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

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** Isaiah prophesied in the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and
Hezekiah. He has been well called the evangelical prophet, on
account of his numerous and full prophesies concerning the
coming and character, the ministry and preaching, the sufferings
and death of the Messiah, and the extent and continuance of his
kingdom. Under the veil of the deliverance from Babylon, Isaiah
points to a much greater deliverance, which was to be effected
by the Messiah; and seldom does he mention the one, without
alluding at the same time to the other; nay, he is often so much
enraptured with the prospect of the more distant deliverance, as
to lose sight of that which was nearer, and to dwell on the
Messiah's person, office, character, and kingdom.

* The corruptions prevailing among the Jews. (1-9) Severe
censures. (10-15) Exhortations to repentance. (16-20) The state
of Judah is lamented; with gracious promises of the gospel
times. (21-31)

#1-9 Isaiah signifies, "The salvation of the Lord;" a very
suitable name for this prophet, who prophesies so much of Jesus
the Saviour, and his salvation. God's professing people did not
know or consider that they owed their lives and comforts to
God's fatherly care and kindness. How many are very careless in
the affairs of their souls! Not considering what we do know in
religion, does us as much harm, as ignorance of what we should
know. The wickedness was universal. Here is a comparison taken
from a sick and diseased body. The distemper threatens to be
mortal. From the sole of the foot even to the head; from the
meanest peasant to the greatest peer, there is no soundness, no
good principle, no religion, for that is the health of the soul.
Nothing but guilt and corruption; the sad effects of Adam's
fall. This passage declares the total depravity of human nature.
While sin remains unrepented, nothing is done toward healing
these wounds, and preventing fatal effects. Jerusalem was
exposed and unprotected, like the huts or sheds built up to
guard ripening fruits. These are still to be seen in the East,
where fruits form a large part of the summer food of the people.
But the Lord had a small remnant of pious servants at Jerusalem.
It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed. The evil
nature is in every one of us; only Jesus and his sanctifying
Spirit can restore us to spiritual health.

#10-15 Judea was desolate, and their cities burned. This
awakened them to bring sacrifices and offerings, as if they
would bribe God to remove the punishment, and give them leave to
go on in their sin. Many who will readily part with their
sacrifices, will not be persuaded to part with their sins. They
relied on the mere form as a service deserving a reward. The
most costly devotions of wicked people, without thorough
reformation of heart and life, cannot be acceptable to God. He
not only did not accept them, but he abhorred them. All this
shows that sin is very hateful to God. If we allow ourselves in
secret sin, or forbidden indulgences; if we reject the salvation
of Christ, our very prayers will become abomination.

#16-20 Not only feel sorrow for the sin committed, but break off
the practice. We must be doing, not stand idle. We must be doing
the good the Lord our God requires. It is plain that the
sacrifices of the law could not atone, even for outward national
crimes. But, blessed be God, there is a Fountain opened, in
which sinners of every age and rank may be cleansed. Though our
sins have been as scarlet and crimson, a deep dye, a double dye,
first in the wool of original corruption, and afterwards in the
many threads of actual transgression; though we have often
dipped into sin, by many backslidings; yet pardoning mercy will
take out the stain, #Ps 51:7|. They should have all the
happiness and comfort they could desire. Life and death, good
and evil, are set before us. O Lord, incline all of us to live
to thy glory.

#21-31 Neither holy cities nor royal ones are faithful to their
trust, if religion does not dwell in them. Dross may shine like
silver, and the wine that is mixed with water may still have the
colour of wine. Those have a great deal to answer for, who do
not help the oppressed, but oppress them. Men may do much by
outward restraints; but only God works effectually by the
influences of his Spirit, as a Spirit of Judgment. Sin is the
worst captivity, the worst slavery. The redemption of the
spiritual Zion, by the righteousness and death of Christ, and by
his powerful grace, most fully accord with what is here meant.
Utter ruin is threatened. The Jews should become as a tree when
blasted by heat; as a garden without water, which in those hot
countries would soon be burned up. Thus shall they be that trust
in idols, or in an arm of flesh. Even the strong man shall be as
tow; not only soon broken, and pulled to pieces, but easily
catching fire. When the sinner has made himself as tow and
stubble, and God makes himself as a consuming fire, what can
prevent the utter ruin of the sinner?
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* The conversion of the Gentiles, Description of the sinfulness
of Israel. (1-9) The awful punishment of unbelievers. (10-22)

#1-9 The calling of the Gentiles, the spread of the gospel, and
that far more extensive preaching of it yet to come, are
foretold. Let Christians strengthen one another, and support one
another. It is God who teaches his people, by his word and
Spirit. Christ promotes peace, as well as holiness. If all men
were real Christians, there could be no war; but nothing
answering to these expressions has yet taken place on the earth.
Whatever others do, let us walk in the light of this peace. Let
us remember that when true religion flourishes, men delight in
going up to the house of the Lord, and in urging others to
accompany them. Those are in danger who please themselves with
strangers to God; for we soon learn to follow the ways of
persons whose company we keep. It is not having silver and gold,
horses and chariots, that displeases God, but depending upon
them, as if we could not be safe, and easy, and happy without
them, and could not but be so with them. Sin is a disgrace to
the poorest and the lowest. And though lands called Christian
are not full of idols, in the literal sense, are they not full
of idolized riches? and are not men so busy about their gains
and indulgences, that the Lord, his truths, and precepts, are
forgotten or despised?

#10-22 The taking of Jerusalem by the Chaldeans seems first
meant here, when idolatry among the Jews was done away; but our
thoughts are led forward to the destruction of all the enemies
of Christ. It is folly for those who are pursued by the wrath of
God, to think to hide or shelter themselves from it. The shaking
of the earth will be terrible to those who set their affections
on things of the earth. Men's haughtiness will be brought down,
either by the grace of God convincing them of the evil of pride,
or by the providence of God depriving them of all the things
they were proud of. The day of the Lord shall be upon those
things in which they put their confidence. Those who will not be
reasoned out of their sins, sooner or later shall be frightened
out of them. Covetous men make money their god; but the time
will come when they will feel it as much their burden. This
whole passage may be applied to the case of an awakened sinner,
ready to leave all that his soul may be saved. The Jews were
prone to rely on their heathen neighbours; but they are here
called upon to cease from depending on mortal man. We are all
prone to the same sin. Then let not man be your fear, let not
him be your hope; but let your hope be in the Lord your God. Let
us make this our great concern.
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* The calamities about to come upon the land. (1-9) The
wickedness of the people. (10-15) The distress of the proud,
luxurious women of Zion. (16-26)

#1-9 God was about to deprive Judah of every stay and support.
The city and the land were to be made desolate, because their
words and works had been rebellious against the Lord; even at
his holy temple. If men do not stay themselves upon God, he will
soon remove all other supports, and then they must sink. Christ
is the Bread of life and the Water of life; if he be our Stay,
we shall find that is a good part not to be taken away, #Joh
6:27|. Here note, 1. That the condition of sinners is
exceedingly woful. 2. It is the soul that is damaged by sin. 3.
Whatever evil befals sinners, be sure that they bring it on
themselves.

#10-15 The rule was certain; however there might be national
prosperity or trouble, it would be well with the righteous and
ill with the wicked. Blessed be God, there is abundant
encouragement to the righteous to trust in him, and for sinners
to repent and return to him. It was time for the Lord to show
his might. He will call men to a strict account for all the
wealth and power intrusted to and abused by them. If it is
sinful to disregard the necessities of the poor, how odious and
wicked a part do they act, who bring men into poverty, and then
oppress them!

#16-26 The prophet reproves and warns the daughters of Zion of
the sufferings coming upon them. Let them know that God notices
the folly and vanity of proud women, even of their dress. The
punishments threatened answered the sin. Loathsome diseases
often are the just punishment of pride. It is not material to
ask what sort of ornaments they wore; many of these things, if
they had not been in fashion, would have been ridiculed then as
now. Their fashions differed much from those of our times, but
human nature is the same. Wasting time and money, to the neglect
of piety, charity, and even of justice, displease the Lord. Many
professors at the present day, seem to think there is no harm in
worldly finery; but were it not a great evil, would the Holy
Spirit have taught the prophet to expose it so fully? The Jews
being overcome, Jerusalem would be levelled with the ground;
which is represented under the idea of a desolate female seated
upon the earth. And when the Romans had destroyed Jerusalem,
they struck a medal, on which was represented a woman sitting on
the ground in a posture of grief. If sin be harboured within the
walls, lamentation and mourning are near the gates.
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* The havoc occasioned by war. (1) The times of the Messiah.
(2-6)

#1 This first verse belongs to the third chapter. When the
troubles should come upon the land, as the unmarried state was
deemed reproachful among the Jews, these women would act
contrary to common usage, and seek husbands for themselves.

#2-6 Not only the setting forth Christ's kingdom in the times of
the apostles, but its enlargement by gathering the dispersed
Jews into the church, is foretold. Christ is called the Branch
of the Lord, being planted by his power, and flourishing to his
praise. The gospel is the fruit of the Branch of the Lord; all
the graces and comforts of the gospel spring from Christ. It is
called the fruit of the earth, because it sprang up in this
world, and was suited for the present state. It will be good
evidence that we are distinguished from those merely called
Israel, if we are brought to see all beauty in Christ, and
holiness. As a type of this blessed day, Jerusalem should again
flourish as a branch, and be blessed with the fruits of the
earth. God will keep for himself a holy seed. When most of those
that have a place and a name in Zion, and in Jerusalem, shall be
cut off by their unbelief, some shall be left. Those only that
are holy shall be left, when the Son of man shall gather out of
his kingdom every thing which offends. By the judgment of God's
providence, sinners were destroyed and consumed; but by the
Spirit of grace they are reformed and converted. The Spirit
herein acts as a Spirit of judgment, enlightening the mind,
convincing the conscience; also as a Spirit of burning,
quickening and strengthening the affections, and making men
zealously affected in a good work. An ardent love to Christ and
souls, and zeal against sin, will carry men on with resolution
in endeavours to turn away ungodliness from Jacob. Every
affliction serves believers as a furnace, to purify them from
dross; and the convincing, enlightening, and powerful influences
of the Holy Spirit, gradually root out their lusts, and render
them holy as He is holy. God will protect his church, and all
that belong to it. Gospel truths and ordinances are the glory of
the church. Grace in the soul is the glory of it; and those that
have it are kept by the power of God. But only those who are
weary will seek rest; only those who are convinced that a storm
is approaching, will look for shelter. Affected with a deep
sense of the Divine displeasure, to which we are exposed by sin,
let us at once have recourse to Jesus Christ, and thankfully
accept the refuge he affords.
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* The state and conduct of the Jewish nation. (1-7) The
judgments which would come. (8-23) The executioners of these
judgments. (24-30)

#1-7 Christ is God's beloved Son, and our beloved Saviour. The
care of the Lord over the church of Israel, is described by the
management of a vineyard. The advantages of our situation will
be brought into the account another day. He planted it with the
choicest vines; gave them a most excellent law, instituted
proper ordinances. The temple was a tower, where God gave tokens
of his presence. He set up his altar, to which the sacrifices
should be brought; all the means of grace are denoted thereby.
God expects fruit from those that enjoy privileges. Good
purposes and good beginnings are good things, but not enough;
there must be vineyard fruit; thoughts and affections, words and
actions, agreeable to the Spirit. It brought forth bad fruit.
Wild grapes are the fruits of the corrupt nature. Where grace
does not work, corruption will. But the wickedness of those that
profess religion, and enjoy the means of grace, must be upon the
sinners themselves. They shall no longer be a peculiar people.
When errors and vice go without check or control, the vineyard
is unpruned; then it will soon be grown over with thorns. This
is often shown in the departure of God's Spirit from those who
have long striven against him, and the removal of his gospel
from places which have long been a reproach to it. The
explanation is given. It is sad with a soul, when, instead of
the grapes of humility, meekness, love, patience, and contempt
of the world, for which God looks, there are the wild grapes of
pride, passion, discontent, and malice, and contempt of God;
instead of the grapes of praying and praising, the wild grapes
of cursing and swearing. Let us bring forth fruit with patience,
that in the end we may obtain everlasting life.

#8-23 Here is a woe to those who set their hearts on the wealth
of the world. Not that it is sinful for those who have a house
and a field to purchase another; but the fault is, that they
never know when they have enough. Covetousness is idolatry; and
while many envy the prosperous, wretched man, the Lord denounces
awful woes upon him. How applicable to many among us! God has
many ways to empty the most populous cities. Those who set their
hearts upon the world, will justly be disappointed. Here is woe
to those who dote upon the pleasures and the delights of sense.
The use of music is lawful; but when it draws away the heart
from God, then it becomes a sin to us. God's judgments have
seized them, but they will not disturb themselves in their
pleasures. The judgments are declared. Let a man be ever so
high, death will bring him low; ever so mean, death will bring
him lower. The fruit of these judgments shall be, that God will
be glorified as a God of power. Also, as a God that is holy; he
shall be owned and declared to be so, in the righteous
punishment of proud men. Those are in a woful condition who set
up sin, and who exert themselves to gratify their base lusts.
They are daring in sin, and walk after their own lusts; it is in
scorn that they call God the Holy One of Israel. They confound
and overthrow distinctions between good and evil. They prefer
their own reasonings to Divine revelations; their own devices to
the counsels and commands of God. They deem it prudent and
politic to continue profitable sins, and to neglect self-denying
duties. Also, how light soever men make of drunkenness, it is a
sin which lays open to the wrath and curse of God. Their judges
perverted justice. Every sin needs some other to conceal it.

#24-30 Let not any expect to live easily who live wickedly. Sin
weakens the strength, the root of a people; it defaces the
beauty, the blossoms of a people. When God's word is despised,
and his law cast away, what can men expect but that God should
utterly abandon them? When God comes forth in wrath, the hills
tremble, fear seizes even great men. When God designs the ruin
of a provoking people, he can find instruments to be employed in
it, as he sent for the Chaldeans, and afterwards the Romans, to
destroy the Jews. Those who would not hear the voice of God
speaking by his prophets, shall hear the voice of their enemies
roaring against them. Let the distressed look which way they
will, all appears dismal. If God frowns upon us, how can any
creature smile? Let us diligently seek the well-grounded
assurance, that when all earthly helps and comforts shall fail,
God himself will be the strength of our hearts, and our portion
for ever.
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* The vision which Isaiah beheld in the temple. (1-8) The Lord
declares the blindness to come upon the Jewish nation, and the
destruction which would follow. (9-13)

#1-8 In this figurative vision, the temple is thrown open to
view, even to the most holy place. The prophet, standing outside
the temple, sees the Divine Presence seated on the mercy-seat,
raised over the ark of the covenant, between the cherubim and
seraphim, and the Divine glory filled the whole temple. See God
upon his throne. This vision is explained, #Joh 12:41|, that
Isaiah now saw Christ's glory, and spake of Him, which is a full
proof that our Saviour is God. In Christ Jesus, God is seated on
a throne of grace; and through him the way into the holiest is
laid open. See God's temple, his church on earth, filled with
his glory. His train, the skirts of his robes, filled the
temple, the whole world, for it is all God's temple. And yet he
dwells in every contrite heart. See the blessed attendants by
whom his government is served. Above the throne stood the holy
angels, called seraphim, which means "burners;" they burn in
love to God, and zeal for his glory against sin. The seraphim
showing their faces veiled, declares that they are ready to
yield obedience to all God's commands, though they do not
understand the secret reasons of his counsels, government, or
promises. All vain-glory, ambition, ignorance, and pride, would
be done away by one view of Christ in his glory. This awful
vision of the Divine Majesty overwhelmed the prophet with a
sense of his own vileness. We are undone if there is not a
Mediator between us and this holy God. A glimpse of heavenly
glory is enough to convince us that all our righteousnesses are
as filthy rags. Nor is there a man that would dare to speak to
the Lord, if he saw the justice, holiness, and majesty of God,
without discerning his glorious mercy and grace in Jesus Christ.
The live coal may denote the assurance given to the prophet, of
pardon, and acceptance in his work, through the atonement of
Christ. Nothing is powerful to cleanse and comfort the soul, but
what is taken from Christ's satisfaction and intercession. The
taking away sin is necessary to our speaking with confidence and
comfort, either to God in prayer, or from God in preaching; and
those shall have their sin taken away who complain of it as a
burden, and see themselves in danger of being undone by it. It
is great comfort to those whom God sends, that they go for God,
and may therefore speak in his name, assured that he will bear
them out.

#9-13 God sends Isaiah to foretell the ruin of his people. Many
hear the sound of God's word, but do not feel the power of it.
God sometimes, in righteous judgment, gives men up to blindness
of mind, because they will not receive the truth in the love of
it. But no humble inquirer after Christ, need to fear this awful
doom, which is a spiritual judgment on those who will still hold
fast their sins. Let every one pray for the enlightening of the
Holy Spirit, that he may perceive how precious are the Divine
mercies, by which alone we are secured against this dreadful
danger. Yet the Lord would preserve a remnant, like the tenth,
holy to him. And blessed be God, he still preserves his church;
however professors or visible churches may be lopped off as
unfruitful, the holy seed will shoot forth, from whom all the
numerous branches of righteousness shall arise.
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* Ahaz threatened by Israel and Syria; and is assured their
attack would be in vain. (1-9) God gives a sure sign by the
promise of the long-expected Messiah. (10-16) The folly and sin
of seeking relief from Assyria are reproved. (17-25)

#1-9 Ungodly men are often punished by others as bad as
themselves. Being in great distress and confusion, the Jews gave
up all for lost. They had made God their enemy, and knew not how
to make him their friend. The prophet must teach them to despise
their enemies, in faith and dependence on God. Ahaz, in fear,
called them two powerful princes. No, says the prophet, they are
but tails of smoking firebrands, burnt out already. The two
kingdoms of Syria and Israel were nearly expiring. While God has
work for the firebrands of the earth, they consume all before
them; but when their work is fulfilled, they will be
extinguished in smoke. That which Ahaz thought most formidable,
is made the ground of their defeat; because they have taken evil
counsel against thee; which is an offence to God. God scorns the
scorners, and gives his word that the attempt should not
succeed. Man purposes, but God disposes. It was folly for those
to be trying to ruin their neighbours, who were themselves near
to ruin. Isaiah must urge the Jews to rely on the assurances
given them. Faith is absolutely necessary to quiet and compose
the mind in trials.

#10-16 Secret disaffection to God is often disguised with the
colour of respect to him; and those who are resolved that they
will not trust God, yet pretend they will not tempt him. The
prophet reproved Ahaz and his court, for the little value they
had for Divine revelation. Nothing is more grievous to God than
distrust, but the unbelief of man shall not make the promise of
God of no effect; the Lord himself shall give a sign. How great
soever your distress and danger, of you the Messiah is to be
born, and you cannot be destroyed while that blessing is in you.
It shall be brought to pass in a glorious manner; and the
strongest consolations in time of trouble are derived from
Christ, our relation to him, our interest in him, our
expectations of him and from him. He would grow up like other
children, by the use of the diet of those countries; but he
would, unlike other children, uniformly refuse the evil and
choose the good. And although his birth would be by the power of
the Holy Ghost, yet he should not be fed with angels' food. Then
follows a sign of the speedy destruction of the princes, now a
terror to Judah. "Before this child," so it may be read; "this
child which I have now in my arms," (Shear-jashub, the prophet's
own son, ver. #3|,) shall be three or four years older, these
enemies' forces shall be forsaken of both their kings. The
prophecy is so solemn, the sign is so marked, as given by God
himself after Ahaz rejected the offer, that it must have raised
hopes far beyond what the present occasion suggested. And, if
the prospect of the coming of the Divine Saviour was a
never-failing support to the hopes of ancient believers, what
cause have we to be thankful that the Word was made flesh! May
we trust in and love Him, and copy his example.

