Homilist Ezekiel 34:29 And I will raise up for them a plant of renown, and they shall be no more consumed with hunger in the land… Christ is frequently spoken of as a tree, a branch, a root, a stem, a rod, a lily, a rose. But the word plant has a signification somewhat different. What we plant we cultivate, sow the seed maybe, watch the growth, and tend in its maturity. And the plant here spoken of would refer to the human work and human nature of our Lord, arranged and developed by Divine wisdom. I. THE SEED WAS SOWN IN THE ETERNAL COUNSELS OF GOD. We know that the purpose existed before the world was formed. There was the sowing of the plant. II. THE GROWING. The plant started above the soil when man fell. Its green leaves showed themselves when the promise was given as to the seed of the woman which was to bruise the serpent's head. III. THE DEVELOPING. In teaching, symbol, ritual, prophecy, the light gradually dawned. IV. THE BLOSSOMING. When Christ came visibly into the world, He "blossomed like a rose." His words were as fragrance. His acts of mercy and love beautified the earth, and filled all nations with their beauty. V. THE FRUIT BEARING. The plant flowered, and apparently withered when Christ was put to death. But out of that very fact we see the result of ripened seed — "The flower abideth alone, except it die," and Christ's death caused the seed to be scattered abroad, which should cause the whole world to bloom. The seed of life, joy, hope. VI. THE HONOUR GIVING ETERNAL GLORY. "A Plant of renown." It is not a mere passing, fading, temporary, useless growth. It is renowned for its beauty — the essence of the Father's glory; for its usefulness — the covert and shelter of all people; for its continuance — it shall never fade; for its fruitfulness — it shall nourish all mankind. Happy is the man who finds shelter and rest in Him. (Homilist.) Parallel Verses KJV: And I will raise up for them a plant of renown, and they shall be no more consumed with hunger in the land, neither bear the shame of the heathen any more. |
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