Ezekiel:21

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* Verse 1-17 - Here is an explanation of the parable in the last chapter . It is declared that the Lord was about to cut off Jerusalem and the whole land , that all might know it was his decree against a wicked and rebellious people . It behoves those who denounce the awful wrath of God against sinners , to show that they do not desire the woful day . The example of Christ teaches us to lament over those whose ruin we declare . Whatever instruments God uses in executing his judgments , he will strengthen them according to the service they are employed in . The sword glitters to the terror of those against whom it is drawn . It is a sword to others , a rod to the people of the Lord . God is in earnest in pronouncing this sentence , and the prophet must show himself in earnest in publishing it . * Verse 18-27 - By the Spirit of prophecy Ezekiel foresaw Nebuchadnezzar 's march from Babylon , which he would determine by divination . The Lord would overturn the government of Judah , till the coming of Him whose right it is . This seems to foretell the overturnings of the Jewish nation to the present day , and the troubles of states and kingdoms , which shall make way for establishing the Messiah 's kingdom throughout the earth . The Lord secretly leads all to adopt his wise designs . And in the midst of the most tremendous warnings of wrath , we still hear of mercy , and some mention of Him through whom mercy is shown to sinful men . * Verse 28-32 - The diviners of the Ammonites made false prophecies of victory . They would never recover their power , but in time would be wholly forgotten . Let us be thankful to be employed as instruments of mercy ; let us use our understandings in doing good ; and let us stand aloof from men who are only skilful to destroy . **** Matthew Henry 's Commentary ****

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