CHAP. II.
A figurative description of the locusts, as a mighty army, sent forth to ravage the land, 1-11. Earnest calls to public fasting, prayer, and repentance, 12-17. Promises of manifold blessings, 18-27. Predictions of the pouring out of the Spirit, under the gospel; and of subsequent events, 28-32.
LOW ye the trumpet in Zion,
shall be any more after it, even to the years oft many generations.
3 A fire devoureth before them; and behind them a flame burneth: 1 the land is as the garden of Eden before them, mand behind them a desolate wilderness: yea,
and sound an alarm in my holy and nothing shall escape them.
mountain; d let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the LORD cometh, for it is nigh at hand.
2 A day of darkness and of gloominess, a day of clouds and of thick darkness, as the morning spread upon the mountains: ba great people and a strong: there hath not been ever the like, neither
a 15. Num. 10:3,8. Jer. 4:5. Hos. 8:1.
Or, cornet. 1 Chr. 15.28. Hos. 5:8.
b Num. 10:5-7,9. Ez. 33:3,6. Am. 3:6. Zeph. 1:16.
c 3:17. Ps. 87:1. Dan. 9:16,20. Zeph. 3:11. Zech, 8:3.
d Ezra 9:3,4. Ps. 119:120. Is. 66:2,5. Jer. 5:22. 10:7,10, Dan. 6:26. Phil. 2:12.
e 1:15. Is. 2:12. Ez. 7:5-7,10,
multitude, to confess their sins, to bow down before God, and to pour out their prayers unto him, are proper means of averting national calamities. And though many will observe them formally, or wholly neglect them; yet God will hear the united prayers of the remnant of his servants, and often for their sakes rescue a guilty nation from impending destruction. They, who would excite other men to such duties, must take the lead in them, as being greatly affected and desirous of affecting all around them. Thus individuals will find the comfort of acceptance with God, whatever may become of nations which proceed to greater ungodliness; and they will enjoy their gracious recompense, when the wicked, and all their possessions, shall be burnt up with the righteous indignation of "our God, who is a consuming fire." ( Heb . 12:29.)
NOTES.
4 The appearance of them is as the appearance of horses; and as horsemen, so shall they run.
5 Like the noise of chariots on the
tops of mountains shall they leap, P like the
noise of a flame of fire that devoureth the
stubble, as q a strong people set in battle
array.
m 1:4-7. Ex. 10:5,15. Jer. 5: Heb. pot . 17. Zech. 7:14.
tudes of the locusts, which have often been known to obscure the sun at noon-day, and to render the regions through which they pass, for the time, more dark and dismal, than during the night: or it may describe the state of the people's minds, which were filled with a horror little short of despair. This darkness and hor- ror would result from the invasion of a mighty nation, attended with such effects, as the Jews had never before witnessed, and such as would not occur again for many ages. The progress of this army would resemble that of a confla- gration: the lands, on which they had not en- tered, appeared verdant and fruitful, even as the garden of Eden; but they would make such entire destruction wherever they went, as to leave every place behind them like a barren wilderness. ( Marg . and Marg . Ref . f. h. k-m. Notes , 10,11,18--20,25. 1:5--7. Gen. 13:10-12. 19:24,25. Hos . 9:11--14. 11:8-11.),
Ever the like . (2) 'The locusts which plagued Egypt are described after the same manner. ( Ex . 10:14.)--In both places we are to take it 'as a proverbial expression, to set forth the ex'traordinary greatness of the judgment, and 'not to understand it too strictly, according to 'the grammatical sense of the words.' Lowth. ( Marg . Ref . i.-- Note , Ex . 10:6.)
CHAP. II. V. 1-3. The priests were directed to blow the trumpets at the temple; and to alarm the people, who assembled there, with the prospect of the near approach of the judgments before predicted; ( Notes , 1:4-12,1620.) that the report might thence be diffused throughout the whole laud, and all the inhabitants might tremble at God's word, and be induced to repent and deprecate his displeasure. ( Marg . and Marg . Ref . a-d.- Notes , 15-17. Num . 10:2-10. Hos . 8:1.) For the Lord was about to execute judgment on a guilty nation, as on a solemn day of vengeance. ( Marg .
Ref . e.-See on Note , 1:14,15.)-The visitation by the locusts seems to have been primarily intended: but the calamities preceding, attending, and following the destruction of the city by the Chaldeans, might also be referred to. This approaching "day of the LORD" would be "a day of darkness, a day of clouds, and of thick darkness, as the morning spread upon the mountains:" its light would resemble the faint glimmering of the dawn, which appears on the eastern mountains, and just deducts from the V. 6.
