Ezra 7:23 Whatever is commanded by the God of heaven, let it be diligently done for the house of the God of heaven… It is remarkable that some of the richest effusions of poetry in the whole Scriptures proceeded from heathen monarchs, e.g., Darius and Nebuchadnezzar. Consider these words — I. IN REFERENCE TO THE JEWISH CHURCH. 1. The state of the Jewish Church at this time is not unlike to that in which it was in the days of Ezra. It is impossible to behold them in their religious services, and not to see how thick s veil is yet upon their hearts. Nor do they manifest any respect for their own law in its sublimer precepts. Of real holiness of heart and life they are ignorant in the extreme. 2. But to us is given, no less than to Ezra, a command to advance their welfare. 3. In this work we should engage with all diligence (Romans 11:30, 31). II. IN REFERENCE TO THE CHURCH WHICH IS AMONGST US. 1. We need to have God's work advanced in our midst. 2. We ought to engage in this work with our whole hearts. Conclusion :We ought to obey this imperial mandate — 1. In a way of personal reformation. 2. In a way of ministerial exertion. (C. Simeon, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: Whatsoever is commanded by the God of heaven, let it be diligently done for the house of the God of heaven: for why should there be wrath against the realm of the king and his sons? |
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