Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
Isaiah Ch.12 / 66 Ch.s
ISA:12
* This is a hymn of praise suited to the times of the Messiah.
- The song of praise in this chapter is suitable for the return
of the outcasts of Israel from their long captivity, but it is
especially suitable to the case of a sinner, when he first finds
peace and joy in believing; to that of a believer, when his
peace is renewed after corrections for backslidings; and to that
of the whole company of the redeemed, when they meet before the
throne of God in heaven. The promise is sure, and the blessings
contained in it are very rich; and the benefits enjoyed through
Jesus Christ, call for the most enlarged thanksgivings. By Jesus
Christ, the Root of Jesse, the Divine anger against mankind was
turned away, for he is our Peace. Those to whom God is
reconciled, he comforts. They are taught to triumph in God and
their interest in him. I will trust him to prepare me for his
salvation, and preserve me to it. I will trust him with all my
concerns, not doubting but he will make all to work for good.
Faith in God is a sovereign remedy against tormenting fears.
Many Christians have God for their strength, who have him not
for their song; they walk in darkness: but those who have God
for their strength ought to make him their song; that is, give
him the glory of it, and take to themselves the comfort of it.
This salvation is from the love of God the Father, it comes to
us through God the Son, it is applied by the new-creating power
of God the Spirit. When this is seen by faith, the trembling
sinner learns to hope in God, and is delivered from fear. The
purifying and sanctifying influences of the Holy Ghost often are
denoted under the emblem of springing water. This work flows
through the mediation of Christ, and is conveyed to our souls by
means of God's ordinances. Blessed be God, we have wells of
salvation opened on every side, and may draw from them the
waters of life and consolation. In the second part of this
gospel song, ver. #4-6|, believers encourage one another to
praise God, and seek to draw others to join them in it. No
difference of opinions about the times and seasons, and other
such matters, ought to divide the hearts of Christians. Let it
be our care that we may be placed amongst those to whom he will
say, Come, ye blessed of my Father, receive the kingdom prepared
for you from the beginning of the world.