from Babylon, is pointed out in the prophecy, but the restoration and happy state of Israel and
Judah, when converted to Christ their King, are foretold; also the miseries of the nations before the
coming of Christ. All men must honour the Son as they honour the Father, and come into the service
and worship of God by him. Our gracious Lord pardons the sins of the believer, and breaks off the
yoke of sin and Satan, that he may serve God without fear, in righteousness and true holiness before
him all the remainder of his days, as the redeemed subject of Christ our King.
Jer. 30:12-17 When God is against a people, who will be for them? Who can be for them, so
as to do them any kindness? Incurable griefs are owing to incurable lusts. Yet, though the captives
suffered justly, and could not help themselves, the Lord intended to appear for them, and to punish
their oppressors; and he will still do so. But every effort to heal ourselves must prove fruitless, so
long as we neglect the heavenly Advocate and sanctifying Spirit. The dealings of His grace with
every true convert, and every returning backslider, are the same in effect as his proceedings to the
Jews.
Jer. 30:18-24 We have here further intimations of the favour of God for them after the days of
their calamity have expired. The proper work and office of Christ, as Mediator, is to draw near unto
God, for us, as the High Priest of our profession. His own undertaking, in compliance with his
Father's will, and in compassion to fallen man, engaged him. Jesus Christ was, in all this, truly
wonderful. They shall be taken again into covenant with the Lord, according to the covenant made
with their fathers. "I will be your God:" it is his good-will to us, which is the summary of that part
of the covenant. The wrath of God against the wicked is very terrible, like a whirlwind. The purposes
of his wrath, as well as the purposes of his love, will all be fulfilled. God will comfort all that turn
to him; but those who approach him must have their hearts engaged to do it with reverence, devotion,
and faith. How will they escape who neglect so great salvation?
Chapter 31
The restoration of Israel. (Jer. 31:1-9) Promises of guidance and happiness; Rachel lamenting.
(Jer. 31:10-17) Ephraim laments his errors. (Jer. 31:18-20) The promised Saviour. (Jer. 31:21-26)
God's care over the church. (Jer. 31:27-34) Peace and prosperity in gospel time. (Jer. 31:35-40)
Jer. 31:1-9 God assures his people that he will again take them into covenant relation to himself.
When brought very low, and difficulties appear, it is good to remember that it has been so with the
church formerly. But it is hard under present frowns to take comfort from former smiles; yet it is
the happiness of those who, through grace, are interested in the love of God, that it is an everlasting
love, from everlasting in the counsels, to everlasting in the continuance. Those whom God loves
with this love, he will draw to himself, by the influences of his Spirit upon their souls. When praising
God for what he has done, we must call upon him for the favours his church needs and expects.
When the Lord calls, we must not plead that we cannot come; for he that calls us, will help us, will
strengthen us. The goodness of God shall lead them to repentance. And they shall weep for sin with