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Created page with "{{Infobox_Contents | topic_name = Matthew Henry Concise Bible Commentary : Lamentations | subtopics = The Prophet Lamentations | opinion_pieces = {{short_opinions}} * Te..."
{{Infobox_Contents |
topic_name = Matthew Henry Concise Bible Commentary : Lamentations |
subtopics = The Prophet [[Lamentations]] |
opinion_pieces = {{short_opinions}}
* [[Text:EBD:Lamentations, Book of|Easton's Bible Dictionary entry on Lamentations]] |
}}
Read the book of [[Lamentations]] from the [[Holy Bible|Bible]]
{{chapters}}
[[Lamentations 1|1]]
[[Lamentations 2|2]]
[[Lamentations 3|3]]
[[Lamentations 4|4]]
[[Lamentations 5|5]]
==Commentary==
[[Text:MHC Concise Lamentations 1|1]]
[[Text:MHC Concise Lamentations 2|2]]
[[Text:MHC Concise Lamentations 3|3]]
[[Text:MHC Concise Lamentations 4|4]]
[[Text:MHC Concise Lamentations 5|5]]
{{mhc import}}
'''Commentary on the book of [[Lamentations]]'''
It is evident that [[Jeremiah]] was the author of the Lamentations which bear his name. The book was not written till after the destruction of [[Jerusalem]] by the Chaldeans. May we be led to consider [[sin]] as the cause of all our calamities, and under trials exercise submission, repentance, faith, and [[prayer]], with the [[hope]] of promised deliverance through [[God]]'s [[mercy]].
----
'''Chapter''' 1
The miserable state of [[Jerusalem]], the just consequences of its sins. (Lam. 1:1-11) [[Jerusalem]] represented as a captive female, lamenting, and seeking the [[mercy]] of [[God]]. (Lam. 1:12-22)
Lam. 1:1-11 The prophet sometimes speaks in his own person; at other times [[Jerusalem]], as a distressed female, is the speaker, or some of the [[Jews]]. The description shows the miseries of the Jewish nation. [[Jerusalem]] became a captive and a slave, by reason of the greatness of her sins; and had no rest from suffering. If we allow [[sin]], our greatest adversary, to have dominion over us, justly will other enemies also be suffered to have dominion. The people endured the extremities of famine and distress. In this sad condition [[Jerusalem]] acknowledged her [[sin]], and entreated the [[Lord]] to look upon her case. This is the only way to make ourselves easy under our burdens; for it is the just [[anger]] of the [[Lord]] for man's transgressions, that has filled the earth with sorrows, lamentations, sickness, and death.
Lam. 1:12-22 [[Jerusalem]], sitting dejected on the ground, calls on those that passed by, to consider whether her example did not concern them. Her outward sufferings were great, but her inward sufferings were harder to bear, through the sense of guilt. Sorrow for [[sin]] must be great sorrow, and must affect the soul. Here we see the evil of [[sin]], and may take warning to flee from the wrath to come. Whatever may be learned from the sufferings of [[Jerusalem]], far more may be learned from the sufferings of [[Christ]]. Does he not from the cross speak to every one of us? Does he not say, Is it nothing to you, all ye that pass by? Let all our sorrows lead us to the cross of [[Christ]], lead us to mark his example, and cheerfully to follow him.
----
'''Chapter''' 2
Lamentation for the misery of [[Jerusalem]].
Lam. 2:1-9 A sad representation is here made of the state of [[God]]'s [[church]], of [[Jacob]] and [[Israel]]; but the notice seems mostly to refer to the hand of the [[Lord]] in their calamities. Yet [[God]] is not an enemy to his people, when he is angry with them and corrects them. And gates and bars stand in no stead when [[God]] withdraws his protection. It is just with [[God]] to cast down those by judgments, who debase themselves by sin; and to deprive those of the benefit and comfort of sabbaths and ordinances, who have not duly valued nor observed them. What should they do with [[Bible]]s, who make no improvement of them? Those who misuse [[God]]'s prophets, justly lose them. It becomes necessary, though painful, to turn the thoughts of the afflicted to the hand of [[God]] lifted up against them, and to their sins as the source of their miseries.