Not paleness , which may be occasionmidnight-darkness, that obscures the earth in led by sickness, or fainting, or slighter terror; gloomy and cloudy weather. )שחר. Notes : but "blackness," like that of the countenances 20.) This may refer to the immense multi- of those who are expiring in convulsions, or
V.4, 5. It has been often observed, that locusts greatly resemble horses in the shape of their heads: the impetuosity also of the progress made by these ravagers would be like that of horsemen; their noise, heard at the distance of several miles, would be as tremendous as that of chariots of war rattling over the mountains, or like that of a vehement fire consuming combustibles with great crackling and fury; and their progress at the same time so regular, that they would resemble a well disciplined army upon the march, or attacking the enemy. - Many have with admiration observed this to be the case with the immense flights of locusts, which often ravage those eastern regions. ( Marg . Ref . o, р. Notes , 7-9. Rev. 9:7-10, v . 9.)
7 They shall run like mighty men: d the day of the Lord is great and very
they shall climb the wall like men of war; and they shall march every one on his ways, and they shall not break their ranks:
8 Neither shall one thrust another; they shall walk every one in his path: and when they fall upon the *sword they shall not be wounded.
9 They shall run to and fro in the city; they shall run upon the wall, they shall climb up upon the houses; they shall enter in at the windows like a thief.
10 The earth shall quake before them: the heavens shall tremble: " the sun and the moon shall be dark, and the stars shall withdraw their shining:
11 And the Lord shall a utter his voice before his army, for his camp is very great:
terrible, and who can abide it?
[ Practical Observations.]
12 Therefore also now saith the LORD, Turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning:
13 Andhrend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: * for he is gracious and merciful, 1 slow to anger, and of great kindness, m and repent
eth him of the evil.
14 Who knoweth if he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him; even a meat-offering and a drink-offering unto the LORD your God?
d Jer. 30:7. Am. 5:18,20. Zeph. 1:15.
e Num. 24:23. Nah. 1:6. Mal. 3:2. Rev. 6:17.
for he is strong that executeth his word; for f Deut. 4:29,30. 1 Sam. 7:3. 1
whose blood is suspended from circulation by some inward or outward violence. The extremity of horror and anguish is intended. ( Marg . and Marg . Ref . Note , Jer. 8:21,22, v . 21.)
Kings 8:47-49. 2 Chr. 6:38, 39. 7.13,14. Is. 55:6,7. Jer. 4: 1. 29:12,13. Hos. 6:1. 12:6. 14:1. Zech. 1:3,4. Acts 26:20. g Judg. 20:26. 1 Sam. 7:6.2 Chr. 20:3,4. Neh. 9:1,2. Is. 22:12. Jon. 3:5-8. Zech. 7: 3,5. 12:10-14. Jam. 4:8,9. h 2 Kings 22:19. Ps. 34:18. 51: 17. Is. 57:15. 66:2. Ez. 9:4. Matt. 5:3,4.
2 Kings 5:7. 6:30. 22:11. Job 1:20. Is. 58:5. Matt. 6:16-18. 1 Tim. 4:8.
k Ex. 34:6,7. Num. 14:18,19. Ps. 86:5,15. 145:7-9. Mic. 7: 18. Rom. 2:4. 5:20,21. Eph. 2:4. 1 Neh. 9:17. Ps. 103:8. Nah. 1:3. Jam. 1:19,20.
m Ps. 106:45. Jer. 18:7,8. Am. 7:2-6. Jon. 4:2.
n Ex. 32:30. 1 Sam. 6:5. 2 Sam. 12:22. 2 Kings 19:4. Am. 5:15. Jon.1:6. 3:9. Zeph. 2:3. 2 Tim.
2:25.
o Is. 65:8. Hag. 2:19. 2 Cor. 9:5-11. marg.
i Gen. 37:29,34. 1 Kings 21:27. 1:9,13,16 م.
