Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
Ezekiel Ch.9 / 48 Ch.s
EZE:9
* A vision denoting the destruction of the inhabitants of
Jerusalem, and the departure of the symbol of the Divine
presence.
#1-4 It is a great comfort to believers, that in the midst of
destroyers and destructions, there is a Mediator, a great High
Priest, who has an interest in heaven, and in whom saints on
earth have an interest. The representation of the Divine glory
from above the ark, removed to the threshold, denoted that the
Lord was about to leave his mercy-seat, and to pronounce
judgment on the people. The distinguishing character of this
remnant that is to be saved, is such as sigh and cry to God in
prayer, because of the abominations in Jerusalem. Those who keep
pure in times of general wickedness, God will keep safe in times
of general trouble and distress.
#5-11 The slaughter must begin at the sanctuary, that all may
see and know that the Lord hates sin most in those nearest to
him. He who was appointed to protect, reported the matter.
Christ is faithful to the trust reposed in him. Is he commanded
by his Father to secure eternal life to the chosen remnant? He
says, Of all that thou hast given me, I have lost none. If
others perish, and we are saved, we must ascribe the difference
wholly to the mercy of our God, for we too have deserved wrath.
Let us still continue to plead in behalf of others. But where
the Lord shows no mercy he does no injustice; he only
recompenses men's ways.