Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
Deuteronomy Ch.25 / 34 Ch.s
DE:25
* Extent of punishment. (1-3) The ox that treadeth the corn. (4)
Marriage of a brother's wife. (5-12) Of unjust weights. (13-16)
War against Amalek. (17-19)
#1-3 Every punishment should be with solemnity, that those who
see it may be filled with dread, and be warned not to offend in
like manner. And though the criminals must be shamed as well as
put to pain, for their warning and disgrace, yet care should be
taken that they do not appear totally vile. Happy those who are
chastened of the Lord to humble them, that they should not be
condemned with the world to destruction.
#4 This is a charge to husbandmen. It teaches us to make much of
the animals that serve us. But we must learn, not only to be
just, but kind to all who are employed for the good of our
better part, our souls, #1Co 9:9|.
#5-12 The custom here regulated seems to have been in the Jewish
law in order to keep inheritances distinct; now it is unlawful.
#13-16 Dishonest gain always brings a curse on men's property,
families, and souls. Happy those who judge themselves, repent of
and forsake their sins, and put away evil things, that they may
not be condemned of the Lord.
#17-19 Let every persecutor and injurer of God's people take
warning from the case of the Amalekites. The longer it is before
judgement comes, the more dreadful will it be at last. Amalek
may remind us of the foes of our souls. May we be enabled to
slay all our lusts, all the corruptions both within and without,
all the powers of darkness and of the world, which oppose our
way to the blessed Saviour.