to give them the victory, and powerfully execute his word. His "day would be very terrible, and who could abide it?" To this question, the answer doubtless would be, 'None 'but those who had previously sought refuge 'in his mercy by penitent faith and prayer. The language here used may well be supposed descriptive of the destruction of Jerusalem, and the desolations of the land by the Chaldeans; and it will have a literal accomplishment at the end of the world. ( Marg . Ref . y-a.- Notes , 1-3,25. 3:9-17, v . 15. 2 Sam . 22:7-16. Is . 13: 9,10. Jer . 4:19--23. Matt . 24:29-31. Rev. 6:12
V. 7-9. The particles of similitude here, 'and in the fourth and fifth verses, shew that 'real locusts are described, and not the Assyri'an army. Bp . Newcombe. This we lately 'saw, in our part of the country: for when 'swarms of locusts came, and filled the lower 'region of the air, they flew in such order, by 'the divine appointment, and kept their places 'as exactly, as when several tiles or party---17.) The time of God's particular judgments, 'colored stones are skilfully placed in a pave- 'as well as that of his general one, is common
'ly expressed by "the day of the LORD," the 'former being an earnest and imperfect repre'sentation of the latter.' Lowth .
'ment, so as not to be an hair's breadth out of 'their several ranks.... Every place lies open 'to them, for they infect, not only the fields 'and the fruits of the earth; but creep into 'cities, houses, and the most secret recesses.' Jerome in Lowth . By reason of their nimble-ple to the only method, in which they could
'ness, and the outward coat of their skin being 'so hard and smooth, no offensive weapon can 'touch them.' Lowth . ( Marg . Ref . )
V. 10, 11. This strong figurative language denotes the universal consternation and commotion, which these judgments would excite. Even the kings, princes, and priests would be filled with horror, and betray the utmost signs of trepidation: the whole land and all orders of men would be agitated, as by the most tremendous earthquakes, and all that commotion of the elements which attends those destructive convulsions. The authority and influence of the rulers and great men would be suspended, and the constitution unhinged; as if "the sun and moon should be darkened, and the stars should withdraw their shining;" in which case the natural world would be reduced to the utmost confusion, and chaos would return again. In like manner, on this occasion the
V. 12--14. From these predictions God, by his prophet, took occasion to exhort the peo
hope to avert his judgments, or to be recovered from the fatal effects of them. Let them "turn to him with all their heart, and with fasting, and weeping," for their sins: let them not be satisfied with the customary tokens of humiliation, such as rending their garments; for this would be vain, except their hearts were broken in self-abasement and self-abhorrence, godly sorrow, unfeigned contrition, ntrition, and resolute separation from their sins. ( Marg . Ref . fi.- Notes , 1:13--16. 1 Sam . 7:3--12. 2 Chr . 20: 3,4. Ps . 51:17. Is . 1:16-20. Jer . 4:1-4,14. Ez . 18:30--32. Hos . 14:1--4. Jam. 4:7--10.)-То encourage them thus "to turn to the LORD" and his service, Joel reminded them that h was "slow to anger, and of great kindness,' even to the most atrocious offenders; and "ready to forgive" their sins, and to put a stop to the progress of his judgments, when they humbled themselves before him. ( Marg . Ref.
whole of the Jewish nation, and its govern-k--m.--Notes, Ex. 34:5--7. Num . 14:13--19, ment, would be reduced to confusion and ου. 18,19. Ps . 86:3-5, υ. 5,14,15. 103:6--9. Jon. darkness. For the Lord was about to muster 4:1--4, v. 2. Mic . 7:18--20.) There could then his great army, to lead them on to the assault, be no doubt of his forgiving every true peni
159 Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly,
16 Gather the people, sanctify the congregation, 'assemble the elders, gather the children, and those that suck the breasts: " let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet.
17 Let the priests, the ministers of the LORD, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, a Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: d wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?
q 1. Num. 10.3.
r 1:14. 1 Kings 21:9,12. 2 Kings 10:20. marg. Jer. 36:9.
8 Ex. 19:10,15. Josh. 7:13. 1 Sam. 16:5. 2 Chr. 29:5,23,24. 30:17,19. 35:6. Job 1:5, 11:14. Deut. 29:10,11. 2 Chr. 20:13. Jon. 3:7,8.
u Zech. 12:11-14. Matt, 9:15. 1 Cor. 7:5.
