2 Chronicles

His God does instruct him to discretion. Riches are the gift of God (2 Chronicles 1:12). I will give you riches; peace is the gift of God (Psalms 147:14).

So (Exodus 12:3) compared with verse 21. This if he will not take well from us, let him take it from an Anti-presbyterian, who observeth from (1 Chronicles 13:1, 2, 4) and (2 Chronicles 1:3) that both Kahal and [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩] are used for the Elders and Governours. Gu…

First, verse 9, he sets out her stateliness, strength and courage, by a similitude taken from horses: are (says he) horses stately and strong? For so in Job is the horse described (Job 39:19-20, etc.), and is not a company of them much more stately, especially a company of Egypt…

i. (2 Chronicles 1:5) The house which I build is great and wonderful, for great is our God above all gods. Whereby it clearly appears, that the orders of the Church of God may be acceptable to him, as well being framed suitable to the greatness, and dignity of later, as when the…

This Solomon acknowledges concerning the Temple which he had built, which yet was the most glorious that ever was erected, and built by God's own appointment. (2 Chronicles 2:5, 6) "The house which I build, is great: for great is our God above all Gods. But who is able to build…

Alas the best we do is much beneath God. What low thoughts had Solomon of his stately temple (2 Chronicles 2:6): Who is able to build you a house, seeing the heaven of heavens is not able to contain him, who am I that I should build him a house? Thus should we see, that our best…

David says, “He that dwelleth in the heavens shall laugh at them,” (Psalm 2:4); and again, “Our God is in heaven: he hath done whatever he hath pleased,” (Psalm 115:3). When God is said to be in heaven, we must not suppose that he dwells only there; but, on the contrary, must ho…

First, The design of Solomon, the wisest and richest King that ever was in this world, in the building of it. When he undertook the work, and sent to Hiram King of Tyre for his assistance, he tells him, that the House which he was to build was to be great, because their God was…

With our contentions their irreligious humor also is much strengthened. Signs must resemble the things they signify (2 Chronicles 2:5). If religion bears the greatest sway in our hearts, our outward religious duties must show it as far as the Church has outward ability.

Now I come to the next Attribute, and that is, The Greatness of God, or his Infiniteness: We follow in this rather the rule of the Scripture, than the tract of the Schoolmen, and we insist upon those that God does especially take to him in Scripture. Now that God takes this Attr…

Because some have disputed it, therefore we will briefly answer it. Answer: The Scripture is clear in it, that he is without the world; there is no limits of his essence that we can set down; he is not contained within the compass of heaven and earth, as you shall see in (2 Chro…

His greatness is unsearchable. The excellencies and perfections of God; his immensity (2 Chronicles 2:6). The heaven of heavens cannot contain him.

And yet for a second means, When you are thus taught of God, then go on in your uprightness and cleanness of heart in your whole conversation, so shall you wade deep in the streams of grace (John 17:9). If therefore you see any uncleanness in your heart, abandon it, and resolve…

Fourthly, if God's determination concerning any thing, should have a temporal original; it must needs be, either because he then perceived some goodness in it, of which before he was ignorant; or else, because some accident did affix a real goodness, to some state of things, whi…

As to their place and posture, they were over the Ark. For these Cherubims had feet whereon they stood (2 Chronicles 3:13). And these feet were joyned in one continued beaten work to the ends of the Mercy-Seat which was upon the Ark; therefore they were wholly over it, or above…

“Cependant que le service, qui avoit les ombres de la Loy, a duré;” — “so long as the service, which contained the shadows of the Law, lasted.” a veil was hung up before the earthly sanctuary, in order to keep the people not only from entering but from seeing it, (Exodus 26:33;…

In that of the Temple of Solomon, which was more august and spacious, there was by God's direction two other Cherubims added. These were great, and large, made of the wood of the Olive tree, over-laid with Gold, and they stood on their feet behind the Ark Westward, with their ba…

4. It may be said to be of the wood of Lebanon, that is excellent and durable, for so the wood of Lebanon was, for which cause it was made use of in building of the Temple; and so all the materials of this Covenant, and its properties are excellent and durable, it's an everlasti…

Next it is said to be like Carmel; which may be understood, 1. as it relates to a fruitful place, mentioned with Sharon (Isaiah 35:2), the excellency of Carmel and Sharon. 2. It may be translated Scarlet or Crimson, as the same word is (2 Chronicles 3:14); thus it is a rich colo…

But that beautiful, glorious, costly structure of the temple, that succeeded the tabernacle, and was a fixed, and not a moveable thing, seems especially to represent the church in its glorified state in heaven. This temple was built according to the pattern shown by the Holy Gho…

But you take another course; having misreported my words to gain some countenance thereby to what you had to except against them, you add, Surely the Prophet wanted a word then to express himself, or translators to express the Prophet: If we must guess at his meaning without hee…

This Testimony, this Covenant, these Tables of Stone with the Moral Law engraven in them, were by the express command of God put into the Ark (Exodus 25:16; chapter 33:18; chapter 40:20; Deuteronomy 10:5). And there was nothing else in the Ark but these two Tables of Stone with…

But principally it regards his mission by Christ after his ascension into Heaven (Acts 2:33): Being exalted and having received the promise of the Father, he sent the Spirit. The promise of him was, that he should be sent from Heaven, or from above, as God is said to be above, w…

But the Scripture is clear, that the musical instruments were appointed to be used continually before the Ark (1 Chronicles 16:4, 5, 6). And the singers and trumpeters stood at the east end of the altar at the dedication of the Temple (2 Chronicles 5:12). And in Hezekiah's time,…

In the second house there was little of all these; and for the things of most cost and charge nothing at all. Nor did the riches of this house consist only in the solid parts of the fabric, but in those vast treasures of silver and gold with other precious things, which being de…

The end therefore God appointed the making of this Ark, was to put therein § 10 [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩] the Testimony (Exodus 25:16), that is the two Tables of stone engraved on all sides with the ten Commandments, pronounced by the ministry of angels, written with the finger…

2. David's exhortation to sing a new song, pertained to them in the Old Testament, as well as to us in the New. And yet they upon new occasions sang the old songs of David, and that with acceptance (2 Chronicles 5:13; 2 Chronicles 20:21; Ezra 3:11). 3. Asaph, Heman, and Ethan, w…

If it be said, Why, is it not a confusion for so many voyces to joyne together in singing a Psalme, though it be one and the same Psalme? Answ. No more now in the New Testament, then it was in the Old, when the Trumpeters and Singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in…

And in chapter 15:25: 'So David and the elders of Israel, and the captains over thousands, went to bring up the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord, out of the house of Obed-Edom, with joy.' So also in 2 Samuel 6:1, and when the Ark was brought into the temple in 1 Kings 8:1, 3 and…

(2) Things indefinitely expressed are to be expounded universally. 1 Kings 8:39. and to give to every man according to his ways, that is, 2 Chronicles 6:30. and render to every man according to all his ways. Deuteronomy 19:15. At the mouth of two or three witnesses shall the mat…

And when it rested he said, Return O Lord to the many thousands of Israel. And from there the Ark was called the Ark of God's strength (see Psalms 68:1, 2; 132:8; 2 Chronicles 6:41), because it was a pledge of God's putting forth his strength and power in the behalf of the peopl…

3. There is Benedictio Charitativa: this is, when one is said to bless another, by praying for a blessing on him, or using the means whereby he may obtain a blessing. This may be done by superiors, equals, inferiors, any or all persons mutually towards one another (see 1 Kings 8…

Want of this keeps men from salvation. 2 Chronicles 6:37, if they bethink themselves in the land where they are carried away, and turn and pray to me, in their captivity, saying, We have sinned, we have done amiss, and dealt wickedly; then I will hear. So Jeremiah 8:6, God heark…

The God of Abraham, Jacob, &c. (Exodus 3:15). Hence, because the Lord in excellency is remembered in his works, by likeness they are called his name (Psalm 8:2; 2 Chronicles 6:32). Much more his Gospel (Acts 9:15).

But observe here more particularly, 1. That all the elect people of God are lying under iniquity even as others; this we spoke to the last day, and shall not repeat what was then said; it's with respect to iniquity in the elect that all the business of redemption is transacted,…

James commands not such a confession. Daniel's, Ezra's, Peter's confession were some other thing (John 1:20; Acts 19:18; Hebrews 11:13; Proverbs 28:13; 1 John 4:2; Mark 3:6; Joshua 7:19; Daniel 9:4; Romans 10:10; 1 Timothy 6:13; Psalm 32:5; James 5:16; Leviticus 5:5; Leviticus 1…

2. God does nothing in the election of Peter, more than of Judas; nor can grace and mercy have place in the choosing of the one, rather than the other; but as free will is foreseen to play the game ill, or well, so go the eternal decrees of election and reprobation, and there ca…

That place of my rest.] And yet the Lord had said of the Temple, in Psalm 132:8, Behold this is my rest, here will I dwell, for I have a delight therein. And in 2 Chronicles 6:41, Arise O Lord, and enter into your rest. Moreover, we have seen before, in Isaiah 11:10, that God's…

He tells them, that God does not need a strong light to perceive good actions: for those things, which appear to be buried in darkness, are open to his view. We have no reason, therefore, to suppose that what escapes the notice, and receives not the testimony of men, is lost: fo…

Besides secondly, it could not absolutely preserve men in its own observation; for it required that obedience which never any sinner did or could in all things perform; as the Scriptures of the Old Testament abundantly manifest. For they tell us, there is no man that sins not (1…

Interpreters are much divided about the sense of these words. First, Some observe that the Hebrew word Barach, does signify not only to bless, but to bow the knee; So it is used (2 Chronicles 6:13). Solomon at the dedicating of the Temple had made a brazen scaffold, and upon it…

But now David wholly subdued it, as we have an account in 2 Samuel 5. And now God proceeded to choose that city to place his name there, as appears by David's bringing up the ark thither soon after; and therefore this is mentioned afterwards as the first time God proceeded to ch…

This was the glory and privilege of Israel, as the Psalmist declares (Psalms 147:19, 20): He sheweth his word to Jacob, his statutes and his judgments to Israel; He has not dealt so with any nation. The Church then knew him; yet so as that they had an apprehension that he dwelt…

And so the stability and certainty of the decree and oath is not to make the children of David secure, but watchful in their duty: But this is not a condition without which the Messiah should not reign, but without this he should not reign to their comfort and everlasting good.…

This was the glory and privilege of Israel, as the Psalmist declares (Psalm 147:19-20): "He shows his word unto Jacob, his statutes and his judgments unto Israel; he has not dealt so with any nation." The church then knew him; yet so as that they had an apprehension that he dwel…

They answered, Yes; but we did not imagine, said they, that this fine-spoken man had been he. (Romans 16:17-18). Then I saw in my dream, that he commanded them to lie down; which when they did, he chastised them sore, to teach them the good way wherein they should walk (Deuteron…

Away then with your dead heart to this principle of life to quicken you, that his Almighty power may pluck you out of your sepulcher, unloose your grave-locks, that so you may live. 3. He is an infinite God, whereby he is without limits of being (2 Chronicles 6:18). Horrible the…

This seems a plain granting of the Synod's saying, and of their proof of it. Whereas the Synod said, That the parents in question are keepers of the covenant, because they are not forsakers, and rejecters of the God, and covenant of their fathers; and alleged for this (Deuterono…

And a father cannot but must needs make promise of favor to those that be his children, and therefore it cannot be that he should call God his father truly, which has not in his heart this assurance, that God will fulfill all his promises made to him. Promises made to prayer, as…

1. There was then a clear word of institution for them. The trumpets of silver and cornets of horn, were instituted by the hand of Moses (Numbers 10, in the ten first verses, and Leviticus 23:23, 24), and in David's time there were added cymbals of brass, and harps and psalterie…

Promises made to prayer; these and such like are to be marked as follow. 2 Chronicles 7:14. If my people among whom my name is called upon, do humble themselves, and pray, and seek my presence, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear in heaven and be merciful to their…

Hence perhaps is that threat against the unfaithful servant: the Lord (Matthew 24:51) will cut him in pieces on account of neglect of the covenant. And from this cutting of the victim, "to cut" among the Hebrews means "to strike a covenant:" 2 Chronicles 7:18, "And I will establ…

So when God lays sin to the charge of the sinner, in punishing it, he is said to lay a burden on the sinner, (2 Kings 9:25). And to remove this burden, is to pardon the sin. (2 Chronicles 7:14). If my people humble themselves, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their…

First, the falling down of the fire from heaven to consume the first offerings, and to leave a fire to be kept alive perpetually upon the altar, a type of the effectual operation of the Holy Ghost, making all our sacrifices acceptable to God. And this the Jews expressly confess…

Otherwise the fury of the Lord will be so much the more provoked, and the fire of his anger will break forth into such a flame, as none shall be able to quench; otherwise the Lord will be so much the more enraged against you, and meet you like a roaring and devouring lion, or li…

Another thing, that the Jews in their ancient writings mention as being now withdrawn, was the fire from heaven on the altar. When Moses built the tabernacle and altar in the wilderness, and the first sacrifices were offered on it, fire came down from heaven, and consumed the bu…

Love is a sweet and gracious affection whereby we wish the good of another and promote his welfare as our own. Love is a sacred fire kindled in the heart by the Spirit, like that fire which came from heaven (2 Chronicles 7:1). I shall endeavor to preserve this fire in Christians…

So (Isaiah 55:6): Seek the Lord while he may be found. The duty is ordained to draw and to allure the soul to God, no more but an opportunity that God and men may trade and have commerce with one another: as Solomon did therefore build the glorious temple to the Lord, that he mi…

Thus much for this doctrine. 2 Chronicles 7:14. If my people that are called by my name do humble themselves: We are now come to the conditions upon which mercy and forgiveness are here promised.