#17-25 Let those who will not believe the promises of God,
expect to hear the alarms of his threatenings; for who can
resist or escape his judgments? The Lord shall sweep all away;
and whomsoever he employs in any service for him, he will pay.
All speaks a sad change of the face of that pleasant land. But
what melancholy change is there, which sin will not make with a
people? Agriculture would cease. Sorrows of every kind will come
upon all who neglect the great salvation. If we remain
unfruitful under the means of grace, the Lord will say, Let no
fruit grow on thee henceforth for ever.
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* Exhortations and warnings. (1-8) Comfort for those who fear
God. (9-16) Afflictions to idolaters. (17-22)

#1-8 The prophet is to write on a large roll, or on a metal
tablet, words which meant, "Make speed to spoil, hasten to the
prey:" pointing out that the Assyrian army should come with
speed, and make great spoil. Very soon the riches of Damascus
and of Samaria, cities then secure and formidable, shall be
taken away by the king of Assyria. The prophet pleads with the
promised Messiah, who should appear in that land in the fulness
of time, and, therefore, as God, would preserve it in the mean
time. As a gentle brook is an apt emblem of a mild government,
so an overflowing torrent represents a conqueror and tyrant. The
invader's success was also described by a bird of prey,
stretching its wings over the whole land. Those who reject
Christ, will find that what they call liberty is the basest
slavery. But no enemy shall pluck the believer out of Emmanuel's
hand, or deprive him of his heavenly inheritance.

#9-16 The prophet challenges the enemies of the Jews. Their
efforts would be vain, and themselves broken to pieces. It
concerns us, in time of trouble, to watch against all such fears
as put us upon crooked courses for our own security. The
believing fear of God preserves against the disquieting fear of
man. If we thought rightly of the greatness and glory of God, we
should see all the power of our enemies restrained. The Lord,
who will be a Sanctuary to those who trust in him, will be a
Stone of stumbling, and a Rock of offence, to those who make the
creature their fear and their hope. If the things of God be an
offence to us, they will undo us. The apostle quotes this as to
all who persisted in unbelief of the gospel of Christ, #1Pe
2:8|. The crucified Emmanuel, who was and is a Stumbling-stone
and Rock of offence to unbelieving Jews, is no less so to
thousands who are called Christians. The preaching of the cross
is foolishness in their esteem; his doctrines and precepts
offend them.

#17-22 The prophet foresaw that the Lord would hide his face;
but he would look for his return in favour to them again. Though
not miraculous signs, the children's names were memorials from
God, suited to excite attention. The unbelieving Jews were prone
to seek counsel in difficulties, from diviners of different
descriptions, whose foolish and sinful ceremonies are alluded
to. Would we know how we may seek to our God, and come to the
knowledge of his mind? To the law and to the testimony; for
there you will see what is good, and what the Lord requires. We
must speak of the things of God in the words which the Holy
Ghost teaches, and be ruled by them. To those that seek to
familiar spirits, and regard not God's law and testimony, there
shall be horror and misery. Those that go away from God, go out
of the way of all good; for fretfulness is a sin that is its own
punishment. They shall despair, and see no way of relief, when
they curse God. And their fears will represent every thing as
frightful. Those that shut their eyes against the light of God's
word, will justly be left to darkness. All the miseries that
ever were felt or witnessed on earth, are as nothing, compared
with what will overwhelm those who leave the words of Christ, to
follow delusions.
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* The Son that should be born, and his kingdom. (1-7) The
judgments to come upon Israel, and on the enemies of the kingdom
of Christ. (8-21)

#1-7 The Syrians and Assyrians first ravaged the countries here
mentioned, and that region was first favoured by the preaching
of Christ. Those that want the gospel, walk in darkness, and in
the utmost danger. But when the gospel comes to any place, to
any soul, light comes. Let us earnestly pray that it may shine
into our hearts, and make us wise unto salvation. The gospel
brings joy with it. Those who would have joy, must expect to go
through hard work, as the husbandman, before he has the joy of
harvest; and hard conflict, as the soldier, before he divides
the spoil. The Jews were delivered from the yoke of many
oppressors; this was a shadow of the believer's deliverance from
the yoke of Satan. The cleansing the souls of believers from the
power and pollution of sin, would be by the influence of the
Holy Spirit, as purifying fire. These great things for the
church, shall be done by the Messiah, Emmanuel. The Child is
born; it was certain; and the church, before Christ came in the
flesh, benefitted by his undertaking. It is a prophecy of him
and of his kingdom, which those that waited for the Consolation
of Israel read with pleasure. This Child was born for the
benefit of us men, of us sinners, of all believers, from the
beginning to the end of the world. Justly is he called
Wonderful, for he is both God and man. His love is the wonder of
angels and glorified saints. He is the Counsellor, for he knew
the counsels of God from eternity; and he gives counsel to men,
in which he consults our welfare. He is the Wonderful
Counsellor; none teaches like him. He is God, the mighty One.
Such is the work of the Mediator, that no less power than that
of the mighty God could bring it to pass. He is God, one with
the Father. As the Prince of Peace, he reconciles us to God; he
is the Giver of peace in the heart and conscience; and when his
kingdom is fully established, men shall learn war no more. The
government shall be upon him; he shall bear the burden of it.
Glorious things are spoken of Christ's government. There is no
end to the increase of its peace, for the happiness of its
subjects shall last for ever. The exact agreement of this
prophecy with the doctrine of the New Testament, shows that
Jewish prophets and Christian teachers had the same view of the
person and salvation of the Messiah. To what earthly king or
kingdom can these words apply? Give then, O Lord, to thy people
to know thee by every endearing name, and in every glorious
character. Give increase of grace in every heart of thy redeemed
upon earth.

#8-21 Those are ripening apace for ruin, whose hearts are
unhumbled under humbling providences. For that which God
designs, in smiting us, is, to turn us to himself; and if this
point be not gained by lesser judgments, greater may be
expected. The leaders of the people misled them. We have reason
to be afraid of those that speak well of us, when we do ill.
Wickedness was universal, all were infected with it. They shall
be in trouble, and see no way out; and when men's ways displease
the Lord, he makes even their friends to be at war with them.
God would take away those they thought to have help from. Their
rulers were the head. Their false prophets were the tail and the
rush, the most despicable. In these civil contests, men preyed
on near relations who were as their own flesh. The people turn
not to Him who smites them, therefore he continues to smite: for
when God judges, he will overcome; and the proudest, stoutest
sinner shall either bend or break.
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* Woes against proud oppressors. (1-4) The Assyrian but an
instrument in the hand of God for the punishment of his people.
(5-19) The deliverance from him. (20-34)

#1-4 These verses are to be joined with the foregoing chapter.
Woe to the superior powers that devise and decree unrighteous
decrees! And woe to the inferior officers that draw them up, and
enter them on record! But what will sinners do? Whither will
they flee?

#5-19 See what a change sin made. The king of Assyria, in his
pride, thought to act by his own will. The tyrants of the world
are tools of Providence. God designs to correct his people for
their hypocrisy, and bring them nearer to him; but is that
Sennacherib's design? No; he designs to gratify his own
covetousness and ambition. The Assyrian boasts what great things
he has done to other nations, by his own policy and power. He
knows not that it is God who makes him what he is, and puts the
staff into his hand. He had done all this with ease; none moved
the wing, or cried as birds do when their nests are rifled.
Because he conquered Samaria, he thinks Jerusalem would fall of
course. It was lamentable that Jerusalem should have set up
graven images, and we cannot wonder that she was excelled in
them by the heathen. But is it not equally foolish for
Christians to emulate the people of the world in vanities,
instead of keeping to things which are their special honour? For
a tool to boast, or to strive against him that formed it, would
not be more out of the way, than for Sennacherib to vaunt
himself against Jehovah. When God brings his people into
trouble, it is to bring sin to their remembrance, and humble
them, and to awaken them to a sense of their duty; this must be
the fruit, even the taking away of sin. When these points are
gained by the affliction, it shall be removed in mercy. This
attempt upon Zion and Jerusalem should come to nothing. God will
be as a fire to consume the workers of iniquity, both soul and
body. The desolation should be as when a standard-bearer
fainteth, and those who follow are put to confusion. Who is able
to stand before this great and holy Lord God?

#20-34 By our afflictions we may learn not to make creatures our
confidence. Those only can with comfort stay upon God, who
return to him in truth, not in pretence and profession only. God
will justly bring this wasting away on a provoking people, but
will graciously set bounds to it. It is against the mind and
will of God, that his people, whatever happens, should give way
to fear. God's anger against his people is but for a moment; and
when that is turned from us, we need not fear the fury of man.
The rod with which he corrected his people, shall not only be
laid aside, but thrown into the fire. To encourage God's people,
the prophet puts them in mind of what God had formerly done
against the enemies of his church. God's people shall be
delivered from the Assyrians. Some think it looks to the
deliverance of the Jews out of their captivity; and further yet,
to the redemption of believers from the tyranny of sin and
Satan. And this, "because of the anointing;" for his people
Israel's sake, the believers among them that had received the
unction of Divine grace. And for the sake of the Messiah, the
Anointed of God. Here is, ver. #28-34|, a prophetical
description of Sennacherib's march towards Jerusalem, when he
threatened to destroy that city. Then the Lord, in whom Hezekiah
trusted, cut down his army like the hewing of a forest. Let us
apply what is here written, to like matters in other ages of the
church of Christ. Because of the anointing of our great
Redeemer, the yoke of every antichrist must be broken from off
his church: and if our souls partake of the unction of the Holy
Spirit, complete and eternal deliverances will be secured to us.
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* The peaceful character of Christ's kingdom and subjects. (1-9)
The conversion of the Gentiles and Jews. (10-16)

#1-9 The Messiah is called a Rod, and a Branch. The words
signify a small, tender product; a shoot, such as is easily
broken off. He comes forth out of the stem of Jesse; when the
royal family was cut down and almost levelled with the ground,
it would sprout again. The house of David was brought very low
at the time of Christ's birth. The Messiah thus gave early
notice that his kingdom was not of this world. But the Holy
Spirit, in all his gifts and graces, shall rest and abide upon
him; he shall have the fulness of the Godhead dwelling in him,
#Col 1:19; 2:9|. Many consider that seven gifts of the Holy
Spirit are here mentioned. And the doctrine of the influences of
the Holy Spirit is here clearly taught. The Messiah would be
just and righteous in all his government. His threatening shall
be executed by the working of his Spirit according to his word.
There shall be great peace and quiet under his government. The
gospel changes the nature, and makes those who trampled on the
meek of the earth, meek like them, and kind to them. But it
shall be more fully shown in the latter days. Also Christ, the
great Shepherd, shall take care of his flock, that the nature of
troubles, and of death itself, shall be so changed, that they
shall not do any real hurt. God's people shall be delivered, not
only from evil, but from the fear of it. Who shall separate us
from the love of Christ? The better we know the God of love, the
more shall we be changed into the same likeness, and the better
disposed to all who have any likeness to him. This knowledge
shall extend as the sea, so far shall it spread. And this
blessed power there have been witnesses in every age of
Christianity, though its most glorious time, here foretold, is
not yet arrived. Meanwhile let us aim that our example and
endeavours may help to promote the honour of Christ and his
kingdom of peace.

#10-16 When the gospel should be publicly preached, the Gentiles
would seek Christ Jesus as their Lord and Saviour, and find rest
of soul. When God's time is come for the deliverance of his
people, mountains of opposition shall become plains before him.
God can soon turn gloomy days into glorious ones. And while we
expect the Lord to gather his ancient people, and bring them
home to his church, also to bring in the fulness of the
Gentiles, when all will be united in holy love, let us tread the
highway of holiness he has made for his redeemed. Let us wait
for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life,
looking to him to prepare our way through death, that river
which separates this world from the eternal world.
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* This is a hymn of praise suited to the times of the Messiah.

- The song of praise in this chapter is suitable for the return
of the outcasts of Israel from their long captivity, but it is
especially suitable to the case of a sinner, when he first finds
peace and joy in believing; to that of a believer, when his
peace is renewed after corrections for backslidings; and to that
of the whole company of the redeemed, when they meet before the
throne of God in heaven. The promise is sure, and the blessings
contained in it are very rich; and the benefits enjoyed through
Jesus Christ, call for the most enlarged thanksgivings. By Jesus
Christ, the Root of Jesse, the Divine anger against mankind was
turned away, for he is our Peace. Those to whom God is
reconciled, he comforts. They are taught to triumph in God and
their interest in him. I will trust him to prepare me for his
salvation, and preserve me to it. I will trust him with all my
concerns, not doubting but he will make all to work for good.
Faith in God is a sovereign remedy against tormenting fears.
Many Christians have God for their strength, who have him not
for their song; they walk in darkness: but those who have God
for their strength ought to make him their song; that is, give
him the glory of it, and take to themselves the comfort of it.
This salvation is from the love of God the Father, it comes to
us through God the Son, it is applied by the new-creating power
of God the Spirit. When this is seen by faith, the trembling
sinner learns to hope in God, and is delivered from fear. The
purifying and sanctifying influences of the Holy Ghost often are
denoted under the emblem of springing water. This work flows
through the mediation of Christ, and is conveyed to our souls by
means of God's ordinances. Blessed be God, we have wells of
salvation opened on every side, and may draw from them the
waters of life and consolation. In the second part of this
gospel song, ver. #4-6|, believers encourage one another to
praise God, and seek to draw others to join them in it. No
difference of opinions about the times and seasons, and other
such matters, ought to divide the hearts of Christians. Let it
be our care that we may be placed amongst those to whom he will
say, Come, ye blessed of my Father, receive the kingdom prepared
for you from the beginning of the world.
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* The armies of God's wrath. (1-5) The conquest of Babylon.
(6-18) Its final desolation. (19-22)

#1-5 The threatenings of God's word press heavily upon the
wicked, and are a sore burden, too heavy for them to bear. The
persons brought together to lay Babylon waste, are called God's
sanctified or appointed ones; designed for this service, and
made able to do it. They are called God's mighty ones, because
they had their might from God, and were now to use it for him.
They come from afar. God can make those a scourge and ruin to
his enemies, who are farthest off, and therefore least dreaded.

#6-18 We have here the terrible desolation of Babylon by the
Medes and Persians. Those who in the day of their peace were
proud, and haughty, and terrible, are quite dispirited when
trouble comes. Their faces shall be scorched with the flame. All
comfort and hope shall fail. The stars of heaven shall not give
their light, the sun shall be darkened. Such expressions are
often employed by the prophets, to describe the convulsions of
governments. God will visit them for their iniquity,
particularly the sin of pride, which brings men low. There shall
be a general scene of horror. Those who join themselves to
Babylon, must expect to share her plagues, #Re 18:4|. All that
men have, they would give for their lives, but no man's riches
shall be the ransom of his life. Pause here and wonder that men
should be thus cruel and inhuman, and see how corrupt the nature
of man is become. And that little infants thus suffer, which
shows that there is an original guilt, by which life is
forfeited as soon as it is begun. The day of the Lord will,
indeed, be terrible with wrath and fierce anger, far beyond all
here stated. Nor will there be any place for the sinner to flee
to, or attempt an escape. But few act as though they believed
these things.

#19-22 Babylon was a noble city; yet it should be wholly
destroyed. None shall dwell there. It shall be a haunt for wild
beasts. All this is fulfilled. The fate of this proud city is a
proof of the truth of the Bible, and an emblem of the
approaching ruin of the New Testament Babylon; a warning to
sinners to flee from the wrath to come, and it encourages
believers to expect victory over every enemy of their souls, and
of the church of God. The whole world changes and is liable to
decay. Wherefore let us give diligence to obtain a kingdom which
cannot be moved; and in this hope let us hold fast that grace
whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly
fear.
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* The destruction of Babylon, and the death of its proud
monarch. (1-23) Assurance of the destruction of Assyria. (24-27)
The destruction of the Philistines. (28-32)

#1-23 The whole plan of Divine Providence is arranged with a
view to the good of the people of God. A settlement in the land
of promise is of God's mercy. Let the church receive those whom
God receives. God's people, wherever their lot is cast, should
endeavour to recommend religion by a right and winning
conversation. Those that would not be reconciled to them, should
be humbled by them. This may be applied to the success of the
gospel, when those were brought to obey it who had opposed it.
God himself undertakes to work a blessed change. They shall have
rest from their sorrow and fear, the sense of their present
burdens, and the dread of worse. Babylon abounded in riches. The
king of Babylon having the absolute command of so much wealth,
by the help of it ruled the nations. This refers especially to
the people of the Jews; and it filled up the measure of the king
of Babylon's sins. Tyrants sacrifice their true interest to
their lusts and passions. It is gracious ambition to covet to be
like the Most Holy, for he has said, Be ye holy, for I am holy;
but it is sinful ambition to aim to be like the Most High, for
he has said, He who exalts himself shall be abased. The devil
thus drew our first parents to sin. Utter ruin should be brought
upon him. Those that will not cease to sin, God will make to
cease. He should be slain, and go down to the grave; this is the
common fate of tyrants. True glory, that is, true grace, will go
up with the soul to heaven, but vain pomp will go down with the
body to the grave; there is an end of it. To be denied burial,
if for righteousness' sake, may be rejoiced in, #Mt 5:12|. But
if the just punishment of sin, it denotes that impenitent
sinners shall rise to everlasting shame and contempt. Many
triumphs should be in his fall. God will reckon with those that
disturb the peace of mankind. The receiving the king of Babylon
into the regions of the dead, shows there is a world of spirits,
to which the souls of men remove at death. And that souls have
converse with each other, though we have none with them; and
that death and hell will be death and hell indeed, to all who
fall unholy, from the height of this world's pomps, and the
fulness of its pleasures. Learn from all this, that the seed of
evil-doers shall never be renowned. The royal city is to be
ruined and forsaken. Thus the utter destruction of the New
Testament Babylon is illustrated, #Re 18:2|. When a people will
not be made clean with the besom of reformation, what can they
expect but to be swept off the face of the earth with the besom
of destruction?

#24-27 Let those that make themselves a yoke and a burden to
God's people, see what they are to expect. Let those that are
the called according to God's purpose, comfort themselves, that
whatever God has purposed, it shall stand. The Lord of hosts has
purposed to break the Assyrian's yoke; his hand is stretched out
to execute this purpose; who has power to turn it back? By such
dispensations of providence, the Almighty shows in the most
convincing manner, that sin is hateful in his sight.

#28-32 Assurance is given of the destruction of the Philistines
and their power, by famine and war. Hezekiah would be more
terrible to them than Uzziah had been. Instead of rejoicing,
there would be lamentation, for the whole land would be ruined.
Such destruction will come upon the proud and rebellious, but
the Lord founded Zion for a refuge to poor sinners, who flee
from the wrath to come, and trust in his mercy through Christ
Jesus. Let us tell all around of our comforts and security, and
exhort them to seek the same refuge and salvation.
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* The Divine judgments about to come upon the Moabites.

- This prophecy coming to pass within three years, would confirm
the prophet's mission, and the belief in all his other
prophecies. Concerning Moab it is foretold, 1. That their chief
cities should be surprised by the enemy. Great changes, and very
dismal ones, may be made in a very little time. 2. The Moabites
would have recourse to their idols for relief. Ungodly men, when
in trouble, have no comforter. But they are seldom brought by
their terrors to approach our forgiving God with true sorrow and
believing prayer. 3. There should be the cries of grief through
the land. It is poor relief to have many fellow-sufferers,
fellow-mourners. 4. The courage of their soldiers should fail.
God can easily deprive a nation of that on which it most
depended for strength and defence. 5. These calamities should
cause grief in the neighbouring parts. Though enemies to Israel,
yet as our fellow-creatures, it should be grievous to see them
in such distress. In ver. #6-9|, the prophet describes the woful
lamentations heard through the country of Moab, when it became a
prey to the Assyrian army. The country should be plundered. And
famine is usually the sad effect of war. Those who are eager to
get abundance of this world, and to lay up what they have
gotten, little consider how soon it may be all taken from them.
While we warn our enemies to escape from ruin, let us pray for
them, that they may seek and find forgiveness of their sins.
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* Moab is exhorted to yield obedience. (1-5) The pride and the
judgments of Moab. (6-14)

#1-5 God tells sinners what they may do to prevent ruin; so he
does to Moab. Let them send the tribute they formerly engaged to
pay to Judah. Take it as good advice. Break off thy sins by
righteousness, it may lengthen thy quiet. And this may be
applied to the great gospel duty of submission to Christ. Send
him the lamb, the best you have, yourselves a living sacrifice.
When you come to God, the great Ruler, come in the name of the
Lamb, the Lamb of God. Those who will not submit to Christ,
shall be as a bird that wanders from her nest, which shall be
snatched up by the next bird of prey. Those who will not yield
to the fear of God, shall be made to yield to the fear of every
thing else. He advises them to be kind to the seed of Israel.
Those that expect to find favour when in trouble themselves,
must show favour to those in trouble. What is here said
concerning the throne of Hezekiah, also belongs, in a much
higher sense, to the kingdom of Jesus Christ. Though by
subjection to Him we may not enjoy worldly riches or honours,
but may be exposed to poverty and contempt, we shall have peace
of conscience and eternal life.