1:9,13.
y 1 Kings 6:3. 2 Chr. 8:12. Ez. 8:16. Matt. 23:35.
z Hos. 14:2.
a Ex. 32:12,13. 34:9. Deut. 9: 16-29. Is. 37:20. 64:9-12. Dan. 9:18,19. Am. 7.2,5. Mal. 1:9.
b Ps. 44:10-14. 74:10,18-23. 79:4. 89:41,51. Ez. 36.4-7. c Neh. 9:36,37. Is. 63:17-19. * Or, use a bye-word against them. Deut. 28:37. 1 Kings 9:7. 2 Chr. 7:20. Ps. 44:14.
d Num. 14:14-16. Deut. 32:27. Ps. 42:10. 79:10. 115:2. Ez. 20:9. Mic. 7:10. Matt. 27:43.
tent: and who knew, whether he might not return to them as a nation, and avert the public calamities which were otherwise coming upon them? At least they might hope, that he would mitigate the severity of the judgment, and leave part of the fruits of the earth, as "a blessing" for them, after the locusts had finished their depredations; out of which they might present before him a meat-offering, and a drink-offering; that he might not lose the honor, nor they the comfort and benefit, of their solemn worship. This also instructed them what part of the calamity ought most to afflict them. ( Marg . Ref . n-p.- Notes , 1:13--16. Jon . 3:5--9, ν. 9.)
V. 15-17. The priests and rulers were again, and more particularly and earnestly,
18 Then will the Lord be jealous for his land, and pity his people.
19 Yea, the Lord will answer and say unto his people, Behold, & I will send you corn, and wine, and oil, band ye shall be satisfied therewith: and I will no more make you a reproach among the heathen:
20 But I will remove far off from you the northern army , and will drive him into a land barren and desolate, with his face toward the east sea, and his hinder part toward the utmost sea; and his stink shall come up, and his ill savor shall come up, because he hath t done great things. 21
Fear not,
e Is. 42:13. Zech. 1:14. 8:2. f Deut. 32-36,43. Judg. 10:16. Ps. 103:13,17. Is. 60:10. 63:9, 15. Jer. 31:20. Lam. 3:22. Hos. 11:8,9, Luke 15:20. Jam. 5:11.
g 24. 1:10. Is. 62:8,9. 65:21- 24. Hos. 2:15. Am. 9:13,14. Hag. 2:16-19. Mal. 3:10- 12. Matt. 6:33.
h 26.
i Ez. 34:29. 36:15. 39:29. k 2-11. 1:4-6. Ex. 10:19.
O land: be glad
1 Jer. 1:14.
mously inquire, what was become of Israel's God and Protector. ( Marg . and Marg . Ref. x-d.- Notes , Ps. 44:9-16. 79:8-13.) -This has been considered as an intimation, that other calamities, besides that of the locusts, were intended in these predictions.
V. 18--20. Whenever the elders, priests, and people of Israel should thus "turn unto the LORD;" they would find him "jealous for" the honor of that land, where his temple stood and his name was worshipped, and ready to rescue it from famine, and the oppressions of idolaters: and he would be compassionate to the miseries of his people, though brought upon them by their sins. They would then receive encouraging answers to their prayers, assuring them of an abundant supply of all their wants,
excited to announce the observance of a sol-and of every thing conducive to the enjoy
emn fast, to be kept as a holy day to the LORD. ( Note , 1:14,15.) Let them convene the congregation of Israel into the courts of the temple, and prepare the people by external purifications and proper instructions, for the profitable solemnizing of the day. (Marg. Ref . s.- Note , Ex . 19:10--15.) Not only the elders and the grown people, but even the children and the sucking infants, must be present, as a part of the congregation, that the consideration of the calamities, in which they would be involved, might the more affect the minds of the parents.
Newly married persons, also, forgetful of the concerns and satisfactions peculiar to their situation, must be wholly engaged in the public humiliation and lamentation of their people. ( Marg . Ref . t, u.- . Notes , Deut . 29:10-12. 2 Chr . 20:13.
Zech . 12:9--14, υυ . 12-14. 1 Cor. 7:1--5, v. 5.) "The priests," as "the ministers of God," were to take the lead: and standing between the porch of the temple and the altar of burnt-offering, where they might most conveniently be seen and heard, they were required to weep for the sins and troubles of the nation, and to beseech the Lord "to spare his people and heritage," though deserving of punishment; and not to let them be ut
ment of life; nor would he again suffer the heathen to insult over them. He would also drive away the vast army of locusts, which from the north had invaded the land, into the deserts betwixt the southern extremity of the Dead Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, where they should die: and no effect of their ravages should remain, except the stench occasioned by the putrefying of so immense a quantity of insects; though they had done and threatened such immense mischief. ( Marg . and Marg .
Ref . ) Jerome relates, ... that in his own time, 'the heaps of locusts which were driven by the 'winds into the sea, afterwards putrefied upon 'the shore, and so corrupted the air as to bring 'a pestilence.' Lowth .--"The locusts in Langue'doc were about an inch in length, of a grey 'color.