2 Chronicles 7:14. If my people which are called by my name shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways — then will I hear in heaven, and will be merciful to their sin, and will heal their land. These words contain the answer God gave to…

When God shall see his faithful servants bring forth clusters of sweet fruits to him, they shall be a blessing to others; implying, that wherever God's servants are, because of his covenant with them, wherever they crave a blessing, and mourn for the want of it, God will provide…

When our union with Christ shall be perfect, then our joy shall be full; if the joy of faith be so great (1 Peter 1:8) then what will the joy of sight be: Joseph gave his brothers provision for the way, but the full sacks of corn were kept till they came at their father's house:…

This, as I said before, was the most sacred and glorious instrument of the Sanctuary; yes, the whole Sanctuary as to its use in the Church of Israel, was built for no other end but to be as it were a house and habitation for this Ark (Exodus 26:33; Chapter 40. 21). Hence sanctif…

It is not to be taken here for the whole countenance, but for a part thereof: Therefore it is distinguished from the eyes, and is described as being eminent (like a tower) beyond the rest of the face, and so it is to be applied to the nose properly, which arises with a height on…

The more particularly we pry into our estate, the more we are affected, and the more we shall see of the deceitfulness of our own hearts. "When every one shall know his own sore and grief" (2 Chronicles 8:29). 4. It will be of great advantage in the spiritual life, to declare of…

This kingdom exceeds in the perfection of it; other kingdoms are defective — they must trade abroad to supply their wants at home. King Solomon sent for gold to Ophir (2 Chronicles 8:18); but there is no defect in the kingdom of heaven. Revelation 21:7: he that overcomes shall i…

As Ethiopia lies in a southerly direction from Judea, I willingly concur with Josephus and other writers, who assert that she was the queen of Ethiopia. In sacred history she is called the queen of Sheba, (2 Chronicles 9:1.) We must not suppose this Sheba to be the country of Sa…

It is not to be taken here for the whole countenance, but for a part thereof: Therefore it is distinguished from the eyes, and is described as being eminent (like a tower) beyond the rest of the face, and so it is to be applied to the nose properly, which arises with a height on…

And the history of the scripture seems, in Solomon's reign, and some of the next succeeding reigns, to have been added to by the prophets Nathan and Ahijah, and Shemaiah and Iddo. It is probable that part of the history which we have in the first of Kings, was written by them, b…

And they are not blamed for wearing them, but because they put them to idolatrous uses. So it is said of king Solomon, that he had silver in such abundance, that, according to his state, he gave it in Jerusalem as stones (2 Chronicles 9:27). And Christ speaks of the royalty of S…

Nor will Christ only defend his Church as he is King, but deliver it (2 Timothy 4:17), He delivered me out of the mouth of the lion; namely, Nero. (2 Chronicles 11:14) The Lord saved them by a great deliverance. Sometimes Christ is said to command deliverance (Psalm 44:4), somet…

It is mercy to men's souls to tell them of their sins. And surely those are priests for the devil (2 Chronicles 11:15), who see men go on in sin and ready to drop into hell, yet never pull them back by a reproof; nay, perhaps flatter them in their sins. God never made ministers…

So that we are not to leave so much as a hoof behind us of any superstition, or Romish relic, or any human tradition, in God's worship, to be retained; though it have remained under the venerable garb of Antiquity, Universality, and Unity, the three great pillars of the Roman Hi…

Vzzah, for touching the Ark contrary to the order of the God of Israel, was smitten dead, and Israel had a breach made among them (1 Chronicles 13:9, 10, 11, compared with 1 Chronicles 15:12, 13). Jeroboam devised worship at Dan and Bethel, though he pretended by it to worship t…

And in like manner Micah's mother, she dedicated the silver to Jehovah to make a graven image (Judges 17:3), and Micah concludes, ver. last, that now Jehovah would do him good. Yes, Jeroboam himself, when he set up his calves at Dan and Bethel, he proclaims, Behold your Gods O I…

He that kills ox, or goat, or lamb to the Lord, in the camp, and brings it not to the door of the Tabernacle of the Congregation, to the Priest (verse 7), offers sacrifice to devils. 2 Chronicles 11:15, Jeroboam ordained him Priests for the high places, and for the devils, and f…

If he cannot have them with innocency and purity to his soul, he must let them go. All the good priests that were accustomed to minister before the Lord in the synagogue throughout the ten tribes, when they could not enjoy their places but must worship the calves — (though the c…

Secondly, By the cleaving of the Tribe of Benjamin, whose lot lay next to it, and mixed with it in the very City of the Kingdom, to the reigning house of David in the fatal division of the people (1 Kings 12:20, 21, 27), upon which both those Tribes were after called by the name…

Truth is Insigne Honoris, an ensign of honor; it distinguishes us from the false church, as chastity distinguishes a virtuous woman from a harlot. In short, truth is Ecclesiae praesidium, the bulwark of a nation (2 Chronicles 11:17): it is said the Levites (who were the antesign…

The visible church of Christ from Solomon's reign, was mainly in the tribe of Judah. The tribe of Benjamin, that was annexed to them, was but a very small tribe, and the tribe of Judah exceedingly large; and as Judah took Benjamin under his covert when he went into Egypt to brin…

If we lose our coat to keep our conscience, others of God's children have been thus tried before us (Hebrews 10:3-4): You took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that you have in heaven a better, and an enduring substance. The Levites left their inheritan…

And yet all that complied with him therein, are charged for walking so willingly after the commandment (Hosea 5:11). We dare not offend God to please men; the good Levites are commended (2 Chronicles 11:14). So it was pride in Nebuchadnezzar to command all men to bow before his…

Princes have their homage and peculiar honor done to them; Satan is served upon the knee of his subjects, the wicked are said to worship the devil, Revelation 13:4. No Prince expects such worship as he, no lesse then religious worship will serve him, 2 Chronicles 11:15. Jeroboam…

(Deuteronomy 1:37) Also the Lord was angry with me for your sake: And the story shows, because Moses sanctified not the Lord at the waters of Meribah, God would not suffer him to set his foot in the holy land. (2 Chronicles 11:9) God was angry with Solomon. (Deuteronomy 1:20) Th…

But if you bestow them with an honest and a good heart, and willing to employ them any way to the glory of God, you might lay up for yourselves a sure foundation; not that a man that has lived all his days and done no good, and then at his death give all to a monastery, or such…

And Nathan and Gad seem to have written the rest of the two books of Samuel: and Nathan, with Ahijah and Iddo, wrote the history of Solomon, which is probably that which we have in the first book of Kings. The history of Israel seems to have been further carried on by Iddo and S…

But whether this may warrant none to pray, while they first prepare themselves to pray, before they pray, by praying, and so that prayer which is preparatory must be prepared by another preparatory prayer; and so, without end, spiritual preparations must in infinitum go on befor…

And therefore come under this Kingdom; if you do not, you will be left under the power of a worse. God said (2 Chronicles 12:8), he would give them up to the king of Egypt; why? They shall be his servants, that they may know my service, and the service of the kingdoms of the cou…

It is not long since that Scripture was opened and applied in the hearing of many of you (Luke 19:43, 44): The days shall come upon you, that your enemies shall keep you in on every side, because you knew not the time of your visitation. How righteous is it, that the Lord should…

Yes, he regards humility so much that even when wicked men have humbled themselves, they have not gone away without some mercy. When Ahab humbled himself (2 Chronicles 12), God promised he would not bring the evil in his days. And the best of God's children, when they have not h…

Oh beloved, lie low here; and learn of the Church (Micah 7:9), I will bear the indignation of the Lord, because I have sinned against him. It was a most blessed frame of spirit in Aaron, when he saw God's hand against him in cutting off his children, and Aaron held his peace; so…

It is a notable speech, that in (Proverbs 23:7): as a man thinks in his heart, so is he; as the man's heart is, so is the man; if the desire of the soul be towards God, why is he thinks in his heart, so is he; there is life in the whole man, if there be life in the heart. Rehobo…

By prayer we draw near to God, by faith we take hold of him. 2 Chronicles 13:14: The children of Judah cried to the Lord; and this was the crying of faith; verse 18. They prevailed because they relied on the Lord God of their fathers: Making supplication to God, and staying the…

This proceeds not from the lack of a holy bent and aim, but from the weakness and imperfection of grace. And in this case the soul may make the like complaint against its own corruptions that Abijah made against Jeroboam (2 Chronicles 13:6-7). Grace has a dominion, but lusts are…

Those Superstitious persons in Isaiah 65:3, 4 who did Sacrifice in Gardens, remain among the Graves, and lodge in the Monuments, which the Lord never required at their hands, yet they made no Conscience of eating Swines flesh, which the Lord had forbidden to that people in those…

It is worthwhile to offer a sample of this variety. II. First, according to the truth of the matter, they are called gods that are not gods: 2 Chronicles 13:9, "Whoever comes to consecrate himself shall be a priest to no-gods" — that is, to false gods, who are anything but God.…

The Holy Spirit relates the history of these calves in 1 Kings 12:28–32. The reasons for Jeroboam's plan are more fully set forth in 2 Chronicles 13:6–9. The entire tribe of Levi, and very many of the pious among the Israelites, adhering to the ordinances of God, left their ance…

Here, as iniquity, was put for the spiritual whoredom against this commandement, so commandements are put for the several parts of obedience in this precept, as the circumstance of the place does show, by which we see all good intents are shut out. As they have been severely pun…

Again, there is a covenant of marriage between God and his people (Jeremiah 3:14), so as the wife promises to be to her husband alone (Hosea 3:3-4), so the Church of God promises, that she will be for God alone, and God will be for us alone; and we embrace the seed of his word a…

Its name it seems to have taken from the filling their hands, or their bringing their Offering in their hands, when they approached to the Lord in their setting apart to Office. And from there was the expression of him that came to be consecrated a Priest; [〈 in non-Latin alphab…

So it was again in Abijah's time, when Jeroboam set the battle in array against him with eight hundred thousand chosen men; a mighty army indeed. We read of it, 2 Chronicles 13:3. Then God wrought deliverance to Judah, out of regard to the covenant of grace established with Davi…

O they were guilty of original sin, yes and so were Moses, David, Samuel, Noah, Job, and Daniel when they were in the womb and weeping on the breasts. 7. Sovereignty determines what is just; righteous Abel dies in blood, godly Josiah in war, many bloody men smile out their soul…

Meekness is easiness of spirit; not a sinful easiness to be debauched, as Ephraim's that willingly walked after the commandment of the idolatrous princes (Hosea 5:11). Nor a simple easiness to be imposed upon and deceived, as Rehoboam's, who when he was forty years old is said t…

Psalm 146:4 — all their thoughts perish. Lastly, they are vain, that is, indeed, wicked and sinful; vanity in the text here, is yoked with wickedness: and vain men, and sons of Belial are all one (2 Chronicles 13:17). And such are our thoughts by nature.

As the people were to go armed, and to fight, so the Priests were to go with silver Trumpets, and to sound: this sounding with silver Trumpets implied hearty and earnest prayer. Note the benefit hereof (2 Chronicles 13:14, etc.). Thus while Joshua and the people were fighting wi…

Christ will make his enemies his footstool (Psalm 110:1). He can destroy them with ease (2 Chronicles 14:11): it is nothing for you, Lord, to help. He can do it with weak means, without means.

1. If God brings his people out of bondage, then let none despond in trouble; say not, I shall sink under this burden; as David, I shall one day perish by the hand of Saul. God can make this text good, personally and nationally, to bring his people out of the house of bondage: w…

And what did his army consist of, but few, and those fearful — those that took water with their hands (which as Josephus says, is a natural sign of fear) did God choose out to overthrow the Midianites, who had overspread the land as grasshoppers (Judges 7:6-7), to show that he c…

And I will give you one Scripture that shows how far a gracious heart is from making flesh his arm, Cursed is that man (you know the Scripture) that makes flesh his arm. But an example of a godly man to show how far he was from trusting in an army of mighty men, in (2 Chronicles…

The only difference is, that on the former occasion Christ satisfied five thousand men with five loaves and two fishes, while, on the present occasion, four thousand men are fed with seven loaves and a few small fishes; and that twelve baskets were then filled with fragments, wh…

Then God wrought deliverance to Judah, out of regard to the covenant of grace established with David, as is evident by verses 4 and 5; and the victory they obtained was because the Lord was on their side, as you may see, verse 12. So it was again in Asa's time, when Zerah the Et…

3. We must be quiet as the land is quiet from war. It was the observable felicity of Asa's reign, that in his days the land was quiet (2 Chronicles 14:1, 5). In the preceding reigns there was no peace to him that went out, or to him that came in, whether outward-bound or homewar…

In your lowest estate he is able to raise you up (Romans 11:23). And they also if they abide not still in unbelief shall be grafted in; for God is able to graft them in again: whatever difficulties oppose themselves against the thing promised, he can remove them, for nothing is…

As de facto 'tis evident in the examples related (besides divers others recorded in Scripture) that good Magistrates did always meddle for God and his truth, against false worship and seducers, so that they did it de jure, and ought to do so is as clear from the approbations, sp…

There is a Covenant made to keep all the Testimonies and Statutes of God, and the people are made to stand to it. From (2 Kings 23:8, 9) compared with (2 Chronicles 14:3, 5), (2 Chronicles 15:17), (2 Chronicles 33:17), it is evident there were in Judah two sorts of high places,…

Yes, Manasseh who had been so wicked, presently upon his conversion (2 Chronicles 33:15, 16) rested not in his own repentance that he knew that the Lord was God, but he took away the strange gods, all the altars, and cast them out of the city, and repaired the altar of the Lord,…

Look upon Asa, his infirmities were many, as to imprison the Prophet: to trust to the physician, more than God, and so on. Yet because there was an uprightness of heart, see what testimony the Lord gives of him (2 Chronicles 14:2), the like in Jehoshaphat. So David had many foul…

According to his mighty power, whereby he is able to subdue all things to himself (Philippians 3:21; Daniel 4:35). Those which declare all things to be equally easy to him, and nothing difficult; There is nothing too hard for you (Jeremiah 32:17; 2 Chronicles 14:11; 1 Samuel 14:…

When we go to God and express our weakness and his power: 'Lord, we are weak, we are able to do nothing; Lord, you are almighty, you made heaven and earth' — it is a strong argument to prevail with him. So we see Asa prevailed with God, 2 Chronicles 14: 'O Lord,' said he, 'it is…

The places in which it is used are all noted in the margin, that the reader may examine them for his own satisfaction. In the Septuagint version of the Old Testament, [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] occurs but three times: (2 Chronicles 14:15), where it is translated cattle; (Ezra 8…

So while Israel fought against the Philistines, Samuel prayed (1 Samuel 7:9-10): and while Joab fought against Aram, David prayed (Psalm 60:1). The like I might instance in Asa (2 Chronicles 14:11), Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20:6), Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 32:20), and other Saints…

But how often instead of entertaining angels into their houses, do some entertain devils? From where are all the mutinies and divisions in a kingdom? (2 Chronicles 15:5). In those days there was no peace to him that went out, nor to him that came in.