#6-14 Those who will not be counselled, cannot be helped. More
souls are ruined by pride than by any other sin whatever. Also,
the very proud are commonly very passionate. With lies many seek
to gain the gratification of pride and passion, but they shall
not compass proud and angry projects. Moab was famous for fields
and vineyards; but they shall be laid waste by the invading
army. God can soon turn laughter into mourning, and joy into
heaviness. In God let us always rejoice with holy triumph; in
earthly things let us always rejoice with holy trembling. The
prophet looks with concern on the desolations of such a pleasant
country; it causes inward grief. The false gods of Moab are
unable to help; and the God of Israel, the only true God, can
and will make good what he has spoken. Let Moab know her ruin is
very near, and prepare. The most awful declarations of Divine
wrath, discover the way of escape to those who take warning.
There is no escape, but by submission to the Son of David, and
devoting ourselves to him. And, at length, when the appointed
time comes, all the glory, prosperity, and multitude of the
wicked shall perish.
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* Syria and Israel threatened. (1-11) The woe of Israel's
enemies. (12-14)

#1-11 Sin desolates cities. It is strange that great conquerors
should take pride in being enemies to mankind; but it is better
that flocks should lie down there, than that they should harbour
any in open rebellion against God and holiness. The strong holds
of Israel, the kingdom of the ten tribes, will be brought to
ruin. Those who are partakers in sin, are justly made partakers
in ruin. The people had, by sins, made themselves ripe for ruin;
and their glory was as quickly cut down and taken away by the
enemy, as the corn is out of the field by the husbandman. Mercy
is reserved in the midst of judgment, for a remnant. But very
few shall be marked to be saved. Only here and there one was
left behind. But they shall be a remnant made holy. The few that
are saved were awakened to return to God. They shall acknowledge
his hand in all events; they shall give him the glory due to his
name. To bring us to this, is the design of his providence, as
he is our Maker; and the work of his grace, as he is the Holy
One of Israel. They shall look off from their idols, the
creatures of their own fancy. We have reason to account those
afflictions happy, which part between us and our sins. The God
of our salvation is the Rock of our strength; and our
forgetfulness and unmindfulness of him are at the bottom of all
sin. The pleasant plants, and shoots from a foreign soil, are
expressions for strange and idolatrous worship, and the vile
practices connected therewith. Diligence would be used to
promote the growth of these strange slips, but all in vain. See
the evil and danger of sin, and its certain consequences.

#12-14 The rage and force of the Assyrians resembled the mighty
waters of the sea; but when the God of Israel should rebuke
them, they would flee like chaff, or like a rolling thing,
before the whirlwind. In the evening Jerusalem would be in
trouble, because of the powerful invader, but before morning his
army would be nearly cut off. Happy are those who remember God
as their salvation, and rely on his power and grace. The trouble
of the believers, and the prosperity of their enemies, will be
equally short; while the joy of the former, and the destruction
of those that hate and spoil them, shall last for ever.
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* God's care for his people; and the increase of the church.

- This chapter is one of the most obscure in Scripture, though
more of it probably was understood by those for whose use it was
first intended, than by us now. Swift messengers are sent by
water to a nation marked by Providence, and measured out,
trodden under foot. God's people are trampled on; but whoever
thinks to swallow them up, finds they are cast down, yet not
deserted, not destroyed. All the dwellers on earth must watch
the motions of the Divine Providence, and wait upon the
directions of the Divine will. God gives assurance to his
prophet, and by him to be given to his people. Zion is his rest
for ever, and he will look after it. He will suit to their case
the comforts and refreshments he provides for them; they will be
acceptable, because seasonable. He will reckon with his and
their enemies; and as God's people are protected at all seasons
of the year, so their enemies are exposed at all seasons. A
tribute of praise should be brought to God from all this. What
is offered to God, must be offered in the way he has appointed;
and we may expect him to meet us where he records his name. Thus
shall the nations of the earth be convinced that Jehovah is the
God, and Israel is his people, and shall unite in presenting
spiritual sacrifices to his glory. Happy are those who take
warning by his judgment on others, and hasten to join him and
his people. Whatever land or people may be intended, we are here
taught not to think that God takes no care of his church, and
has no respect to the affairs of men, because he permits the
wicked to triumph for a season. He has wise reasons for so
doing, which we cannot now understand, but which will appear at
the great day of his coming, when he will bring every work into
judgment, and reward every man according to his works.
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* Judgments upon Egypt. (1-17) Its deliverance, and the
conversion of the people. (18-25)

#1-17 God shall come into Egypt with his judgments. He will
raise up the causes of their destruction from among themselves.
When ungodly men escape danger, they are apt to think themselves
secure; but evil pursues sinners, and will speedily overtake
them, except they repent. The Egyptians will be given over into
the hand of one who shall rule them with rigour, as was shortly
after fulfilled. The Egyptians were renowned for wisdom and
science; yet the Lord would give them up to their own perverse
schemes, and to quarrel, till their land would be brought by
their contests to become an object of contempt and pity. He
renders sinners afraid of those whom they have despised and
oppressed; and the Lord of hosts will make the workers of
iniquity a terror to themselves, and to each other; and every
object around a terror to them.

#18-25 The words, "In that day," do not always refer to the
passage just before. At a time which was to come, the Egyptians
shall speak the holy language, the Scripture language; not only
understand it, but use it. Converting grace, by changing the
heart, changes the language; for out of the abundance of the
heart the mouth speaks. So many Jews shall come to Egypt, that
they shall soon fill five cities. Where the sun was worshipped,
a place infamous for idolatry, even there shall be a wonderful
reformation. Christ, the great Altar, who sanctifies every gift,
shall be owned, and the gospel sacrifices of prayer and praise
shall be offered up. Let the broken-hearted and afflicted, whom
the Lord has wounded, and thus taught to return to, and call
upon him, take courage; for He will heal their souls, and turn
their sorrowing supplications into joyful praises. The Gentile
nations shall not only unite with each other in the gospel fold
under Christ, the great Shepherd, but they shall all be united
with the Jews. They shall be owned together by him; they shall
all share in one and the same blessing. Meeting at the same
throne of grace, and serving with each other in the same
business of religion, should end all disputes, and unite the
hearts of believers to each other in holy love.
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* The invasion and conquest of Egypt and Ethiopia.

- Isaiah was a sign to the people by his unusual dress, when he
walked abroad. He commonly wore sackcloth as a prophet, to show
himself mortified to the world. He was to loose this from his
loins; to wear no upper garments, and to go barefooted. This
sign was to signify, that the Egyptians and Ethiopians should be
led away captives by the king of Assyria, thus stripped. The
world will often deem believers foolish, when singular in
obedience to God. But the Lord will support his servants under
the most trying effects of their obedience; and what they are
called upon to suffer for his sake, commonly is light, compared
with what numbers groan under from year to year from sin. Those
who make any creature their expectation and glory, and so put it
in the place of God, will, sooner or later, be ashamed of it.
But disappointment in creature-confidences, instead of driving
us to despair, should drive us to God, and our expectation shall
not be in vain. The same lesson is in force now; and where shall
we look for aid in the hour of necessity, but to the Lord our
Righteousness?
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* The taking of Babylon. (1-10) Of the Edomites. (11,12) Of the
Arabs. (13-17)

#1-10 Babylon was a flat country, abundantly watered. The
destruction of Babylon, so often prophesied of by Isaiah, was
typical of the destruction of the great foe of the New Testament
church, foretold in the Revelation. To the poor oppressed
captives it would be welcome news; to the proud oppressors it
would be grievous. Let this check vain mirth and sensual
pleasures, that we know not in what heaviness the mirth may end.
Here is the alarm given to Babylon, when forced by Cyrus. An ass
and a camel seem to be the symbols of the Medes and Persians.
Babylon's idols shall be so far from protecting her, that they
shall be broken down. True believers are the corn of God's
floor; hypocrites are but as chaff and straw, with which the
wheat is now mixed, but from which it shall be separated. The
corn of God's floor must expect to be threshed by afflictions
and persecutions. God's Israel of old was afflicted. Even then
God owns it is his still. In all events concerning the church,
past, present, and to come, we must look to God, who has power
to do any thing for his church, and grace to do every thing that
is for her good.

#11,12 God's prophets and ministers are as watchmen in the city
in a time of peace, to see that all is safe. As watchmen in the
camp in time of war, to warn of the motions of the enemy. After
a long sleep in sin and security, it is time to rise, to awake
out of sleep. We have a great deal of work to do, a long journey
to go; it is time to be stirring. After a long dark night is
there any hope of the day dawning? What tidings of the night?
What happens to-night? We must never be secure. But many make
curious inquiries of the watchmen. They would willingly have
nice questions solved, or difficult prophecies interpreted; but
they do not seek into the state of their own souls, about the
way of salvation, and the path of duty. The watchman answers by
way of prophecy. There comes first a morning of light, and
peace, and opportunity; but afterward comes a night of trouble
and calamity. If there be a morning of youth and health, there
will come a night of sickness and old age; if a morning of
prosperity in the family, in the public, yet we must look for
changes. It is our wisdom to improve the present morning, in
preparation for the night that is coming after it. Inquire,
return, come. We are urged to do it quickly, for there is no
time to trifle. Those that return and come to God, will find
they have a great deal of work to do, and but little time to do
it in.

#13-17 The Arabians lived in tents, and kept cattle. A
destroying army shall be brought upon them, and make them an
easy prey. We know not what straits we may be brought into
before we die. Those may know the want of necessary food who now
eat bread to the full. Neither the skill of archers, nor the
courage of mighty men, can protect from the judgments of God.
That is poor glory, which will thus quickly come to nothing.
Thus hath the Lord said to me; and no word of his shall fall to
the ground. We may be sure the Strength of Israel will not lie.
Happy are those only whose riches and glory are out of the reach
of invaders; all other prosperity will speedily pass away.
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* The siege and taking of Jerusalem. (1-7) The wicked conduct of
its inhabitants. (8-14) The displacing of Shebna, and the
promotion of Eliakim, applied to the Messiah. (15-25)

#1-7 Why is Jerusalem in such terror? Her slain men are not
slain with the sword, but with famine; or, slain with fear,
disheartened. Their rulers fled, but were overtaken. The
servants of God, who foresee and warn sinners of coming
miseries, are affected by the prospect. But all the horrors of a
city taken by storm, faintly shadow forth the terrors of the day
of wrath.

#8-14 The weakness of Judah now appeared more than ever. Now
also they discovered their carnal confidence and their carnal
security. They looked to the fortifications. They made sure of
water for the city. But they were regardless of God in all these
preparations. They did not care for his glory in what they did.
They did not depend upon him for a blessing on their endeavours.
For every creature is to us what God makes it to be; and we must
bless him for it, and use it for him. There was great contempt
of God's wrath and justice, in contending with them. God's
design was to humble them, and bring them to repentance. They
walked contrary to this. Actual disbelief of another life after
this, is at the bottom of the carnal security and brutish
sensuality, which are the sin, the shame, and ruin of so great a
part of mankind. God was displeased at this. It is a sin against
the remedy, and it is not likely they should ever repent of it.
Whether this unbelief works by presumption or despair, it
produces the same contempt of God, and is a token that a man
will perish wilfully.

#15-25 This message to Shebna is a reproof of his pride, vanity,
and security; what vanity is all earthly grandeur, which death
will so soon end! What will it avail, whether we are laid in a
magnificent tomb, or covered with the green sod? Those who, when
in power, turn and toss others, will be justly turned and tossed
themselves. Eliakim should be put into Shebna's place. Those
called to places of trust and power, should seek to God for
grace to enable them to do their duty. Eliakim's advancement is
described. Our Lord Jesus describes his own power as Mediator,
#Re 3:7|, that he has the key of David. His power in the kingdom
of heaven, and in ordering all the affairs of that kingdom, is
absolute. Rulers should be fathers to those under their
government; and the honour men bring unto their families, by
their piety and usefulness, is more to be valued than what they
derive from them by their names and titles. The glory of this
world gives a man no real worth or excellence; it is but hung
upon him, and it will soon drop from him. Eliakim was compared
to a nail in a sure place; all his family are said to depend
upon him. In eastern houses, rows of large spikes were built up
in the walls. Upon these the moveables and utensils were hung.
Our Lord Jesus is as a nail in a sure place. That soul cannot
perish, nor that concern fall to the ground, which is by faith
hung upon Christ. He will set before the believer an open door,
which no man can shut, and bring both body and soul to eternal
glory. But those who neglect so great salvation will find, that
when he shutteth none can open, whether it be shutting out from
heaven, or shutting up in hell for ever.
$-$-$- ISA:23

* The overthrow of Tyre. (1-14) It is established again. (15-18)

#1-14 Tyre was the mart of the nations. She was noted for mirth
and diversions; and this made her loth to consider the warnings
God gave by his servants. Her merchants were princes, and lived
like princes. Tyre being destroyed and laid waste, the merchants
should abandon her. Flee to shift for thine own safety; but
those that are uneasy in one place, will be so in another; for
when God's judgments pursue sinners, they will overtake them.
Whence shall all this trouble come? It is a destruction from the
Almighty. God designed to convince men of the vanity and
uncertainty of all earthly glory. Let the ruin of Tyre warn all
places and persons to take heed of pride; for he who exalts
himself shall be abased. God will do it, who has all power in
his hand; but the Chaldeans shall be the instruments.

#15-18 The desolations of Tyre were not to be for ever. The Lord
will visit Tyre in mercy. But when set at liberty, she will use
her old arts of temptation. The love of worldly wealth is
spiritual idolatry; and covetousness is spiritual idolatry. This
directs those that have wealth, to use it in the service of God.
When we abide with God in our worldly callings, when we do all
in our power to further the gospel, then our merchandise and
hire are holiness to the Lord, if we look to his glory.
Christians should carry on business as God's servants, and use
riches as his stewards.
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* The desolation of the land. (1-12) A few shall be preserved.
(13-15) God's kingdom advanced by his judgments. (16-23)

#1-12 All whose treasures and happiness are laid up on earth,
will soon be brought to want and misery. It is good to apply to
ourselves what the Scripture says of the vanity and vexation of
spirit which attend all things here below. Sin has turned the
earth upside down; the earth is become quite different to man,
from what it was when God first made it to be his habitation. It
is, at the best, like a flower, which withers in the hands of
those that please themselves with it, and lay it in their
bosoms. The world we live in is a world of disappointment, a
vale of tears; the children of men in it are but of few days,
and full of trouble, See the power of God's curse, how it makes
all empty, and lays waste all ranks and conditions. Sin brings
these calamities upon the earth; it is polluted by the sins of
men, therefore it is made desolate by God's judgments. Carnal
joy will soon be at end, and the end of it is heaviness. God has
many ways to imbitter wine and strong drink to those who love
them; distemper of body, anguish of mind, and the ruin of the
estate, will make strong drink bitter, and the delights of sense
tasteless. Let men learn to mourn for sin, and rejoice in God;
then no man, no event, can take their joy from them.

#13-15 There shall be a remnant preserved from the general ruin,
and it shall be a devout and pious remnant. These few are
dispersed; like the gleanings of the olive tree, hid under the
leaves. The Lord knows those that are his; the world does not.
When the mirth of carnal worldlings ceases, the joy of the
saints is as lively as ever, because the covenant of grace, the
fountain of their comforts, and the foundation of their hopes,
never fails. Those who rejoice in the Lord can rejoice in
tribulation, and by faith may triumph when all about them are in
tears. They encourage their fellow-sufferers to do likewise,
even those who are in the furnace of affliction. Or, in the
valleys, low, dark, miry places. In every fire, even the
hottest, in every place, even the remotest, let us keep up our
good thoughts of God. If none of these trials move us, then we
glorify the Lord in the fires.

#16-23 Believers may be driven into the uttermost parts of the
earth; but they are singing, not sighing. Here is terror to
sinners; the prophet laments the miseries he saw breaking in
like a torrent; and the small number of believers. He foresees
that sin would abound. The meaning is plain, that evil pursues
sinners. Unsteady, uncertain are all these things. Worldly men
think to dwell in the earth as in a palace, as in a castle; but
it shall be removed like a cottage, like a lodge put up for the
night. It shall fall and not rise again; but there shall be new
heavens and a new earth, in which shall dwell nothing but
righteousness. Sin is a burden to the whole creation; it is a
heavy burden, under which it groans now, and will sink at last.
The high ones, that are puffed up with their grandeur, that
think themselves out of the reach of danger, God will visit for
their pride and cruelty. Let us judge nothing before the time,
though some shall be visited. None in this world should be
secure, though their condition be ever so prosperous; nor need
any despair, though their condition be ever so deplorable. God
will be glorified in all this. But the mystery of Providence is
not yet finished. The ruin of the Redeemer's enemies must make
way for his kingdom, and then the Sun of Righteousness will
appear in full glory. Happy are those who take warning by the
sentence against others; every impenitent sinner will sink under
his transgression, and rise no more, while believers enjoy
everlasting bliss.
$-$-$- ISA:25

* A song of praise. (1-5) A declaration of the gospel blessings.
(6-8) The destruction of the enemies of Christ's church. (9-12)

#1-5 However this might show the deliverance of the Jews out of
captivity, it looked further, to the praises that should be
offered up to God for Christ's victories over our spiritual
enemies, and the comforts he has provided for all believers.
True faith simply credits the Lord's testimony, and relies on
his truth to perform his promises. As God weakens the strong who
are proud and secure, so he strengthens the weak that are
humble, and stay themselves upon him. God protects his people in
all weathers. The Lord shelters those who trust in him from the
insolence of oppressors. Their insolence is but the noise of
strangers; it is like the heat of the sun scorching in the
middle of the day; but where is it when the sun is set? The Lord
ever was, and ever will be, the Refuge of distressed believers.
Having provided them a shelter, he teaches them to flee unto it.

#6-8 The kind reception of repentant sinners, is often in the
New Testament likened to a feast. The guests invited are all
people, Gentiles as well as Jews. There is that in the gospel
which strengthens and makes glad the heart, and is fit for those
who are under convictions of sin, and mourning for it. There is
a veil spread over all nations, for all sat in darkness. But
this veil the Lord will destroy, by the light of his gospel
shining in the world, and the power of his Spirit opening men's
eyes to receive it. He will raise those to spiritual life who
were long dead in trespasses and sins. Christ will himself, in
his resurrection, triumph over death. Grief shall be banished;
there shall be perfect and endless joy. Those that mourn for sin
shall be comforted. Those who suffer for Christ shall have
consolations. But in the joys of heaven, and not short of them,
will fully be brought to pass this saying, God shall wipe away
all tears. The hope of this should now do away over-sorrow, all
weeping that hinders sowing. Sometimes, in this world God takes
away the reproach of his people from among men; however, it will
be done fully at the great day. Let us patiently bear sorrow and
shame now; both will be done away shortly.