The earth in some places was covered 'four inches thick with them, in the morning 'before the heat of the sun was considerable: 'but as soon as it began to grow hot, they took 'wing and fell upon the corn, eating up both leaf and ear; and that with such expedition, 'by reason of their number, that in three hours 'they would devour a whole field. After which 'they again took wing, and their swarms were 'so thick, that they covered the sun like a cloud,
terly ruined by famine, and thus left enfeebled 'and were whole hours in passing.... After and destitute, to be reproached, insulted, and 'having eaten up the corn they fell upon the enslaved by idolaters; who would blasphe-'vines, the pulse, the willows, and even the
and rejoice: for the LORD will do great things.
22 Be not afraid, ye beasts of the field: for the pastures of the wilderness do spring, for the tree beareth her fruit, the fig-tree and the vine do yield their strength.
23 Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and a rejoice in the LORD your God: for he hath given you * the former raint moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month .
24 And d the floors shall be full of wheat, and the fats shall overflow with wine and oil.
25 And I will restore to you the years * that the locust hath eaten, the cankers 20. Deut. 4:32. 1 Sam. 12: | 61:10. Hab. 3:17,18. Zeph. 16,24. Ps. 71:19. 126:2. Jer. 3:14-17. Zech. 9:9. Luke 1: 33:3. 46,47. Phil. 3:1,3. 4:4.
t 1:18-20. Ps. 36:6. 104:11- 14,27-29. 145:15,16. 147:8,9. Is. 30:23,24. Jon. 4:11.
u 1:19. Ps. 65:12. Is. 51:3. x Lev. 26:4,5. Ps. 67:6. 107:35 -38. Ez. 34:26,27. 36:8,30, 35. Hos. 14:5-7. Am. 9:14, 15. Hag. 2:16-20. Zech. 8: 12. Mal. 3:10-12.
y Gen. 4:12. 1 Cor. 3:7.
z Ps. 149:2. Lam. 4:2. Zech. 9:13. Gal. 4:26,27.
a Ps. 28:7. 32:11. 33:1. 95:13. 104:34. Is. 12:2-6, 41:16.
Or, a teacher of righteousness. 28,29. Deut. 32:2. Job 33:23. Ps. 72:6,7. Is. 30:21,23. Eph. 4:8-11.
Heb. according to righteous
ness.
b Lev. 26:4. Deut. 11:14. 28: 12. Prov. 16:15. Jer. 3:3. Hos. 6:3. Zech. 10:1. Jam. 5:7,8.
c Am. 4:7.
d 3:13,18. Lev. 26:10. Prov. 3:9,10. Am. 9:13. Mal. 3:10. e 2-11. 1:4-7. Zech. 10:6.
'hemp, notwithstanding its great bitterness. 'After this these insects died, and stank very 'much.' Philosophical Trans .
'troduction to the promise which follows. (28)' Lowth . The first month answered to the latter part of March and the former part of April; and the latter rain, at this season served to fill the ear, and prepare the corn for the sickle.-The barley-harvest seems to have generally begun in the first month; but the wheat-harvest was later. ( Marg . and Marg . Ref . b-d.- Note , Jer . 3:2,3.)
V. 25. The great abundance of the plentiful years should replenish the granaries and storehouses, which had been emptied in the years of famine. ( Notes , 1:4-11,17,18.)
My great army.] (Note, 10,11.) 'We have 'here a key to the grand and beautiful descrip'tion, which runs through these two chapters. '... Every reader of taste must be struck with 'the poetical and sublime manner in which the 'allegory is conducted. There is not a more 'splendid piece of poetry extant.' Bp. New combe . ( Marg . Ref . f-h.)
V. 21-24. The land had been represented, by a bold figure, as mourning over its desolations, and the beasts as groaning and even crying to the Lord, because of their sufferings: ( Notes , 1:10,17-20.) and here the promises of returning plenty and prosperity, are introduced by a poetical address to the land, and to the cattle. ( Marg . Ref . q, r. t.)-As the locusts had done great things in destroying the fruits of the earth, "the LORD would do great things" in rendering the fields and pastures abundantly fruitful. ( Marg . Ref. s.-Notes, Num . 23:23.
Ps . 126:1-3. 2 Thes. 1:5-10, v. 10.) The cattle would speedily be supplied with plenty; for "the pastures of the wilderness," or of those parts of the country which were least populous and cultivated, began already to spring; and the fruit-trees to put forth their several valuable productions: so that instead of sorrow and fear, V. 26, 27.