As the vessels of the sanctuary were consecrated and set apart from common to holy uses: So the soul who has chosen God to be his God, has dedicated and set himself apart for God, and will be no more for profane uses. 3. To make God to be a God to us, is to enter into a solemn c…

If the heart be sincere, God will see the faith, and wink at the failing. Asa had his [illegible], his blemishes, but his heart was right with God (2 Chronicles 15:17). God saw his sincerity, and pardoned his infirmity. Sincerity in a Christian is like chastity in a wife, which…

A king's crown is more adorned with the white lily of peace, than when it is beset with the red roses of a bloody war; but where shall we find an uninterrupted peace upon earth? Either home-bred divisions, or foreign invasions (2 Chronicles 15:5). There was no peace to him that…

And further, this must be remembered withal, that GOD will never forsake any of his servants before they first forsake him: and therefore they that can say truly and unfeignedly, that they desire to serve God, and to be his servants, and seek this blessing by prayer, they may st…

In Genesis 15 there is covenanting by dividing the heifer, the goat, &c. in the midst, and passing between the pieces or parts; and so in Jeremiah 34. In Genesis 17 there is covenanting by silence, and falling upon the face: in Nehemiah 9:38 there is covenanting by writing and s…

Promises made to prayer, as these and such like, are to be marked, as follow, 2 Chronicles 7:14. If my people among whom my name is called upon, do humble themselves, and pray, and seek my presence, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear in heaven, and be merciful to…

Your flourishing estate in the world could not have compensated for the lack of the purity and liberty of the ordinances of Christ. That was a heavy word of the Prophet: now for a long season Israel has been without the true God, and without a teaching priest, and without Law (2…

How shall we prove it lawful to apply the seal of God's Covenant to Infants? Or to admit women to eat of the holy things; for the Scriptures of the New Testament do speak little in these cases; only the Scriptures of the Old Testament do give direction, and light about them (Lev…

2 Chronicles 7:14. If my people among whom my name is called upon, do humble themselves, and pray, and seek my presence, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear in heaven and be merciful to their sins. 2 Chronicles 15:2. The Lord is with you while you be with him: and…

Also for the better relieving of the poor, distributors of the Church relief (Acts 6:2; Romans 12:8; 1 Timothy 3:7, etc.). All which we must know, delight in, procure, and every one according to his own calling set forward; as (Psalms 27:4; 42:23; 1 Chronicles 13:1; 29:6, 7, 8,…

Objection: But you say, this is marvelous uncharitable, to say that they who have but reading fall short of faith in Christ, and of the fruits of faith that accompany salvation? Answer. Whether is it more uncharitableness to let such as live under such means know their danger, t…

In respect of this second estate, the Church may be in desolation. This was the condition of the Church in paradise upon the fall of our first parents, of the Israelites at Mount Horeb, when they worshipped the golden calf, and in the days of Elijah (Romans 11:3), and afterward…

Be you mindful always of his Covenant—Even of the Covenant which he made with Abraham, and his Oath unto Isaac— 2 Chronicles 15:12. And they entered into Covenant to seek the Lord God of their Fathers.—

When God plucks up this hedge, and breaks down this wall, all mischiefs break in upon us presently. (2 Chronicles 15:3-6) Now for a long season Israel had been without the true God, and without a teaching priest, and without law — and in those times there was no peace to him tha…

You have this benefit by your labor, that thereby you avoid loose and evil company, which would draw you into mischief. By diligence for God, the Christian also is secured from temptations; God is with them, while they are with him (2 Chronicles 15:2). Communion with God in the…

Only here the soul has sure footing; therefore say, that if the dissolution of all things should come, as death and martyrdom, (as we know not how soon they may) yet God shall be our God, we will forsake all to follow him. Consider the present time of the Church, consider how so…

Yet he also had his imperfections; against the warning of the Lord he goes out with a wicked king, and dies in battle. So Asa (2 Chronicles 15:17): The high places were not taken away, (it was a failing in that holy king) yet it is said, the heart of Asa was perfect all his days…

There is in them integrity but not perfection, all parts of holiness though not degrees. As in the body every muscle and vein and artery has its use; thus all Israel is said to seek the Lord with their whole desire (2 Chronicles 15:15). And all Judah rejoiced at the oath, for th…

He might destroy us for our original sin, as we destroy serpents of a venomous nature before they have actually done any harm: though man has lost his goodness, God has not. Every one of us in person does actually break with God before he breaks with us (2 Chronicles 15:2): If y…

God complains of their iniquity, as a burden, as if they made a cart of God, and loaded him with sins as with sheaves (Amos 2:13). Again, when we suffer for God, he has promised to help and assist us with counsel and comfort, with succor and support; but when we sin, God leaves…

In religion the heart is all; we judge of men's hearts by their actions, but God judges of men's actions by their hearts. Amaziah did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, but not with a perfect heart (2 Chronicles 25:2); but of Asa it is said, his heart was perfect all…

There is a Covenant made to keep all the Testimonies and Statutes of God, and the people are made to stand to it. From (2 Kings 23:8, 9) compared with (2 Chronicles 14:3, 5), (2 Chronicles 15:17), (2 Chronicles 33:17), it is evident there were in Judah two sorts of high places,…

In the new Testament also, though the punishing by death according to Moses' law of apostates be approved of, as in pages 52, 53 of this book I have shown, and several judicial laws for the substance ratified pages 56, 57, yet the formalities, accessories, with all particulariti…

And when do we know that it is not the old heart? Ans. 1 Propos. As physically, so also morally, the heart is the man, the good heart, the good man, the evil heart, the evil man, and God weighs men by the weight, not of the tongue, of the hands of the outward man, but by the wei…

13. The Lord would have Isaiah and the godly dead to laws and government, to vision and prophesying, when judge and prophet shall be taken away (Isaiah 3:2), and children shall be their princes, and babes shall rule over them (verse 4), and the vineyard broken, and the hedge spo…

Let a man do never so many good actions, and take the Summa totalis of it all, and wanting a perfect heart, it will all be evil in the sight of the Lord; and while a man so continues, he may know that the Lord has determined to destroy him. And let another man do many things ver…

Thirdly, when he is brought to faith in God's mercy, and an honest purpose not to sin any more; then, certain merciful promises of God, are to be laid before him: and he must be exhorted, to rest upon these promises, and at no time to admit any imagination or thought, that may c…

The Apostle calls the time of the New Testament, the last days, because under the same, there is no more alteration to be expected, but all things are to abide without adding, or taking away, as was taught, and ordained by Christ, until the last day; see also (Joel 2:28; Acts 2:…

Moses likewise took punishment with the sword, upon those, who did worship the golden calf; (Exodus 32:26, 27, 28). We have (2) the examples of Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:4), of Josiah (2 Kings 23), of Asa, who decreed that whoever would not seek the Lord God of Israel (according to t…

Is it the duty of the Civil Magistrate to take order that all blasphemies and heresies be suppressed, all the ordinances of God duly settled, administered, and observed, all abuses in worship and discipline reformed, and all idolaters, gainsayers, and other obstinate dissenters…

(1) Because, the church of God, in the Prophet Elijah's time was brought to that pass, that he thought none remained but himself (1 Kings 19:10; Romans 11:2-4). (2) Because, for a long time Israel was without the true God, and without a teaching priest, and without the Law (2 Ch…

To conclude therefore this point, though other judicial or forensical laws concerning the punishments of sins against the moral law, may, yes, must be allowed of in Christian republics and kingdoms; provided always, they be not contrary or contradictory to God's own judicial law…

Would they defraud in their dealings, use false weights, if they believed the power of God; that he could provide for them? 2. By their depending more upon second causes than upon God (2 Chronicles 16:12). In his disease he sought not to the Lord but to the physician.

(Acts 7:54): When they heard this they were cut to the heart, and gnashed on Stephen with their teeth. (2 Chronicles 16:10): Asa was wroth with the seer, and put him in a prison-house. Pride and guilt make men [reconstructed: fret] at the Word.

And, here we must be admonished, to beware of the bad practices of the world, in this case: the most men in their sickness, first seek to the Physicians; and if that fail them, they send for the Minister. This was King Asa his practice, for which he is branded to all posterity,…

But it is a fond imagination; at least the argument from these words for it, is so. For besides that the Scripture calls all sins by the name of errors (Psalms 19:12; Psalms 25:7), and the worst, the most provoking of all sins, is expressed by erring in heart (Psalms 95:10), and…

It is true, there were some other reforming Kings in Judah; but none like these who were the first three, for the rest had great blemishes. Asa was a reforming King, but there is one black mark upon him, for he persecuted the Prophet Hanani, for reproving him; and he oppressed s…

2 Chronicles 16:9. For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect towards him. In the beginning of the chapter you find Baasha king of Israel raising walls about, and fortifying Ramah, a pla…

But when men in such a state are careless, bold and negligent, so as that if they repeat not the same sin, they are easily hurried into others. Thus was it with Asa; he was wroth with the prophet that came to him with a divine message, and smote him, and cast him in prison, for…

From hence cometh it, that we fear not in greatest dangers (2 Kings 6:16; Psalm 3:7; Psalm 27:3); that in the time of affliction, we are patient (Proverbs 20:22; Hebrews 10:33); without all murmuring to hold our peace (Psalm 39:10); receiving them as from a father (Job 1:21; Psa…

2. Christ's omniscience is one of his chiefest excellencies, that qualifies him for the good and comfort of his people, and does exceedingly commend him to them above all others: it is a very present comfort to his people, especially in the time of trouble, that their beloved kn…

Without which no other work can be done; it is to be feared that very many have little knowledge of the main enemy, that they carry about them in their bosoms. This makes them ready to justify themselves, and to be impatient of reproof or admonition, not knowing that they are in…

Thus he speaks of both (Song of Solomon 2:14): My dove let me see your countenance, let me hear your voice, for sweet is your voice, and your countenance is comely. 2. His good providence and readiness to do them good, to supply their wants, and order their affairs for them, to…

The care of his providence is over all the creatures he has made; God has an inspection over them, to provide necessaries for them; much more over his people. His eyes run to and fro, to find them out in all the places of their dispersion; and he does exercise his power for thei…

Now, how will God manifest this delight? In his providence (2 Chronicles 16:9): The eyes of the Lord run to and fro, that he may show himself strong in the behalf of those whose hearts are upright with him. He looks up and down in the world to find out such persons to do them go…

The heart of Ahab was inordinately transported with a venomous hatred against Micaiah, and his message, though it was no other counsel than the Lord had revealed, and he charged him to speak as in his name; yet it is no wise pleasing to his palate, and so he speaks of it, Did no…

Second, it makes us trust to secondary causes, which is to set the creature in the room of God. 2 Chronicles 16:12: Asa in his disease sought not to the Lord but to the physicians. He relied more on the physician than upon God.

So the sword did not depart from David's house because of his sin with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah. And Asa: in 2 Chronicles 16, the prophet tells him: 'From now on you will have wars, because you did not rely on the Lord.' I could give a hundred such instances.

4 Neither does God cover only, but in time cure also sincerity's imperfections; giving it strength and daily increase of grace to prevail against them. For the eyes of the Lord behold all the earth to show himself strong with them that are of upright heart (2 Chronicles 16:9). H…

And therefore he sees the innocence and sincerity of the one, the fraud and hypocrisy of the other, notwithstanding all their goodly words. The eyes of the Lord look down from heaven to show himself strong to them that are of a perfect heart, namely in the end at least, even whe…

1st Commandment: You shall have no other gods, etc. He breaks this commandment: who does not know the true God (Jeremiah 4:22); who denies God in his heart by denying his presence, justice, mercy, etc. (Psalm 14:1); who hates God and shows it by disobedience (Exodus 20:5; Romans…

It is a pity any good man should storm at a just rebuke of sin; that such a precious ointment as is proper to heal, should be considered to break his head: but yet flesh will be tender and touchy; even in good men. Asa was a good man, and yet he was wroth with the prophet who re…

For because he sought to the physicians, he is blamed — yet to seek to physicians is lawful, but the Spirit of God blames his seeking to the physicians. And says (2 Chronicles 16:12): He sought not the Lord in his sickness; and the reason is given [non-Latin text] because he was…

The sword of God, take it as it lies in the word, and it is like a sword in the scabbard, and the exposition is but the brandishing of it; but when application is made, that you are the man that has done this, not to endure this, is an argument of a carnal heart, though sometime…

Let but the heart be kept clean, that in his heart he does not close with any wickedness, and desires to be kept clean even from secret faults; then shall the words of his mouth, and the thoughts of his heart be acceptable in the sight of God; there will ever be life in such a m…

And to friends in time of need? Thus he makes many to cast away the shield of Faith, their confidence in God, and to trust to outward means, as Asa (2 Chronicles 16:12). Answer: All means are subordinate to God's Providence, and guided thereby: therefore in the use of them we mu…

Thus Haman, merely in regard of private disgrace, grows to great indignation against Mordecai (Esther 3:5). Thus Asa was angry with the prophet Hanani, because he thought it a discredit to him, to be reproved at his hand (2 Chronicles 16:10). And in this sort, were the Jews fill…

He indeed is rich in grace whose graces are not hindered by his riches. There are but few Jehoshaphats in the world, of whom it is said (2 Chronicles 17:5-6): 'He had silver and gold in abundance, and his heart was lifted up in the way of God's commands.' Will not this keep your…

The remaining parts of the reformation of the Ezraitic church — The solemn restoration of the preaching of the divine word (Nehemiah 8:1, 8) — Its neglect before the captivity — Jehoshaphat's efforts in its restoration (2 Chronicles 17:7-9) — Princes joined to the priests and Le…

In the Hebrew: his great ones; or, his bowmen (because they are many, or because the great ones did fight afar off) have besieged me. So (2 Chronicles 17:9), (1 Samuel 7:16): Samuel went in a circuit to Bethel, and Gilgal, and Mizpeh. And (Joshua 6:3): You shall besiege Jericho.

The people of God may be in a dying condition; though they never die wholly in grace, yet they may be so weakened in their spirits, that they cannot pour out their requests to God as in accustomed times. Jehoshaphat walked in the first ways of David his father (2 Chronicles 17:3…

The general equity, that is in the obligation of, strengthening others, when we are confirmed, desiring them to be like our selves, in all participations of grace from God, the nature of true zeal for the glory and name of the Lord, are a sufficient warrant for this, yes, demand…

It argues that you are not seriously through with God, if you should break with him after some profession of his name; now your motion should be more earnest, more strong towards him. I speak this, because we are so apt to cast off our first faith (1 Timothy 5:12), and to lose o…

John Baptist to Herod (Matthew 14:4): It is not lawful for you to have her. Jehu to Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 17:2): Should you help the ungodly, and love them that hate the Lord? Therefore is wrath upon you from before the Lord.

And when do we know that it is not the old heart? Ans. 1 Propos. As physically, so also morally, the heart is the man, the good heart, the good man, the evil heart, the evil man, and God weighs men by the weight, not of the tongue, of the hands of the outward man, but by the wei…

For that which we chiefly intend, the public teaching of others, as to some it was enjoined, as an act of their duty, so it might at first seem, that it was permitted to all, who having ability thereunto, were called by charity or necessity. So the Princes of Jehoshaphat taught…

But this it will do. There is mention made in the Scripture of the first ways of David, and they are commended above his later (2 Chronicles 17:3). The last ways even of David were tainted with the power of indwelling sin.

