all griefs and fears for
ever banished. Happy, then, is the church of God, and every
living member of it, though poor, afflicted, and despised; for
the Lord will display his truth, power, and mercy, in the
salvation and happiness of his redeemed people.
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* The desolation of Egypt. (1-16) Also a promise of mercy to
Israel. (17-21)

#1-16 Worldly, carnal minds pride themselves in their property,
forgetting that whatever we have, we received it from God, and
should use it for God. Why, then, do we boast? Self is the great
idol which all the world worships, in contempt of God and his
sovereignty. God can force men out of that in which they are
most secure and easy. Such a one, and all that cleave to him,
shall perish together. Thus end men's pride, presumption, and
carnal security. The Lord is against those who do harm to his
people, and still more against those who lead them into sin.
Egypt shall be a kingdom again, but it shall be the basest of
the kingdoms; it shall have little wealth and power. History
shows the complete fulfilment of this prophecy. God, not only in
justice, but in wisdom and goodness to us, breaks the
creature-stays on which we lean, that they may be no more our
confidence.

#17-21 The besiegers of Tyre obtained little plunder. But when
God employs ambitious or covetous men, he will recompense them
according to the desires of their hearts; for every man shall
have his reward. God had mercy in store for the house of Israel
soon after. The history of nations best explains ancient
prophecies. All events fulfil the Scriptures. Thus, in the
deepest scenes of adversity, the Lord sows the seed of our
future prosperity. Happy are those who desire his favour, grace,
and image; they will delight in his service, and not covet any
earthly recompence; and the blessings they have chosen shall be
sure to them for ever.
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* A prophecy against Egypt. (1-19) Another. (20-26)

#1-19 The prophecy of the destruction of Egypt is very full.
Those who take their lot with God's enemies, shall be with them
in punishment. The king of Babylon and his army shall be
instruments of this destruction. God often makes one wicked man
a scourge to another. No place in the land of Egypt shall escape
the fury of the Chaldeans. The Lord is known by the judgments he
executes. Yet these are only present effects of the Divine
displeasure, not worthy of our fear, compared with the wrath to
come, from which Jesus delivers his people.

#20-26 Egypt shall grow weaker and weaker. If lesser judgments
do not prevail to humble and reform sinners, God will send
greater. God justly breaks that power which is abused, either to
put wrongs upon people, or to put cheats upon them. Babylon
shall grow stronger. In vain do men endeavour to bind up the arm
the Lord is pleased to break, and to strengthen those whom he
will bring down. Those who disregard the discoveries of his
truth and mercy, shall know his power and justice, in the
punishment for their sins.
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* The glory of Assyria. (1-9) Its fall, and the like for Egypt.
(10-18)

#1-9 The falls of others, both into sin and ruin, warn us not to
be secure or high-minded. The prophet is to show an instance of
one whom the king of Egypt resembled in greatness, the Assyrian,
compared to a stately cedar. Those who excel others, make
themselves the objects of envy; but the blessings of the
heavenly paradise are not liable to such alloy. The utmost
security that any creature can give, is but like the shadow of a
tree, a scanty and slender protection. But let us flee to God
for protection, there we shall be safe. His hand must be owned
in the rising of the great men of the earth, and we must not
envy them. Though worldly people may seem to have firm
prosperity, yet it only seems so.

#10-18 The king of Egypt resembled the king of Assyria in his
greatness: here we see he resembles him in his pride. And he
shall resemble him in his fall. His own sin brings his ruin.
None of our comforts are ever lost, but what have been a
thousand times forfeited. When great men fall, many fall with
them, as many have fallen before them. The fall of proud men is
for warning to others, to keep them humble. See how low Pharaoh
lies; and see what all his pomp and pride are come to. It is
best to be a lowly tree of righteousness, yielding fruit to the
glory of God, and to the good of men. The wicked man is often
seen flourishing like the cedar, and spreading like the green
bay tree, but he soon passes away, and his place is no more
found. Let us then mark the perfect man, and behold the upright,
for the end of that man is peace.
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* The fall of Egypt. (1-16) It is like that of other nations.
(17-32)

#1-16 It becomes us to weep and tremble for those who will not
weep and tremble for themselves. Great oppressors are, in God's
account, no better than beasts of prey. Those who admire the
pomp of this world, will wonder at the ruin of that pomp; which
to those who know the vanity of all things here below, is no
surprise. When others are ruined by sin, we have to fear,
knowing ourselves guilty. The instruments of the desolation are
formidable. And the instances of the desolation are frightful.
The waters of Egypt shall run like oil, which signifies there
should be universal sadness and heaviness upon the whole nation.
God can soon empty those of this world's goods who have the
greatest fulness of them. By enlarging the matters of our joy,
we increase the occasions of our sorrow. How weak and helpless,
as to God, are the most powerful of mankind! The destruction of
Egypt was a type of the destruction of the enemies of Christ.