The primary meaning of this the land and its inhabitants, and the beasts of prophecy is clear: but several ex expressions in the field, would soon exult for joy and glad- these verses so accord to those used in respect ness.-'As the cattle had their share in the of the deliverance of the Jews from captivity 'dearth; so now they shall receive comfort in their subsequent prosperity and security, and 'the return of plenty. Lowth . ( Marg . Ref . u- the prevalence pr of true religion among them; y.-Ps. 65:9-13.
Is . 30:23-25.) "The chil- that it is not unreasonable to suppose, that the dren of Zion," however, ought not only to re- former part of the prophecy contained, under joice in the temporal abundance bestowed on the primary meaning, a prediction of t them, but "in the LORD their God;" consider- lations made by the Chaldeans; and the latter ing him as the Giver of all their comforts, and part, under the primary meaning, a prediction using them to his glory. ( Marg . Ref . a. - Notes , of the blessings in reserve for the nation, after Hab . 3:17-19. Zeph . 3:14-17.
Luke 1:46-55, 1:46- their return from captivity, till the coming υν. 46,47.) "The season for "the former rain," Christ, and also after their conversion to him. 'was about the middle of our October.... The (Notes, Ez. 34:23-31. 36:20-38. 39:21-29.
'Hebrew word, rendered "moderately," moderately," signi- Hos . 3:4,5.)-'My 3:4 people shall not be disap'fies "according "according to to righteousness," righteousness," and and is is equiv equiv- 'pointed point of the trust they place in me; nor be 'alent with "according according to to judgn judgment," ( Jer . ( Jer . 10: 10: 'reproached by by the heathen, as if I had forsak24.) or "in measure." (30:11.) ... Our margin 'en them.' Lowth . ( Marg . ( Marg .
Ref . f . i, i, k. m. - Note , righteousness;" which Is . 45:15-17, v. 17.)-And none else. (27) 'sense is followed by the Chaldee paraphrast, Marg . Ref . ast, Marg . Ref . 1.-Notes, Is. 44:6-8.45:20'and the vulgar Latin, and may be a proper in- 22.
of the deso
29 And also upon the servants and upon || great and the terrible day of the LORD the handmaids in those days will I pour out come. my Spirit.
30 And I will shew wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke.
31 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the
V. 28-32. The apostle Peter quoted almost the whole of this passage, and it is recorded by the historian nearly as it stands in the Septuagint, ( Note , Acts 2:14-21, vv . 16-21.) in addressing the Jews on the day of Pentecost, as a prediction of those events which then began to take place. St. Paul also quotes part of it, in speaking of the conversion of the gentiles. (Note, Rom . 10:12-17.) After the events before more expressly foretold, or "in the latter days," the times of the Messiah, the LORD promised to pour out his Spirit upon all flesh. Though the Jews only are enumerated, 'there is a latent reference to the effusion of 'the Spirit on the Gentiles also, in the times of 'the gospel-dispensation.' Bp . Newcombe. This promise began to be accomplished on the day of Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit was poured
32 And it shall come to pass, y that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: 2 for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, a and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call.
in the Lord Christ, and calling upon his name. 'For in the church of God only shall salvation 'be had, and deliverance "from the wrath to 'come," which salvation shall lie open, both to 'the believers of the Gentiles, and to the rem'nant of those Jews, whom the Lord shall call.' Bp . Hall . It is evident, that, what is here spoken of "calling on the name of JEHOVAH," is repeatedly in the New Testament applied to "calling on the name of Christ." ( Marg . Ref . y. -Notes , Acts 2:14-21, v . 21. Rom . 10:12-17, vv . 12-14.1 Cor . 1:1,2, v. 2.) And it is remarkable, that those who embraced Christianity, and "honored the Son even as they honored the Father," separated from the unbelieving Jews, before the siege of Jerusalem, and were preserved from the miseries here predicted: while the unbelieving Jews, though they pro
out on the apostles; and on the assembled mul-fessed to "call on the name of the LORD,"
titude, of whom great numbers were converted: and it was continued in the converting grace and supernatural gifts, conferred on the Jews and Gentiles through many nations. Then "the sons and daughters" of the Jews became prophets, and exercised many miraculous powers; both old and young men were favored with prophetic dreams and visions; and even servants and hand-maidens, though in a state of slavery, were made partakers of the sanctifying grace and the extraordinary gifts of the Holy Spirit. Spirit. But it is is predicted, that about that time God would begin to shew signs of his awful displeasure against against the Jew
were overwhelmed by them: "for he that honoreth not the Son, honoreth not the Father." He "that hath not the Son, hath not the Father;" and 'the Supreme Being,' which is worshipped by those, who refuse adoration to ExMANUEL, is not the true God, "the God of Abraham," "the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ;" but an idol, the creature of vain man's reasonings and imaginations.