That the Magistrate has also power so to govern and conduct the Consciences of his Subjects in his way of Administration, that is by ordering them to be taught, instructed, and guided in their duty, I know none that does deny. So did Jehosophat (2 Chronicles 17:7, 8, 9). But it…

Moses likewise took punishment with the sword, upon those, who did worship the golden calf; (Exodus 32:26, 27, 28). We have (2) the examples of Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:4), of Josiah (2 Kings 23), of Asa, who decreed that whoever would not seek the Lord God of Israel (according to t…

Satan, by this temptation, oft draws the godly to sin; they presume upon their privileges, or graces, and so venture on occasions of sin. Jehoshaphat twisted into a league of amity with King Ahab, presuming his grace would be an antidote strong enough against the infection (2 Ch…

And 2 Thessalonians 2 (where the working of those very same spirits is set forth, verse 9) it is not only said that they were sent as from God to delude, but with 'strong delusions' — such as should have a strength put into them to prevail, so that men should believe them. So al…

For verse 24, he takes special notice that his family should be disinherited, and David be his successor in the throne. How suddenly did God turn the edge of the sword, and the heart of an enemy from Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 18:31). Jehoshaphat cried out, and the Lord helped hi…

And this it seems is all that is here promised; and this is all the concernment of the Church in this Promise; Hezekiah shall not serve the King of Assyria. Neither is it true, that Ahaz served the King of Assyria under tribute; and it may seem rather that Hezekiah did so for a…

Forbear, why should you be smitten?" So (2 Chronicles 18:23) he smote him on the cheek, and said, "When went the spirit of the Lord from me, to speak to you?" So the Pharisees hated Christ, because of his free reproofs (John 9:40): "Are we blind also?"

If any bring false doctrine, and a man bid him Godspeed, this man is partaker of his evil deeds (2 John 10-11). When men say, as Jehoshaphat did to Ahab, I am as you are, and my people as your people, and we will be with you in the war (2 Chronicles 18:3), when we thus give cons…

For those that honor me shall be honored, and those that despise me shall be despised. Thus the Lord dealt with [reconstructed: Jehoshaphat] when he inconsiderately joined sides with Ahab (2 Chronicles 18:2). [reconstructed: Should] you love those that hate the Lord? therefore i…

Kings have their robes; the robe is a garment with which kings are arrayed. The king of Israel and the king of Judah sat clothed in their robes (2 Chronicles 18:19); the robe was of scarlet, or velvet lined with ermine, sometimes of a purple color, sometimes of an azure brightne…

I have written to you not to keep company. Do not incorporate into the society of the wicked, or be too much familiar with them: the wicked are [illegible], God-haters; and (2 Chronicles 19:2) should you join with those who hate the Lord? A Christian is bound by virtue of his oa…

14. If we would not be overcome of Satan, let us put on Christian fortitude. An enemy we must expect, who is either shooting of darts, or laying of snares, therefore let us be armed with courage (2 Chronicles 19:11). Deal courageously, and the Lord shall be with the good.

The second is the league of amity, which is when men, people, or countries bind themselves to defend each other in all causes and to make the wars of the one the wars of the other — and this league may not be made with those that be enemies of God. Jehoshaphat, otherwise a good…

Also (says Nehemiah) they reported his good deeds before me, and uttered my words to him. But you have also the error of a godly man set before you as a rock to be avoided (2 Chronicles 19:2). Should you help the ungodly, and love them that hate the Lord?

Asa was a reforming King, but there is one black mark upon him, for he persecuted the Prophet Hanani, for reproving him; and he oppressed some of the people at the same time, whereby his sun did set under such a cloud that some have questioned whether he was a godly man (2 Chron…

Jehoshaphat had made a league with Ahab (2 Chronicles 18:1-3), and God had ordered Micaiah to acquaint him with the ill success of the affair they went about, verses 16-19, which Jehoshaphat found true, for his own life was in danger, he was hardly beset by the enemy upon a mist…

We grant with Beza that sometimes civil causes were debated and determined in the Ecclesiastical Sanhedrin, but this was done [in non-Latin alphabet], non [in non-Latin alphabet], as he says, the fact which was merely civil was judged in the civil Sanhedrin, but when the civil j…

But as it was a Church, and not as Jewish, it had foure sorts of ordinary office-bearers, Priests, Levites, Doctors, and Elders, and we conformablie have Pastors, Deacons, Doctors, and Elders. To their Priests and Levits, Cyprian does rightly liken our Pastors and Deacons, for h…

They had besides, a supreme ecclesiastical court, whereunto the whole nation, and all the synagogical consistories were subject. This court having decayed, was restored by Ichoshaphat (2 Chronicles 19:8), and it had the name of Sanedrim, common to it with the supreme civil court…

How ordinary is it upon this ground for those that have profest themselves to be godly rather to withdraw themselves from the afflicted Saints, and seek correspondence with wicked men that prosper. God would have his people see an all sufficiency in himself in their sadest condi…

Secondly, in this commandment other sorts of particulars are forbidden, as all means, occasions, or appurtenances of idolatry, whereby some show, or remembrance or reverence is kept (Psalm 16:4). As all marriages, conjunctions or near familiarity with idolaters (2 Corinthians 6:…

God's teaching is by effectual impression or inclining the heart. It is a sharp question that of the prophet (2 Chronicles 19:2). Should you hate the godly, and love those that hate the Lord?

This made David so well to rule the people of God (2 Samuel 23:3): and Joseph to deal so well with his brethren (Genesis 42:18): indeed, this is noted to be the cause of the righteous rule of Christ himself (Isaiah 11:2-3). Well did that good King Jehoshaphat know this, and ther…

3. That proceeding according to this rule, their declarations in court were the judgments of God's mouth. (2 Chronicles 19:6) He said to the judges, Take heed what you do: for you judge not for man, but for the Lord, who is with you in the judgment. If this sense did prevail, we…

3. Our love to God should put us upon loving his people, and making them our intimates; for religion influences all things, our relations, common employments, friendships and converses. It is a smart question that of the Prophet, (2 Chronicles 19:2) Should you help the ungodly,…

(And if they miss the end of the law at which it aims, and to which it tends, they must needs fall short of the wisdom and counsel, and spiritual efficacy of the law, which should direct them.) So in (2 Chronicles 19:3). Now for a long time, Israel had been without the true God;…

Ephesians 5:11: Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. Jehoshaphat, though a good man, was blamed for this (2 Chronicles 19:2): Should you help the ungodly and love those who hate the Lord? The fault was not that he maintained civil peace with Ahab, but that h…

Secondly, the sense and meaning of this place from verse 3 to the 13 is that inferior Courts and Assemblies in cases too hard and difficult for them, are commanded to go higher to some superior Court and Assembly, as those words clearly show, you shall arise, and get you up into…

2nd Commandment: You shall make to yourself no graven image, etc. He breaks this commandment: who represents God in an image (Exodus 32:6-8); who worships God in or at images, as crucifixes and such like (2 Kings 18:4); who kneels down before an image; who is bodily present at M…

(Deuteronomy 1:20) The Lord was very angry with Aaron. (2 Chronicles 19:2) The prophet Jehu said to Jehoshaphat that good king, There is wrath upon you from the Lord. (Isaiah 60:10) For in my wrath I struck you, but in my favor, I have had mercy on you.

Such is the judgment of the Magistrate, when he acquits or condemns men, as their deserts are, to temporal punishment. Of which we may read (2 Chronicles 19:6; Psalm 58:1). Such also is the judgment of the Prophet, or Minister, whereby he does openly pronounce to men, that belie…

Called a Synod, and stigmatized Heretics (Acts 15). (5) Because, God has put a difference, between the Church Government and the Civil, and has appointed distinct Governors to them (2 Chronicles 19:8-11). (6) Because, God did severely punish Saul, and Uzziah for presuming to off…

(4) Because, there is a particular example of a Synod, which had the power of Jurisdiction, and which consisted, and was made up of members, out of diverse Classical Conventions: For when the question about circumcision, and the keeping of Moses' Law, which troubled the churches…

1. If it were not so, then it is free and arbitrary to the magistrate to appoint what punishments himself pleases. But this is not arbitrary to him, for he is the minister of God (Romans 13:4), and the judgement is the Lord's (Deuteronomy 1:7; 2 Chronicles 19:6). And if the magi…

He can do it with weak means, without means. He can make the enemies destroy themselves; he set the Persians against the Greeks; and (2 Chronicles 20:23) the children of Ammon helped to destroy one another. Thus Christ is King in vanquishing the enemies of his church.

By contrary means, He made the Sea a wall to Israel, and the waters were a means to keep them from drowning: The fish's belly was a ship in which Jonah sailed safe to shore. God will never want ways of saving his people: Rather than fail the very enemies shall do his work (2 Chr…

The more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied: The Church is like that plant Gregory Nazianzen speaks of, [illegible], it lives by dying, and grows by cutting. 3. Strangely in that he makes the enemy do his work: When the people of Amon, and Moab, and Mount Seir came ag…

2. In their own consciences. The truth of the first is manifest, in that not only in this chapter, but often also in the Old Testament, God has made such honorable mention, and given such honorable titles unto many of these Elders: calling Abraham the friend of God, 2 Chronicles…

This, Paul confesses of himself and others: We (says he) received the sentence of death in ourselves, because we should not trust in ourselves, but in God: 2 Corinthians 1:9. So good King Jehoshaphat, when he was compassed of his enemies, He cried to the Lord, and said; Lord we…

Let us therefore in such cases, learn to practice our faith; and then especially to cast ourselves upon GOD. This, Jehoshaphat did most notably: for, being assaulted with the huge armies of the Moabites, Ammonites, etc. he prayed unto the Lord most fervently, saying; 2 Chronicle…

God does not reckon that to be done in his service which he has not appointed, much less which he has forbidden. What other inroads were made on the sacerdotal office, we know not; but one of the tribe here intended by the Apostle, whereof none was to attend the altar, did draw…

(1 Samuel 27:12) And Achish believed in David. (2 Chronicles 20:20) Believe in the prophets and prosper. Answer. The Hebrew phrase in which the servile letter Beth is used, must not be translated with a preposition that rules an accusative or ablative case, but with a dative cas…

And Ecclesiastes 8:12: 'Though a sinner does evil a hundred times and his days are prolonged, yet it shall be well with those that fear the Lord.' Could you but believe the promises, your hearts should be established (2 Chronicles 20:29). Could you but plead them with God, as Ja…

Ezekiel 43:11. And if they be ashamed of all that they have done, shew them the forme of the House, and the fashion thereof, and the goings out thereof, and the commings in thereof, and all the formes thereof, and all the Ordinances thereof, and all the formes thereof, and all t…

And so the proof of this fourth particular, will add further strength and confirmation to that we presented in the former. Now that his being our God (which is the substance of the Covenant of Grace) does engage him to provide glory for separate souls, that one instance of Abrah…

As it is profaneness to call that common which God has sanctified and made holy; so it is tyrannical superstition and presumption to make that holy which God has made common. Occasional days of humiliation and thanksgiving, when God by his Providence calls thereunto, there is Sc…

Asa was a reforming King, but there is one black mark upon him, for he persecuted the Prophet Hanani, for reproving him; and he oppressed some of the people at the same time, whereby his sun did set under such a cloud that some have questioned whether he was a godly man (2 Chron…

Jehoshaphat had made a league with Ahab (2 Chronicles 18:1-3), and God had ordered Micaiah to acquaint him with the ill success of the affair they went about, verses 16-19, which Jehoshaphat found true, for his own life was in danger, he was hardly beset by the enemy upon a mist…

We speak of voluntary relation, for there are natural relations, as between parents and children: and these need no Covenant, there is no Covenant to make a man a parent, or a child. There are also violent relations, as between conqueror and captives, and in these there is no Co…

Ezra bases his prayer on this (Ezra 9:6): O my God, I am ashamed and blush. And Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20:12): O our God, will you not judge them? In prayer consider what claim and interest you have to God, if you be a son, and he a Father: Bastards cannot pray; strangers wit…

A covenant of salt is to be fed with the same salt, as it were, to eat many a bushel of salt together — that is a covenant of friendship. "Did you not give the land to the seed of Abraham your friend for ever?" (2 Chronicles 20:7). There he fittingly expresses the nature of a co…

But when the creature, being conscious of his own insufficiency to help itself by any means it itself can use, has respect to the holy God that makes Israel holy, and is acknowledged of Israel to be holy — this is indeed to have God for our Savior, and so he is to all such as ar…

The eighth, and last point is, the practice of them that are justified, and that is to believe, or put their trust in Christ. Trust in the Lord (says the Prophet) and you shall be assured (2 Chronicles 20:20). And Solomon says, Roll your care on the Lord (Proverbs 16:3).

And thus in desperate cases, we must use the best means and leave the success to God. Thus the Israelites when there was no other help, went into the sea, as into their deathbed, or grave, by faith staying themselves on the promise of God (Hebrews 11:29) (2 Chronicles 20:12). Th…

According to his direction, they only stood still, and sang praises to God, and God made their enemies do the work themselves, and set them to killing one another; and the children of Judah had nothing to do, but to gather the spoil, which was more than they could carry away. We…

Ask hourly what your own heart does, how the husbandry at home thrives. The Spirit of the Lord was in Jehoshaphat without doubt; but (2 Chronicles 20:3) when he heard of the host coming against him, he feared, and set himself to seek the Lord. The Spirit of the Lord came upon Ja…

3. The heart may be turned as streams of a river drawn through this part of the land, or this part (Prov. 21:1), and from nilling to willing, as the Lord thinks fit, according to God's will of precept; this is often the falling of the Church of Ephesus sinfully from their first…

(1.) We ought to come to him as renouncing our strength, and waiting for his grace as able to help us. That address Jehoshaphat made in a temporal case, is good also in a spiritual one (2 Chronicles 20:12): Lord, we have no might, our eyes are to you. There is a renouncing of th…

(Psalm 115:3) Our God is in the heavens, and does whatever he pleases. So, (2 Chronicles 20:6) Are you not God in Heaven? And do you not rule over all the kingdoms of the heathen?

Proverbs 16:3: Commit your works to the Lord and your thoughts shall be established. 2 Chronicles 20:20: Believe in the Lord your God, so shall you be established. 5. It keeps us from warping and turning aside to crooked paths: as long as we are persuaded that God will maintain…

We understand it usually of preparing the heart for prayer; to ask the mercy, but it is also meant of preparing the heart to receive the mercy. 2 Chronicles 20:35: The high places were not taken away, because the people had not yet prepared their heart to the God of their father…

2. David's exhortation to sing a new song, pertained to them in the Old Testament, as well as to us in the New. And yet they upon new occasions sang the old songs of David, and that with acceptance (2 Chronicles 5:13; 2 Chronicles 20:21; Ezra 3:11). 3. Asaph, Heman, and Ethan, w…

Here's a blind mind, and a dead [reconstructed: heart], a lame heart; Lord work upon it, and draw [reconstructed: me] to yourself and that effectually. It was [reconstructed: a notable] speech (2 Chronicles 20:12), when [reconstructed: Jehoshaphat] had mustered up all the forces…

And these things the Scripture pleads and argues, when Faith is required of us in the way of Obedience. Thus says the Lord, is that which is proposed to us as the Reason why we should believe what is spoken, to which often times other divine Names and Titles are added, signifyin…

Such as those which express all the power which men have to be derived from God (John 19:11): You could have no power at all, except it were given you from above. And those which advance the power of God above the power of men (Luke 18:27): The things which are impossible with m…

4. Has not God often come in with assisting grace? When he has bid you mortify such a lust, and you have said as Jehoshaphat, 2 Chronicles 20.12. I have no might against this great army. Then God has come in with auxiliary forces, his grace has been sufficient.

