Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
Jeremiah Ch.49 / 52 Ch.s
JER:49
* Prophecies relative to the Ammonites. (1-6) The Edomites.
(7-22) The Syrians. (23-27) The Kedarenes. (28-33) The Elamites.
(34-39)
#1-6. Might often prevails against right among men, yet that
might shall be controlled by the Almighty, who judges aright;
and those will find themselves mistaken, who, like the
Ammonites, think every thing their own on which they can lay
their hands. The Lord will call men to account for every
instance of dishonesty, especially to the destitute.
#7-22 The Edomites were old enemies to the Israel of God. But
their day is now at hand; it is foretold, not only to warn them,
but for the sake of the Israel of God, whose afflictions were
aggravated by them. Thus Divine judgments go round from nation
to nation; the earth is full of commotion, and nothing can
escape the ministers of Divine vengeance. The righteousness of
God is to be observed amidst the violence of men.
#23-27 How easily God can dispirit those nations that have been
most celebrated for valour! Damascus waxes feeble. It was a city
of joy, having all the delights of the sons of men. But those
deceive themselves who place their happiness in carnal joys.
#28-33 Nebuchadnezzar would make desolation among the people of
Kedar, who dwelt in the deserts of Arabia. He who conquered many
strong cities, will not leave those unconquered that dwell in
tents. He will do this to gratify his own covetousness and
ambition; but God orders it for correcting an unthankful people,
and for warning a careless world to expect trouble when they
seem most safe. They shall flee, get far off, and dwell deep in
the deserts; they shall be dispersed. But privacy and obscurity
are not always protection and security.
#34-39 The Elamites were the Persians; they acted against God's
Israel, and must be reckoned with. Evil pursues sinners. God
will make them know that he reigns. Yet the destruction of Elam
shall not be for ever. But this promise was to have its full
accomplishment in the days of the Messiah. In reading the Divine
assurance of the destruction of all the enemies of the church,
the believer sees that the issue of the holy war is not
doubtful. It is blessed to recollect, that He who is for us, is
more than all against us. And he will subdue the enemies of our
souls.