I will pour out , &c. (28) ( Marg . Ref . n-q.) In this prophecy of the "pouring out of the Spirit," express and particular mention is made of miraculous and prophetical gifts, as largely bestowed on young and old, bond and free,
ish nation: and that extraordinary appearan-nay Jew and Gentile; which fixes the fulfilces, in the heavens and upon the earth, would ment of it to the day of Pentecost, and the subbe presages of the approaching destruction of sequent times. ( Notes , Acts 2:14-21, υυ . 16,17, Jerusalem and the dissolution of the ecclesias-||33--36. 6:2--6, ν . 6,8. 8:5--8,14--17. 10:44--48, υυ . tical and political estate of the Jews; which 45-47.21:7-14, v. 9.) But in other instances, would be attended with immense bloodshed, in which the "pouring out of the Spirit" is pre
terrible conflagrations, and "pillars of sinoke," such as ascend from the flames of burning cities. Then would "the sun and moon be darkened," or be "turned into blood:" this foretold, either the tremendous appearances in the heavens which preceded these calamities; or the total unhinging of the Jewish constitution, the subversion of all rule and authority in church and state, and those terrible intestine convulsions and massacres, which made way for the final destruction of the city and temple, by the just judgment of God, who on that great and terrible day of vengeance, poured his wrath on the devoted Jews by the hands of the Romans. ( Marg . Ref . u, x.-See on Note , 10, 11.-.Notes, Is . 24:23. Mal . 3:1-4. 4:1. Matt . 24:29-31. Mark 13:24-31. Luke 21:20-28.) But in the midst of all these calamities, there would be deliverance and salvation for all, who should "call upon the name of the LORD." -'This St. Paul ( Rom . 10:13.) explains of those,
dicted; and which are either general, or may be interpreted of later ages, and even events yet future; miraculous powers are not explicitly mentioned. ( Notes , Prov. 1:21-23. Is . 32: 15.44:3-5.59:20,21. Ez . 36:25-27.39:23-29, v. 29. Zech. 12:9-14, ν. 9.) May not this intimate, that miraculous powers will not be given, in the future grand triumphs of Christianity, any more than in the partial revivals and successes in these later ages. The complete revelation now vouchsafed, vouchsafed, connected with the astonishing fulfilment of ancient prophe. cies; accompanied by the pouring out of the "Spirit of grace and supplications," of regeneration and sanctification, will be abundantly sufficient.
In mount Zion , &c. (32) Marg. Ref . z. Notes , 3:9-17, v . 17,18-21. Is . 2:2-5. 12:4--6. 28:16. Ez . 47:1--10. Zech . 14:6--9, vv . 8,9. Luk 24:44--49, v. 47.--In the remnant, &c.] This seems more immediately to point out the Jews, 'who give themselves up unto Christ, and pro-who embraced Christianity, in the primitive 'fess themselves his disciples. Lowth .-Nei- times: yet it may also include all, whether 'ther is there any way, or means, to escape the Jews or Gentiles, to the end of time, who shall 'terribleness of this judgment, but by believing l be called to the fellowship of our Lord Jesus
Christ. ( Marg . Ref . a.- Notes , Rom . 9:24-29. || greatest comfort. Those who are in authority 11:1-6.)
PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS.
V.1-11.
If the alarm of approaching temporal judgments should, in a distinct and audible man
should use their influence in calling people to observe seasons of public fasting, humiliation, and prayer for national blessings, in times of peril or calamity: ministers ought to instruct the people how they may observe such seasons in a holy manner: men of superior rank
ner, be given to offending nations and church-should sanction them by their attendance on
es, that men may tremble, and seek to avert the impending storm; surely the ministers of the gospel should be very faithful and earnest, in warning sinners to seek deliverance from the wrath to come!-The day of judgment, with its decisive consequences, will soon arrive: but what "a day of darkness and gloominess" will that be, to the impenitent workers of wickedness! And how far will its terror exceed all, that ever was experienced or imagined on earth! Yet those horrors will be but as " the morning," or the entrance on the subsequent endless state of misery and despair.
Our grand business therefore here is to secure an interest in Jesus Christ, and his eternal salvation.The meanest executioners of the wrath of God can soon consume all our outward comforts, and turn an earthly paradise into a dreary wilderness.