The life a godly man lives in his prosperity, is a life of faith. For so the apostle says, and he speaks it universally, he speaks of all the life he lives, it is all a life of faith in this world; Since therefore a great part of a man's life is taken up with prosperous successe…

4 For God's power: many of the promises which God makes to his children, are of things which seem impossible: yet faith gives assent thereto, and thereby testifies that God is Almighty, that nothing is impossible to him. [reconstructed: Thus Abram] by his faith did magnify God's…

So while Israel fought against the Philistines, Samuel prayed (1 Samuel 7:9-10): and while Joab fought against Aram, David prayed (Psalm 60:1). The like I might instance in Asa (2 Chronicles 14:11), Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20:6), Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 32:20), and other Saints…

For here, we must begin with faith, and in the first place, simply believe God's promises; and afterward we come, by the goodness of God, to feel and have experience of his mercy. This point was notably practised by Jehoshaphat, who being in a great extremity, and seeing no way…

God is pleased sometimes in dealing forth spiritual blessings to his people, in some respect to exceed the capacity of the vessel, in its present scantiness, so that he doesn't only fill it full, but he makes their cup to run over; agreeable to (Psalm 23:5). And pours out a bles…

And the prophet makes this an argument of God's great power above all other gods, that he subdues iniquities, and blots out transgressions (Micah 7:18-19; Isaiah 43:25). Though we know not how this can be done, that such dead bones, souls that are even rotten in their sins, shou…

(9.) Because, the Scriptures set forth the duties of every man in his place, and circumstances of his life (Deuteronomy 17:18-20; Joshua 1:8; Psalm 119:24; 2 Chronicles 23:11). (10.) Because, they are the ground of faith (Romans 4:20; 2 Chronicles 20:20). (11.) Because, they are…

The worst civil wars are between a man and his conscience. 2. God will set the diseases of men's bodies against them (2 Chronicles 21:18). The Lord struck Jehoram in his bowels with an incurable disease.

Again, the name (Jew) opposed to Gentiles, signifies not only men of the tribe of Judah, but all circumcised persons of all tribes (Romans 2:28), and thus it is all one with an Israelite. And thus we see how to expound the place of Scripture (2 Chronicles 21:2), where Jehoshapha…

Neither yet will this alone suffice to render any Revelation or writing absolutely Canonical in the sense explained. There may be an especial Revelation from God, or a writing by his inspiration, like that sent by Elijah to Jehoram the King of Judah (2 Chronicles 21:12), which b…

God's remembering his covenant that he had established with David, is given as the reason why God did thus, notwithstanding their wicked lives; as 1 Kings 15:4 speaking there of Abijam's wickedness, it is said, "Nevertheless, for David's sake did the Lord his God give him a lamp…

It is the character of a natural man to be unmerciful (Romans 1:31). A wicked man, like Jehoram, has his compassion fallen out (2 Chronicles 21:19). Therefore he is compared to an adamant (Zechariah 7:11), because his heart melts not in mercy.

Had he purposed to have written, and printed off his thoughts to the world touching this article of baptism I question not but he would have been more polite and curious; and the expectations of those who knew him thoroughly satisfied therein. I would not detain the reader by an…

Secondly, a man is said to live to himself, that lives according to his own will, and principles, and for his own ends, as in usual phrase of speech we say, such a man lives to himself, as regards no man's profit, or pleasure, or credit, but his own, he cares for no body, furthe…

For Dauid was to fight with Goliah before he plaied before Saul, and though he was then not knowne, yet Saul after that time tooke better knowledge of him. The thirteenth Allegation is out of 2 Chronicles 21:2. where the Papist plaies the right Atheist, in going about to improou…

The alliance and kindred that was between the Blessed Virgin and Elizabeth was doubtless by an antecedent intermarriage of those tribes, as Elizabeth's mother might be sister to the father or grand-father of the Holy Virgin. And this was not only lawful between the tribes of Jud…

2. They are priests. The priesthood under the law was honorable, the king's daughter was wife to Jehoiada the priest (2 Chronicles 22:11). In ancient times, the Egyptians chose their kings out of their priests; the saints are consecrated to be priests to offer up to God the euch…

Thus, the wife of Jehoiada, the high priest, is declared by the sacred historian to have belonged to the royal family, — “Jehoshabeath, the daughter of Jehoram, the wife of Jehoiada the priest,” (2 Chronicles 22:11.) It was, therefore, nothing wonderful or uncommon, if the mothe…

Now poor servants being under awe, and standing in fear, they are inclined to obey: Oh, take heed what you command your servants; for whatever sin they commit by your command, will be charged on you, as on them, if not more. 2. We may be the occasion of other men's sins by couns…

Drive a swine out of one dirty way, and he will presently into another, because it was not his disposition but his fear which turned him aside. Where there are many of a royal race, though hundreds be destroyed, yet if any one that can prove his descent do remain alive, the titl…

One would think such a matter as would suffice for the debarring of one from full communion, who had formerly enjoyed it, might suffice for hindring one from such communion who never yet was partaker thereof. And if the priests and porters in Israel had charge, that men should n…

You shall not do so to the Lord your God; where observe that he speaks of the manner of worship, presupposing the true object, for every abomination to the Lord which he hates have they done to their gods (Deuteronomy 12:30, 31). Abijah therefore justly reproves the ten tribes f…

Thus though God promised Abraham to be a God to him, and to his seed in their generations (Genesis 17:7), yet the Ishmaelites and Edomites descending from Abraham, were dis-covenanted by not promising nor performing those duties of faith and obedience, which God required on the…

LXX., "molten images." And similarly, 2 Chronicles 23:17. Our translators everywhere, "images."

V. In that temple they dedicated altars for offering sacrifices to him: 1 Kings 16:32, "He set up an altar for Baal in that house of Baal." That there were multiple altars in the same temple is shown by 2 Chronicles 23:17; and that there were images along with the altars, by 2 K…

And this is the meaning of Jehoiada's words, "Behold, the king's son shall reign, as the Lord hath said of the sons of David," (2 Chronicles 23:3.) He considered it to be shameful and intolerable, that a woman, who was a stranger by blood, should violently seize the scepter, whi…

Of so much more glory was Christ accounted worthy, than Moses, Joshua, David, and Solomon, and all the great prophets, priests, and princes, judges, and saviors of the Old Testament put together. The ordinances of David are mentioned as of parallel validity with those of Moses,…

And if singing be prophesying in any sense, and any way tending to the comfort or edification of the Church, why should we suffer profane persons to sing with us? That the godly Jews did reject the Samaritans from building with them, it was not out of moral consideration, as if…

So that Kings as Kings serve God in doing that for his service which none but Kings can do. This is also proved from 2 Kings 11:12 compared with 2 Chronicles 23:11, where to King Jehoash in his solemn inauguration as soon as the Crown is put upon him, the Book of the Testimony w…

(8.) Because, the Scriptures teach the way of life (Proverbs 2:9; Luke 16:29; Acts 24:14). (9.) Because, the Scriptures set forth the duties of every man in his place, and circumstances of his life (Deuteronomy 17:18-20; Joshua 1:8; Psalm 119:24; 2 Chronicles 23:11). (10.) Becau…

(1) Because, ignorant and wicked men eating and drinking unworthily, are guilty of the body and blood of Christ, and so bring judgment upon themselves (1 Corinthians 11:29). (2) Because, all were not admitted to eat of the Passover, neither was it for all promiscuously to partak…

His titles according to the double use of them, simply, or in an oath, has double caution set down in the word. In the simple use, we must be prepared either by premeditation, or else by some occasion going before, which does stir up the several affections of the heart in the us…

For though the title of the book informs us that he was the son of Barachiah, (Zechariah 1:1,) yet we nowhere read that he was slain; and it is a forced exposition to say, that he was slain during the period that intervened between the building of the altar and of the temple. Bu…

Does the Lord cast influences upon sleeping men's bosoms? So are we to act as our acting way be fathered on the spirit; as the Spirit of the Lord came upon Gideon, upon Sampson, and they fight, and the Spirit of the Lord upon Zechariah the son of Jehojadah, and he prophesied (2…

And this was Saul's folly, who against God's express prohibition suffered his people to take some of the spoil of the Amalekites (1 Samuel 15:21). The like may be said of Joash, who listened to his Princes to set up idols (2 Chronicles 24:7): and of Pilate, who to please the peo…

It brings an incapability in regard of myself to receive good, and an impossibility in regard of God himself to work my spiritual good, while my sin continues, and I continue impenitent in it. An incapability of a spiritual blessing: why transgress you the commandment of the Lor…

When a Christian shall be very instrumental for the good of others, he is abundantly fruitful. It was said of Jehoiada, that he had done good in Israel both towards God, and towards his house (2 Chronicles 24:16). So they that have done much good in their generation, have brough…

I will avenge the blood of Jezreel upon the house of Jehu. O let us look to our ends in obedience; it is possible the action may be right and not the heart (2 Chronicles 25:2). Amaziah did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, but not with a perfect heart.

Here is the misery of such as oppose God's royal scepter, he will set every thing in the world against them: If there be either justice in Heaven or fire in hell, sinners shall not be unpunished. Finally. If God be such an absolute monarch, and crowned with such glory and majest…

Jehu did the will of God in destroying the Baal worshippers, and God commended him for doing of it: but because he aimed more at settling himself in the kingdom, than the glory of God, therefore God looked upon it no better than murder, and said he would avenge the blood of Jezr…

Thus may he deal with you as to your natural children and relations. So what the man of God said to Amaziah in 2 Chronicles 25:9 may be applied here: Amaziah said, But what shall we do for the hundred talents? And the man of God answered, The Lord is able to give you much more t…

When we receive it as from God with full assurance, it begets life in us. To live is to have sense and motion, to be acting: the receiving of the word with full assurance, makes us active; the believing of it sets men on work (2 Chronicles 25:5, 6, 10). When as Amaziah believed…

Therefore the text says, "The Jews stirred up the devout and honorable women, and they raised up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their region." It was said to Amaziah (2 Chronicles 25:16): "By this I know that the Lord has purposed to destroy you,…

If I use this holy violence, and turn religious, then I shall lose such yearly profits which my sin has brought in. As Amaziah said, "What shall I do for the hundred talents?" (2 Chronicles 25:9). Is there any profit in sin?

This is a death spot, a hell spot, where ever it appears. From this very symptom the Prophet plainly predicted the approaching ruin of Amaziah (2 Chronicles 25:16). I know that God has determined to destroy you, because you have done this, and have not listened to my voice.

A needful truth spoken in a heat may do more hurt than good, and offend rather than satisfy. The Prophet himself forbore even a message from God, when he saw Amaziah in a passion (2 Chronicles 25:16). Sometimes it may be advisable to get some one else to say that for us, which i…

Section 24. Thus God who himself began the writing of the Word with his own finger, Exodus 31:11; after he had spoken it Exodus 20; appointing or approving the writing of the rest that followed, Deuteronomy 31:12; Joshua 23:6; 1 Kings 2:3; 2 Kings 14:6; 2 Kings 17:13; 1 Chronicl…

5. A sound belief of God's providence; this has a great influence upon a free parting with our estates for our conscience sake (Hebrews 11:8): "By faith Abraham left his country, kindred, possessions, and blindly trusted himself with God's providence." This principle was made us…

(Hebrews 11:7) But surely it argues a proud spirit, when men cannot endure friendly counsel, and will not have their private sores touched, but they grow fierce and outrageous, especially when they excel others in rank and power. As when the prophet reproved Amaziah (2 Chronicle…

Oh then, who would not be in love with obedience! while we please God, we pleasure ourselves. We are ready to say as Amaziah (2 Chronicles 25:9): but what shall we do for the hundred talents? You see, brethren, you are no losers by obedience; who did ever kindle a fire on God's…

In religion the heart is all; we judge of men's hearts by their actions, but God judges of men's actions by their hearts. Amaziah did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, but not with a perfect heart (2 Chronicles 25:2); but of Asa it is said, his heart was perfect all…

(1 Samuel 16:6-7) And he looked on Eliab, and said, Surely the Lord's anointed is before him: But the Lord said to Samuel, Look not on his countenance, nor on the height of his stature, because I have refused him; for the Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks on the outward a…

Better lose your liberty and keep your peace, than lose your peace and keep your liberty: Is it loss of Estate? Do you say as Amaziah, 2 Chronicles 25:9. What shall we do for the hundred Talents? I would answer with the Prophet, The Lord can give you much more than this: He has…

For if he attains those ends for which he sought the Lord, his seeking is at an end. See this in Amaziah (2 Chronicles 25). He went far in obedience, but he did not seek the Lord in it.

Rehoboam did evil in the sight of the Lord, because he prepared not his heart to seek God (2 Chronicles 12:14); the endeavor of his heart was not that way. Amaziah did that which was good in the sight of the Lord, but not with a perfect heart, and therefore the Lord determined t…

Not our obedience, but Christ's merits, procure acceptance; we must in every part of worship tender up Christ to God in the arms of our faith. Unless we serve God thus, in hope and confidence of Christ's merits, we do rather provoke God than please him: as when King Uzziah would…

We must carry the lamb Christ in the arms of our faith, and so we prevail in prayer. When Uzziah would offer incense without a priest, God was angry and struck him with leprosy (2 Chronicles 26:16). When we do not pray in Christ's name, in the hope of his mediation, we offer up…

(5) Exodus 20:5; Deuteronomy 4:23, 24; Joshua 24:19; Ezekiel 16. (6) Leviticus 10:1, 2; Numbers 16:3, 8, 9, 32, 35; 1 Samuel 2:28, 29; 2 Samuel 6:6, 7; 2 Chronicles 26:16, 19; 1 Corinthians 11:30. Explication.

