Wesley Corpus

Chapter III This chapter has been partly fulfilled in the several deliverances of the Jews, and will have its full accomplishment at the great day. It contains a prophecy of God reckoning with the enemies of his people, ver. 1 - 8. Of his openly judging all nations, ver. 9 - 17. And of the provision he has made for his people, ver. 18 - 21. In those days - When I shall by Cyrus bring Judah out of Babylon. Of Judah - As the type of the whole remnant that are saved. And Jerusalem - For beside what refers to the two tribes restored by Cyrus, the bringing back the captivity of the whole Israel of God by Christ is to be considered all along through this chapter. All nations - In the type it is all those nations that have oppressed Judah, in the anti - type, all nations that have been enemies to Christ and the church. Into the valley of Jehoshaphat - I will debate my people's cause, and do them right in the midst of my church, signified by the valley of Jehoshaphat. Parted my land - Such is the injustice of the persecutors of the church now, and so God will judge them in due time. Cast lots - It was customary with conquerors to divide the captives by lot, and so did these enemies of the Jews. Yea - Have I done you any wrong, which you avenge upon my people Or do you begin to violate the laws of neighbourhood and friendship, and think to escape Do ye think you have to do with a poor opprest people, my people, and I nothing concerned at it Palestine - On which were towns of trade, and merchants that bought and sold these captives. A recompence - Have I or my people so dealt with you And if - If you will deal thus, I will speedily avenge myself and my people of you. Taken - Either as part of the spoil, or as part of your pay. My silver - Silver and gold vessels dedicated to my service. Remove them - That there might be no hope of their return to their country.