We can neither resist, flee away, nor shelter ourselves, when "the LORD mustereth his host for the battle." What then will be the case, when "the heavens and the earth shall pass away with a great noise, the elements shall melt with fervent heat," t," and "the sun, and moon, and stars shall" for ever "withdraw their shining!" Then "the Lord Jesus will be revealed in flaming fire, with his mighty angels," to execute his threatened wrath; and who can abide that great and terrible day?
All temporal calamities therefore should warn us to prepare for this final judgment. (Notes, 2 Thes. 1:5-10. 2 Pet . 3:1013. Rev. 20:11-15.)
V. 12-27.
sacred ordinances: no age, sex, or character should be exempted: all private concerus should be postponed to the public duty: and when the ministers of God lead the service, with fervency and affection, and join weeping with their supplications; the people will be the more earnest in calling on the Lord to "spare his heritage," that his enemies may not rejoice, as if he were not able or willing to protect his worshippers.
Happy is that people, who thus humbly and uprightly seek the Lord! he will be jealous for them and have compassion on them: he will plead their cause, avert his judgments, drive away their enemies, answer their prayers, and supply their wants: and the greatness of those things, which have been done against them, shall only enhance their gratitude for the still greater things that he will do for them.
Indeed, the sons of Zion can never have so great a cause to fear, but they must still have a greater "to rejoice and be glad in the Lord their God:" he "gives grace and glory, and no good thing will he withhold from those that walk uprightly." He gives us all our comforts, and enables us to use them with thankful hearts: and "though he cause grief, yet he will have compassion according to the multitude of his mercies." The wisdom, truth, and love of his dispensations towards us, deserve our highest admiration: he makes us know, by happy experience, that he dwells in the midst of us; and he will never leave his people to be ashamed of their confidence in him.
V. 28-32.
So great is the mercy and grace of our God, that, instead of sternly saying to his rebellious subjects, "Depart from me;" he invites, yea, commands them to turn unto him! But this must be done with our "whole heart," in unreserved and unfeigned repentance, faith, and obedience; with self-abhorrence, hatred of sin, godly sorrow, and humiliation, and mortification even to lawful satisfactions, while engag-solation. No age or description of persons is
ed about so important a concern. But fasting, weeping, and mourning, and every out ward indication of self-abasement, though highly proper, may yet be delusive and hypocritical: so that, a broken and contrite heart is more pleasing to God, than rending garments, wearing sackcloth, and rolling in ashes; and the renunciation of sins, which once were dear to us, is a better proof of repentance, than floods of tears, and most bitter wailings and lamentations.
If we truly humble ourselves before God, we may also take encouragement from the assurance of his mercy and grace; "for he is slow to anger, of great kindness, and ready to forgive." He will certainly save every believer from the final consequences of his transgressions; but it is not equally certain, that he will prevent or remove the painful temporal consequences of them, or immediately "speak peace" to his conscience.
Yet, "who knoweth, but he may thus return," and repent of the evil that was about to come upon us, and give us comfort when we forebode nothing but bitterness? - Whatever the Lord gives, or withholds, or takes away; we should still count it a blessing to have an opportunity of attending on his ordinances; and that portion of our substance, which is employed in his immediate service, will be the source of the
We have at present, no scriptural ground to expect, that God will pour upon us, or our children, the extraordinary gifts of his Spirit, or that they shall see prophetic dreams and visions: yet we may hope and pray for "the pouring out of his Spirit" on us and on ours, as the Author of all holiness, wisdom, and con
excluded from this expectation; and the gifts of our ascended Redeemer are sufficient to render the poorest slave wise, rich, useful, and happy. These sacred influences prepare the soul to meet the Lord: but the neglect or contempt of them shuts up the sinner under aggravated condemnation. The gospel calls men in general to partake of these blessings, and of that salvation, which is revealed and placed in the church: and "whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord" Jesus, as the Son of God and the Savior of sinners, shall be delivered from the wrath to come.
This is the happy case of that remnant of every age and people, whom the Lord calls by his regenerating Spirit: all things shall work together for their good: they may look forwards with comfort for the day, when nature shall expire in convulsions, assured that then their eternal redemption shall be perfected. ( Notes and P. O.
Rom . 8:28-39.) Let us therefore seek for this salvation with all earnestness, that we may rejoice and glory in it; and let us pray for the "pouring out of the Spirit upon all flesh," in still greater abundance than in the primitive times, that the earth may be filled with truth and righteousness; encouraged by that fulfilment of these prophecies and promises, which has beyond doubt already taken place.