2 Kings 25

2 Kings 25:3

Fallen sick, &c. - He lived long: for it was sixty years since he was first called to be a prophet. It was a great mercy to Israel and especially to the sons of the prophets, that he was continued so long, a burning and a shining light. Elijah finished his testimony, in a fourth part of that time. God’s prophets have their day set them, longer or shorter, as infinite wisdom sees fit. But all the latter part of his time, from the anointing of Jehu, which was forty five years before Joash began his reign, we find no mention of him, or of any thing he did, ’till we find him here upon his death bed. Yet he might be useful to the last, tho’ not so famous as he had sometimes been.

2 Kings 25:6

Eastward - Toward Syria, which lay north - eastward, from the land of Israel: this arrow is shot against the Syrians, as a token what God intended to do against them.

2 Kings 25:7

Smite - The former sign portended victory, this was to declare the number of the victories.

2 Kings 25:9

Moabites invaded - The mentioning this immediately on the death of Elisha intimates, that the removal of God’s faithful prophets, is a presage of judgments approaching.

2 Kings 25:10

He revived - Which miracle God wrought, to do honour to that great prophet, and that by this seal he might confirm his doctrine, to strengthen the faith of Joash, and of the Israelites, in this promise of their success against the Syrians; and in the midst of all their calamities to comfort such Israelites as were Elisha’s followers, with the hopes of eternal life, whereof this was a manifest pledge, and to awaken the rest of that people to a due care and preparation for it.

2 Kings 25:12

Had compassion - The slowness of God’s process against sinners even when they remain impenitent must be construed to the advantage of his mercy, not the impeachment of his justice.

2 Kings 25:19

High places - It is hard to get clear of those corruptions, which by long usage have gained prescription.

2 Kings 25:21

Slew not - Wherein he shewed faith and courage, that he would obey this command of God, though it was hazardous to himself, such persons being likely to seek revenge for their father’s death.

2 Kings 25:22

Joktheel - Which signifies, the obedience of God, that is, given him by God as a reward of his obedience to God’s message by the prophet, 2 Chronicles 25:8,9.

2 Kings 25:23

Sent - This challenge he sent, from self - confidence, and a desire of advancing his glory. But he that is fond either of fighting or going to law, will probably be the first that repents it.

2 Kings 25:24

Saying, &c. - By the thistle, a low and contemptible, yet troublesome shrub, he understands Amaziah; and by the cedar, himself, whom he intimates to be far stronger than he, and out of his reach. Trod down - And with no less ease shall my soldiers tread down thee and thy forces.

2 Kings 25:25

Glory - Content thyself with that glory, and let not thine ambition betray thee to ruin.

2 Kings 25:27

Tents - Josephus says, when they were to engage, they were struck with such a terror, that they did not strike a stroke, but every man made the best of his way.

2 Kings 25:28

Ahaziah - Amaziah’s pedigree comes in somewhat abruptly, the son of Joash, the son of Ahaziah: Probably because he now smarted, for the iniquity of his ancestors.