type of hair, showing the judgments about to come upon the
Jews. (1-4) These awful judgments are declared. (5-17)
Verses 1-4: The prophet must shave off the hair of his head and beard,
which signifies God's utter rejecting and abandoning that
people. One part must be burned in the midst of the city,
denoting the multitudes that should perish by famine and
pestilence. Another part was to be cut in pieces, representing
the many who were slain by the sword. Another part was to be
scattered in the wind, denoting the carrying away of some into
the land of the conqueror, and the flight of others into the
neighbouring countries for shelter. A small quantity of the
third portion was to be bound in his shirts, as that of which he
is very careful. But few were reserved. To whatever refuge
sinners flee, the fire and sword of God's wrath will consume
them.
Verses 5-17: The sentence passed upon Jerusalem is very dreadful, the
manner of expression makes it still more so. Who is able to
stand in God's sight when he is angry? Those who live and die
impenitent, will perish for ever unpitied; there is a day coming
when the Lord will not spare. Let not persons or churches, who
change the Lord's statutes, expect to escape the doom of
Jerusalem. Let us endeavour to adorn the doctrine of God our
Saviour in all things. Sooner or later God's word will prove
itself true.
type of hair, showing the judgments about to come upon the
Jews. (1-4) These awful judgments are declared. (5-17)