#9-12 With joy and praise will those entertain the glad tidings
of the Redeemer, who looked for him; and with a triumphant song
will glorified saints enter into the joy of their Lord. And it
is not in vain to wait for him; for the mercy comes at last,
with abundant recompence for the delay. The hands once stretched
out upon the cross, to make way for our salvation, will at
length be stretched forth to destroy all impenitent sinners.
Moab is here put for all adversaries of God's people; they shall
all be trodden down or threshed. God shall bring down the pride
of the enemies by one humbling judgment after another. This
destruction of Moab is typical of Christ's victory, and the
pulling down of Satan's strong holds. Therefore, beloved
brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the
work of the Lord; for your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
$-$-$- ISA:26

* The Divine mercies encourage to confidence in God. (1-4) His
judgments. (5-11) His people exhorted to wait upon Him. (12-19)
Deliverance promised. (20,21)

#1-4 "That day," seems to mean when the New Testament Babylon
shall be levelled with the ground. The unchangeable promise and
covenant of the Lord are the walls of the church of God. The
gates of this city shall be open. Let sinners then be encouraged
to join to the Lord. Thou wilt keep him in peace; in perfect
peace, inward peace, outward peace, peace with God, peace of
conscience, peace at all times, in all events. Trust in the Lord
for that peace, that portion, which will be for ever. Whatever
we trust to the world for, it will last only for a moment; but
those who trust in God shall not only find in him, but shall
receive from him, strength that will carry them to that
blessedness which is for ever. Let us then acknowledge him in
all our ways, and rely on him in all trials.

#5-11 The way of the just is evenness, a steady course of
obedience and holy conversation. And it is their happiness that
God makes their way plain and easy. It is our duty, and will be
our comfort, to wait for God, to keep up holy desires toward him
in the darkest and most discouraging times. Our troubles must
never turn us from God; and in the darkest, longest night of
affliction, with our souls must we desire him; and this we must
wait and pray to him for. We make nothing of our religion,
whatever our profession may be, if we do not make heart-work of
it. Though we come ever so early, we shall find God ready to
receive us. The intention of afflictions is to teach
righteousness: blessed is the man whom the Lord thus teaches.
But sinners walk contrary to him. They will go on in their evil
ways, because they will not consider what a God he is whose laws
they persist in despising. Scorners and the secure will shortly
feel, what now they will not believe, that it is a fearful thing
to fall into the hands of the living God. They will not see the
evil of sin; but they shall see. Oh that they would abandon
their sins, and turn to the Lord, that he may have mercy upon
them.

#12-19 Every creature, every business, any way serviceable to
our comfort, God makes to be so; he makes that work for us which
seemed to make against us. They had been slaves of sin and
Satan; but by the Divine grace they were taught to look to be
set free from all former masters. The cause opposed to God and
his kingdom will sink at last. See our need of afflictions.
Before, prayer came drop by drop; now they pour it out, it comes
now like water from a fountain. Afflictions bring us to secret
prayer. Consider Christ as the Speaker addressing his church.
His resurrection from the dead was an earnest of all the
deliverance foretold. The power of his grace, like the dew or
rain, which causes the herbs that seem dead to revive, would
raise his church from the lowest state. But we may refer to the
resurrection of the dead, especially of those united to Christ.

#20,21 When dangers threaten, it is good to retire and lie hid;
when we commend ourselves to God to hide us, he will hide us
either under heaven or in heaven. Thus we shall be safe and
happy in the midst of tribulations. It is but for a short time,
as it were for a little moment; when over, it will seem as
nothing. God's place is the mercy-seat; there he delights to be:
when he punishes, he comes out of his place, for he has no
pleasure in the death of sinners. But there is hardly any truth
more frequently repeated in Scripture, than God's determined
purpose to punish the workers of iniquity. Let us keep close to
the Lord, and separate from the world; and let us seek comfort
in secret prayer. A day of vengeance is coming on the world, and
before it comes we are to expect tribulation and suffering. But
because the Christian looks for these things, shall he be
restless and dismayed? No, let him repose himself in his God.
Abiding in him, the believer is safe. And let us wait patiently
the fulfilling of God's promises.
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* God's care over his people. (1-5) A promise of their recall to
Divine favour. (6-13)

#1-5 The Lord Jesus with his strong sword, the virtue of his
death, and the preaching of his gospel, does and will destroy
him that had the power of death, that is, the devil, that old
serpent. The world is a fruitless, worthless wilderness; but the
church is a vineyard, a place that has great care taken of it,
and from which precious fruits are gathered. God will keep it in
the night of affliction and persecution, and in the day of peace
and prosperity, the temptations of which are not less dangerous.
God also takes care of the fruitfulness of this vineyard. We
need the continual waterings of Divine grace; if these be at any
time withdrawn, we wither, and come to nothing. Though God
sometimes contends with his people, yet he graciously waits to
be reconciled unto them. It is true, when he finds briers and
thorns instead of vines, and they are set in array against him,
he will tread them down and burn them. Here is a summary of the
doctrine of the gospel, with which the church is to be watered
every moment. Ever since sin first entered, there has been, on
God's part, a righteous quarrel, but, on man's part, most
unrighteous. Here is a gracious invitation given. Pardoning
mercy is called the power of our Lord; let us take hold on that.
Christ crucified is the power of God. Let us by lively faith
take hold on his strength who is a strength to the needy,
believing there is no other name by which we can be saved, as a
man that is sinking catches hold of a bough, or cord, or plank,
that is in his reach. This is the only way, and it is a sure
way, to be saved. God is willing to be reconciled to us.

#6-13 In the days of the gospel, the latter days, the gospel
church shall be more firmly fixed than the Jewish church, and
shall spread further. May our souls be continually watered and
kept, that we may abound in the fruits of the Spirit, in all
goodness, righteousness, and truth. The Jews yet are kept a
separate and a numerous people; they have not been rooted out as
those who slew them. The condition of that nation, through so
many ages, forms a certain proof of the Divine origin of the
Scriptures; and the Jews live amongst us, a continued warning
against sin. But though winds are ever so rough, ever so high,
God can say to them, Peace, be still. And though God will
afflict his people, yet he will make their afflictions to work
for the good of their souls. According to this promise, since
the captivity in Babylon, no people have shown such hatred to
idols and idolatry as the Jews. And to all God's people, the
design of affliction is to part between them and sin. The
affliction has done us good, when we keep at a distance from the
occasions of sin, and use care that we may not be tempted to it.
Jerusalem had been defended by grace and the Divine protection;
but when God withdrew, she was left like a wilderness. This has
awfully come to pass. And this is a figure of the deplorable
state of the vineyard, the church, when it brought forth wild
grapes. Sinners flatter themselves they shall not be dealt with
severely, because God is merciful, and is their Maker. We see
how weak those pleas will be. Verses #12,13|, seem to predict
the restoration of the Jews after the Babylonish captivity, and
their recovery from their present dispersion. This is further
applicable to the preaching of the gospel, by which sinners are
gathered into the grace of God; the gospel proclaims the
acceptable year of the Lord. Those gathered by the sounding of
the gospel trumpet, are brought in to worship God, and added to
the church; and the last trumpet will gather the saints
together.
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* The desolations of Samaria. (1-4) The prosperity of Judah;
with reproofs for sinfulness and unbelief. (5-15) Christ is
pointed out as the sure Foundation for all believers. (16-22)
God's dealings with his people. (23-29)

#1-4 What men are proud of, be it ever so mean, is to them as a
crown; but pride is the forerunner of destruction. How foolishly
drunkards act! Those who are overcome with wine are overcome by
Satan; and there is not greater drudgery in the world than hard
drinking. Their health is ruined; men are broken in their
callings and estates, and their families are ruined by it. Their
souls are in danger of being undone for ever, and all merely to
gratify a base lust. In God's professing people, like Israel, it
is worse than in any other. And he is just in taking away the
plenty they thus abuse. The plenty they were proud of, is but a
fading flower. Like the early fruit, which, as soon as
discovered, is plucked and eaten.

#5-15 The prophet next turns to Judah, whom he calls the residue
of his people. Happy are those alone, who glory in the Lord of
hosts himself. Hence his people get wisdom and strength for
every service and every conflict. But it is only in Christ Jesus
that the holy God communicates with sinful man. And whether
those that teach are drunk with wine, or intoxicated with false
doctrines and notions concerning the kingdom and salvation of
the Messiah, they not only err themselves, but lead multitudes
astray. All places where such persons have taught are filled
with errors. For our instruction in the things of God, it is
needful that the same precept and the same line should be often
repeated to us, that we may the better understand them. God, by
his word, calls us to what is really for our advantage; the
service of God is the only true rest for those weary of the
service of sin, and there is no refreshment but under the easy
yoke of the Lord Jesus. All this had little effect upon the
people. Those who will not understand what is plain, but scorn
and despise it as mean and trifling, are justly punished. If we
are at peace with God, we have, in effect, made a covenant with
death; whenever it comes, it cannot do us any real damage, if we
are Christ's. But to think of making death our friend, while by
sin we are making God our enemy, is absurd. And do not they make
lies their refuge who trust in their own righteousness, or to a
death-bed repentance? which is a resolution to sin no more, when
it is no longer in their power to do so.

#16-22 Here is a promise of Christ, as the only foundation of
hope for escaping the wrath to come. This foundation was laid in
Zion, in the eternal counsels of God. This foundation is a
stone, firm and able to support his church. It is a tried stone,
a chosen stone, approved of God, and never failed any who made
trial of it. A corner stone, binding together the whole
building, and bearing the whole weight; precious in the sight of
the Lord, and of every believer; a sure foundation on which to
build. And he who in any age or nation shall believe this
testimony, and rest all his hopes, and his never-dying soul on
this foundation, shall never be confounded. The right effect of
faith in Christ is, to quiet and calm the soul, till events
shall be timed by Him, who has all times in his own hand and
power. Whatever men trust to for justification, except the
righteousness of Christ; or for wisdom, strength, and holiness,
except the influences of the Holy Ghost; or for happiness,
except the favour of God; that protection in which they thought
to shelter themselves, will prove not enough to answer the
intention. Those who rest in a righteousness of their own, will
have deceived themselves: the bed is too short, the covering too
narrow. God will be glorified in the fulfilling of his counsels.
If those that profess to be members of God's church, make
themselves like Philistines and Canaanites, they must expect to
be dealt with as such. Then dare not to ridicule the reproofs of
God's word, or the approaches of judgements.

#23-29 The husbandman applies to his calling with pains and
prudence, in all the works of it according to their nature. Thus
the Lord, who has given men this wisdom, is wonderful in
counsel, and excellent in his working. As the occasion requires,
he threatens, corrects, spares, shows mercy, or executes
vengeance. Afflictions are God's threshing instruments, to
loosen us from the world, to part between us and our chaff, and
to prepare us for use. God will proportion them to our strength;
they shall be no heavier than there is need. When his end is
answered, the trials and sufferings of his people shall cease;
his wheat shall be gathered into the garner, but the chaff shall
be burned with unquenchable fire.
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* Judgements on Jerusalem and on its enemies. (1-8) The
senselessness and hypocrisy of the Jews. (9-16) The conversion
of the Gentiles, and future blessings for the Jews. (17-24)

#1-8 Ariel may signify the altar of burnt-offerings. Let
Jerusalem know that outward religious services will not make men
free from judgements. Hypocrites never can please God, nor make
their peace with him. God had often and long, by a host of
angels, encamped round about Jerusalem for protection and
deliverance; but now he fought against it. Proud looks and proud
language shall be brought down by humbling providences. The
destruction of Jerusalem's enemies is foretold. The army of
Sennacherib went as a dream; and thus the multitudes, that
through successive ages fight against God's altar and worship,
shall fall. Speedily will sinners awake from their soothing
dreams in the pains of hell.

#9-16 The security of sinners in sinful ways, is cause for
lamentation and wonder. The learned men, through prejudice, said
that the Divine prophecies were obscure; and the poor urged
their want of learning. The Bible is a sealed book to every man,
learned or unlearned, till he begins to study it with a simple
heart and a teachable spirit, that he may thence learn the truth
and the will of God. To worship God, is to approach him. And if
the heart be full of his love and fear, out of the abundance of
it the mouth will speak; but there are many whose religion is
lip-labour only. When they pretend to be speaking to God, they
are thinking of a thousand foolish things. They worship the God
of Israel according to their own devices. Numbers are only
formal in worship. And their religion is only to comply with
custom, and to serve their own interest. But the wanderings of
mind, and defects in devotion, which are the believer's burden,
are very different from the withdrawing of the heart from God,
so severely blamed. And those who make religion no more than a
pretence, to serve a turn, deceive themselves. And as those that
quarrel with God, so those that think to conceal themselves from
him, in effect charge him with folly. But all their perverse
conduct shall be entirely done away.

#17-24 The wonderful change here foretold, may refer to the
affairs of Judah, though it looks further. When a great harvest
of souls was gathered to Christ from among the Gentiles, then
the wilderness was turned into a fruitful field; and the Jewish
church, that had long been a fruitful field, became as a
deserted forest. Those who, when in trouble, can truly rejoice
in God, shall soon have cause greatly to rejoice in him. The
grace of meekness contributes to the increase of our holy joy.
The enemies who were powerful shall become mean and weak. To
complete the repose of God's people, the scorners at home shall
be cut off by judgements. All are apt to speak unadvisedly, and
to mistake what they hear, but it is very unfair to make a man
an offender for a word. They did all they could to bring those
into trouble who told them of their faults. But He that redeemed
Abraham out of his snares and troubles, will redeem those who
are, by faith, his true seed, out of theirs. It will be the
greatest comfort to godly parents to see their children renewed
creatures, the work of God's grace. May those who now err in
spirit, and murmur against the truth, come to understanding, and
learn true doctrine. The Spirit of truth shall set right their
mistakes, and lead them into all truth. This should encourage us
to pray for those that have erred, and are deceived. All who
murmured at the truths of God, as hard sayings, shall learn and
be aware what God designed in all. See the change religion
produces in the hearts of men, and the peace and pleasure of a
humble and devout spirit.
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* The Jews reproved for seeking aid from Egypt. (1-7) Judgements
in consequence of their contempt of God's word. (8-18) God's
mercies to his church. (19-26) The ruin of the Assyrian army,
and of all God's enemies. (27-33)

#1-7 It was often the fault and folly of the Jews, that when
troubled by their neighbours on one side, they sought for
succour from others, instead of looking up to God. Nor can we
avoid the dreadful consequences of adding sin to sin, but by
making the righteousness of Christ our refuge, and seeking for
the sanctification of the Holy Spirit. Men have always been
prone to lean to their own understandings, but this will end in
their shame and misery. They would not trust in God. They took
much pains to gain the Egyptians. The riches so spent turned to
a bad account. See what dangers men run into who forsake God to
follow their carnal confidences. The Creator is the Rock of
ages, the creature a broken reed; we cannot expect too little
from man, or too much from God. Our strength is to sit still, in
humble dependence upon God and his goodness, and quiet
submission to his will.

#8-18 The Jews were the only professing people God then had in
the world, yet many among them were rebellious. They had the
light, but they loved darkness rather. The prophets checked them
in their sinful pursuits, so that they could not proceed without
fear; this they took amiss. But faithful ministers will not be
driven from seeking to awaken sinners. God is the Holy One of
Israel, and so they shall find him. They did not like to hear of
his holy commandments and his hatred of sin; they desired that
they might no more be reminded of these things. But as they
despised the word of God, their sins undermined their safety.
Their state would be dashed in pieces like a potter's vessel.
Let us return from our evil ways, and settle in the way of duty;
that is the way to be saved. Would we be strengthened, it must
be in quietness and in confidence, keeping peace in our own
minds, and relying upon God. They think themselves wiser than
God; but the project by which they thought to save themselves
was their ruin. Only here and there one shall escape, as a
warning to others. If men will not repent, turn to God, and seek
happiness in his favour and service, their desires will but
hasten their ruin. Those who make God alone their confidence,
will have comfort. God ever waits to be gracious to all that
come to him by faith in Christ, and happy are those who wait for
him.

#19-26 God's people will soon arrive at the Zion above, and then
they will weep no more for ever. Even now they would have more
comfort, as well as holiness, if they were more constant in
prayer. A famine of bread is not so great a judgment as a famine
of the word of God. There are right-hand and left-hand errors;
the tempter is busy courting us into by-paths. It is happy if,
by the counsels of a faithful minister or friend, or the checks
of conscience, and the strivings of God the Spirit, we are set
right when doubting, and prevented from going wrong. They shall
be cured of their idolatry. To all true penitents sin becomes
very hateful. This is shown daily in the conversion of souls, by
the power of Divine grace, to the fear and love of God. Abundant
means of grace, with the influences of the Holy Spirit, would be
extended to places destitute of them. The effect of this should
be comfort and joy to the people of God. Light, that is,
knowledge, shall increase. This is the light which the gospel
brought into the world, and which proclaims healing to the
broken-hearted.

#27-33 God curbs and restrains from doing mischief. With a word
he guides his people into the right way, but with a bridle he
turns his enemies upon their own ruin. Here, in threatening the
ruin of Sennacherib's army, the prophet points at the final and
everlasting destruction of all impenitent sinners. Tophet was a
valley near Jerusalem, where fires were continually burning to
destroy things that were hurtful and offensive, and there the
idolatrous Jews caused their children to pass through the fire
to Moloch. This denotes the certainty of the destruction, as an
awful emblem of the place of torment in the other world. No
oppressor shall escape the Divine wrath. Let sinners then flee
to Christ, seeking to be reconciled to Him, that they may be
safe and happy, when destruction from the Almighty shall sweep
away all the workers of iniquity.
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* The sin and folly of seeking help from Egypt. (1-5) God's care
for Jerusalem. (6-9)

#1-5 God will oppose the help sought from workers of iniquity.
Sinners may be convicted of folly by plain and self-evident
truths, which they cannot deny, but will not believe. There is
no escaping the judgments of God; and evil pursues sinners. The
Lord of hosts will come down to fight for Mount Zion. The Lion
of the tribe of Judah will appear for the defence of his church.
And as birds hovering over their young ones to protect them,
with such compassion and affection will the Lord of hosts defend
Jerusalem. He will so defend it, as to secure its safety.

#6-9 They have been backsliding children, yet children; let them
return, and their backslidings shall be healed, though they have
sunk deep into misery, and cannot easily recover. Many make an
idol of their silver and gold, and by the love of that are drawn
from God; but those who turn to God, will be ready to part with
it. Then, when they have cast away their idols, shall the
Assyrian fall by the sword of an angel, who strikes more
strongly than a mighty man, yet more secretly than a mean man.
God can make the stoutest heart to tremble. But if we keep up
the fire of holy love and devotion in our hearts and houses, we
may depend upon God to protect us and them.
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* Times of peace and happiness. (1-8) An interval of trouble,
yet comfort and blessings in the end. (9-20)

#1-8 Christ our righteous King, and his true disciples, are
evidently here intended. The consolations and graces of his
Spirit are as rivers of water in this dry land; and as the
overhanging rock affords refreshing shade and shelter to the
weary traveller in the desert, so his power, truth, and love,
yield the believer the only real protection and refreshment in
the weary land through which he journeys to heaven. Christ bore
the storm himself, to keep it off from us. To him let the
trembling sinner flee for refuge; for he alone can protect and
refresh us in every trial. See what pains sinners take in sin;
they labour at it, their hearts are intent upon it, and with art
they work iniquity; but this is our comfort, that they can do no
more mischief than God permits. Let us seek to have our hearts
more freed from selfishness. The liberal soul devises liberal
things concerning God, and desires that He will grant wisdom and
prudence, the comforts of his presence, the influence of his
Spirit, and in due time the enjoyment of his glory.

