Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible

having spoken largely of the kingdom of providence. And here is the first time that we meet with the name MESSIAH, or his Anoint ...

The call which Divine grace designs shall be made effectual; will be repeated till it is so, till we come to the call. Eli, perc ...

instead of submitting, they speak angrily, as not aware of any just provocation they had given him. The foolishness of man perve ...

See the ark's triumph over Dagon. Thus the kingdom of Satan will certainly fall before the kingdom of Christ, error before truth ...

Verses 10–18 These two kine knew their owner, their great Owner, whom Hophin and Phinehas knew not. God's providence takes notic ...

Verses 5, 6 Israel drew water and poured it out before the Lord; signifying their humiliation and sorrow for sin. They pour out ...

perverted judgment. What added to the grievance of the people was, that they were threatened by an invasion from Nahash, king of ...

advice. Wherever we are, we should use our opportunities of acquainting ourselves with those who are wise and good. Many will co ...

Verses 1–8 The sacred anointing, then used, pointed at the great Messiah, or Anointed One, the King of the church, and High Prie ...

Chapter Outline Jabesh-gilead delivered. (1–11) Saul confirmed in his kingdom. (12–15) Verses 1–11 The first fruit of Saul's gov ...

The work of ministers is to reason with people; not only to exhort and direct, but to persuade, to convince men's judgments, and ...

often led into folly. The chief advantages of the enemies of the church are derived from the misconduct of its professed friends ...

Verses 1–15 Saul seems to have been quite at a loss, and unable to help himself. Those can never think themselves safe who see t ...

Verses 47–52 Here is a general account of Saul's court and camp. He had little reason to be proud of his royal dignity, nor had ...

thing else makes it evil in the sight of the Lord; it is disobedience: “Thou didst not obey the voice of the Lord.” Carnal, dece ...

was to condemn the world, yet he gave full assurance that he came peaceably, for he came to sacrifice, and he brought his offeri ...

and goes to meet him. (40–47) He kills Goliath. (48–58) Verses 1–11 Men so entirely depend upon God in all things, that when he ...

Verses 48–58 See how frail and uncertain life is, even when a man thinks himself best fortified; how quickly, how easily, and by ...

For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectfu ...

Chapter 20 Chapter Outline David consults Jonathan. (1–10) Jonathan's covenant with David. (11–23) Saul, missing David, seeks to ...