Lam. 2:10-22 Causes for lamentation are described. Multitudes perished by famine. Even little [[children]] were slain by their mother's hands, and eaten, according to the threatening, Deut. 28:53. Multitudes fell by the sword. Their false prophets deceived them. And their neighbours laughed at them. It is a great [[sin]] to jest at others' miseries, and adds much affliction to the afflicted. Their enemies triumphed over them. The enemies of the [[church]] are apt to take its shocks for its ruins; but they will find themselves deceived. Calls to lamentation are given; and comforts for the cure of these lamentations are sought. Prayer is a salve for every sore, even the sorest; a remedy for every malady, even the most grievous. Our business in [[prayer]] is to refer our case to the [[Lord]], and leave it with him. His will be done. Let us fear [[God]], and walk humbly before him, and take heed lest we fall.
----
'''Chapter''' 3
The faithful lament their calamities, and [[hope]] in [[God]]'s mercies.
Lam. 3:1-20 The prophet relates the more gloomy and discouraging part of his experience, and how he found support and relief. In the time of his trial the [[Lord]] had become terrible to him. It was an affliction that was misery itself; for [[sin]] makes the cup of affliction a bitter cup. The struggle between unbelief and [[faith]] is often very severe. But the weakest [[believer]] is wrong, if he thinks that his strength and hope are perished from the [[Lord]].
Lam. 3:21-36 Having stated his distress and temptation, the prophet shows how he was raised above it. Bad as things are, it is owing to the [[mercy]] of [[God]] that they are not worse. We should observe what makes for us, as well as what is against us. [[God]]'s compassions fail not; of this we have fresh instances every morning. Portions on earth are perishing things, but [[God]] is a portion for ever. It is our duty, and will be our comfort and satisfaction, to [[hope]] and quietly to wait for the [[salvation]] of the [[Lord]]. Afflictions do and will work very much for good: many have found it good to bear this yoke in their youth; it has made many humble and serious, and has weaned them from the world, who otherwise would have been proud and unruly. If tribulation work patience, that patience will work experience, and that experience a [[hope]] that makes not ashamed. Due thoughts of the evil of [[sin]], and of our own sinfulness, will convince us that it is of the [[Lord]]'s mercies we are not consumed. If we cannot say with unwavering voice, The [[Lord]] is my portion; may we not say, I desire to have Him for my portion and [[salvation]], and in his word do I hope? Happy shall we be, if we learn to receive affliction as laid upon us by the hand of [[God]].
Lam. 3:37-41 While there is life there is hope; and instead of complaining that things are bad, we should encourage ourselves with the [[hope]] they will be better. We are sinful men, and what we complain of, is far less than our sins deserve. We should complain to [[God]], and not of him. We are apt, in times of calamity, to reflect on other people's ways, and blame them; but our duty is to search and try our own ways, that we may turn from evil to [[God]]. Our hearts must go with our [[prayer]]s. If inward impressions do not answer to outward expressions, we mock [[God]], and deceive ourselves.
Lam. 3:42-54 The more the prophet looked on the desolations, the more he was grieved. Here is one word of comfort. While they continued weeping, they continued waiting; and neither did nor would expect relief and succour from any but the [[Lord]].
Lam. 3:55-66 Faith comes off conqueror, for in these Verses the prophet concludes with some comfort. Prayer is the breath of the new man, drawing in the air of [[mercy]] in petitions, and returning it in praises; it proves and maintains the spiritual life. He silenced their fears, and quieted their spirits. Thou saidst, Fear not. This was the language of [[God]]'s grace, by the witness of his [[Spirit]] with their spirits. And what are all our sorrows, compared with those of the [[Redeemer]]? He will deliver his people from every trouble, and revive his [[church]] from every persecution. He will save [[believer]]s with everlasting [[salvation]], while his enemies perish with everlasting destruction.