#9-20 When there was so much provocation given to the holy God,
bad times might be expected. Alas! how many careless ones there
are, who support self-indulgence by shameful niggardliness! We
deserve to be deprived of the supports of life, when we make
them the food of lusts. Let such tremble and be troubled.
Blessed times shall be brought in by the pouring out of the
Spirit from on high; then, and not till then, there will be good
times. The present state of the Jews shall continue until a more
abundant pouring out of the Spirit from on high. Peace and
quietness shall be found in the way and work of righteousness.
True satisfaction is to be had only in true religion. And real
holiness is real happiness now, and shall be perfect happiness,
that is, perfect holiness for ever. The good seed of the word
shall be sown in all places, and be watered by Divine grace; and
laborious, patient labourers shall be sent forth into God's
husbandry.
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* God's judgments against the enemies of his church. (1-14) The
happiness of his people. (15-24)

#1-14 Here we have the proud and false destroyer justly reckoned
with for all his fraud and violence. The righteous God often
pays sinners in their own coin. Those who by faith humbly wait
for God, shall find him gracious to them; as the day, so let the
strength be. If God leaves us to ourselves any morning, we are
undone; we must every morning commit ourselves to him, and go
forth in his strength to do the work of the day. When God
arises, his enemies are scattered. True wisdom and knowledge
lead to strength of salvation, which renders us stedfast in the
ways of God; and true piety is the only treasure which can never
be plundered or spent. The distress Jerusalem was brought into,
is described. God's time to appear for his people, is, when all
other helpers fail. Let all who hear what God has done,
acknowledge that he can do every thing. Sinners in Zion will
have much to answer for, above other sinners. And those that
rebel against the commands of the word, cannot take its comforts
in time of need. His wrath will burn those everlastingly who
make themselves fuel for it. It is a fire that shall never be
quenched, nor ever go out of itself; it is the wrath of an
ever-living God preying on the conscience of a never-dying soul.

#15-24 The true believer watches against all occasions of sin.
The Divine power will keep him safe, and his faith in that power
will keep him easy. He shall want nothing needful for him. Every
blessing of salvation is freely bestowed on all that ask with
humble, believing prayer; and the believer is safe in time and
for ever. Those that walk uprightly shall not only have bread
given, and their water sure, but they shall, by faith, see the
King of kings in his beauty, the beauty of holiness. The
remembrance of the terror they were in, shall add to the
pleasure of their deliverance. It is desirable to be quiet in
our own houses, but much more so to be quiet in God's house; and
in every age Christ will have a seed to serve him. Jerusalem had
no large river running by it, but the presence and power of God
make up all wants. We have all in God, all we need, or can
desire. By faith we take Christ for our Prince and Saviour; he
reigns over his redeemed people. All that refuse to have Him to
reign over them, make shipwreck of their souls. Sickness is
taken away in mercy, when the fruit of it is the taking away of
sin. If iniquity be taken away, we have little reason to
complain of outward affliction. This last verse leads our
thoughts, not only to the most glorious state of the gospel
church on earth, but to heaven, where no sickness or trouble can
enter. He that blotteth out our transgressions, will heal our
souls.
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* God's vengeance against the enemies of his church. (1-8) Their
desolation. (9-17)

#1-8 Here is a prophecy of the wars of the Lord, all which are
both righteous and successful. All nations are concerned. And as
they have all had the benefit of his patience, so all must
expect to feel his resentment. The description of bloodshed
suggests tremendous ideas of the Divine judgments. Idumea here
denotes the nations at enmity with the church; also the kingdom
of antichrist. Our thoughts cannot reach the horrors of that
awful season, to those found opposing the church of Christ.
There is a time fixed in the Divine counsels for the deliverance
of the church, and the destruction of her enemies. We must
patiently wait till then, and judge nothing before the time.
Through Christ, mercy is exercised to every believer,
consistently with justice, and his name is glorified.

#9-17 Those who aim to ruin the church, can never do that, but
will ruin themselves. What dismal changes sin can make! It turns
a fruitful land into barrenness, a crowded city into a
wilderness. Let us compare all we discover in the book of the
Lord, with the dealings of providence around us, that we may be
more diligent in seeking the kingdom of God and his
righteousness. What the mouth of the Lord has commanded, his
Spirit will perform. And let us observe how the evidences of the
truth continually increase, as one prophecy after another is
fulfilled, until these awful scenes bring in more happy days. As
Israel was a figure of the Christian church, so the Edomites,
their bitter enemies, represent the enemies of the kingdom of
Christ. God's Jerusalem may be laid in ruins for a time, but the
enemies of the church shall be desolate for ever.
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* The flourishing state of Christ's kingdom. (1-4) The
privileges of his people. (5-10)

#1-4 Judea was prosperous in the days of Hezekiah, but the
kingdom of Christ is the great subject intended. Converting
grace makes the soul that was a wilderness, to rejoice with joy
and singing, and to blossom abundantly. The feeble and
faint-hearted are encouraged. This is the design of the gospel.
Fear is weakening; the more we strive against it, the stronger
we are, both for doing and suffering; and he that says to us, Be
strong, has laid help for us upon One who is mighty. Assurance
is given of the approach of Messiah, to take vengeance on the
powers of darkness, to recompense with abundant comforts those
that mourn in Zion; He will come and save. He will come again at
the end of time, to punish those who have troubled his people;
and to give those who were troubled such rest as will be a full
reward for all their troubles.

#5-10 When Christ shall come to set up his kingdom in the world,
then wonders, great wonders, shall be wrought on men's souls. By
the word and Spirit of Christ, the spiritually blind were
enlightened; and those deaf to the calls of God were made to
hear them readily. Those unable to do any thing good, by Divine
grace were made active therein. Those that knew not how to speak
of God or to God, had their lips opened to show forth his
praise. When the Holy Ghost came upon the Gentiles that heard
the word, then were the fountains of life opened. Most of the
earth is still a desert; neither means of grace, spiritual
worshippers, nor fruits of holiness, are to be found in it. But
the way of religion and godliness shall be laid open. The way of
holiness is the way of God's commandment; it is the good old
way. And the way to heaven is a plain way. Those knowing but
little, and unlearned, shall be kept from missing the road. It
shall be a safe way; nothing can do them any real hurt. Christ,
the way to God, shall be clearly made known; and the way of a
believer's duty shall be plainly marked out. Let us then go
forward cheerfully, assured that the end of this way shall be
everlasting joy, and rest for the soul. Those who by faith are
made citizens of the gospel Zion, rejoice in Christ Jesus; and
their sorrows and sighs are made to flee away by Divine
consolations. Thus these prophecies conclude. Our joyful hopes
and prospects of eternal life should swallow up all the sorrows
and all the joys of this present time. But of what avail is it
to admire the excellence of God's word, unless we can call its
precious promises our own? Do we love God, not only as our
Creator, but because he gave his only Son to die for us? And are
we walking in the ways of holiness? Let us try ourselves by such
plain questions, rather than spend time on things that may be
curious and amusing, but are unprofitable.
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* See #2Ki 18:17-37|, and the commentary thereon.
$-$-$- ISA:37

* This chapter is the same as #2Ki 19|.
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* Hezekiah's sickness and recovery. (1-8) His thanksgiving.
(9-22)

#1-8 When we pray in our sickness, though God send not to us
such an answer as he here sent to Hezekiah, yet, if by his
Spirit he bids us be of good cheer, assures us that our sins are
forgiven, and that, whether we live or die, we shall be his, we
do not pray in vain. See #2Ki 20:1-11|.

#9-22 We have here Hezekiah's thanksgiving. It is well for us to
remember the mercies we receive in sickness. Hezekiah records
the condition he was in. He dwells upon this; I shall no more
see the Lord. A good man wishes not to live for any other end
than that he may serve God, and have communion with him. Our
present residence is like that of a shepherd in his hut, a poor,
mean, and cold lodging, and with a trust committed to our
charge, as the shepherd has. Our days are compared to the
weaver's shuttle, #Job 7:6|, passing and repassing very swiftly,
every throw leaving a thread behind it; and when finished, the
piece is cut off, taken out of the loom, and showed to our
Master to be judged of. A good man, when his life is cut off,
his cares and fatigues are cut off with it, and he rests from
his labours. But our times are in God's hand; he has appointed
what shall be the length of the piece. When sick, we are very
apt to calculate our time, but are still at uncertainty. It
should be more our care how we shall get safe to another world.
And the more we taste of the loving-kindness of God, the more
will our hearts love him, and live to him. It was in love to our
poor perishing souls that Christ delivered them. The pardon does
not make the sin not to have been sin, but not to be punished as
it deserves. It is pleasant to think of our recoveries from
sickness, when we see them flowing from the pardon of sin.
Hezekiah's opportunity to glorify God in this world, he made the
business, and pleasure, and end of life. Being recovered, he
resolves to abound in praising and serving God. God's promises
are not to do away, but to quicken and encourage the use of
means. Life and health are given that we may glorify God and do
good.
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* This chapter is the same as #2Ki 20:12-19|.
$-$-$- ISA:40

* The preaching of the gospel, and glad tidings of the coming of
Christ. (1-11) The almighty power of God. (12-17) The folly of
idolatry. (18-26) Against unbelief. (27-31)

#1-11 All human life is a warfare; the Christian life is the
most so; but the struggle will not last always. Troubles are
removed in love, when sin is pardoned. In the great atonement of
the death of Christ, the mercy of God is exercised to the glory
of his justice. In Christ, and his sufferings, true penitents
receive of the Lord's hand double for all their sins; for the
satisfaction Christ made by his death was of infinite value. The
prophet had some reference to the return of the Jews from
Babylon. But this is a small event, compared with that pointed
out by the Holy Ghost in the New Testament, when John the
Baptist proclaimed the approach of Christ. When eastern princes
marched through desert countries, ways were prepared for them,
and hinderances removed. And may the Lord prepare our hearts by
the teaching of his word and the convictions of his Spirit, that
high and proud thoughts may be brought down, good desires
planted, crooked and rugged tempers made straight and softened,
and every hinderance removed, that we may be ready for his will
on earth, and prepared for his heavenly kingdom. What are all
that belongs to fallen man, or all that he does, but as the
grass and the flower thereof! And what will all the titles and
possessions of a dying sinner avail, when they leave him under
condemnation! The word of the Lord can do that for us, which all
flesh cannot. The glad tidings of the coming of Christ were to
be sent forth to the ends of the earth. Satan is the strong man
armed; but our Lord Jesus is stronger; and he shall proceed, and
do all that he purposes. Christ is the good Shepherd; he shows
tender care for young converts, weak believers, and those of a
sorrowful spirit. By his word he requires no more service, and
by his providence he inflicts no more trouble, than he will
strengthen them for. May we know our Shepherd's voice, and
follow him, proving ourselves his sheep.

#12-17 All created beings shrink to nothing in comparison with
the Creator. When the Lord, by his Spirit, made the world, none
directed his Spirit, or gave advice what to do, or how to do it.
The nations, in comparison of him, are as a drop which remains
in the bucket, compared with the vast ocean; or as the small
dust in the balance, which does not turn it, compared with all
the earth. This magnifies God's love to the world, that, though
it is of such small account and value with him, yet, for the
redemption of it, he gave his only-begotten Son, #Joh 3:16|. The
services of the church can make no addition to him. Our souls
must have perished for ever, if the only Son of the Father had
not given himself for us.

#18-26 Whatever we esteem or love, fear or hope in, more than
God, that creature we make equal with God, though we do not make
images or worship them. He that is so poor, that he has scarcely
a sacrifice to offer, yet will not be without a god of his own.
They spared no cost upon their idols; we grudge what is spent in
the service of our God. To prove the greatness of God, the
prophet appeals to all ages and nations. Those who are ignorant
of this, are willingly ignorant. God has the command of all
creatures, and of all created things. The prophet directs us to
use our reason as well as our senses; to consider who created
the hosts of heaven, and to pay our homage to Him. Not one fails
to fulfil his will. And let us not forget, that He spake all the
promises, and engaged to perform them.

#27-31 The people of God are reproved for their unbelief and
distrust of God. Let them remember they took the names Jacob and
Israel, from one who found God faithful to him in all his
straits. And they bore these names as a people in covenant with
Him. Many foolish frets, and foolish fears, would vanish before
inquiry into the causes. It is bad to have evil thoughts rise in
our minds, but worse to turn them into evil words. What they had
known, and had heard, was sufficient to silence all these fears
and distrusts. Where God had begun the work of grace, he will
perfect it. He will help those who, in humble dependence on him,
help themselves. As the day, so shall the strength be. In the
strength of Divine grace their souls shall ascend above the
world. They shall run the way of God's commandments cheerfully.
Let us watch against unbelief, pride, and self-confidence. If we
go forth in our own strength, we shall faint, and utterly fall;
but having our hearts and our hopes in heaven, we shall be
carried above all difficulties, and be enabled to lay hold of
the prize of our high calling in Christ Jesus.
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* God's care of his people. (1-9) they are encouraged not to
fear. (10-20) The vanity and folly of idolatry. (21-29)

#1-9 Can any heathen god raise up one in righteousness, make
what use of him he pleases, and make him victorious over the
nations? The Lord did so with Abraham, or rather, he would do so
with Cyrus. Sinners encourage one another in the ways of sin;
shall not the servants of the living God stir up one another in
his service? God's people are the seed of Abraham his friend.
This is certainly the highest title ever given to a mortal. It
means that Abraham, by Divine grace, was made like to God, and
that he was admitted to communion with Him. Happy are the
servants of the Lord, whom he has called to be his friends, and
to walk with him in faith and holy obedience. Let not such as
have thus been favoured yield to fear; for the contest may be
sharp, but the victory shall be sure.

#10-20 God speaks with tenderness; Fear thou not, for I am with
thee: not only within call, but present with thee. Art thou
weak? I will strengthen thee. Art thou in want of friends? I
will help thee in the time of need. Art thou ready to fall? I
will uphold thee with that right hand which is full of
righteousness, dealing forth rewards and punishments. There are
those that strive with God's people, that seek their ruin. Let
not God's people render evil for evil, but wait God's time. It
is the worm Jacob; so little, so weak, so despised and trampled
on by every body. God's people are as worms, in humble thoughts
of themselves, and in their enemies' haughty thoughts of them;
worms, but not vipers, not of the serpent's seed. Every part of
God's word is calculated to humble man's pride, and to make him
appear little in his own eyes. The Lord will help them, for he
is their Redeemer. The Lord will make Jacob to become a
threshing instrument. God will make him fit for use, new, and
having sharp spikes. This has fulfilment in the triumphs of the
gospel of Christ, and of all faithful followers of Christ, over
the power of darkness. God has provided comforts to supply all
their wants, and to answer all their prayers. Our way to heaven
lies through the wilderness of this world. The soul of man is in
want, and seeks for satisfaction; but becomes weary of seeking
that in the world, which is not to be had in it. Yet they shall
have a constant supply, where one would least expect it. I will
open rivers of grace, rivers of living water, which Christ spake
of the Spirit, #Joh 7:38,39|. When God sets up his church in the
Gentile wilderness, there shall be a great change, as if thorns
and briers were turned into cedars, and fir-trees, and myrtles.
These blessings are kept for the poor in spirit, who long for
Divine enlightening, pardon, and holiness. And God will render
their barren souls fruitful in the grace of his Spirit, that all
who behold may consider it.

#21-29 There needs no more to show the folly of sin, than to
bring to notice the reasons given in defence of it. There is
nothing in idols worthy of regard. They are less than nothing,
and worse than nothing. Let the advocates of other doctrines
than that of salvation through Christ, bring their arguments.
Can they tell of a cure for human depravity? Jehovah has power
which cannot be withstood; this he will make appear. But the
certain knowledge of the future must be only with Jehovah, who
fulfils his own plans. All prophecies, except those of the
Bible, have been uncertain. In the work of redemption the Lord
showed himself much more than in the release of the Jews from
Babylon. The good tidings the Lord will send in the gospel, is a
mystery hid from ages and generations. A Deliverer is raised up
for us, of nobler name and greater power than the deliverer of
the captive Jews. May we be numbered among his obedient servants
and faithful friends.
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* The character and coming of Christ. (1-4) The blessings of his
kingdom. (5-12) The prevalence of true religion. (13-17)
Unbelief and blindness reproved. (18-25)

#1-4 This prophecy was fulfilled in Christ, #Mt 12:17|. Let our
souls rely on him, and rejoice in him; then, for his sake, the
Father will be well-pleased with us. The Holy Spirit not only
came, but rested upon him, and without measure. He patiently
bore the contradiction of sinners. His kingdom is spiritual; he
was not to appear with earthly honours. He is tender of those
oppressed with doubts and fears, as a bruised reed; those who
are as smoking flax, as the wick of a lamp newly lighted, which
is ready to go out again. He will not despise them, nor lay upon
them more work or more suffering than they can bear. By a long
course of miracles and his resurrection, he fully showed the
truth of his holy religion. By the power of his gospel and grace
he fixes principles in the minds of men, which tend to make them
wise and just. The most distant nations wait for his law, wait
for his gospel, and shall welcome it. If we would make our
calling and election sure, and have the Father delight over us
for good, we must behold, hear, believe in, and obey Christ.

#5-12 The work of redemption brings back man to the obedience he
owes to God as his Maker. Christ is the light of the world. And
by his grace he opens the understandings Satan has blinded, and
sets at liberty from the bondage of sin. The Lord has supported
his church. And now he makes new promises, which shall as
certainly be fulfilled as the old ones were. When the Gentiles
are brought into the church, he is glorified in them and by
them. Let us give to God those things which are his, taking heed
that we do not serve the creature more than the Creator.

#13-17 The Lord will appear in his power and glory. He shall
cry, in the preaching of his word. He shall cry aloud in the
gospel woes, which must be preached with gospel blessings, to
awaken a sleeping world. He shall conquer by the power of his
Spirit. And those that contradict and blaspheme his gospel, he
shall put to silence and shame; and that which hinders its
progress shall be taken out of the way. To those who by nature
were blind, God will show the way to life and happiness by Jesus
Christ. They are weak in knowledge, but He will make darkness
light. They are weak in duty, but their way shall be plain.
Those whom God brings into the right way, he will guide in it.
This passage is a prophecy, and is also applicable to every
believer; for the Lord will never leave nor forsake them.

#18-25 Observe the call given to this people, and the character
given of them. Multitudes are ruined for want of observing that
which they cannot but see; they perish, not through ignorance,
but carelessness. The Lord is well-pleased in the making known
his own righteousness. For their sins they were spoiled of all
their possessions. This fully came to pass in the destruction of
the Jewish nation. There is no resisting, nor escaping God's
anger. See the mischief sin makes; it provokes God to anger. And
those not humbled by lesser judgments, must expect greater.
Alas! how many professed Christians are blind as the benighted
heathen! While the Lord is well-pleased in saving sinners
through the righteousness of Christ he will also glorify his
justice, by punishing all proud despisers. Seeing God has poured
out his wrath on his once-favoured people, because of their
sins, let us fear, lest a promise being left us of entering into
his rest, any of us should be found to come short of it.
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* God's unchangeable love for his people. (1-7) Apostates and
idolaters addressed. (8-13) The deliverance from Babylon, and
the conversion of the Gentiles. (14-21) Admonition to repent of
sin. (22-28)

#1-7 God's favour and good-will to his people speak abundant
comfort to all believers. The new creature, wherever it is, is
of God's forming. All who are redeemed with the blood of his
Son, he has set apart for himself. Those that have God for them
need not fear who or what can be against them.  What are Egypt
and Ethiopia, all their lives and treasures, compared with the
blood of Christ? True believers are precious in God's sight, his
delight is in them, above any people. Though they went as
through fire and water, yet, while they had God with them, they
need fear no evil; they should be born up, and brought out. The
faithful are encouraged. They were to be assembled from every
quarter. And with this pleasing object in view, the prophet
again dissuades from anxious fears.

#8-13 Idolaters are called to appear in defence of their idols.
Those who make them, and trust in them, are like unto them. They
have the shape and faculties of men; but they have not common
sense. But God's people know the power of his grace, the
sweetness of his comforts, the kind care of his providence, and
the truth of his promise. All servants of God can give such an
account of what he has wrought in them, and done for them, as
may lead others to know and believe his power, truth, and love

#14-21 The deliverance from Babylon is foretold, but there is
reference to greater events. The redemption of sinners by
Christ, the conversion of the Gentiles, and the recall of the
Jews, are described. All that is to be done to rescue sinners,
and to bring the believer to glory, is little, compared with
that wondrous work of love, the redemption of man.