#17-32 Divers nations are mentioned as gone down to the grave
before Egypt, who are ready to give her a scornful reception;
these nations had been lately ruined and wasted. But though
Judah and Jerusalem were about this time ruined and laid waste,
yet they are not mentioned here. Though they suffered the same
affliction, and by the same hand, yet the kind design for which
they were afflicted, and the mercy God reserved for them,
altered its nature. It was not to them a going down to the pit,
as it was to the heathen. Pharaoh shall see, and be comforted;
but the comfort wicked ones have after death, is poor comfort,
not real, but only in fancy. The view this prophecy gives of
ruined states shows something of this present world, and the
empire of death in it. Come and see the calamitous state of
human life. As if men did not die fast enough, they are
ingenious at finding out ways to destroy one another. Also of
the other world; though the destruction of nations as such,
seems chiefly intended, here is plain allusion to the
everlasting ruin of impenitent sinners. How are men deceived by
Satan! What are the objects they pursue through scenes of
bloodshed, and their many sins? Surely man disquiets himself in
vain, whether he pursues wealth, fame, power, or pleasure. The
hour cometh, when all that are in their graves shall hear the
voice of Christ, and shall come forth; those that have done good
to the resurrection of life, and those that have done evil to
the resurrection of damnation.
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* Ezekiel's duty as a watchman. (1-9) He is to vindicate the
Divine government. (10-20) The desolation of Judea. (21-29)
Judgments on the mockers of the prophets. (30-33)

#1-9 The prophet is a watchman to the house of Israel. His
business is to warn sinners of their misery and danger. He must
warn the wicked to turn from their way, that they may live. If
souls perish through his neglect of duty, he brings guilt upon
himself. See what those have to answer for, who make excuses for
sin, flatter sinners, and encourage them to believe they shall
have peace, though they go on. How much wiser are men in their
temporal than in their spiritual concerns! They set watchmen to
guard their houses, and sentinels to warn of the enemies'
approach, but where the everlasting happiness or misery of the
soul is at stake, they are offended if ministers obey their
Master's command, and give a faithful warning; they would rather
perish, listening to smooth things.

#10-20 Those who despaired of finding mercy with God, are
answered with a solemn declaration of God's readiness to show
mercy. The ruin of the city and state was determined, but that
did not relate to the final state of persons. God says to the
righteous, that he shall surely live. But many who have made
profession, have been ruined by proud confidence in themselves.
Man trusts to his own righteousness, and presuming on his own
sufficiency, he is brought to commit iniquity. If those who have
lived a wicked life repent and forsake their wicked ways, they
shall be saved. Many such amazing and blessed changes have been
wrought by the power of Divine grace. When there is a settled
separation between a man and sin, there shall no longer be a
separation between him and God.

#21-29 Those are unteachable indeed, who do not learn their
dependence upon God, when all creature-comforts fail. Many claim
an interest in the peculiar blessings to true believers, while
their conduct proves them enemies of God. They call this
groundless presumption strong faith, when God's testimony
declares them entitled to his threatenings, and nothing else.

#30-33 Unworthy and corrupt motives often lead men to the places
where the word of God is faithfully preached. Many come to find
somewhat to oppose: far more come of curiosity or mere habit.
Men may have their hearts changed. But whether men hear or
forbear, they will know by the event that a servant of God has
been among them. All who will not know the worth of mercies by
the improvement of them, will justly be made to know their worth
by the want of them.
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* The rulers reproved. (1-6) The people are to be restored to
their own land. (7-16) The kingdom of Christ. (17-31)

#1-6 The people became as sheep without a shepherd, were given
up as a prey to their enemies, and the land was utterly
desolated. No rank or office can exempt from the reproofs of
God's word, men who neglect their duty, and abuse the trust
reposed in them.