----
'''Chapter''' 4
The deplorable state of the nation is contrasted with its ancient prosperity.
Lam. 4:1-12 What a change is here! Sin tarnishes the beauty of the most exalted powers and the most excellent gifts; but that gold, tried in the fire, which [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] bestows, never will be taken from us; its outward appearance may be dimmed, but its real value can never be changed. The horrors of the siege and destruction of [[Jerusalem]] are again described. Beholding the sad consequences of [[sin]] in the [[church]] of old, let us seriously consider to what the same causes may justly bring down the [[church]] now. But, [[Lord]], though we have gone from thee in rebellion, yet turn to us, and turn our hearts to thee, that we may [[fear]] thy name. Come to us, bless us with awakening, converting, renewing, confirming grace.
Lam. 4:13-20 Nothing ripens a people more for ruin, nor fills the measure faster, than the sins of priests and prophets. The king himself cannot escape, for [[Divine]] vengeance pursues him. Our anointed King alone is the life of our souls; we may safely live under his shadow, and [[rejoice]] in Him in the midst of our enemies, for He is the true [[God]] and [[eternal life]].
Lam. 4:21,22 Here it is foretold that an end should be put to [[Zion]]'s troubles. Not the fulness of punishment deserved, but of what [[God]] has determined to inflict. An end shall be put to Edom's triumphs. All the troubles of the [[church]] and of the [[believer]] will soon be accomplished. And the doom of their enemies approaches. The [[Lord]] will bring their sins to light, and they shall lie down in eternal sorrow. Edom here represents all the enemies of the [[church]]. And the corruption, and sin of [[Israel]], which the prophet has proved to be universal, justifies the judgments of the [[Lord]]. It shows the need of that [[grace]] in [[Jesus Christ|Christ Jesus]], which the [[sin]] and corruption of all mankind make so necessary.
----
'''Chapter''' 5
The Jewish nation supplicating the [[Divine]] favour.
Lam. 5:1-16 Is any afflicted? Let him pray; and let him in [[prayer]] pour out his complaint to [[God]]. The people of [[God]] do so here; they complain not of evils feared, but of evils felt. If penitent and patient under what we suffer for the sins of our fathers, we may expect that He who punishes, will return in [[mercy]] to us. They acknowledge, Woe unto us that we have sinned! All our woes are owing to our own [[sin]] and folly. Though our sins and [[God]]'s just displeasure cause our sufferings, we may [[hope]] in his [[pardon]] ing [[mercy]], his sanctifying grace, and his kind providence. But the sins of a man's whole life will be punished with vengeance at last, unless he obtains an interest in Him who bare our sins in his own body on the tree.
Lam. 5:17-22 The people of [[God]] express deep concern for the ruins of the temple, more than for any other of their calamities. But whatever changes there are on earth, [[God]] is still the same, and remains for ever wise and holy, just and good; with Him there is no variableness nor shadow of turning. They earnestly pray to [[God]] for [[mercy]] and grace; Turn us to thee, O [[Lord]]. [[God]] never leaves any till they first leave him; if he turns them to him in a way of duty, no doubt he will quickly return to them in a way of [[mercy]]. If [[God]] by his [[grace]] renew our hearts, he will by his favour renew our days. Troubles may cause our hearts to be faint, and our eyes to be dim, but the way to the [[mercy]]-seat of our reconciled [[God]] is open. Let us, in all our trials, put our whole trust and confidence in his [[mercy]]; let us confess our sins, and pour out our hearts before him. Let us watch against repinings and despondency; for we surely know, that it shall be well in the end with all that trust in, fear, love, and serve the [[Lord]]. Are not the [[Lord]]'s judgments in the earth the same as in Jeremiah's days? Let [[Zion]] then be remembered by us in our [[prayer]]s, and her welfare be sought above every earthly joy. Spare, [[Lord]], spare thy people, and give not thine heritage to reproach, for the heathen to rule over them.