#22-28 Those who neglect to call upon God, are weary of him. The
Master tired not the servants with his commands, but they tired
him with disobedience. What were the riches of God's mercy
toward them? I, even I, am he who yet blotteth out thy
transgressions. This encourages us to repent, because there is
forgiveness with God, and shows the freeness of Divine mercy.
When God forgives, he forgets. It is not for any thing in us,
but for his mercies' sake, his promise' sake; especially for his
Son's sake. He is pleased to reckon it his honour. Would man
justify himself before God? The attempt is desperate: our first
father broke the covenant, and we all have copied his example.
We have no reason to expect pardon, except we seek it by faith
in Christ; and that is always attended by true repentance, and
followed by newness of life, by hatred of sin, and love to God.
Let us then put him in remembrance of the promises he has made
to the penitent, and the satisfaction his Son has made for them.
Plead these with him in wrestling for pardon; and declare these
things, that thou mayest be justified freely by his grace. This
is the only way, and it is a sure way to peace.
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* Here are promises of the influences of the Holy Spirit. (1-8)
An exposure of the folly of idolatry. (9-20) Also the
deliverance of God's people. (21-28)

#1-8 Israel is here called Jeshurun, which means "the upright
one." Such only are Israelites indeed, in whom is no guile.
Those that serve God he will own. He will help them over
difficulties, and in their services. Water is the emblem of the
Holy Spirit; as water refreshes, cleanses, and makes the earth
fruitful, so do his influences the soul. This gift of the Holy
Ghost is the great blessing, the plentiful pouring out of which
God kept for the latter days. Where God gives his Spirit, he
will give all other blessings. Hereby shall be a great increase
of the church; thus it shall be spread to distant places. Was
there any other Rock, or Protector, that could defend them? None
besides could foretell these things to come, of which God by his
prophets gave notice. All was set in order in the Divine
predictions, as well as in the Divine purposes. Could any other
have done so? Who can compare with Israel's Redeemer and King?

#9-20 Image-making is described, to expose the folly of
idolaters. Though a man had used part of a log for fuel, he fell
down before an image made of the remainder, praying it to
deliver him. Man greatly dishonours God, when he represents him
after the image of man. Satan blinds the eyes of unbelievers,
causing absurd reasonings in matters of religion. Whether men
seek happiness in worldly things, or run into unbelief,
superstition, or any false system, they feed on ashes. A heart
deceived by pride, love of sin, and departure from God, turns
men aside from his holy truth and worship. While the affections
are depraved, a man holds fast the lie as his best treasure. Are
our hearts set upon the wealth of the world and its pleasures?
They will certainly prove a lie. If we trust to outward
professions and doings, as if those would save us, we deceive
ourselves. Self-suspicion is the first step towards
self-deliverance. He that would deliver his soul, must question
his conscience, Is there not a lie in my right hand?

#21-28 Return unto me. It is the great concern of those who have
backslidden from God, like the Jews of old, to hasten their
return to him. The work of redemption wrought for us by Christ,
encourages to hope for all blessings from him. Our
transgressions and our sins are as a thick cloud between heaven
and earth: sins separate between us and God; they threaten a
storm of wrath. When God pardons sin, he blots out, he dispels
this cloud, this thick cloud, so that the way to heaven is open
again. The cloud is scattered by the Sun of righteousness; it is
quite gone. The comforts that flow into the soul when sin is
pardoned, are like clear shining after clouds and rain. Let not
Israel be discouraged; nothing is too hard for God: having made
all, he can make what use he pleases of any. Those that learn to
know Christ, see all knowledge to be foolishness, in comparison
with the knowledge of him. And his enemies will find their
counsels turned into foolishness, and themselves taken in their
craftiness. The exact fulfilling the prophecies of Scripture
confirms the truth of the whole, and proves its Divine origin.
The particular favours God designed for his people in captivity,
were foretold here, long before they went into captivity. Very
great difficulties would be in the way of their deliverance; but
it is promised that by Divine power they should all be removed.
God knew who should be the Deliverer of his people; and let his
church know it, that when they heard such a name talked of, they
might know their redemption drew nigh. It is the greatest honour
of the greatest men, to be employed as instruments of the Divine
favour to his people. In things wherein men serve themselves,
and look no further, God makes them do all his pleasure. And a
nobler Shepherd than Cyrus does his Father's will, till his work
is fully completed.
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* The deliverance of the Jews by Cyrus. (1-4) God calls for
obedience to his almighty power. (5-10) The settlement of his
people. (11-19) The conversion of the Gentiles. (20-25)

#1-4 Cyrus is called God's anointed; he was designed and
qualified for his great service by the counsel of God. The gates
of Babylon which led to the river, were left open the night that
Cyrus marched his army into the empty channel. The Lord went
before him, giving entrance to the cities he besieged. He gave
him also treasures, which had been hidden in secret places. The
true God was to Cyrus an unknown God; yet God foreknew him; he
called him by his name. The exact fulfilment of this must have
shown Cyrus that Jehovah was the only true God, and that it was
for the sake of Israel that he was prospered. In all the changes
of states and kingdoms, God works out the good of his church.

#5-10 There is no God beside Jehovah. There is nothing done
without him. He makes peace, put here for all good; and creates
evil, not the evil of sin, but the evil of punishment. He is the
Author of all that is true, holy, good, or happy; and evil,
error, and misery, came into the world by his permission,
through the wilful apostacy of his creatures, but are restrained
and overruled to his righteous purpose. This doctrine is
applied, for the comfort of those that earnestly longed, yet
quietly waited, for the redemption of Israel. The redemption of
sinners by the Son of God, and the pouring out the Spirit, to
give success to the gospel, are chiefly here intended. We must
not expect salvation without righteousness; together the Lord
hath created them. Let not oppressors oppose God's designs for
his people. Let not the poor oppressed murmur, as if God dealt
unkindly with them. Men are but earthen pots; they are broken
potsherds, and are very much made so by mutual contentions. To
contend with Him is as senseless as for clay to find fault with
the potter. Let us turn God's promises into prayers, beseeching
him that salvation may abound among us, and let us rest assured
that the Judge of all the earth will do right.

#11-19 Believers may ask in prayer for what they need; if for
their good, it will not be withheld. But how common to hear God
called to account for his dealings with man! Cyrus provided for
the returning Jews. Those redeemed by Christ shall be provided
for. The restoration would convince many, and convert some; and
all that truly join the Lord, find his service perfect freedom.
Though God be his people's God and Saviour, yet sometimes he
lays them under his frowns; but let them wait upon the Lord who
hides his face. There is a world without end; and it will be
well or ill with us, according as it shall be with us in that
world. The Lord we serve and trust, is God alone. All that God
has said is plain, satisfactory, and just. As God in his word
calls us to seek him, so he never denied believing prayers, nor
disappointed believing expectations. He gives grace sufficient,
and comfort and satisfaction of soul.

#20-25 The nations are exhorted to draw near to Jehovah. None
besides is able to help; he is the Saviour, who can save without
the assistance of any, but without whom none can save. If the
heart is brought into the obedience of Christ, the knee will
cheerfully obey his commands. To Christ men shall come from
every nation for blessings; all that hate his cause shall be put
to shame, and all believers shall rejoice in him as their Friend
and Portion. All must come to him: may we now come to him as the
Lord our Righteousness, walking according to his commandments.
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* The idols could not save themselves, but God saves his people.
(1-4) The folly of worshipping idols. (5-13)

#1-4 The heathen insulted the Jews, as if their idols Bel and
Nebo were too hard for Jehovah. But their worshippers cannot
help them; both the idols and the idolaters are gone into
captivity. Let not God's people be afraid of either. Those
things from which ungodly men expect safety and happiness, will
be found unable to save them from death and hell. The true God
will never fail his worshippers. The history of the life of
every believer is a kind of abstract of the history of Israel.
Our spiritual life is upheld by his grace, as constantly as our
natural life by his providence. And God will never leave them.
The Author will be the Finisher of their well-being, when, by
decays, they need help as much as in infancy. This promise to
Israel, enfeebled and grown old as a nation, is applicable to
every aged follower of Christ. When compassed about with
infirmities, and perhaps those around begin to grow weary of
you, yet I am He that I have promised to be, He that you would
have me to be. I will bear you up; carry you on in your way, and
carry you home at last. If we learn to trust in and love him, we
need not be anxious about our remaining days or years; he will
still provide for us and watch over us, both as the creatures of
his power, and as new-created by his Spirit.

#5-13 Here the folly of those who made idols, and then prayed to
them, is exposed. How does the profuseness of idolaters shame
the niggardliness of many who call themselves God's servants,
but are for a religion which costs them nothing! The service of
sin always costs a great deal. God puts it to them what
senseless, helpless things idols are. Let, then, the Jews show
themselves men, avoiding such abominations. Many Scripture
prophecies, delivered long ago, are not yet fulfilled; but the
fulfilling of some is an earnest that the rest will come to
pass. Nothing can help more to make us easy, than to be assured
that God will do all his pleasure. Even those who know not and
mind not God's revealed will, are called and used to fulfil the
counsels of his secret will. Heaven and earth shall pass away,
sooner than one tittle of the word of God. Obstinate sinners are
addressed. Such were far from acceptance, but they were summoned
to hearken to the word of the Lord. The salvation of a sinner
begins with a humble and contrite heart, that trembles at God's
word, with godly sorrow working true repentance, and faith in
his mercy, through the obedience unto death of our Divine
Surety. Christ, as the Divine righteousness and salvation to his
people, would come in the appointed time. His salvation abides
in his church for all believers.
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* God's judgments on Babylon. (1-6) Carelessness and confidence
shall not prevent the evil. (7-15)

#1-6 Babylon is represented under the emblem of a female in deep
distress. She was to be degraded and endure sufferings; and is
represented sitting on the ground, grinding at the handmill, the
lowest and most laborious service. God was righteous in his
vengeance, and none should interpose. The prophet exults in the
Lord of hosts, as the Redeemer and Holy One of Israel. God often
permits wicked men to prevail against his people; but those who
cruelly oppress them will be punished.

#7-15 Let us beware of acting and speaking as Babylon did; of
trusting in tyranny and oppression; of boasting as to our
abilities, relying on ourselves, and ascribing success to our
own prudence and wisdom; lest we partake of her plagues. Those
in the height of prosperity, are apt to fancy themselves out of
the reach of adversity. It is also common for sinners to think
they shall be safe, because they think to be secret in wicked
ways. But their security shall be their ruin. Let us draw from
such passages as the foregoing, those lessons of humility and
trust in God which they convey. If we believe the word of God,
we may know how it will be with the righteous and the wicked to
all eternity. We may learn how to escape the wrath to come, to
glorify God, to have peace through life, hope in death, and
everlasting happiness. Let us then stand aloof from all
delusions.
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* The Jews reproved for their idolatry. (1-8) Yet deliverance is
promised them. (9-15) Solemn warnings of judgment upon those who
persisted in evil. (16-22)

#1-8 The Jews valued themselves on descent from Jacob, and used
the name of Jehovah as their God. They prided themselves
respecting Jerusalem and the temple, yet there was no holiness
in their lives. If we are not sincere in religion, we do but
take the name of the Lord in vain. By prophecy they were shown
how God would deal with them, long before it came to pass. God
has said and done enough to prevent men's boasting of
themselves, which makes the sin and ruin of the proud worse;
sooner or later every mouth shall be stopped, and all become
silent before Him. We are all born children of disobedience.
Where original sin is, actual sin will follow. Does not the
conscience of every man witness to the truth of Scripture? May
the Lord prove us, and render us doers of the word.

#9-15 We have nothing ourselves to plead with God, why he should
have mercy upon us. It is for his praise, to the honour of his
mercy, to spare. His bringing men into trouble was to do them
good. It was to refine them, but not as silver; not so
thoroughly as men refine silver. If God should take that course,
they are all dross, and, as such, might justly be put away. He
takes them as refined in part only. Many have been brought home
to God as chosen vessels, and a good work of grace begun in
them, in the furnace of affliction. It is comfort to God's
people, that God will secure his own honour, therefore work
deliverance for them. And if God delivers his people, he cannot
be at a loss for instruments to be employed. God has formed a
plan, in which, for his own sake, and the glory of his grace, he
saves all that come to Him.

#16-22 The Holy Spirit qualifies for service; and those may
speak boldly, whom God and his Spirit send. This is to be
applied to Christ. He was sent, and he had the Spirit without
measure. Whom God redeems, he teaches; he teaches to profit by
affliction, and then makes them partakers of his holiness. Also,
by his grace he leads them in the way of duty; and by his
providence he leads in the way of deliverance. God did not
afflict them willingly. If their sins had not turned them away,
their peace should have been always flowing and abundant.
Spiritual enjoyments are ever joined with holiness of life and
regard to God's will. It will make the misery of the disobedient
the more painful, to think how happy they might have been. And
here is assurance given of salvation out of captivity. Those
whom God designs to bring home to himself, he will take care of,
that they want not for their journey. This is applicable to the
grace laid up for us in Jesus Christ, from whom all good flows
to us, as the water to Israel out of the rock, for that Rock was
Christ. The spiritual blessings of redemption, and the rescue of
the church from antichristian tyranny, are here pointed to. But
whatever changes take place, the Lord warned impenitent sinners
that no good would come to them; that inward anguish and outward
trouble, which spring from guilt and from the Divine wrath, must
be their portion for ever.
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* The unbelief and rejection of the Jews. (1-6) Gracious promise
to the Gentiles. (7-12) God's love to the church. (13-17) Its
increase. (18-23) And deliverance. (24-26)

#1-6 The great Author of redemption shows the authority for his
work. The sword of his word slays the lusts of his people, and
all at enmity with them. His sharp arrows wound the conscience;
but all these wounds will be healed, when the sinner prays to
him for mercy. But even the Redeemer, who spake as never man
spake in his personal ministry, often seemed to labour in vain.
And if Jacob will not be brought back to God, and Israel will
not be gathered, still Christ will be glorious. This promise is
in part fulfilled in the calling of the Gentiles. Men perish in
darkness. But Christ enlightens men, and so makes them holy and
happy.

#7-12 The Father is the Lord, the Redeemer, and Holy One of
Israel, as sending the Son to be the Redeemer. Man, whom he came
to save, put contempt upon him. To this he submitted for our
salvation. He is a pledge for all the blessings of the covenant;
in him God was reconciling the world to himself. Pardoning mercy
is a release from the curse of the law; renewing grace is a
release from the dominion of sin: both are from Christ. He saith
to those in darkness, Show yourselves. Not only see, but be
seen, to the glory of God, and your own comforts. Though there
are difficulties in the way to heaven, yet the grace of God will
carry us over them, and make even the mountains a way. This
denotes the free invitations and the encouraging promises of the
gospel, and the outpouring of the Spirit.

#13-17 Let there be universal joy, for God will have mercy upon
the afflicted, because of his compassion; upon his afflicted,
because of his covenant. We have no more reason to question his
promise and grace, than we have to question his providence and
justice. Be assured that God has a tender affection for his
church and people; he would not have them to be discouraged.
Some mothers do neglect their children; but God's compassions to
his people, infinitely exceed those of the tenderest parents
toward their children. His setting them as a mark on his hand,
or a seal upon his arm, denotes his being ever mindful of them.
As far as we have scriptural evidence that we belong to his
ransomed flock, we may be sure that he will never forsake us.
Let us then give diligence to make our calling and election
sure, and rejoice in the hope and glory of God.

#18-23 Zion is addressed as an afflicted widow, bereaved of her
children. Numbers flock to her, and she is assured that they
come to be a comfort to her. There are times when the church is
desolate and few in number; yet its desolations shall not last
for ever, and God will repair them. God can raise up friends for
returning Israelites, even among Gentiles. They shall bring
their children, and make them thy children. Let all deal
tenderly and carefully with young converts and beginners in
religion. Princes shall protect the church. It shall appear that
God is the sovereign Lord of all. And those who in the exercise
of faith, hope, and patience, wait on God for the fulfilment of
his promises, shall never be confounded.

#24-26 We were lawful captives to the justice of God, yet
delivered by a price of unspeakable value. Here is an express
promise: Even the prey of the terrible shall be delivered. We
may here view Satan deprived of his prey, bound and cast into
the pit; and all the powers that have combined to enslave,
persecute, or corrupt the church, are destroyed; that all the
earth may know that our Saviour and Redeemer is Jehovah, the
mighty One of Jacob. And every effort we make to rescue our
fellow-sinners from the bondage of Satan, is, in some degree,
helping forward that great change.
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* The rejection of the Jews. (1-3) The sufferings and exaltation
of the Messiah. (4-9) Consolation to the believer, and warning
to the unbeliever. (10,11)

#1-3 Those who have professed to be people of God, and seem to
be dealt severely with, are apt to complain, as if God had been
hard with them. Here is an answer for such murmurings; God never
deprived any of their advantages, except for their sins. The
Jews were sent into Babylon for their idolatry, a sin which
broke the covenant; and they were at last rejected for
crucifying the Lord of glory. God called on them to leave their
sins, and prevent their own ruin. Last of all, the Son came to
his own, but his own received him not. When God calls men to
happiness, and they will not answer, they are justly left to be
miserable. To silence doubts concerning his power, proofs of it
are given. The wonders which attended his sufferings and death,
proclaimed that he was the Son of God, #Mt 27:54|.

#4-9 As Jesus was God and man in one person, we find him
sometimes speaking, or spoken of, as the Lord God; at other
times, as man and the servant of Jehovah. He was to declare the
truths which comfort the broken, contrite heart, those weary of
sin, harassed with afflictions. And as the Holy Spirit was upon
him, that he might speak as never man spake; so the same Divine
influence daily wakened him to pray, to preach the gospel, and
to receive and deliver the whole will of the Father. The Father
justified the Son when he accepted the satisfaction he made for
the sin of man. Christ speaks in the name of all believers. Who
dares to be an enemy to those unto whom he is a Friend? or who
will contend with those whom he is an Advocate? Thus St. Paul
applies it, #Ro 8:33|.

#10,11 A child of God is afraid of incurring his displeasure.
This grace usually appears most in believers when in darkness,
when other graces appear not. Those that truly fear God, obey
the voice of Christ. A sincere servant of God may for a long
time be without views of eternal happiness. What is likely to be
an effectual cure in this sad case? Let him trust in the name of
the Lord; and let him stay himself upon the promises of the
covenant, and build his hopes on them. Let him trust in Christ,
trust in that name of his, The Lord our Righteousness; stay
himself upon God as his God, in and through a Mediator.
Presuming sinners are warned not to trust in themselves. Their
own merit and sufficiency are light and heat to them.
Creature-comforts are as sparks, short-lived, and soon gone; yet
the children of this world, while they last, seek to warm
themselves by them, and walk with pride and pleasure in the
light of them. Those that make the world their comfort, and
their own righteousness their confidence, will certainly meet
with bitterness in the end. A godly man's way may be dark, but
his end shall be peace and everlasting light. A wicked man's way
may be pleasant, but his end and abode for ever will be utter
darkness.
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* Exhortations to trust the Messiah. (1-3) The power of God, and
the weakness of man. (4-8) Christ defends his people. (9-16)
Their afflictions and deliverances. (17-23)

#1-3 It is good for those privileged by the new birth, to
consider that they were shapen in sin. This should cause low
thoughts of ourselves, and high thoughts of Divine grace. It is
the greatest comfort to be made serviceable to the glory of God.
The more holiness men have, and the more good they do, the more
gladness they have. Let us seriously reflect upon our guilt. To
do so will tend to keep the heart humble, and the conscience
awake and tender. They make Christ more precious to the soul,
and give strength to our attempts and prayers for others.

#4-8 The gospel of Christ shall be preached and published. How
shall we escape if we neglect it? There is no salvation without
righteousness. The soul shall, as to this world, vanish like
smoke, and the body be thrown by like a worn-out garment. But
those whose happiness is in Christ's righteousness and
salvation, will have the comfort of it when time and days shall
be no more. Clouds darken the sun, but do not stop its course.
The believer will enjoy his portion, while revilers of Christ
are in darkness

#9-16 The people whom Christ has redeemed with his blood, as
well as by his power, will obtain joyful deliverance from every
enemy. He that designs such joy for us at last, will he not work
such deliverance in the mean time, as our cases require? In this
world of changes, it is a short step from joy to sorrow, but in
that world, sorrow shall never come in view. They prayed for the
display of God's power; he answers them with consolations of his
grace. Did we dread to sin against God, we should not fear the
frowns of men. Happy is the man that fears God always. And
Christ's church shall enjoy security by the power and providence
of the Almighty.