#7-16 The Lord declared that he intended mercy towards the
scattered flock. Doubtless this, in the first place, had
reference to the restoration of the Jews. It also represented
the good Shepherd's tender care of the souls of his people. He
finds them in their days of darkness and ignorance, and brings
them to his fold. He comes to their relief in times of
persecution and temptation. He leads them in the ways of
righteousness, and causes them to rest on his love and
faithfulness. The proud and self-sufficient, are enemies of the
true gospel and of believers; against such we must guard. He has
rest for disquieted saints, and terror for presumptuous sinners.

#17-31 The whole nation seemed to be the Lord's flock, yet they
were very different characters; but he knew how to distinguish
between them. By good pastures and deep waters, are meant the
pure word of God and the dispensing of justice. The latter
verses, #23-31|, prophesy of Christ, and of the most glorious
times of his church on earth. Under Him, as the good Shepherd,
the church would be a blessing to all around. Christ, though
excellent in himself, was as a tender plant out of a dry ground.
Being the Tree of life, bearing all the fruits of salvation, he
yields spiritual food to the souls of his people. Our constant
desire and prayer should be, that there may be showers of
blessings in every place where the truth of Christ is preached;
and that all who profess the gospel may be filled with fruits of
righteousness.
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* A prophecy against Edom.

#1-9 All who have God against them, have the word of God against
them. Those that have a constant hatred to God and his people,
as the carnal mind has, can only expect to be made desolate for
ever.

#10-15 When we see the vanity of the world in the
disappointments, losses, and crosses, which others meet with,
instead of showing ourselves greedy of worldly things, we should
sit more loose to them. In the multitude of words, not one is
unknown to God; not the most idle word; and the most daring is
not above his rebuke. In the destruction of the enemies of the
church, God designs his own glory; and we may be sure that he
will not come short of his design. And when the fulness of the
Jews and Gentiles shall come into the church, all antichristian
opposers shall be destroyed.
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* The land shall be delivered from heathen oppressors. (1-15)
The people are reminded of former sins, and promised
deliverance. (16-24) Also holiness, and gospel blessings.
(25-38)

#1-15 Those who put contempt and reproach on God's people, will
have them turned on themselves. God promises favour to his
Israel. We have no reason to complain, if the more unkind men
are, the more kind God is. They shall come again to their own
border. It was a type of the heavenly Canaan, of which all God's
children are heirs, and into which they all shall be brought
together. And when God returns in mercy to a people who return
to him in duty, all their grievances will be set right. The full
completion of this prophecy must be in some future event.

#16-24 The restoration of that people, being typical of our
redemption by Christ, shows that the end aimed at in our
salvation is the glory of God. The sin of a people defiles their
land; renders it abominable to God, and uncomfortable to
themselves. God's holy name is his great name; his holiness is
his greatness, nor does any thing else make a man truly great.

#25-38 Water is an emblem of the cleansing our polluted souls
from sin. But no water can do more than take away the filth of
the flesh. Water seems in general the sacramental sign of the
sanctifying influences of the Holy Ghost; yet this is always
connected with the atoning blood of Christ. When the latter is
applied by faith to the conscience, to cleanse it from evil
works, the former is always applied to the powers of the soul,
to purify it from the pollution of sin. All that have an
interest in the new covenant, have a new heart and a new spirit,
in order to their walking in newness of life. God would give a
heart of flesh, a soft and tender heart, complying with his holy
will. Renewing grace works as great a change in the soul, as the
turning a dead stone into living flesh. God will put his Spirit
within, as a Teacher, Guide, and Sanctifier. The promise of
God's grace to fit us for our duty, should quicken our constant
care and endeavour to do our duty. These are promises to be
pleaded by, and will be fulfilled to, all true believers in
every age.
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* God restores dried bones to life. (1-14) The whole house of
Israel is represented as enjoying the blessings of Christ's
kingdom. (15-28)

#1-14 No created power could restore human bones to life. God
alone could cause them to live. Skin and flesh covered them, and
the wind was then told to blow upon these bodies; and they were
restored to life. The wind was an emblem of the Spirit of God,
and represented his quickening powers. The vision was to
encourage the desponding Jews; to predict both their restoration
after the captivity, and also their recovery from their present
and long-continued dispersion. It was also a clear intimation of
the resurrection of the dead; and it represents the power and
grace of God, in the conversion of the most hopeless sinners to
himself. Let us look to Him who will at last open our graves,
and bring us forth to judgment, that He may now deliver us from
sin, and put his Spirit within us, and keep us by his power,
through faith, unto salvation.