{{mhc bottom}}
topic_name = Matthew Henry Concise Bible Commentary : Lamentations |
subtopics = The Prophet [[Lamentations]] |
opinion_pieces = {{short_opinions}}
* [[Text:EBD:Lamentations, Book of|Easton's Bible Dictionary entry on Lamentations]] |
}}
Read the book of [[Lamentations]] from the [[Holy Bible|Bible]]
{{chapters}}
[[Lamentations 1|1]]
[[Lamentations 2|2]]
[[Lamentations 3|3]]
[[Lamentations 4|4]]
[[Lamentations 5|5]]
==Commentary==
[[Text:MHC Concise Lamentations 1|1]]
[[Text:MHC Concise Lamentations 2|2]]
[[Text:MHC Concise Lamentations 3|3]]
[[Text:MHC Concise Lamentations 4|4]]
[[Text:MHC Concise Lamentations 5|5]]
{{mhc import}}
'''Commentary on the book of [[Lamentations]]'''
It is evident that [[Jeremiah]] was the author of the Lamentations which bear his name. The book was not written till after the destruction of [[Jerusalem]] by the Chaldeans. May we be led to consider [[sin]] as the cause of all our calamities, and under trials exercise submission, repentance, faith, and [[prayer]], with the [[hope]] of promised deliverance through [[God]]'s [[mercy]].
----
'''Chapter''' 1
The miserable state of [[Jerusalem]], the just consequences of its sins. (Lam. 1:1-11) [[Jerusalem]] represented as a captive female, lamenting, and seeking the [[mercy]] of [[God]]. (Lam. 1:12-22)
Lam. 1:1-11 The prophet sometimes speaks in his own person; at other times [[Jerusalem]], as a distressed female, is the speaker, or some of the [[Jews]]. The description shows the miseries of the Jewish nation. [[Jerusalem]] became a captive and a slave, by reason of the greatness of her sins; and had no rest from suffering. If we allow [[sin]], our greatest adversary, to have dominion over us, justly will other enemies also be suffered to have dominion. The people endured the extremities of famine and distress. In this sad condition [[Jerusalem]] acknowledged her [[sin]], and entreated the [[Lord]] to look upon her case. This is the only way to make ourselves easy under our burdens; for it is the just [[anger]] of the [[Lord]] for man's transgressions, that has filled the earth with sorrows, lamentations, sickness, and death.
Lam. 1:12-22 [[Jerusalem]], sitting dejected on the ground, calls on those that passed by, to consider whether her example did not concern them. Her outward sufferings were great, but her inward sufferings were harder to bear, through the sense of guilt. Sorrow for [[sin]] must be great sorrow, and must affect the soul. Here we see the evil of [[sin]], and may take warning to flee from the wrath to come. Whatever may be learned from the sufferings of [[Jerusalem]], far more may be learned from the sufferings of [[Christ]]. Does he not from the cross speak to every one of us? Does he not say, Is it nothing to you, all ye that pass by? Let all our sorrows lead us to the cross of [[Christ]], lead us to mark his example, and cheerfully to follow him.
----
'''Chapter''' 2
Lamentation for the misery of [[Jerusalem]].
Lam. 2:1-9 A sad representation is here made of the state of [[God]]'s [[church]], of [[Jacob]] and [[Israel]]; but the notice seems mostly to refer to the hand of the [[Lord]] in their calamities. Yet [[God]] is not an enemy to his people, when he is angry with them and corrects them. And gates and bars stand in no stead when [[God]] withdraws his protection. It is just with [[God]] to cast down those by judgments, who debase themselves by sin; and to deprive those of the benefit and comfort of sabbaths and ordinances, who have not duly valued nor observed them. What should they do with [[Bible]]s, who make no improvement of them? Those who misuse [[God]]'s prophets, justly lose them. It becomes necessary, though painful, to turn the thoughts of the afflicted to the hand of [[God]] lifted up against them, and to their sins as the source of their miseries.