#17-23 God calls upon his people to mind the things that belong
to their everlasting peace. Jerusalem had provoked God, and was
made to taste the bitter fruits. Those who should have been her
comforters, were their own tormentors. They have no patience by
which to keep possesion of their own souls, nor any confidence
in God's promise, by which to keep possession of its comfort.
Thou art drunken, not as formerly, with the intoxicating cup of
Babylon's idolatries, but with the cup of affliction. Know,
then, the cause of God's people may for a time seem as lost, but
God will protect it, by convincing the conscience, or
confounding the projects, of those that strive against it. The
oppressors required souls to be subjected to them, that every
man should believe and worship as they would have them. But all
they could gain by violence was, that people were brought to
outward hypocritical conformity, for consciences cannot be
forced.
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* The welcome news of Christ's kingdom. (1-12) The humiliation
of the Messiah. (13-15)

#1-12 The gospel proclaims liberty to those bound with fears.
Let those weary and heavy laden under the burden of sin, find
relief in Christ, shake themselves from the dust of their doubts
and fears, and loose themselves from those bands. The price paid
by the Redeemer for our salvation, was not silver or gold, or
corruptible things, but his own precious blood. Considering the
freeness of this salvation, and how hurtful to temporal comfort
sins are, we shall more value the redemption which is in Christ.
Do we seek victory over every sin, recollecting that the glory
of God requires holiness in every follower of Christ? The good
news is, that the Lord Jesus reigns. Christ himself brought
these tidings first. His ministers proclaim these good tidings:
keeping themselves clean from the pollutions of the world, they
are beautiful to those to whom they are sent. Zion's watchmen
could scarcely discern any thing of God's favour through the
dark cloud of their afflictions; but now the cloud is scattered,
they shall plainly see the performance. Zion's waste places
shall then rejoice; all the world will have the benefit. This is
applied to our salvation by Christ. Babylon is no place for
Israelites. And it is a call to all in the bondage of sin and
Satan, to use the liberty Christ has proclaimed. They were to go
with diligent haste, not to lose time nor linger; but they were
not to go with distrustful haste. Those in the way of duty, are
under God's special protection; and he that believes this, will
not hasten for fear.

#13-15 Here begins that wonderful, minute, and faithful
description of the office, character, and glory of the Messiah,
which has struck conviction to many of the most hardened
unbelievers. Christ is Wisdom itself; in the work of our
redemption there appeared the wisdom of God in a mystery. Those
that saw him, said, Surely never man looked so miserable: never
was sorrow like unto his sorrow. But God highly exalted him.
That shall be discovered by the gospel of Christ, which could
never be told in any other way. And Christ having once shed his
blood for sinners, its power still continues. May all opposers
see the wisdom of ceasing from their opposition, and be made
partakers of the blood of sprinkling, and the baptism of the
Holy Ghost; obeying him, and praising his salvation.
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* The person. (1-3) sufferings. (4-9) humiliation, and
exaltation of Christ, are minutely described; with the blessings
to mankind from his death. (10-12)

#1-3 No where in all the Old Testament is it so plainly and
fully prophesied, that Christ ought to suffer, and then to enter
into his glory, as in this chapter. But to this day few discern,
or will acknowledge, that Divine power which goes with the word.
The authentic and most important report of salvation for
sinners, through the Son of God, is disregarded. The low
condition he submitted to, and his appearance in the world, were
not agreeable to the ideas the Jews had formed of the Messiah.
It was expected that he should come in pomp; instead of that, he
grew up as a plant, silently, and insensibly. He had nothing of
the glory which one might have thought to meet with him. His
whole life was not only humble as to outward condition, but also
sorrowful. Being made sin for us, he underwent the sentence sin
had exposed us to. Carnal hearts see nothing in the Lord Jesus
to desire an interest in him. Alas! by how many is he still
despised in his people, and rejected as to his doctrine and
authority!

#4-9 In these verses is an account of the sufferings of Christ;
also of the design of his sufferings. It was for our sins, and
in our stead, that our Lord Jesus suffered. We have all sinned,
and have come short of the glory of God. Sinners have their
beloved sin, their own evil way, of which they are fond. Our
sins deserve all griefs and sorrows, even the most severe. We
are saved from the ruin, to which by sin we become liable, by
laying our sins on Christ. This atonement was to be made for our
sins. And this is the only way of salvation. Our sins were the
thorns in Christ's head, the nails in his hands and feet, the
spear in his side. He was delivered to death for our offences.
By his sufferings he purchased for us the Spirit and grace of
God, to mortify our corruptions, which are the distempers of our
souls. We may well endure our lighter sufferings, if He has
taught us to esteem all things but loss for him, and to love him
who has first loved us.

#10-12 Come, and see how Christ loved us! We could not put him
in our stead, but he put himself. Thus he took away the sin of
the world, by taking it on himself. He made himself subject to
death, which to us is the wages of sin. Observe the graces and
glories of his state of exaltation. Christ will not commit the
care of his family to any other. God's purposes shall take
effect. And whatever is undertaken according to God's pleasure
shall prosper. He shall see it accomplished in the conversion
and salvation of sinners. There are many whom Christ justifies,
even as many as he gave his life a ransom for. By faith we are
justified; thus God is most glorified, free grace most advanced,
self most abased, and our happiness secured. We must know him,
and believe in him, as one that bore our sins, and saved us from
sinking under the load, by taking it upon himself. Sin and
Satan, death and hell, the world and the flesh, are the strong
foes he has vanquished. What God designed for the Redeemer he
shall certainly possess. When he led captivity captive, he
received gifts for men, that he might give gifts to men. While
we survey the sufferings of the Son of God, let us remember our
long catalogue of transgressions, and consider him as suffering
under the load of our guilt. Here is laid a firm foundation for
the trembling sinner to rest his soul upon. We are the purchase
of his blood, and the monuments of his grace; for this he
continually pleads and prevails, destroying the works of the
devil.
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* The increase of the church by the conversion of the Jews and
Gentiles. (1-5) Its certain deliverance. (6-10) Its triumphant
state is described. (11-17)

#1-5 Observe the low state of religion in the world, for a long
time before Christianity was brought in. But by preaching the
gospel, multitudes were converted from idols to the living God.
This is matter of great rejoicing to the church. The bounds of
the church were extended. Though its state on earth is but mean
and movable, like a tent or tabernacle, it is sometimes a
growing state, and must be enlarged as the family increases. But
the more numerous the church grows, the more she must fortify
herself against errors and corruptions. Thy Maker is thy
Husband. Christ is the Holy One of Israel, the Mediator of the
covenant made with the Old Testament church. Long he had been
called the God of Israel; but now he shall be called the God of
the whole earth. And he will cleanse from sin, and cause every
true believer to rejoice in this sacred union. We never can
enough admire this mercy, or duly value this privilege.

#6-10 As God is slow to anger, so he is swift to show mercy. And
how sweet the returns of mercy would be, when God should come
and comfort them! He will have mercy on them. God's gathering
his people takes rise from his mercy, not any merit of theirs;
and it is with great mercies, with everlasting kindness. The
wrath is little, the mercies great; the wrath for a moment, the
kindness everlasting. We are neither to despond under
afflictions, nor to despair of relief. Mountains have been
shaken and removed, but the promises of God never were broken by
any event. Mountains and hills also signify great men.
Creature-confidences shall fail; but when our friends fail us,
our God does not. All this is alike applicable to the church at
large, and to each believer. God will rebuke and correct his
people for sins; but he will not cast them off. Let this
encourage us to give the more diligence to make our calling and
election sure.

#11-17 Let the people of God, when afflicted and tossed, think
they hear God speaking comfortably to them by these words,
taking notice of their griefs and fears. The church is all
glorious when full of the knowledge of God; for none teaches
like him. It is a promise of the teaching and gifts of the Holy
Spirit. All that are taught of God are taught to love one
another. This seems to relate especially to the glorious times
to succeed the tribulations of the church. Holiness, more than
any thing, is the beauty of the church. God promises protection.
There shall be no fears within; there shall be no fightings
without. Military men value themselves on their splendid titles,
but God calls them, "Wasters made to destroy," for they make
wasting and destruction their business. He created them,
therefore he will serve his own designs by them. The day is
coming when God will reckon with wicked men for their hard
speeches, #Jude 1:15|. Security and final victory are the
heritage of each faithful servant of the Lord. The righteousness
by which they are justified, and the grace by which they are
sanctified, are the gift of God, and the effect of his special
love. Let us beseech him to sanctify our souls, and to employ us
in his service.
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* An invitation to receive freely the blessings of the Saviour.
(1-5) Gracious offers of pardon and peace. (6-13)

#1-5 All are welcome to the blessings of salvation, to whom
those blessings are welcome. In Christ there is enough for all,
and enough for each. Those satisfied with the world, that see no
need of Christ, do not thirst. They are in no uneasiness about
their souls: but where God gives grace, he gives a thirst after
it; and where he has given a thirst after it, he will give it.
Come to Christ, for he is the Fountain opened, he is the Rock
smitten. Come to holy ordinances, to the streams that make glad
the city of our God. Come to the healing waters, come to the
living waters, #Re 22:17|. Our Saviour referred to this, #Joh
7:37|. Come, and buy; make it your own by application of the
grace of the gospel to yourselves. Come, and eat; make it still
more your own, and enjoy it. The world comes short of our
expectations; we promise ourselves, at least, water in it, and
we are disappointed; but Christ outdoes our expectations. We
come to him, and we find wine and milk. The gifts offered to us
are such as no price can be set upon. The things offered are
already paid for; for Christ purchased them at the full price of
his own blood, #1Pe 1:19|. Our wants are beyond number, and we
have nothing to supply them; if Christ and heaven are ours, we
see ourselves for ever indebted to free grace. Hearken
diligently; let the proud heart stoop; not only come, but accept
God's offers. All the wealth and pleasure in the world, will not
yield solid comfort and content to the soul. They do not satisfy
even the appetites of the body; for all is vanity and vexation.
Let the disappointments we meet with in the world, help to drive
us to Christ, and to seek for satisfaction in him only. Then,
and not before, we shall find rest for our souls. Hear, and your
soul shall live. On what easy terms is happiness offered us! By
the sure mercies of David, we are to understand the Messiah. All
his mercies are covenant mercies; they are purchased by him,
they are promised in him, and out of his hand they are dispensed
to us. We know not how to find the way to the waters, but Christ
is given to be a Leader, a Commander, to show us what to do, and
enable us to do it. Our business is to obey him, and follow him.
And there is no coming to the Father but by him. He is the Holy
One of Israel, true to his promises; and he has promised to
glorify Christ, by giving him the heathen for his inheritance.

#6-13 Here is a gracious offer of pardon, and peace, and of all
happiness. It shall not be in vain to seek God, now his word is
calling to us, and his Spirit is striving with us. But there is
a day coming when he will not be found. There may come such a
time in this life; it is certain that at death and judgment the
door will be shut. There must be not only a change of the way,
but a change of the mind. We must alter our judgments about
persons and things. It is not enough to break off from evil
practices, we must strive against evil thoughts. To repent is to
return to our Lord, against whom we have rebelled. If we do so,
God will multiply to pardon, as we have multiplied to offend.
But let none trifle with this plenteous mercy, or use it as an
occasion to sin. Men's thoughts concerning sin, Christ, and
holiness, concerning this world and the other, vastly differ
from God's; but in nothing more than in the matter of pardon. We
forgive, and cannot forget; but when God forgives sin, he
remembers it no more. The power of his word in the kingdoms of
providence and grace, is as certain as in that of nature. Sacred
truth produces a spiritual change in the mind of men, which
neither rain nor snow can make on the earth. It shall not return
to the Lord without producing important effects. If we take a
special view of the church, we shall find what great things God
has done, and will do for it. The Jews shall come to their own
land; this shall represent the blessings promised. Gospel grace
will make a great change in men. Delivered from the wrath to
come, the converted sinner finds peace in his conscience; and
love constrains him to devote himself to the service of his
Redeemer. Instead of being profane, contentious, selfish, or
sensual, behold him patient, humble, kind, and peaceable. The
hope of helping in such a work should urge us to spread the
gospel of salvation. And do thou help us, O Spirit of all truth,
to have such views of the fulness, freeness, and greatness of
the rich mercy in Christ, as may remove from us all narrow views
of sovereign grace.
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* A charge to keep the Divine precepts. (1,2) Blessings
promised. (3-8) Reproof to the careless watchmen, the teachers
and rulers of the Jews. (9-12)

#1,2 The Lord tells us what are his expectations of duty from
us. Be honest and just in all dealings. Also strictly observe
the sabbath day. To have the blessing of God upon employments
all the week, make conscience of keeping the sabbath holy. Have
nothing to do with sin. Blessed is the man that keeps his hand
from all things displeasing to God and hurtful to his own soul.
Those who, through the Spirit, wait for the hope of
righteousness by faith, will be found walking in ways of holy
obedience.

#3-8 Unbelief often suggests things to discourage believers,
against which God has expressly guarded. Spiritual blessings are
unspeakably better than having sons and daughters; for children
are a care, and may prove a grief and shame, but the blessings
we partake of in God's house, are comforts which cannot be made
bitter. Those who love the Lord truly, will serve him
faithfully, and then his commandments are not grievous. Three
things are promised. Assistance: I will not only bid them
welcome, but incline them to come. Acceptance, and comfort:
though they came mourning to the house of prayer, they shall go
away rejoicing. They shall find ease by casting their cares and
burdens upon God. Many a sorrowful spirit has been made joyful
in the house of prayer. The Gentiles shall be one body with the
Jews, that, as Christ says, #Joh 10:16|, there may be one fold
and one Shepherd. Thanks be to God that none are separated from
him except by wilful sin and unbelief; and if we come to him, we
shall be accepted through the sacrifice of our great High
Priest.

#9-12 Desolating judgments are called for; and this severe
rebuke of the rulers and teachers of the Jewish church, is
applicable to other ages and places. It is bad with a people
when their shepherds slumber, and are eager after the world. Let
us pray the Great Shepherd to send us pastors after his own
heart, who will feed us with knowledge, that we may rejoice in
his holy name, and that believers may be daily added to the
church.
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* The blessed death of the righteous. (1,2) The abominable
idolatries of the Jewish nation. (3-12) Promises to the humble
and contrite. (13-21)

#1,2 The righteous are delivered from the sting of death, not
from the stroke of it. The careless world disregards this. Few
lament it as a public loss, and very few notice it as a public
warning. They are taken away in compassion, that they may not
see the evil, nor share in it, nor be tempted by it. The
righteous man, when he dies, enters into peace and rest.

#3-12 The Lord here calls apostates and hypocrites to appear
before him. When reproved for their sins, and threatened with
judgments, they ridiculed the word of God. The Jews were guilty
of idolatry before the captivity; but not after that affliction.
Their zeal in the worship of false gods, may shame our
indifference in the worship of the true God. The service of sin
is disgraceful slavery; those who thus debase themselves to
hell, will justly have their portion there. Men incline to a
religion that inflames their unholy passions. They are led to do
any evil, however great or vile, if they think it will atone for
crimes, or purchase indulgence for some favourite lust. This
explains idolatry, whether pagan, Jewish, or antichristian. But
those who set up anything instead of God, for their hope and
confidence, never will come to a right end. Those who forsake
the only right way, wander in a thousand by-paths. The pleasures
of sin soon tire, but never satisfy. Those who care not for the
word of God and his providences, show they have no fear of God.
Sin profits not; it ruins and destroys.

#13-21 The idols and their worshippers shall come to nothing;
but those who trust in God's grace, shall be brought to the joys
of heaven. With the Lord there is neither beginning of days, nor
end of life, nor change of time. His name is holy, and all must
know him as a holy God. He will have tender regard to those who
bring their mind to their condition, and dread his wrath. He
will make his abode with those whose hearts he has thus humbled,
in order to revive and comfort them. When troubles last long,
even good men are tempted to entertain hard thoughts of God.
Therefore He will not contend for ever, for he will not forsake
the work of his own hands, nor defeat the purchase of his Son's
blood. Covetousness is a sin that particularly lays men under
the Divine displeasure. See the sinfulness of sin. See also that
troubles cannot reform men unless God's grace work in them.
Peace shall be published, perfect peace. It is the fruit of
preaching lips, and praying lips. Christ came and preached peace
to Gentiles, as well as to the Jews; to after-ages, who were
afar off in time, as well as to those of that age. But the
wicked would not be healed by God's grace, therefore would not
be healed by his comforts. Their ungoverned lusts and passions
made them like the troubled sea. Also the terrors of conscience
disturbed their enjoyments. God hath said it, and all the world
cannot unsay it, That there is no peace to those who allow
themselves in any sin. If we are recovered from such an awful
state, it is only by the grace of God. And the influences of the
Holy Spirit, and that new heart, from whence comes grateful
praise, the fruit of our lips, are his gift. Salvation, with all
its fruits, hopes, and comforts, is his work, and to him belongs
all the glory. There is no peace for the wicked man; but let the
wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts;
and let him return to the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him,
and to our God, and he will abundantly pardon.
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* Hypocrisy reproved. (1,2) A counterfeit and a true fast, with
promises to real godliness, and, (3-12) to the keeping the
sabbath. (13,14)

#1,2 The Holy Spirit had hypocrites of every age in view.
Self-love and timid Christians may say, Spare thyself; dislike
to the cross and other motives will say, "Spare the rich and
powerful;" but God says, "Spare not:" and we must obey God, not
men. We all need earnestly to pray for God's assistance in
examining ourselves. Men may go far toward heaven, yet come
short; and they may go to hell with a good reputation.

#3-12 A fast is a day to afflict the soul; if it does not
express true sorrow for sin, and does not promote the putting
away of sin, it is not a fast. These professors had shown sorrow
on stated or occasioned fasts. But they indulged pride,
covetousness, and malignant passions. To be liberal and merciful
is more acceptable to God than mere fasting, which, without
them, is vain and hypocritical. Many who seem humble in God's
house, are hard at home, and harass their families. But no man's
faith justifies, which does not work by love. Yet persons,
families, neighbourhoods, churches, or nations, show repentance
and sorrow for sin, by keeping a fast sincerely, and, from right
motives, repenting, and doing good works. The heavy yoke of sin
and oppression must be removed. As sin and sorrow dry the bones
and weaken the strongest human constitution; so the duties of
kindness and charity strengthen and refresh both body and mind.
Those who do justly and love mercy, shall have the comfort, even
in this world. Good works will bring the blessing of God,
provided they are done from love to God and man, and wrought in
the soul by the Holy Spirit.

#13,14 The sabbath is a sign between God and his professing
people; his appointing it is a sign of his favour to them; and
their observing it is a sign of their obedience to him. We must
turn from travelling on that day; from doing our pleasure on
that holy day, without the control and restraint of conscience;
or from indulging in the pleasures of sense. On sabbath days we
must not follow our callings, or our pleasures. In all we say
and do, we must put a difference between this day and other
days. Even in Old Testament times the sabbath was called the
Lord's day, and is fitly called so still; and for a further
reason, it is the Lord Christ's day, #Re 1:10|. If we thus
remember the sabbath day to keep it holy, we shall have the
comfort and profit of it, and have reason to say, It is good to
draw near to God.
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* Reproofs of sin and wickedness. (1-8) Confession of sin, and
lamentation for the consequences. (9-15) Promises of
deliverance. (16-21)

#1-8 If our prayers are not answered, and the salvation we wait
for is not wrought for us, it is not because God is weary of
hearing prayer, but because we are weary of praying. See here
sin in true colours, exceedingly sinful; and see sin in its
consequences, exceedingly hurtful, separating from God, and so
separating us, not only from all good, but to all evil. Yet
numbers feed, to their own destruction, on infidel and wicked
systems. Nor can their skill or craft, in devising schemes, as
the spider weaves its web, deliver or save them. No schemes of
self-wrought salvation shall avail those who despise the
Redeemer's robe of righteousness. Every man who is destitute of
the Spirit of Christ, runs swiftly to evil of some sort; but
those regardless of Divine truth and justice, are strangers to
peace.