#15-28 This emblem was to show the people, that the Lord would
unite Judah and Israel. Christ is the true David, Israel's King
of old; and those whom he makes willing in the day of his power,
he makes to walk in his judgments, and to keep his statutes.
Events yet to come will further explain this prophecy. Nothing
has more hindered the success of the gospel than divisions. Let
us study to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace;
let us seek for Divine grace to keep us from detestable things;
and let us pray that all nations may be obedient and happy
subjects of the Son of David, that the Lord may be our God, and
we may be his people for evermore.
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* The army and malice of Gog. (1-13) God's judgments. (14-23)

#1-13 These events will be in the latter days. It is supposed
these enemies will come together to invade the land of Judea,
and God will defeat them. God not only sees who are now the
enemies of his church, but he foresees who will be so, and lets
them know by his word that he is against them; though they join
together, the wicked shall not be unpunished.

#14-23 The enemy should make a formidable descent upon the land
of Israel. When Israel dwell safely under the Divine protection,
shalt not thou be made to know it by finding that endeavours to
destroy them are made in vain? Promises of security are
treasured up in the word of God, against the troubles and
dangers the church may be brought into in the latter days. In
the destruction of sinners, God makes it appear that he is a
great and holy God. We should desire and pray daily. Father,
glorify thine own name.
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* The destruction of Gog. (1-10) Its extent. (11-22) Israel
again favoured. (23-29)

#1-10 The Lord will make the most careless and hardened
transgressors know his holy name, either by his righteous anger,
or by the riches of his mercy and grace. The weapons formed
against Zion shall not prosper. Though this prophecy is to be
fulfilled in the latter days, it is certain. From the language
used, it seems that the army of Gog will be destroyed by
miracle.

#11-22 How numerous the enemies which God destroyed for the
defence of his people Israel! Times of great deliverances should
be times of reformation. Every one should help the utmost he
can, toward cleansing the land from reproach. Sin is an enemy
every man should strive against. Those engaged in public work,
especially of cleansing and reforming a land, ought to be men
who will go through with what they undertake, who will be always
employed. When good work is to be done, every one should further
it. Having received special favours from God, let us cleanse
ourselves from all evil. It is a work which will require
persevering diligence, that search may be made into the secret
recesses of sin. The judgments of the Lord, brought upon sin and
sinners, are a sacrifice to the justice of God, and a feast to
the faith and hope of God's people. See how evil pursues
sinners, even after death. After all that ambitious and covetous
men do and look for, "a place of graves" is all the Lord gives
them on earth, while their guilty souls are doomed to misery in
another world.

#23-29 When the Lord shall have mercy on the whole house of
Israel, by converting them to Christianity, and when they shall
have borne the shame of being cast off for their sins, then the
nations shall learn to know, worship, and serve him. Then Israel
also shall know the Lord, as revealed in and by Christ. Past
events do not answer to these predictions. The pouring out of
the Spirit is a pledge that God's favour will continue. He will
hide his face no more from those on whom he has poured out his
Spirit. When we pray that God would never cast us from his
presence, we must as earnestly pray that, in order thereto, he
would never take his Holy Spirit from us.
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* The Vision of the Temple.