And that which is recorded of him on other accounts, is so far from having respect to his right to the priesthood of the Law, that it directly proves and demonstrates that he had none. For his genealogy is evidently of the Tribe of Judah, which was excluded legally from that off…

And some offerings, as those at the Feast of Expiation, were appropriated to the High Priests only. So is the case stated by Azariah the High Priest (2 Chronicles 26:18), Not to you Uzziah to burn incense to the Lord, but to the Priests the Sons of Aaron who are consecrated, fro…

For comparison is made with the sacrifices of the Law. But the offering of these sacrifices was expressly forbidden to the kings; as is manifest in the instance of King Uzziah (2 Chronicles 26:18–20). Besides, there is in that place of Deuteronomy, no more respect had to David t…

(Genesis 22:14) In the mount of the Lord it shall be seen. From this word had the Prophets the name of Seers (1 Samuel 9:9), and from the same word came the name of visions (2 Chronicles 26:5), Zechariah who had understanding in the visions of God. Now but what of all this, migh…

Jehosaphat did reform religion, but he entered into a sinful league with that great idolater Ahab, and though the Prophet Jehu reproved him for it (2 Chronicles 19:2), and though we do not find that he was so exceeding vile as to persecute the Prophet for it, yet he fell into th…

So, that which we think little in God's worship is a great matter. So Uzziah in 2 Chronicles 26, no question he thought it no great matter to go into the temple and offer sacrifice, Is it not as good that a king offer it as a priest? It was in the temple, and the true worship, a…

The apprehension of God's hand smiting is that which should humble the hearts of sinners very much. It's a notable scripture which you have in (2 Chronicles 26:20) of Uzziah, that when he saw that he was smitten, though he were stout and proud before, yet when he was smitten he…

For He had strictly forbidden that anyone who was not of the natural seed of Aaron should ever dare to undertake that office (Numbers 16:40). Moreover, He gave authority to that law by setting forth dreadful examples against those who had dared to intrude upon the priestly admin…

Albeit the case may so fall out, that those of another Church, professing the same religion with us, may be reproved, and censured: indeed one Church may admonish another; for they being members one of another, are to procure the good one of another, as Paul teaches by the simil…

If you love your lives, if you love your souls, be tender in this point. Here if you meddle with that which belong not to you, were you Kings, all your glory would be laid in the dust (2 Chronicles 26:18). Woe to them who cut short the saints of God in the least jot, of what he…

It appears from the Dialogue of Justin Martyr with Trypho, that some of them of old applied this Psalm to Hezekiah. But not one word in it can rationally be conceived to respect him, especially that which is spoken about the Priesthood utterly excludes him; seeing his great Gran…

Was not this to usurp upon the priests' office? Was it not this for which King Uzziah was reprehended and told by the priests, "It does not belong to you, to burn incense to the Lord, but to the priests, the sons of Aaron;" and was he not smitten with leprosy for doing of it (2…

God has appointed a sovereign prince to be Custos utriusque Tabulae, a guardian of both tables of his law; and has put the sword into his hands, not only to be an avenger in cases of injury done by man to man, but to be an avenger in case of the violation of those laws which imm…

In this state of things, God takes notice of the joy, and triumphing of the whole land of Palestina, that is, the country of the Philistines. In that the rod of him that smote them was broken: that is the power of the Kings and kingdom of Judah, which for many generations had pr…

"Now the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, first and last, behold they are written in the book of Jehu the son of Hanani, who is mentioned in the book of the kings of Israel," as we find him to be 1 Kings 16:1, 7. And then it was further continued by the prophet Isaiah: 2 Chronic…

It is best with us many times when we are weakest (2 Corinthians 12:10): When I am weak, then am I strong. Worst when strongest (2 Chronicles 26:16): When he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his own destruction. Lot chose Sodom, a fair and pleasant situation, but you know…

Saul had sworn that Jonathan should be put to death, and as far as appears went on resolutely to have slain him; God stirs up the spirit of the people, they oppose themselves to the wrath and fury of Saul, and Jonathan is delivered. So also (2 Chronicles 26:7, 8, 19) when King V…

This is a thing that you all know, that those prayers that are not offered up in Christ are not acceptable, because the person is not regarded. It was the sin of Uzziah in 2 Chronicles 26 — he would go to the temple himself, being a king on the throne, and he would offer incense…

When you speak of two Lords, one of them is always Christ. It was a proud distemper in Uzziah, that he himself went into the Temple of the Lord, to burn incense upon the altar of incense (2 Chronicles 26:16). Why?

May the Civil Magistrate, assume to himself, the administration of the Word, and Sacraments, or the power of the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven? No (2 Chronicles 26:18; Matthew 18:17; Matthew 16:19; 1 Corinthians 12:28-29; Romans 10:5; Hebrews 5:4). Well then, do not the Erastian…

There is some good in the godly, therefore the wicked afflict them; there is some evil in them, therefore God afflicts them. God's own children have their [illegible], their blemishes (2 Chronicles 28:10). Are there not with you, even with you, sins against the Lord?

Quest. What is antecedent to, or goes before this choice? Resp. 1. Before this choosing God for our God, there must be knowledge: We must know God before we can choose him; before one choose the person he will marry, he must first have some knowledge and cognizance of the person…

When God's name which should be hallowed is profaned among a people, it is just with God to write that dismal epitaph upon a nation's tomb, The glory is departed. And that I may speak to the consciences of all, and deal impartially, it were well if only the profane party were gu…

This is to sin against conviction. 2 Chronicles 28:22: In his distress did he trespass yet more: this is that King Ahaz. This does enhance and make the sin greater than other sins: for sinning against an enlightened conscience,

And upon the like account Ahaz made sundry changes to the prejudice of God's worship, because of the king of Assyria, that is for fear of him, and that he might please him. And he sacrificed to the gods of Damascus, which smote him, saying in his foolish, carnal wisdom, because…

That is, Judah shall take pains and go through many difficulties in the ways of my worship, and shall suffer much while Ephraim lives delicately for a long time, yet Judah suffered more difficulty, Judah suffered much more difficulty and hardship than the ten tribes did. And I t…

Or that time in 1 Kings 14:13: And Jehoash King of Israel, took Amaziah King of Judah, and came to Jerusalem, and brake down the wall of Jerusalem; and took all the Gold and Silver, and all the vessels that were found in the house of the Lord, and in the treasures of the Kings h…

The place appointed for the worship of Molech, as we are about to say, was "the valley of the son of Hinnom." In that valley king Ahaz "burned his sons with fire" (2 Chronicles 28:3). That others did the same is attested by Jeremiah, ch. 7:31, 32, who accordingly calls that vall…

They held fast deceit, though they were afflicted, that aggravated their sinfulness. Now (I say) as it makes sin out of measure sinful, to hold it fast when God afflicts; so it makes grace out of measure gracious, puts a wonderful splendor and glory upon it, if we hold fast our…

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith, henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness which the Lord shall give to me, he saw it before him, and was able to tell others of it. So David (2 Chronicles 28:9). And you Solomon my so…

As appears by that wicked king Jehoram (2 Kings 6:33): 'This evil is of the Lord — and what should I wait on the Lord any longer?' And by that of Ahaz (2 Chronicles 28:22, etc.): 'Then in time of distress, Ahaz yet trespassed more against the Lord' — this was King Ahaz, this was…

3. Sin brings a man low in affliction; that is the meaning of the Text, They were brought low for their iniquity. Adam's sin brought him low; it banished him out of Paradise, 2 Chronicles 28:18. In those days, God cut Israel short.

No, their eyes were upon Egypt for succor, not upon heaven: 'Well, Pharaoh and his aids are left still, all hope is not gone' (Jeremiah 37:9). See the like in Ahaz in a sore plunge and distress; he courts the king of Assyria for help (2 Chronicles 28:29); that project failing, w…

There (says he) Iehosaphat is called king of Israel, when as indeede he was king of Iudah, and so is he called in the former booke of Chronicles. In like manner Ahaz is tearmed king of Israel (2 Chronicles 28:19), whereas the truth is, he was king of Iudah. Answ. After the death…

[Righteousness] The word signifies truth and equity: it is oftentimes in Scripture restrained to second table duties, and then it is distinguished from holiness, which refers to first table duties, but here, as in many other places, it is used more largely, to signify a reformat…

But when not only our sins serve to abuse us before God, and lay us in the dust before him, but those very duties wherein are most consciencious in obeying God, do by our looking upon them, help to make us see what worthless nothings we are: when we gather up out of every one of…

2. Judgement begins at them (Ezekiel 9:6): Slay utterly old and young, and begin at my sanctuary. 3. The refining work of Reformation begins or ought to begin at the purging and refining of the sons of Levi, so you have it in the next words after my Text, and (2 Chronicles 29:4,…

1. There was then a clear word of institution for them. The trumpets of silver and cornets of horn, were instituted by the hand of Moses (Numbers 10, in the ten first verses, and Leviticus 23:23, 24), and in David's time there were added cymbals of brass, and harps and psalterie…

As all marriages, conjunctions or near familiarity with idolaters (2 Corinthians 6:14; Deuteronomy 17:3-4; 2 Chronicles 19:1-2; Genesis 24:3, 28:1, 34:14). Likewise all relics of idolatry which we must pollute and mar, not doing any service or honor, no not giving them any estim…

The dissuasion is laid down in these words: Be not deceived. The like phrase of speech we have in sundry other places, as in that advertisement which Hezekiah gives the Levites (2 Chronicles 29:11). Now my sons be not deceived.

He shall kill the Bullock; that is, say some, he that brought the Offering, was to kill it. For say they, those that killed the Offering, are distinguished from them that took the blood of it, and sprinkled it on the Altar (2 Chronicles 29:22). So they killed the Bullocks, and t…

You see the man was all in his possessives, my bread, and my water, and my flesh, he never thought that God had any share or interest in his estate, that God gave it, therefore he would not give to a servant of God. You shall see on the other hand, how David's munificence and th…

Others are commended, that they did remove them. And among the most renowned acts of Hezekiah's piety, it is mentioned to his immortal honor, that he commanded the priests and Levites to sanctify themselves, and cleanse the Temple, and restore the true worship of God, after many…

It was used in the church of Israel by God's appointment: this is manifest by the title of many of the psalms, in which they are inscribed to the chief musician, that is to the man that was appointed to be the leader of divine songs in the temple, in the public worship of Israel…

Again if parents forbid their children the doing of any necessary duty commanded of God, the child ought to do it notwithstanding the parents' prohibition. We may well think that Ahaz who set himself so violently to deface the holy things of God, to profane his ordinances, and t…

Not only he that was a wandering partridge, and flitted up and down; but David that was settled in a throne, he that was so powerful and victorious a prince. But you will say, possibly David might speak this when he was chased like a flea upon the mountains, when he was hunted t…

The baker watches when the oven is hot, and then puts in the bread. At another time it went on roundly, for God had prepared the people (2 Chronicles 29:36). When we are in a posture, mercy will not be long a coming.

Oh then labor after, and pray for a thorough work of conversion, beg of God that he would make a saving change in your souls, that you may be altogether Christians, all other changes below this saving change, this heart-change, make us but almost Christians. 11. A man may be ver…

Common soldiers, if their numbers increase, though they be but weak and unskillful, yet give encouragement to the trained band, and the commanders themselves; indeed their very appearance in the field, though they strike not a stroke, helps much in the fight. So the prophet in t…

God made Eve out of Adam's rib, to be a helper (as the father speaks;) but the Devil made an arrow of this rib, and shot Adam to the heart: so does discontent take the rib of God's mercy and ungratefully shoot at him; estate, liberty shall be employed against God. Thus it is oft…

This heart-temple must be kept pure and holy; no filth must lie here; sweep the dust out of the temple. The vessels of the temple were cleansed (2 Chronicles 29:15); thus the memory, affections, conscience — these temple-vessels must be cleansed (2 Corinthians 7:1). Christ whipp…

How did David bless God that he gave the people hearts to offer so cheerfully to the building of the Temple? Who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort, 2 Chronicles 29:14? Their willingness was more than their offering; so shou…

9 For evils removed, Moses and the Israelites blessed God who overthrew their enemies (Exodus 15): and David praised God for preserving his people from their enemies (Psalm 124:6): and the Christians glorify God for the conversion of Saul, a mortal enemy of the Church (Galatians…

Does the Civil Magistrate have power to call Synods, to be present at them, and to provide, that whatever is transacted in them be according to the mind of God? Yes (2 Chronicles 19:8-11; 2 Chronicles 29-30; Matthew 2:4-5). Well then, do not the Papists err, who maintain, that t…

By what reasons are they confuted? (1) Because, under the Old Testament, Councils, and Synods were appointed and called by godly Kings (1 Kings 8:1; 2 Kings 23:1; 2 Chronicles 29:4). (2) Because, it is the duty of the civil magistrate being born within the church, to take care t…

When a child of God looks over his best duties, he sees so much sin cleaving to them, that he is even confounded: Lord, he says, there is more sulphur than incense in my prayers; but for your comfort, if God be your Father, he will crown those duties which you yourselves censure…

(1.) We must solemnly prepare ourselves before we come: We must not rush upon the ordinance rudely and irreverently, but come in due order. There was a great deal of preparation to the Passover; (2 Chronicles 30:18-19) and the Sacrament comes in the room of it. Quest. Wherein do…

We see nothing to the contrary but they may. Whereto may be added that in (2 Chronicles 30) where the people that prepared their hearts to seek God, are accepted of God in the Passeover, though they were not cleansed according to the purification of the Sanctuary: yet whatever i…

But in this also the Holy Ghost has set examples before the ministers of the Gospel. I read (2 Chronicles 30:15): The Priests and the Levites were ashamed, and sanctified themselves, and brought in the burnt-offerings into the House of the Lord. They thought it not enough to be…

It is not to be lippenning to the man's good hopes, to his good prayers, or to his good meaning, but to Christ's satisfaction, and God's promise; by faith, when rightly exercised, the sinner holls and hides himself in Christ, till (to speak so) a bit of the man cannot be seen; a…

For there are many treatises on this part of our present subject, extant in our own language, and in the hands of those who esteem themselves concerned in these things. With some they meet indeed with no other entertainment, than the posts did that were sent by Hezekiah through…

So is [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], used by our Apostle (Romans 1:27), excellently expressed by Solomon (Proverbs 1:31): Sinners shall eat of the fruit of their own ways, and be filled with their own devises. Such rewards we have recorded: Numbers 15:30; 1 Samuel 6:6; 1 Kings 13:…

See 2 Chronicles 35:10, 11. As also it is said expresly, that they slew the Paschal Lamb (2 Chronicles 30). And to this killing of the Bullock, or Kid, or Lamb, answered the wringing off of the head of the Bird, if the Burnt Offering were of Fowls, which is expresly said to be d…

And to this head belong all the arguments that divines make use of to prove the perfection of the Scripture, against the New Talmudists in Christianity. 5. God every where sends his people to the Written Law of Moses, for the rule of their obedience, no where to any Kabal (Deute…

So that the Holy Ghost therein intimates such an abstaining as was preparatory to solemn duties, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer, extraordinary duties call for extraordinary preparations. These outward preparations were so necessary, that when the people faile…

It is plainly implied in Psalm 50 that it was the Manner in Israel vocally to own God's Covenant, or to take it into their Mouths, before they sealed that Covenant in their Sacrifices See verse 16 taken with the preceding Part of the Psalm from verse 5. And that they did it befo…

So Jehoshaphat being instructed in the ways of God, sent princes and priests to teach it in all the cities and towns of Judah (2 Chronicles 17:8, 9, 10). As also did Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 30:6, 7, 8). Let this then be our first position.

I answer: 1. It is your duty to engage and consent to give up yourselves to God's service whatever comes of it (2 Chronicles 30:8): Yield yourselves to the Lord. In the Hebrew it is strike hands with him in his holy covenant (Romans 12:1): I beseech you present yourselves, etc.