Lam. 2:10-22 Causes for lamentation are described. Multitudes perished by famine. Even little [[children]] were slain by their mother's hands, and eaten, according to the threatening, Deut. 28:53. Multitudes fell by the sword. Their false prophets deceived them. And their neighbours laughed at them. It is a great [[sin]] to jest at others' miseries, and adds much affliction to the afflicted. Their enemies triumphed over them. The enemies of the [[church]] are apt to take its shocks for its ruins; but they will find themselves deceived. Calls to lamentation are given; and comforts for the cure of these lamentations are sought. Prayer is a salve for every sore, even the sorest; a remedy for every malady, even the most grievous. Our business in [[prayer]] is to refer our case to the [[Lord]], and leave it with him. His will be done. Let us fear [[God]], and walk humbly before him, and take heed lest we fall.
----
'''Chapter''' 3
The faithful lament their calamities, and [[hope]] in [[God]]'s mercies.
Lam. 3:1-20 The prophet relates the more gloomy and discouraging part of his experience, and how he found support and relief. In the time of his trial the [[Lord]] had become terrible to him. It was an affliction that was misery itself; for [[sin]] makes the cup of affliction a bitter cup. The struggle between unbelief and [[faith]] is often very severe. But the weakest [[believer]] is wrong, if he thinks that his strength and hope are perished from the [[Lord]].
Lam. 3:21-36 Having stated his distress and temptation, the prophet shows how he was raised above it. Bad as things are, it is owing to the [[mercy]] of [[God]] that they are not worse. We should observe what makes for us, as well as what is against us. [[God]]'s compassions fail not; of this we have fresh instances every morning. Portions on earth are perishing things, but [[God]] is a portion for ever. It is our duty, and will be our comfort and satisfaction, to [[hope]] and quietly to wait for the [[salvation]] of the [[Lord]]. Afflictions do and will work very much for good: many have found it good to bear this yoke in their youth; it has made many humble and serious, and has weaned them from the world, who otherwise would have been proud and unruly. If tribulation work patience, that patience will work experience, and that experience a [[hope]] that makes not ashamed. Due thoughts of the evil of [[sin]], and of our own sinfulness, will convince us that it is of the [[Lord]]'s mercies we are not consumed. If we cannot say with unwavering voice, The [[Lord]] is my portion; may we not say, I desire to have Him for my portion and [[salvation]], and in his word do I hope? Happy shall we be, if we learn to receive affliction as laid upon us by the hand of [[God]].
Lam. 3:37-41 While there is life there is hope; and instead of complaining that things are bad, we should encourage ourselves with the [[hope]] they will be better. We are sinful men, and what we complain of, is far less than our sins deserve. We should complain to [[God]], and not of him. We are apt, in times of calamity, to reflect on other people's ways, and blame them; but our duty is to search and try our own ways, that we may turn from evil to [[God]]. Our hearts must go with our [[prayer]]s. If inward impressions do not answer to outward expressions, we mock [[God]], and deceive ourselves.
Lam. 3:42-54 The more the prophet looked on the desolations, the more he was grieved. Here is one word of comfort. While they continued weeping, they continued waiting; and neither did nor would expect relief and succour from any but the [[Lord]].
Lam. 3:55-66 Faith comes off conqueror, for in these Verses the prophet concludes with some comfort. Prayer is the breath of the new man, drawing in the air of [[mercy]] in petitions, and returning it in praises; it proves and maintains the spiritual life. He silenced their fears, and quieted their spirits. Thou saidst, Fear not. This was the language of [[God]]'s grace, by the witness of his [[Spirit]] with their spirits. And what are all our sorrows, compared with those of the [[Redeemer]]? He will deliver his people from every trouble, and revive his [[church]] from every persecution. He will save [[believer]]s with everlasting [[salvation]], while his enemies perish with everlasting destruction.