- Here is a vision, beginning at ch. 40, and continued to the
end of the book, ch. 48, which is justly looked upon to be one
of the most difficult portions in all the book of God. When we
despair to be satisfied as to any difficulty we meet with, let
us bless God that our salvation does not depend upon it, but
that things necessary are plain enough; and let us wait till God
shall reveal even this unto us. This chapter describes two
outward courts of the temple. Whether the personage here
mentioned was the Son of God, or a created angel, is not clear.
But Christ is both our Altar and our Sacrifice, to whom we must
look with faith in all approaches to God; and he is Salvation in
the midst of the earth, #Ps 74:12|, to be looked unto from all
quarters.
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- After the prophet had observed the courts, he was brought to
the temple. If we attend to instructions in the plainer parts of
religion, and profit by them, we shall be led further into an
acquaintance with the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven.
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- In this chapter are described the priests' chambers, their
use, and the dimensions of the holy mount on which the temple
stood. These chambers were many. Jesus said, In my Father's
house are many mansions: in his house on earth there are many;
multitudes, by faith, are lodging in his sanctuary, and yet
there is room. These chambers, though private, were near the
temple. Our religious services in our chambers, must prepare for
public devotions, and further us in improving them, as our
opportunities are.
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- After Ezekiel had surveyed the temple of God, he had a vision
of the glory of God. When Christ crucified, and the things
freely given to us of God, through Him, are shown to us by the
Holy Ghost, they make us ashamed for our sins. This frame of
mind prepares us for fuller discoveries of the mysteries of
redeeming love; and the whole of the Scriptures should be opened
and applied, that men may see their sins, and repent of them. We
are not now to offer any atoning sacrifices, for by one offering
Christ has perfected for ever those that are sanctified, #Heb
10:14|; but the sprinkling of his blood is needful in all our
approaches to God the Father. Our best services can be accepted
only as sprinkled with the blood which cleanses from all sin.
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- This chapter contains ordinances relative to the true priests.
The prince evidently means Christ, and the words in ver. #2|,
may remind us that no other can enter heaven, the true
sanctuary, as Christ did; namely, by virtue of his own
excellency, and his personal holiness, righteousness, and
strength. He who is the Brightness of Jehovah's glory entered by
his own holiness; but that way is shut to the whole human race,
and we all must enter as sinners, by faith in his blood, and by
the power of his grace.
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- In the period here foretold, the worship and the ministers of
God will be provided for; the princes will rule with justice, as
holding their power under Christ; the people will live in peace,
ease, and godliness. These things seem to be represented in
language taken from the customs of the times in which the
prophet wrote. Christ is our Passover that is sacrificed for us:
we celebrate the memorial of that sacrifice, and feast upon it,
triumphing in our deliverance out of the Egyptian slavery of
sin, and our preservation from the destroying sword of Divine
justice, in the Lord's supper, which is our passover feast; as
the whole Christian life is, and must be, the feast of the
unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.
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- The ordinances of worship for the prince and for the people,
are here described, and the gifts the prince may bestow on his
sons and servants. Our Lord has directed us to do many duties,
but he has also left many things to our choice, that those who
delight in his commandments may abound therein to his glory,
without entangling their own consciences, or prescribing rules
unfit for others; but we must never omit our daily worship, nor
neglect to apply the sacrifice of the Lamb of God to our souls,
for pardon, peace, and salvation.
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- These waters signify the gospel of Christ, which went forth
from Jerusalem, and spread into the countries about; also the
gifts and powers of the Holy Ghost which accompanied it, by
virtue of which is spread far, and produced blessed effects.
Christ is the Temple; and he is the Door; from him the living
waters flow, out of his pierced side. They are increasing
waters. Observe the progress of the gospel in the world, and the
process of the work of grace in the heart; attend the motions of
the blessed Spirit under Divine guidance. If we search into the
things of God, we find some things plain and easy to be
understood, as the waters that were but to the ankles; others
more difficult, which require a deeper search, as the waters to
the knees, or the loins; and some quite beyond our reach, which
we cannot penetrate; but must, as St. Paul did, adore the depth,
#Ro 11|. It is wisdom to begin with that which is most easy,
before we proceed to that which is dark and hard to be
understood. The promises of the sacred word, and the privileges
of believers, as shed abroad in their souls by the quickening
Spirit, abound where the gospel is preached; they nourish and
delight the souls of men; they never fade nor wither, nor are
exhausted. Even the leaves serve as medicines to the soul: the
warnings and reproofs of the word, though less pleasant than
Divine consolations, tend to heal the diseases of the soul. All
who believe in Christ, and are united to him by his sanctifying
Spirit, will share the privileges of Israelites. There is room
in the church, and in heaven, for all who seek the blessings of
that new covenant of which Christ is Mediator.
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- Here is a description of the several portions of the land
belonging to each tribe. In gospel times, behold all things are
become new. Much is wrapped up in emblems and numbers. This
method God has used to state mysterious truths in his word, not
to be more clearly revealed till the proper time and season. But
into the church of Christ, both in its state of warfare and
triumph, there is free access by faith, from every side. Christ
has opened the kingdom of heaven for all believers. Whoever
will, may come, and take of the water of life, of the tree of
life, freely. The Lord is there, in his church, to be nigh unto
them in all they call upon him for. This is true of every real
Christian; whatever soul has in it a living principle of grace,
it may truly be said, The Lord is there. May we be found
citizens of this holy city, and act agreeably to that character;
and have the benefit of the Lord's presence with us, in life, in
death, and for evermore.