eign of Hoshea in Israel, The israelites carried captives by
the Assyrians. (1-6) Captivity of the Israelites. (7-23) The
nations placed in the land of Israel. (24-41)
Verses 1-6: When the measure of sin is filled up, the Lord will forbear
no longer. The inhabitants of Samaria must have endured great
affliction. Some of the poor Israelites were left in the land.
Those who were carried captives to a great distance, were mostly
lost among the nations.
Verses 7-23: Though the destruction of the kingdom of the ten tribes
was but briefly related, it is in these verses largely commented
upon, and the reasons of it given. It was destruction from the
Almighty: the Assyrian was but the rod of his anger, (Isa 10:5).
Those that bring sin into a country or family, bring a plague
into it, and will have to answer for all the mischief that
follows. And vast as the outward wickedness of the world is, the
secret sins, evil thoughts, desires, and purposes of mankind are
much greater. There are outward sins which are marked by infamy;
but ingratitude, neglect, and enmity to God, and the idolatry
and impiety which proceed therefrom, are far more malignant.
Without turning from every evil way, and keeping God's statutes,
there can be no true godliness; but this must spring from belief
of his testimony, as to wrath against all ungodliness and
unrighteousness, and his mercy in Christ Jesus.
Verses 24-41: The terror of the Almighty will sometimes produce a
forced or feigned submission in unconverted men; like those
brought from different countries to inhabit Israel. But such
will form unworthy thoughts of God, will expect to please him by
outward forms, and will vainly try to reconcile his service with
the love of the world and the indulgence of their lusts. May
that fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom, possess
our hearts, and influence our conduct, that we may be ready for
every change. Wordly settlements are uncertain; we know not
whither we may be driven before we die, and we must soon leave
the world; but the righteous hath chosen that good part which
shall not be taken from him.
eign of Hoshea in Israel, The israelites carried captives by
the Assyrians. (1-6) Captivity of the Israelites. (7-23) The
nations placed in the land of Israel. (24-41)