Many think God watches occasions to destroy them, or at least to molest and trouble them; no, he passes by many weaknesses, or else what would become of the best of his children, pardons many sins, where the heart is sincere. 2 Chronicles 30:18-19. The good Lord pardon every one…

Many of Israel that came to the Passover in Hezekiah's time in their uncleanness, yet they found mercy with the Lord. But it was because the ordinance and duty was of God, the failing was only in the manner of preparation to it (2 Chronicles 30:18, 19, 20). But if Micah set up a…

Bind your selves to the service of God by a covenant never to be forgotten. It was the good counsel of Hezekiah, in 2 Chronicles 30:8, 'Yield yourselves to the Lord.' In the Hebrew original 'tis, 'Give the hand to the Lord.'

If your soul be beaten to [illegible] with this oppression of your distempers (for so this brokenness of heart was opened before) then as it is with the hardest flints, when they are broken to dust, they are easily [illegible], and give way to take the impression of the hand, or…

And they were all moved to this, because they knew their comfortable abode in those places came not by their own endeavor, but from the blessing of God. When the good king Hezekiah kept the Passover in Jerusalem, his principal care was, that the priests and all the people might…

2 Chronicles 30:18-20. For a multitude of the people, even many of Ephraim, and Manasseh, Issachar, and Zebulun, had not cleansed themselves; yet did they eat the Passover otherwise than it was written, but Hezekiah prayed for them, saying, the good Lord pardon every one. That p…

1 1 John 2. 27. The anointing teaches you all things; that is, all things essential to salvation. A godly man has the good knowledge of the Lord, 2 Chronicles 30. 22. he has sound wisdom, Proverbs 3. 21.

Deuteronomy 4:31. The Lord your God is a merciful God. 2 Chronicles 30:9. The Lord your God is gracious and merciful. Nehemiah 9:17. Ready to pardon, gracious and merciful.

The object or matter Circa quam of our good works, are First, the worship of God, and things subservient and conducive to it; as maintaining poor scholars in the nurseries of the ministry, and schools of the prophets; comforting and encouraging the able and faithful ministers of…

1 The preventing of some great mischief and evil (2 Corinthians 12:7). 2 The purging out of some festering, poisonous sin (2 Chronicles 30:12, Luke 5:17). 3 The upholding and keeping us safe and steadfast in the right way (Hebrews 12:10-11).

Thus we read, that many of the Jews, in the days of Hezekias, came to Jerusalem, and did eat the Passover, which had not cleansed themselves, according to that which was written in the Law. And yet, for those among them, that had prepared their whole hearts, to seek the Lord, th…

The first act of faith is that whereby a man having been formerly reduced to extremities and impossibilities within himself, looks upon God as omnipotent, and so able to save; as merciful, and in Christ reconcilable, and so likely to save if he is sought to. Hereupon grows a sec…

And the allowance of Tenths, stands not in force in this and other Commonwealths by the judicial law of God, but by positive laws of countries. For if it did, then ministers should not meddle with their Tenths, either for the gathering, or for the disposing of them, but they sho…

They are good for ourselves, that we may serve God more cheerfully. The Lord would have the Levites and priests have their portion, that they might be encouraged in the law of the Lord (2 Chronicles 31:4). Now these things are good to encourage us, and support us in our work.

In this as well as in other such cases, we should hear the voice of our own uncertainty and mortality; it is that in Ecclesiastes 9:10, Do with your might what your hand finds to do, for there is no work, nor wisdom in the grave where you are going. It is the work of the Lord, a…

These kind of ingeminations do not always signify every family, but sometimes sundry and many families, sometimes universality, and sometimes multitude, as Hebrew grammarians say; as to show you some instances, (Genesis 14:10) the valley was full of slime pits, in the original i…

Secondly, God tempts his servants by withdrawing his graces from them, and by forsaking them in part; and this kind of temptation is as grievous as the former: herewith was good King Hezekiah tempted; for as we may read, God left him to a sin of vain glory, and the end was to tr…

A person says, I thought ere now, I should have been able to do more, than, I find, I can: I am still vile, still a poor wretched creature; I can do nothing, perform no duty, as I ought: yes the children of God, are oft left to themselves, that they may know themselves, and wher…

(Deuteronomy 8:2) God afflicts the children of Israel, to try them whether they would keep his commandments. (2 Chronicles 32:31) He tries Hezekiah to see what was in his heart. The devil's end in tempting, is only to bring the party to destruction.

Indeed they may be diminished and covered as coals under ashes, and as the sap in the root of the tree in the winter season, not appearing at all in the branches; and the feeling of them may be lost: but they cannot either finally or totally be abolished. It is true that God doe…

Thus Hezekiah the king, and the prophet Isaiah the son of Amos prayed against Sennacherib, and cried to heaven. 2 Chronicles 32:10. Where we may see what a marvelous desire they had to obtain their request. So also Romans 8:16. The spirit makes request with groans so great that…

This is the thing that provokes so many sad complaints, and costs so many deep groans and bitter tears. It was the pride of Hezekiah's heart that made him lie in the dust mourning before the Lord (2 Chronicles 32:26). It was the fear of hypocrisy invading the heart that made Dav…

May we not say that which is, has been? Did not Sennacherib invade Judah, after Hezekiah's reformation (2 Chronicles 32:1)? And though after the reformation of Asa, and after the reformation of Jehoshaphat also, the land had a short rest and a breathing time, yet not long after…

It is not sufficient for a man to buckle as it were, and to go crooked under his sins and miseries; but also, he must have a desire to be eased of them, and to be enriched with graces needful. Thus Hezekiah the king, and the Prophet Isaiah the son of Amos prayed against Sennache…

(Deuteronomy 8:2) God afflicts the children of Israel, to try them whether they would keep his commandments. (2 Chronicles 32:31) He tries Hezekiah, to see what was in his heart. The devil's end in tempting, is only to bring the party to destruction.

Bel was none other than the Sun. God was angry with Hezekiah because, when the king of Babylon had sent ambassadors to inquire about the miracle of the sun's descent (2 Chronicles 32:31), he did not seize the opportunity to proclaim the true God and declare to them that the sun…

They could not catch Christ in any sin, and so though they shamed him, he was not shamed, nor could he hide his face for confusion. 2. Shame is a breaking of the hope and confidence of these who look for great things, as 2 Chronicles 32:21: The Lord sent an Angel which cut off a…

He threatened the Assyrians already whom he knew the Jews hated for good cause because of their continual wars: that he might get him a companion then, and a fellow helper in his intended wars, he insinuates himself cunningly into the friendship of this good King: whose heart, a…

'What shall I render to the Lord, for all his Benefits towards me?' 2 Chronicles 32:25. 'But Hezekiah rendered not again according to the Benefit done unto him.'

What more powerful motive to the obtaining of new, than to hold out, that the old were not abused. We are encouraged to cast seed again into that ground, whose last crop witnesses that it was not altogether barren: that sad spot of good Hezekiah, that he rendered not again accor…

1. Two things are here. 1. The want of the life, though the believer be still loved, chosen, redeemed, translated from death to life; but the Lord, who can put a check-lock and an iron bar on all our comforts, withdraws, and lets the spouse swoon, and stays not the heart with fl…

In the Saints this liberty is clear; fewer falls in Joseph than in David; and so he must be nearer to daily influences to the one, than the other. So the Lord left Hezekiah to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart (2 Chronicles 32:31). Thus much Noah his drunkenn…

Abraham did not know what faith he had; (I mean what power and vigor was in his faith) until God drew it out by that great trial and temptation; when God says he knew it, he made Abraham know it (Genesis 22:12). So he tried Hezekiah, to discover his pride: God left him that he m…

As we may try a servant whom we have just cause to suspect, by laying something in the way, that his filching humor may be discovered, without any breach of justice; so the wicked, that harden their hearts against God, God may give them their hearts' desire, and worldly happines…

The sins of magistrates draw down judgments on their people, all smart for their miscarriages. [reconstructed: Hezekiah's] pride cost Israel dear — (2 Chronicles 32:25). Wrath was upon him, and upon Judah and Jerusalem: It did not stay upon his person: As a great oak cannot fall…

And by this means we are made sensible of the mutability of our own nature. God left Hezekiah, to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart (2 Chronicles 32:31). God has so dispensed grace, that he will be going and coming as to actual influence; therefore sometimes…

Grace is as necessary to prevent sin, as to perform duty. God's suspension was no excuse to Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 32:31). Nevertheless, in the business of the Ambassadors of the Princes of Babylon, who sent to him to inquire of the wonder that was done in the land, God left him…

And partly, because this is a means to make us sensible of the mutability of our nature; for when all depends upon God, his coming and going, it will make us see what poor creatures we are of ourselves; when he comes we are able to do something; when he goes what poor creatures…

Then it may press you to live praises, and show forth the praises of him in your conduct (1 Peter 2:7). Hezekiah had been sick, God recovered him, he penned a Psalm of Thanksgiving (Isaiah 38:9); yet it's said, he rendered not according to what he received, etc. (2 Chronicles 32…

There needs something to humble the creature after these experiences. Desertion is either felt, or not felt; not felt, and then it is more dangerous, and usually ends in some notable fall — as Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 32:31): God left him, and he was not sensible, and then he runs…

But this Jacob was so forgetful of, and did so long neglect and omit to pay his vow, which he made at Bethel, that God minds him of it (Genesis 35:1), and for the omission whereof, it is supposed that the afflictions mentioned in the former chapter did befall him. The other inst…

And David himself could say, that he had not wickedly (after the manner of the wicked, Jude 15.) departed from God (Psalm 18:21). 3 God may sometime have a good man to this saddest of trials, to know all that is in his heart, as he left the good King Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 32:31…

God will have his times and his ways, possibly to uncase our hearts before all our neighbors. It was said of that blessed man in 2 Chronicles 32:31: God left him (in one thing) to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart. You may look for some temptation before you…

God does not only suffer temptation to assault them, for so he had often done, and given them a glorious victory and triumph over it, and so brought them off conquerors; and therein witnessed his admirable presence with them. But they have been tripped up by it, and carried down…

God sometimes brings temptations that carry more force in them than ordinary, and we are woefully assaulted by them: it may be they are many and complicate, and now we say, that he is withdrawn: but this may be a mistake too. If God suffers us to be tempted, and then leaves us t…

It was to try his faith and obedience. Thus he tempted Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 32:31). God left him to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart.

WE shall wave the Compellation, and begin with the Exhortation: Be strong, that is, be of good courage, so commonly used in Scripture-phrase; 2 Chronicles 32:7. Be strong and couragious.

Our sufficiency is of God, yea, after many years trading, this holy man sees nothing he has got, Philippians 3:13. I count not my self to have apprehended: he is still pressing forward; ask him how he lives, he'll tell you who keeps house for him; I live, yet not I, Galatians 2:…

Cartwright says it is a metaphor from men who, being oppressed with a burden, transfer it off themselves upon one who is mightier and stronger: it is excellent when the heart rolls all its cares upon the Lord, and disburdens itself upon him. (8.) There is a word that notes to le…

When we have any thing to do wherein faith and love towards God is to be exercised, we must do it with all our hearts, with all our minds, strength and souls, not slightly and perfunctorily, which God abhors; he does not only require that we bear his love and grace in remembranc…

The Lord has by free promise, laid holy bonds on himself, to give predeterminating grace to his own children to persevere to the end, and to prevent apostasy and heinous sins inconsistent with saving faith (1 Corinthians 1:8; Jude 24; Jeremiah 32:39-41; Isaiah 54:10; Isaiah 59:2…

But then were they given up to the most fearful evils. Thus God left Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 32:25, 31). This then is one reason why the counsel and foreknowledge of God concerning our sins does not extenuate our sins; nor ought to extenuate our sorrow.

So while Israel fought against the Philistines, Samuel prayed (1 Samuel 7:9-10): and while Joab fought against Aram, David prayed (Psalm 60:1). The like I might instance in Asa (2 Chronicles 14:11), Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20:6), Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 32:20), and other Saints…

The wound is not so broad as the plaster of Christ's blood. The sea covers great rocks: the sea of God's compassion can drown your great sins; therefore be not discouraged, go to God, resolve to cast yourself upon his fatherly compassion; God may be entreated of you, as he was o…

As God makes use of all the seasons of the year for harvest, so all his various providences are to bring on the harvest of obedience. 1. Afflictions are to make us do God's will; (2 Chronicles 33:12) When Manasseh was in affliction, he besought the Lord, and humbled himself grea…

This appears, by vouchsafing mercy to Rahab a notable harlot: and as he dealeth with Rahab here, so hath he showed like mercy to other notorious sinners. King Manasseh had sold himself to Idolatry and witchcraft, and had shed innocent blood exceeding much, and caused Judah to si…

Who would not be willing to have a bone out of joint, so he might have a sight of God? King Manasseh was bound in Chains, this was sad to see a Crown of Gold changed into Fetters; but it wrought for his good, for, When he was in affliction he besought the Lord, and humbled himse…

It is not enough to eschew false objects of worship, but we must also take heed of false means of worship. Hence the people are blamed for sacrificing in the high places, though to the Lord their God only (2 Chronicles 33:17). 3. Although none but the grossest kind of idolatry,…

Though men that have no fear of God they may seem to have bold spirits, and it seems to come through the greatness of their spirits, that they will not fear God, yet these men in the time of danger are the most base cowardly men in the world. I'll give you a notable instance for…

The LXX renders this word variously: by a term meaning "carved things," Leviticus 26:1; Deuteronomy 4:16. Also in the same sense, by a term meaning "carved works," Isaiah 45:20; by a term for "images," Exodus 20:4; 2 Chronicles 33:22. Also by a term meaning "likenesses" or "idol…

The Epicureans held that every one had his proper star, as a peculiar Daemon or [illegible] Numen. And not only the Gentiles but Jews polluted themselves with the worship of the host of heaven, Manasses being their chief perverter herein (2 Chronicles 33:3). But if some who pret…

גיא (Ge) is the Hebrew word for a valley. Now, “the valley of Hinnom” was infamous for the detestable superstition which was committed in it, because there they sacrificed their children to idols, (2 Chronicles 33:6.) The consequence was, that holy men, in order to excite strong…

The Lord stops not Manasseh's outrage when he enters first upon his kingdom (as he easily could have done) but suffers him to fill up the measure of his iniquity, so that the bottom of hell could not afford abominations more or worse than were practiced by him, he filled Jerusal…

Upon this condition it is obtained (Matthew 18:3): Unless you be converted, and become as little children, you can in no way enter into the kingdom of heaven. 2 Chronicles 33:12: It is said of Manasseh, he humbled himself greatly, and made supplication, and the Lord was entreate…

Abraham was upon his seventy-fifth year when God called him (Genesis 12:5, compared with Joshua 24:2). Manasseh was converted near upon his death, about sixty years of age (2 Chronicles 33:19). But in the case of old age, the matter is so difficult, and so unusual, that there ar…

We think God is going to destroy us, but he only lays us a-whitening: some birds will not hatch but in time of thunder. Christians are commonly best in affliction; God will make his children at last bless him for sufferings; the eyes that sin shuts, affliction opens; when Manass…

