od'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)
Verses 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.
Verses 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.
Verses 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.
od'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)