----
'''Chapter''' 4
The deplorable state of the nation is contrasted with its ancient prosperity.
Lam. 4:1-12 What a change is here! Sin tarnishes the beauty of the most exalted powers and the most excellent gifts; but that gold, tried in the fire, which [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] bestows, never will be taken from us; its outward appearance may be dimmed, but its real value can never be changed. The horrors of the siege and destruction of [[Jerusalem]] are again described. Beholding the sad consequences of [[sin]] in the [[church]] of old, let us seriously consider to what the same causes may justly bring down the [[church]] now. But, [[Lord]], though we have gone from thee in rebellion, yet turn to us, and turn our hearts to thee, that we may [[fear]] thy name. Come to us, bless us with awakening, converting, renewing, confirming grace.
Lam. 4:13-20 Nothing ripens a people more for ruin, nor fills the measure faster, than the sins of priests and prophets. The king himself cannot escape, for [[Divine]] vengeance pursues him. Our anointed King alone is the life of our souls; we may safely live under his shadow, and [[rejoice]] in Him in the midst of our enemies, for He is the true [[God]] and [[eternal life]].
Lam. 4:21,22 Here it is foretold that an end should be put to [[Zion]]'s troubles. Not the fulness of punishment deserved, but of what [[God]] has determined to inflict. An end shall be put to Edom's triumphs. All the troubles of the [[church]] and of the [[believer]] will soon be accomplished. And the doom of their enemies approaches. The [[Lord]] will bring their sins to light, and they shall lie down in eternal sorrow. Edom here represents all the enemies of the [[church]]. And the corruption, and sin of [[Israel]], which the prophet has proved to be universal, justifies the judgments of the [[Lord]]. It shows the need of that [[grace]] in [[Jesus Christ|Christ Jesus]], which the [[sin]] and corruption of all mankind make so necessary.
----
'''Chapter''' 5
The Jewish nation supplicating the [[Divine]] favour.
Lam. 5:1-16 Is any afflicted? Let him pray; and let him in [[prayer]] pour out his complaint to [[God]]. The people of [[God]] do so here; they complain not of evils feared, but of evils felt. If penitent and patient under what we suffer for the sins of our fathers, we may expect that He who punishes, will return in [[mercy]] to us. They acknowledge, Woe unto us that we have sinned! All our woes are owing to our own [[sin]] and folly. Though our sins and [[God]]'s just displeasure cause our sufferings, we may [[hope]] in his [[pardon]] ing [[mercy]], his sanctifying grace, and his kind providence. But the sins of a man's whole life will be punished with vengeance at last, unless he obtains an interest in Him who bare our sins in his own body on the tree.
Lam. 5:17-22 The people of [[God]] express deep concern for the ruins of the temple, more than for any other of their calamities. But whatever changes there are on earth, [[God]] is still the same, and remains for ever wise and holy, just and good; with Him there is no variableness nor shadow of turning. They earnestly pray to [[God]] for [[mercy]] and grace; Turn us to thee, O [[Lord]]. [[God]] never leaves any till they first leave him; if he turns them to him in a way of duty, no doubt he will quickly return to them in a way of [[mercy]]. If [[God]] by his [[grace]] renew our hearts, he will by his favour renew our days. Troubles may cause our hearts to be faint, and our eyes to be dim, but the way to the [[mercy]]-seat of our reconciled [[God]] is open. Let us, in all our trials, put our whole trust and confidence in his [[mercy]]; let us confess our sins, and pour out our hearts before him. Let us watch against repinings and despondency; for we surely know, that it shall be well in the end with all that trust in, fear, love, and serve the [[Lord]]. Are not the [[Lord]]'s judgments in the earth the same as in Jeremiah's days? Let [[Zion]] then be remembered by us in our [[prayer]]s, and her welfare be sought above every earthly joy. Spare, [[Lord]], spare thy people, and give not thine heritage to reproach, for the heathen to rule over them.
{{mhc bottom}}