Second, we should endeavor to have our sorrow rise up to the same height and proportion as our sin. Manasseh was a great sinner and a great mourner (2 Chronicles 33:12): he humbled himself greatly. Manasseh made the streets run with blood, and he made the prison in Babylon run w…

There is a Covenant made to keep all the Testimonies and Statutes of God, and the people are made to stand to it. From (2 Kings 23:8, 9) compared with (2 Chronicles 14:3, 5), (2 Chronicles 15:17), (2 Chronicles 33:17), it is evident there were in Judah two sorts of high places,…

Jehosaphat, Asa, Hezekiah, Josiah, those excellent Princes made use of their power and the authority of their places in their kingdoms and territories, to put down and suppress false worships and ways, to punish false Prophets, idolatrous Priests, and the people who went after t…

And for the finding out of this, we will first set before you the examples of those who have humbled themselves and have been humbled in Scripture, and from there gather what it is. For this you shall find Manasseh in 2 Chronicles 33 — in his affliction humbling himself greatly,…

And the scriptures were written not by such as were men of God only, but by such as were holy men of God. Peter denied Christ knowingly against his own conscience, and that with cursing and banning, and yet came to repentance afterward, as appears by the testimony of Christ: I h…

Example of Manasseh: and when he was in tribulation he prayed to the Lord his God and humbled himself greatly. And David says: It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I might learn your statutes (Genesis 42:21; Hosea 5:15; Lamentations 3:20; 2 Chronicles 33:12; Psalm…

Of the thief: he said to Jesus, Lord, remember me when you come to your kingdom. Then Jesus said to him, truly I say to you, today shall you be with me in paradise (2 Samuel 12:12; 2 Chronicles 33:12; Luke 18:13; Luke 23:42-43). Having such notable promises made to repentance, n…

Let him speak to men that know him not so much as the donkey his owner, such as rebelled more and more when he chastised them, such whose hands were full of blood; yet let but such as these come and wash themselves, cease to do evil, and learn to do well, and then all these scar…

For a particular proof of this, take the example of Manasseh, who (I think) went the furthest in sin that ever any did since Adam's time, and received pardon. Of his original corruption no question can be made; that his actual transgressions were many, and those most heinous, bl…

No doubt but he had heard the word of God before: for Paul had been sometime in that city, so as that judgment was but as a hammer to drive into his heart the nails of God's word: for it is the proper use of God's judgments to beat down the hard and stout heart of man, and so to…

We have also a scripture example for punishing Sectaries who are not Heretics. It is agreed among interpreters, there were in Judah two sorts of high places, some on which God was worshipped, others on which idols were worshipped, and it is most manifest from 2 Chronicles 33:17,…

It argues both a wanton palate, and surfeited stomach, to feed on salads and kickshaws rather than wholesome food. 3. If you would have the preaching of the Word effectual, come to it with a tenderness upon your heart (2 Chronicles 34:19). Because your heart was tender.

For instance, so did David in the miscarriage of the Ark of God (1 Chronicles 15:2, 12, 13). And it was zealous Josiah's rule (whom the Spirit of God so commends in Scripture, that none was like before him for his Reformation) (2 Chronicles 34:31). The like example took Nehemiah…

But is there any hope to see the nation of England reformed according to the primitive pattern, founded upon the word of the eternal Truth (Ephesians 2:20)? Yes, first, because there was never a more exact covenant taken in any realm, or nation, since the days of zealous Josiah…

4. Whereas they call them not only Altars, but high Altars, and raise the ground where they stand, going up by steps to them, this is the old heathenish idolatry of the Gentiles, those idolatrous high places so often condemned in the Scripture, being nothing else but high Altars…

Also in the same sense, by a term meaning "carved works," Isaiah 45:20; by a term for "images," Exodus 20:4; 2 Chronicles 33:22. Also by a term meaning "likenesses" or "idols," Isaiah 21:9; and by a term meaning "images," Isaiah 40:19, 20; and by a term meaning "enclosures of al…

Of the actions of the body orderly and reverently used, are bowing of our bodies (Isaiah 45:23). Reverent attention declared sometimes by rising up (Genesis 49:33; 1 Chronicles 28:2; Numbers 23:22; 2 Kings 23:2; 2 Chronicles 34:31; Nehemiah 8:6). Also lifting up of the hands and…

They entered into a Covenant to seek the Lord God of their Fathers with all their Heart and with all their Soul. We have also another remarkable Instance, 2 Kings 23:3 and 2 Chronicles 34:31. Now he who is wholly under the Power of a carnal Mind, which is not subject to the Law…

The charge given to masters in the fourth commandment concerning servants, (you nor your male servant, nor your female servant) proves as much. Josiah is commended for causing his people to stand to the covenant of God (Exodus 20:10; 2 Chronicles 34:32). On this ground if a mast…

It requires 1. The general grace of a soft heart, which must be asked of God, (2 Chronicles 34:27) Because your heart was tender, and you did humble yourself, when you heard the words of the Lord against this place. There was an high peace and calm at that time, but a tender hea…

He can and does sometimes [illegible] the soul in the [illegible], as it is commonly conceived he did John the Baptist (Luke 1:44). Many times he begins to tamper and trade with the spirits of his, when they are young and tender, and their years few, drops in some grain of the i…

First sign: tenderness of heart. 2 Chronicles 34:27: Because your heart was tender. A child-like heart is a tender heart; he who before had a flinty heart has now a fleshy heart.

As for that which is said by M. S. pag. 51. that Idolatry and Idolaters were the adaequate object of the coercive power of the Kings of Judah in matters of Religion, and that Idolatry meant not of those who worshiped the true God though in a false manner with the violation of th…

Deuteronomy 17:18: the Law of God is to be for the direction of the King and of the Priests, and Levites. The Book of the Law of the Lord given by Moses (2 Chronicles 34:15, 19, 30, 31, compared with 2 Kings 22:8, 11; 23:2, 3) was that by which Josiah made his reformation both i…

Thirdly, he restored the true worship of God, made a covenant with God to that end, and commanded the people to keep the Passover, and to perform the covenant. Fourthly, he caused all that were present in Jerusalem and Benjamin to stand to the covenant, and made all that were pr…

Answer. If you have in you a child-like heart, which is, 1. A tender heart (2 Chronicles 34:27). Because your heart was tender.

Hence by way of excellency he calls it the Covenant, the Covenant of the Lord (Jeremiah 2[illegible]:9; Deuteronomy 4:23; Joshua 23:11); My Covenant, says the Lord (Genesis 17:7, 9, 10; Exodus 19:5; Psalm 50:16); His Covenant (Psalm 105:8); He remembered his Covenant forever (Ps…

The men of Nineveh hearing by the prophet they were all to die within forty days, it is said, they believed God (in the work of conviction) and then fell to sackcloth and ashes (in the work of compunction) which did immediately follow. Josiah (2 Chronicles 34:27) in his renewed…

Take example by that grief, and apply it to the Lord Jesus Christ; turn the stream of it into that channel; Did God never afflict you in that kind? Then be the more thankful; and especially for you that are in authority, as ever you desire to die lamented, and much desired, then…

Thirdly, we must labor to be affected with the word. Thus Josiah his heart is said to melt at the reading of the law (2 Chronicles 34:27). And the people rejoiced greatly, because they understood the word which the Levites had taught them (Nehemiah 8:12).

Is it the duty of the Civil Magistrate to take order that all blasphemies and heresies be suppressed, all the ordinances of God duly settled, administered, and observed, all abuses in worship and discipline reformed, and all idolaters, gainsayers, and other obstinate dissenters…

Christs Ordinances put upon a whole City, or a Nation, may more civilize and moralize, but never christianize them; says Mr. Williams, chapter 82. I answer, this argument does utterly condemn Josiahs Reformation as sinfull, for the caused all Judah to stand to the Covenant, as w…

Asa did remove his mother Maachah from being queen, because of an idol which she had made in a grove (1 Kings 15:13). Josiah caused all that were present in Jerusalem and Benjamin to stand to the covenant (2 Chronicles 34:32), which could not be without either threatening or inf…

They are holy, and disallow all carnal enterprises, and would withstand the execution of them: will you constrain them to forsake you? You know how it sped with Josiah, when he would not turn his face, but go out without the defence of God and his angels (see 2 Chronicles 35:22)…

Now this should the more prevail with us, because many of God's people have failed after some eminent service performed for God. Josiah after he had prepared the temple, fell into that rash attempt against Pharaoh Necho which cost him his life (2 Chronicles 35:20): After all thi…

3. The Lamb being provided was to be killed, and it was directed that the whole Assembly of the Congregation of Israel should kill it, v. 6, that is, every one for himself and family. But after the giving of the Law, and the erection of a Priesthood in the Church, this work, as…

And (Jeremiah 9:20): Teach your daughters wailing, and every one her neighbor lamentation; (you see it was an art taught among them,) for death is come up into our windows, etc. In (2 Chronicles 35:25) we have a record to the same effect, concerning the lamentation for Josiah: A…

If he shall commit a sin upon that confidence of his own righteousness. Josiah's breach with God was after the preparing of the Temple (2 Chronicles 35:20); even God's children take the more carnal liberty because of their duties. 2nd Use is Trial.

And it may be a sin both in God's people and in others, not to hearken to it. Pharaoh Necho (though neither Israelite nor Proselyte) yet by his Ambassadors did publicly declare the counsel of God to Josiah: and it was a dangerous sin in Josiah, that he did not hearken to the wor…

First, (Zechariah 12:10) They shall mourn for him, as the mother mourns for her only son, and for her firstborn: the mourning of a tenderhearted mother for her son, her firstborn, and for her only son, he adds all degrees of grief: if she had possessed many, she might more easil…

It is true, the ministers of Christ are the servants of his church. The Levites and priests were so — they served the Lord, and his people Israel (2 Chronicles 35:3). The Apostles themselves were so: our selves your servants for Jesus' sake (2 Corinthians 4:5).

Now therefore for that, that was a mourning which was caused by the greatest loss that could befall any Commonwealth, it was for the death of good Josiah, a better prince than whom the earth never bore, whose loss therefore was the more grievous, because in his loss the wise hea…

(2) The patience of God shall not come to an issue with any apostate church or nation until he himself declares and determines that all due means have been used for their recovery. And the judgement hereof, he will not leave to the best of men, he would not do so to Elijah himse…

It is not in the knowledge of divinity as in other sciences: in them you may neglect a year or two, and get it again; but it is not so in this; you will not be able to return again, you are near a curse, you cannot redeem it. See what follows in the neglecting of the Word (2 Chr…

I find some (and I confess not without som probability) understand all these of the true Prophets, and then the sense will run thus; You accounted the Prophets of the Lord, who declared the mind of the Lord faithfully to you, to be no other than fools and mad-men, but you shall…

But yet God in mercy deferred the beginning of their bondage; whereby the time was much shortened at the beginning. So the time wherein it was foretold that the whole land of Israel should be a desolation and an astonishment, and the land should enjoy her sabbaths, by the Babylo…

5. These, then, were — if not all, at least the chief — idols and the means and instruments of false worship by which this people, most abandoned to idolatry, initiated in this apostasy, defiled and contaminated themselves by rejecting the first foundation of Mosaic Theology. Go…

Today, if ye will hear my voice, harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness; when your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my work: Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said it is a people that do err in…

Of the Ark we shall have occasion to treat afterwards, and of its fictitious hiding by Jeremiah; or Josiah, as the Jews fancy. This we may observe for the present, that as it is certain, that it was carried away by the Babylonians among other vessels of gold belonging to the Tem…

In the mean time, whether occasionally, or by advice, the Tabernacle was removed from Shilo, and that first place of the solemn worship of God altogether deserted, and made an example of what God would afterwards do to the Temple, when his worship therein also was neglected and…

He that despises you, despises me, says our Savior (Luke 10:16). And God will not leave this sin unpunished, indeed he speaks of it as almost an unpardonable crime (2 Chronicles 36:16): They mocked the messengers of God, and despised his words, and misused his prophets, until th…

But they refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder, and stopped their ears that they should not hear: indeed they made their heart like an adamant stone, lest they should hear the law, and the words which the Lord of Hosts had sent in his spirit by the former prophets: th…

And they have slain them which showed before of the coming of that just one, of whom you are murderers, (says he) they who cast down the lodging they injure the indweller; the godly prophet is the house and lodging of the holy Ghost. (2 Chronicles 36:12) Zedekiah humbled not him…

5. The ministers of Christ, the preachers of this religion, are with a distinguishing enmity everywhere spoken against. Under the Old Testament God's messengers and his prophets were generally mocked and misused, and it was Jerusalem's measure-filling sin (2 Chronicles 36:16). I…

As long as the owner supposes that his tree may in time become serviceable, there is some reason for his letting it stand in the vineyard, but when all grounds of so looking for it fail, and he utterly despairs of any such thing, what should he let it stand for any longer? That…

This is the complaint of Christ (Matthew 23:37), How oft would I have gathered your children, but you would not. This was it that made God's anger to burn so hotly against Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 36:15, 16). This is his very quarrel with them (Amos 4:6), Yet have you not returne…

And is it not worse to see multitudes of sick souls lying and bleeding, with their spiritual physicians removed from them? This is a wrath-provoking sin (2 Chronicles 36:16): they abused his prophets until the wrath of the Lord arose against his people, until there was no remedy…

The Priests in Jeremiah's time were desperately wicked and set upon blood, even upon having Jeremiah's blood, pronouncing sentence upon him, This man is worthy to die, and You shall surely die (Jeremiah 26:8, 11). And there were many complaints by Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and other Pr…

No, by this means Christ himself is despised, no, our condemnation is hereby sealed irrecoverably. The text says, they despised God's word, till the wrath of the Lord arose, and there was no remedy (2 Chronicles 36:16). No, hereby we aggravate our condemnation.

You have wearied him with your iniquities, and made him serve with your sins, and have saddened his heart exceedingly by strange impenitency (Isaiah 43:24). The only reason that has moved him to call to you, has been pity to you, seeing you running to the fire that never can be…

(2.) Because, the predictions of the Prophets, are expressly called the Word of God. Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the Word of the Lord spoken by the mouth of Jeremiah might be accomplished (2 Chronicles 36:22). Here we see it is evident, that the written p…

For they do not look upon the Word as their Rule, seeing (as they dream) they have a Light within them, beyond that more sure Word of Prophecy, which the Apostle Peter prefers to a voice from Heaven. Indeed, they have so little veneration for the Scriptures, that they will not s…

General apostasy makes way for general calamity, learn this in Shiloh; the Priests violated God's ordinances, and the people they provoked him with their idols, and then see the effects. Israel is smitten, 30000 slain, the Ark lost, the Priests slain (1 Samuel 4:10, 11), read th…

(1.) They are a burden of grief and sorrow to the godly, who hear and fear (Habakkuk 3:16). (2.) Of indignation to the wicked, who cannot endure so much as to hear of them, the very threatening is to them intolerable (Amos 7:10; 2 Chronicles 36:16; Jeremiah 26:8, 9). 3. In some…