Ezekiel 36

Ver. 2, 3, 6. When the Chaldeans, and afterwards the mans, desolated Judea, the Edomites, and other neighbouring Heathens 11 survived the common calamities, made a scorn and by-word of the Jews, and assisted to ruin them, in hopes of getting their country. 25, 26, 29. By my word and spirit I will apply to your souls the blood of Christ for removing the guilt and filth of your iniquities, and will reform you from your idolatry and other wickedness: I will renew your hearts, subdue your indwelling lusts, implant in you new principles of holiness; and by my spirit dwelling and acting in you, will effectually determine and enable you to render a cordial and universal obedience to all my commandments

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XXXVI.—God takes the most compassionate notice of the deplorable condition of his people; and severe are his resentments the insults and injuries done to them. But numerous, and infallible in accomplishment, are his promises of grace towards them. What an honour for our earth to be made serviceable to the people of God, and to be improved by them to the ends of his glory! The kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ is a growing kingdom. Though for a time it be diminished, it quickly recovers, and is replenished. When God returns in mercy to his people, and makes them return in duty to him, their grievances are effectually redressed, and their honour retrieved! marvellously does grace much more abound where sin had abounded; and, even from the wickedness and misery of men, his perfections are more abundantly glorified. What multitudes of rich blessings are, in excellent order, connected together in the new covenant! And the infinite freedom and riches of God’s favours powerfully lead men to repentance, holiness, earnest prayer, and abundant devotion