#9-15 If we shut our eyes against the light of Divine truth, it
is just with God to hide from our eyes the things that belong to
our peace. The sins of those who profess themselves God's
people, are worse than the sins of others. And the sins of a
nation bring public judgments, when not restrained by public
justice. Men may murmur under calamities, but nothing will truly
profit while they reject Christ and his gospel.

#16-21 This passage is connected with the following chapters. It
is generally thought to describe the coming of the Messiah, as
the Avenger and Deliverer of his church. There was none to
intercede with God to turn away his wrath; none to interpose for
the support of justice and truth. Yet He engaged his own
strength and righteousness for his people. God will make his
justice upon the enemies of his church and people plainly
appear. When the enemy threatens to bear down all without
control, then the Spirit of the Lord shall stop him, put him to
flight. He that has delivered, will still deliver. A far more
glorious salvation is promised to be wrought out by the Messiah
in the fulness of time, which all the prophets had in view. The
Son of God shall come to us to be our Redeemer; the Spirit of
God shall come to be our Sanctifier: thus the Comforter shall
abide with the church for ever, #Joh 14:16|. The word of Christ
will always continue in the mouths of the faithful; and whatever
is pretended to be the mind of the Spirit, must be tried by the
Scriptures. We must lament the progress of infidelity and
impiety. But the cause of the Redeemer shall gain a complete
victory even on earth, and the believer will be more than
conqueror when the Lord receives him to his glory in heaven.
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* The glories of the church of God, when the fulness of the
Gentiles shall come in. (1-8) and the Jews shall be converted
and gathered from their dispersions. (9-14) and the kingdoms of
this world shall become the kingdom of our Lord, and of his
Christ. (15-22)

#1-8 As far as we have the knowledge of God in us, and the
favour of God towards us, our light is come. And if God's glory
is seen upon us to our honour, we ought, not only with our lips,
but in our lives, to return its praise. We meet with nothing in
the history of the Jews which can be deemed a fulfilment of the
prophecy in this chapter; we must conclude it relates
principally to future events. It predicts the purity and
enlargement of the church. The conversion of souls is here
described. They fly to Christ, to the church, to the word and
ordinances, as doves to their own home; thither they fly for
refuge and shelter, thither they fly for rest. What a pleasant
sight to see poor souls hastening to Christ!

#9-14 God will be very gracious. We must begin with his promise,
thence all mercies take rise. Many shall be brought into the
church, even from far countries. Christ is always ready to
receive all who come to him; and the gate of mercy is always
open, night and day. All that are about the church shall be made
serviceable to it. But those who will not be subject to Christ's
golden sceptre, to his word and Spirit, who will not be kept in
by the laws and rules of his family, shall be broken in pieces
by his iron rod. The peculiar advantages of every nation, and of
every description of men, shall join to beautify the church of
Christ. We must suppose this to be accomplished in the beauties
of holiness, and the graces and comforts of the Spirit, with
which gospel ordinances are adorned and enriched. Blessed be his
name, the gates of Zion are ever open to returning sinners.

#15-22 We must look for the full accomplishment in times and
things, exceeding those of the Old Testament church. The nations
and their kings shall lay themselves out for the good of the
church. Such a salvation, such a redemption, shall be wrought
out for thee, as discovers itself to be the work of the Lord.
Every thing shall be changed for the better. In thy land shall
no more be heard threats of those that do violence, nor
complaints of those that suffer violence. Thy walls shall be
means of safety, thy gates shall be written upon with praises to
God. In the close of this chapter are images and expressions
used in the description of the New Jerusalem, #Re 21:23; 22:5|.
Nothing can answer to this but some future glorious state of the
church on earth, or the state of the church triumphant in
heaven. Those that make God their only light, shall have him
their all-sufficient light. And the happiness shall know no
change or alloy. No people on earth are all righteous; but there
are no mixtures in heaven. They shall be wholly righteous. The
spirits of just men shall there be made perfect. The glory of
the church shall be to the honour of God. When it shall be
finished, it will appear a work of wonder. It may seem too
difficult to be brought about, but the God of almighty power has
undertaken it. It may seem to be delayed and put off; but the
Lord will hasten it in the time appointed by his wisdom, though
not in the time prescribed by our folly. Let this hope cheer us
under all difficulties, and stir us up to all diligence, that we
may have an abundant entrance into this everlasting kingdom of
our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
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* The Messiah, his character and office. (1-3) His promises of
the future blessedness of the church. (4-9) The church praises
God for these mercies. (10,11)

#1-3 The prophets had the Holy Spirit of God at times, teaching
them what to say, and causing them to say it; but Christ had the
Spirit always, without measure, to qualify him, as man, for the
work to which he was appointed. The poor are commonly best
disposed to receive the gospel, #Jas 2:5|; and it is only likely
to profit us when received with meekness. To such as are poor in
spirit, Christ preached good tidings when he said, Blessed are
the meek. Christ's satisfaction is accepted. By the dominion of
sin in us, we are bound under the power of Satan; but the Son is
ready, by his Spirit, to make us free; and then we shall be free
indeed. Sin and Satan were to be destroyed; and Christ triumphed
over them on his cross. But the children of men, who stand out
against these offers, shall be dealt with as enemies. Christ was
to be a Comforter, and so he is; he is sent to comfort all who
mourn, and who seek to him, and not to the world, for comfort.
He will do all this for his people, that they may abound in the
fruits of righteousness, as the branches of God's planting.
Neither the mercy of God, the atonement of Christ, nor the
gospel of grace, profit the self-sufficient and proud. They must
be humbled, and led to know their own character and wants, by
the Holy Spirit, that they may see and feel their need of the
sinner's Friend and Saviour. His doctrine contains glad tidings
indeed to those who are humbled before God.

#4-9 Promises are here made to the Jews returned out of
captivity, which extend to all those who, through grace, are
delivered out of spiritual thraldom. An unholy soul is like a
city that is broken down, and has no walls, like a house in
ruins; but by the power of Christ's gospel and grace, it is
fitted to be a habitation of God, through the Spirit. When, by
the grace of God, we attain to holy indifference as to the
affairs of this world; when, though our hands are employed about
them, our hearts are not entangled with them, but preserved
entire for God and his service, then the sons of the alien are
our ploughmen and vine-dressers. Those whom He sets at liberty,
he sets to work. His service is perfect freedom; it is the
greatest honour. All believers are made, to our God, kings and
priests; and always ought to conduct themselves as such. Those
who have the Lord for their portion, have reason to say, that
they have worthy portion, and to rejoice in it. In the fulness
of heaven's joys we shall receive more than double for all our
services and sufferings. God desires truth, and therefore hates
all injustice. Nor will it justify any man's robbery to say, it
was for burnt-offerings; and that robbery is most hateful which
is under this pretence. Let the children of godly parents be
such, that all may see the fruits of a good education; an answer
to the prayers for them, in the fruit of God's blessing.

#10,11 Those only shall be clothed with the garments of
salvation hereafter, that are covered with the robe of Christ's
righteousness now, and by the sanctification of the Spirit have
God's image renewed upon them. These blessings shall spring
forth for ages to come, as the fruits of the earth. So duly, so
constantly, and with such advantage to mankind, will the Lord
God cause righteousness and praise to spring forth. They shall
spread far; the great salvation shall be published and
proclaimed, to the ends of the earth. Let us be earnest in
prayer, that the Lord God may cause that righteousness to spring
forth among us, which constitutes the excellence and glory of
the Christian profession.
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* God's care of his church and people. (1-5) The office of
ministers in preaching the gospel. (6-9) Every hinderance shall
be removed from the way of salvation. (10-12)

#1-5 The Son of God here assures his church of his unfailing
love, and his pleading for her under all trails and
difficulties. She shall be called by a new name, a pleasant
name, such as she was never called by before. The state of true
religion in the world, before the preaching of the gospel, no
man seemed to have any real concern for. God, by his grace, has
wrought that in his church, which makes her his delight. Let us
thence learn motives to holiness. If the Lord rejoices over us,
we should rejoice in his service.

#6-9 God's professing people must be a praying people. He is not
displeased with us for being earnest, as men commonly are; he
bids us to cry after him, and give him no rest, #Lu 11:5,6|. It
is a sign that God is coming to a people in mercy, when he pours
out a spirit of prayer upon them. See how uncertain our
creature-comforts are. See also God's mercy in giving plenty,
and peace to enjoy it. Let us delight in attending the courts of
the Lord, that we may enjoy the consolations of his Spirit.

#10-12 Way shall be made for Christ's salvation; all
difficulties shall be removed. He brings a reward of comfort and
peace with him; but a work of humiliation and reformation before
him; and they shall be called, The holy people, and, The
redeemed of the Lord. Holiness puts honour and beauty upon any
place or person, makes them admired, beloved, and sought after.
Many events may have been part fulfilments of this, as earnests
of more glorious times yet to come. The close connexion between
the blessedness of the Jews and of the Gentiles, runs through
the Scriptures. The Lord Jesus will complete his work, and he
never will forsake one whom he has redeemed and sanctified.
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* Christ's victory over his enemies. (1-6) His mercy toward his
church. (7-14) The prayer of the church. (15-19)

#1-6 The prophet, in vision, beholds the Messiah returning in
triumph from the conquest of his enemies, of whom Edom was a
type. Travelling, not as wearied by the combat, but, in the
greatness of his strength, prepared to overcome every opposing
power. Messiah declares that he had been treading the wine-press
of the wrath of God, #Re 14:19; 19:13|, and by his own power,
without any human help, he had crushed his obstinate opposers,
for the day of vengeance was determined on, being the appointed
season for rescuing his church. Once, he appeared on earth in
apparent weakness, to pour out his precious blood as an
atonement for our sins; but he will in due time appear in the
greatness of his strength. The vintage ripens apace; the day of
vengeance, fixed and determined on, approaches apace; let
sinners seek to be reconciled to their righteous Judge, ere he
brings down their strength to the earth. Does Christ say, "I
come quickly?" let our hearts reply, "Even so, come; let the
year of the redeemed come."

#7-14 The latter part of this chapter, and the whole of the
next, seem to express the prayers of the Jews on their
conversation. They acknowledge God's great mercies and favours
to their nation. They confess their wickedness and hardness of
heart; they entreat his forgiveness, and deplore the miserable
condition under which they have so long suffered. The
only-begotten Son of the Father became the Angel or Messenger of
his love; thus he redeemed and bare them with tenderness. Yet
they murmured, and resisted his Holy Spirit, despising and
persecuting his prophets, rejecting and crucifying the promised
Messiah. All our comforts and hopes spring from the
loving-kindness of the Lord, and all our miseries and fears from
our sins. But he is the Saviour, and when sinners seek after
him, who in other ages glorified himself by saving and feeding
his purchased flock, and leading them safely through dangers,
and has given his Holy Spirit to prosper the labours of his
ministers, there is good ground to hope they are discovering the
way of peace.

#15-19 They beseech him to look down on the abject condition of
their once-favoured nation. Would it not be glorious to his name
to remove the veil from their hearts, to return to the tribes of
his inheritance? The Babylonish captivity, and the
after-deliverance of the Jews, were shadows of the events here
foretold. The Lord looks down upon us in tenderness and mercy.
Spiritual judgments are more to be dreaded than any other
calamities; and we should most carefully avoid those sins which
justly provoke the Lord to leave men to themselves and to their
deceiver. "Our Redeemer from everlasting" is thy name; thy
people have always looked upon thee as the God to whom they
might appeal. The Lord will hear the prayers of those who belong
to him, and deliver them from those not called by his name.
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* The church prays that God's power may be manifested. (1-5) A
confession of sin, and afflictions bewailed. (6-12)

#1-5 They desire that God would manifest himself to them and for
them, so that all may see it. This is applicable to the second
coming of Christ, when the Lord himself shall descend from
heaven. They plead what God had used to do, and had declared his
gracious purpose to do, for his people. They need not fear being
disappointed of it, for it is sure; or disappointed in it, for
it is sufficient. The happiness of his people is bound up in
what God has designed for them, and is preparing for them, and
preparing them for; what he has done or will do. Can we believe
this, and then think any thing too great to expect from his
truth, power, and love? It is spiritual and cannot be
comprehended by human understanding. It is ever ready. See what
communion there is between a gracious God and a gracious soul.
We must make conscience of doing our duty in every thing the
Lord our God requires. Thou meetest him; this speaks his
freeness and forwardness in doing them good. Though God has been
angry with us for our sins, and justly, yet his anger has soon
ended; but in his favour is life, which goes on and continues,
and on that we depend for our salvation.

#6-12 The people of God, in affliction, confess and bewail their
sins, owning themselves unworthy of his mercy. Sin is that
abominable thing which the Lord hates. Our deeds, whatever they
may seem to be, if we think to merit by them at God's hand, are
as rags, and will not cover us; filthy rags, and will but defile
us. Even our few good works in which there is real excellence,
as fruits of the Spirit, are so defective and defiled as done by
us, that they need to be washed in the fountain open for sin and
uncleanness. It bodes ill when prayer is kept back. To pray, is
by faith to take hold of the promises the Lord has made of his
good-will to us, and to plead them; to take hold of him,
earnestly begging him not to leave us; or soliciting his return.
They brought their troubles upon themselves by their own folly.
Sinners are blasted, and then carried away, by the wind of their
own iniquity; it withers and then ruins them. When they made
themselves as an unclean thing, no wonder that God loathed them.
Foolish and careless as we are, poor and despised, yet still
Thou art our Father. It is the wrath of a Father we are under,
who will be reconciled; and the relief our case requires is
expected only from him. They refer themselves to God. They do
not say, "Lord, rebuke us not," for that may be necessary; but,
"Not in thy displeasure." They state their lamentable condition.
See what ruin sin brings upon a people; and an outward
profession of holiness will be no defence against it. God's
people presume not to tell him what he shall say, but their
prayer is, Speak for the comfort and relief of thy people. How
few call upon the Lord with their whole hearts, or stir
themselves to lay hold upon him! God may delay for a time to
answer our prayers, but he will, in the end, answer those who
call on his name and hope in his mercy.
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* The calling of the Gentiles, and the rejection of the Jews.
(1-7) The Lord would preserve a remnant. (8-10) Judgments upon
the wicked. (11-16) The future happy and flourishing state of
the church. (17-25)

#1-7 The Gentiles came to seek God, and find him, because they
were first sought and found of him. Often he meets some
thoughtless trifler or profligate opposer, and says to him,
Behold me; and a speedy change takes place. All the gospel day,
Christ waited to be gracious. The Jews were bidden, but would
not come. It is not without cause they are rejected of God. They
would do what most pleased them. They grieved, they vexed the
Holy Spirit. They forsook God's temple, and sacrificed in
groves. They cared not for the distinction between clean and
unclean meats, before it was taken away by the gospel. Perhaps
this is put for all forbidden pleasures, and all that is thought
to be gotten by sin, that abominable thing which the Lord hates.
Christ denounced many woes against the pride and hypocrisy of
the Jews. The proof against them is plain. And let us watch
against pride and self-preference, remembering that every sin,
and the most secret thoughts of man's heart, are known and will
be judged by God.

#8-10 In the bunch of unripe grapes, at present of no value, the
new wine is contained. The Jews have been kept a distinct
people, that all may witness the fulfilment of ancient
prophecies and promises. God's chosen, the spiritual seed of
praying Jacob, shall inherit his mountains of bliss and joy, and
be carried safe to them through the vale of tears. All things
are for the display of God's glory in the redemption of sinners.

#11-16 Here the different states of the godly and wicked, of the
Jews who believed, and of those who persisted in unbelief, are
set against one another. They prepared a table for that troop of
deities which the heathen worship, and poured out
drink-offerings to that countless number. Their worshippers
spared no cost to honour them, which should shame the
worshippers of the true God. See the malignity of sin; it is
doing by choice what we know will displease God. In every age
and nation, the Lord leaves those who persist in doing evil, and
despise the call of the gospel. God's servants shall have the
bread of life, and shall want nothing good for them. But those
who forsake the Lord, shall be ashamed of vain confidence in
their own righteousness, and the hopes they built thereon.
Wordly people bless themselves in the abundance of this world's
goods; but God's servants bless themselves in him. He is their
strength and portion. They shall honour him as the God of truth.
And it was promised that in him should all the families of the
earth be blessed. They shall think themselves happy in having
him for their God, who made them forget their troubles.

#17-25 In the grace and comfort believers have in and from
Christ, we are to look for this new heaven and new earth. The
former confusions, sins and miseries of the human race, shall be
no more remembered or renewed. The approaching happy state of
the church is described under a variety of images. He shall be
thought to die in his youth, and for his sins, who only lives to
the age of a hundred years. The event alone can determine what
is meant; but it is plain that Christianity, if universal, would
so do away violence and evil, as greatly to lengthen life. In
those happy days, all God's people shall enjoy the fruit of
their labours. Nor will children then be the trouble of their
parents, or suffer trouble themselves. The evil dispositions of
sinners shall be completely moritified; all shall live in
harmony. Thus the church on earth shall be full of happiness,
like heaven. This prophecy assures the servants of Christ, that
the time approaches, wherein they shall be blessed with the
undisturbed enjoyment of all that is needful for their
happiness. As workers together with God, let us attend his
ordinances, and obey his commands.
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* God looks at the heart, and vengeance is threatened for guilt.
(1-4) The increase of the church, when Jew and Gentile shall be
gathered to the Redeemer. (5-14) Every enemy of the church shall
be destroyed, and the final ruin of ungodly men shall be seen.
(15-24)

#1-4 The Jews gloried much in their temple. But what
satisfaction can the Eternal Mind take in a house made with
men's hands? God has a heaven and an earth of his own making,
and temples of man's making; but he overlooks them, that he may
look with favour to him who is poor in spirit and serious,
self-abasing and self-denying; whose heart truly sorrows for
sin: such a heart is a living temple for God. The sacrifice of
the wicked is not only unacceptable, but a great offence to God.
And he that now offers a sacrifice after the law, does in effect
set aside Christ's sacrifice. He that burns incense, puts
contempt upon the incense of Christ's intercession, and is as if
he blessed an idol. Men shall be deceived by the vain
confidences with which they deceive themselves. Unbelieving
hearts, and unpurified consciences, need no more to make them
miserable, than to have their own fears brought upon them.
Whatever men put in the place of the priesthood, atonement, and
intercession of Christ, will be found hateful to God.

#5-14 The prophet turns to those that trembled at God's word, to
comfort and encourage them. The Lord will appear, to the joy of
the humble believer, and to the confusion of hypocrites and
persecutors. When the Spirit was poured out, and the gospel went
forth from Zion, multitudes were converted in a little time. The
word of God, especially his promises, and ordinances, are the
consolations of the church. The true happiness of all Christians
is increased by every convert brought to Christ. The gospel
brings with it, wherever it is received in its power, such a
river of peace, as will carry us to the ocean of boundless and
endless bliss. Divine comforts reach the inward man; the joy of
the Lord will be the strength of the believer. Both God's mercy
and justice shall be manifested, and for ever magnified.

#15-24 A prophetic declaration is given of the Lord's vengeance
on all enemies of his church, especially that of all
antichristian opposers of the gospel in the latter days. Ver.
#19,20|, set forth the abundance of means for conversion of
sinners. These expressions are figurative, and express the
plentiful and gracious helps for bringing God's elect home to
Christ. All shall be welcome; and nothing shall be wanting for
their assistance and encouragement. A gospel ministry shall be
set up in the church; they would have solemn worship before the
Lord. In the last verse the nature of the punishment of sinners
in the world to come is represented. Then shall the righteous
and wicked be separated. Our Saviour applies this to the
everlasting misery and torment of impenitent sinners in the
future state. To the honour of that free grace which thus
distinguishes them, let the redeemed of the Lord, with humility,
and not without holy trembling, sing triumphant songs. With this
affecting representation of the opposite states of the righteous
and wicked, characters which include the whole human race,
Isaiah concludes his prophecies. May God grant, for Christ's
sake, that our portion may be with those who fear and love his
name, who cleave to his truths, and persevere in every good
work, looking to receive from the Lord Jesus Christ the gracious
invitation, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom
prepared for you from the foundation of the world.