[2 Chron. 1:5]
The brasen altar —Type of the ransom sacrifice. T22
[2 Chron. 1:10]
This thy people —A lesson to those who speak of God's people as "My people, "My flock," "My church." R3278:2
That is so great? —Estimated at about 6,000,000. R3278:3
[2 Chron. 1:11]
But hast asked —The same Hebrew word as "borrowed," where we read that the Israelites "borrowed of the Egyptians..." (Exod. 12:35). R2911:5
[2 Chron. 1:12]
Will give thee riches —It was just like our Heavenly Father to give Solomon the riches and honors which he had not asked as a reward for his appreciation of wisdom. R3278:5
Wealth, and honour —The true Church receives spiritual riches and honors for seeking heavenly wisdom. R3278:6
[2 Chron. 2:1]
Build an house —The Temple which Solomon erected was a picture of the great Temple which God is erecting. CR359:6 "Which temple ye are." (1 Cor. 3:17) CR359:1
[2 Chron. 2:7]
To work in gold —Symbol of the divine nature. T18
And in silver —Symbol of the spirit nature—the Great Company. R4092:6*
And in brass —Copper, symbol of perfect human nature. T18
And in purple —Symbol of royalty. T34
And crimson —Of scarlet, symbol of the blood of the ransom. T109
And blue —Symbol of faithfulness. T30
[2 Chron. 2:8]
Cedar trees —Symbol of everlasting human life. T109
[2 Chron. 2:17]
And Solomon —Typifying our Lord. R1237:5
All the strangers —Foreigners (the Tyrians) and the enslaved Canaanites. R1237:1* God has selected most of the Church from among those not Israelites according to the flesh. R1237:5 Typical of the fact that aliens, strangers, foreigners and enemies of the truth have the larger share in the work of preparing the antitypical Temple, although in their hammering, chiseling, melting and casting they little realize the glorious interests served. R3282:6
3,600 —Canaanites. R3282:6
[2 Chron. 3:1]
Mount Moriah —Before Jerusalem became a place of residence its sacred hill was called "Moriah." R1296:3*
[2 Chron. 3:10]
Two cherubims —New and very large, probably nearly 21 feet high. R530:2 Always connected with the immediate presence or with the throne of God. R529:6* "Thou that dwellest between the cherubims." (Psa. 80:1) T124
With gold —Symbol of the divine nature. T18
[2 Chron. 3:14]
Of blue —Symbol of faithfulness. T30
And purple —Symbol of royalty. T34
And crimson —Or scarlet, symbol of the blood of the ransom. T109
And fine linen —Symbol of righteousness. T36
[2 Chron. 4:1]
An altar of brass —In the Tabernacle it was a type of the ransom sacrifice. T22
[2 Chron. 4:19]
The golden altar —In the Tabernacle, a type of the Church. T120
And the tables —In the Tabernacle, a type of the Church. T115
The shewbread —Type of the Word of God. T115
[2 Chron. 4:20]
The candlesticks —In the Tabernacle, a type of the complete Church. T115
Of pure gold —Symbol of the divine nature. T18
[2 Chron. 5:1]
Was finished —The harvest is the time for the construction of this antitypical Temple, i.e., the bringing of all the members, fruit-bearing branches of the Vine, into the perfect spiritual condition. R172:2
[2 Chron. 5:2]
Then Solomon —Typifying the Lord Jesus. R3283:1
Assembled —Typifying the present harvest work. R3283:1
Elders of Israel —Typifying the Lord's very elect. R3283:1
[2 Chron. 5:3]
In the feast —The Jewish New Year Feast held in connection with the Great Day of Atonement. R3282:6
The seventh month —The Atonement Day sacrifices probably having already been made in the Tabernacle. R3282:6
[2 Chron. 5:5]
They brought up —Illustrating the bringing of the members of the Body of Christ from the Tabernacle or earthly condition to the heavenly or Temple condition. R3284:1
The ark —Typifying the divine covenant with Abraham, the fulfillment of which centers in Christ. R3282:6
[2 Chron. 5:7]
Brought in the ark —Type of The Christ. T121
Of the cherubims —The presence or throne of God. R529:6*
[2 Chron. 5:10]
Nothing in the ark —The golden bowl of manna, typifying immortality, and the budded rod, the blessing, fruitfulness and privilege of service of antitypical Levites, will not be needed in the future conditions of glory represented by the Temple. R3283:2
The two tables —Representing the Law and teaching that Christ would meet in full all the requirements of God's perfect Law; also that legal authority would be vested in him as the Law-executor. T121 The Law will still be an integral part of the divine covenant. R3283:2
[2 Chron. 5:12]
The Levites —The Levites of the future, the ancient Worthies and others, shall chant the praises of Jehovah throughout the earth. R4297:2 Advanced justified believers. R344:6 Only a part of the Levites composes the singers, illustrating that only a part of the Great Company are already arrayed in white robes. R292:5
Which were the singers —We tarry only as mouthpieces, priests of God, to sound the trumpet of truth until the white-robed Levites learn to sing the song of restitution. R344:6
The altar —The Brazen altar. R3283:2
[2 Chron. 5:13]
As one —Perfectly in harmony; the priests sounded the keynote to the Levites but it took some time before the harmony was perfect. R292:4 The priests reach a harmony in their trumpeting before the glory of the Lord fills the Temple. R292:5 The Little Flock (Priests) will give the key note of their song to the Great Company (Levites) before their glorification. R292:5
For he is good —Showing that the character of the song to be taught and learned is restitution. R292:5
His mercy endureth —That during the Millennial age man will have the privilege of returning to God and to all that was lost. R4297:2
For ever —The Hebrew word signifies "to an end." Divine mercy shall be exercised to its completeness. R3283:4
That then the house —Typifying the glorified Christ. R3283:5
A cloud —The peculiar pillar of cloud which symbolized the Lord's presence through the wilderness journey and subsequently in connection with the Tabernacle. R3283:3
[2 Chron. 5:14]
Priests could not stand —The glorying shows the marriage, after which fleshly priests no longer remain in the Temple, representing that we will be no longer under the veil of flesh. R172:5
Glory of the LORD —Representing that the glory of the Lord will come upon the living Temple, of which we hope to be living stones beyond the veil. CR360:5
Filled the house —The antitypical Temple (the Church) must be completed before the glory of the Lord fills it. R172:2
[2 Chron. 6:9]
Out of thy loins —Children are of the father, by the mother, which was also true of Jesus' human birth. E99; R776:5
[2 Chron. 7:8]
The feast seven days —The dedication of Solomon's Temple and the descent of the Shekinah glory upon it took place at the Feast of Tabernacles. R3509:2*
[2 Chron. 7:14]
Called by my name —Israel, signifying "The people of God." D654
[2 Chron. 7:20]
Among all nations —And the prophecy has been literally fulfilled. R2060:1
[2 Chron. 9:1]
The queen of Sheba —Presumed to have been a Negress. The present Emperor of Abyssinia claims to be a descendant of Solomon by this Queen. R3043:1
[2 Chron. 9:3]
Of Solomon —Type of Christ. A79; B255
[2 Chron. 9:4]
Spirit in her —It took her breath away. R3284:6
[2 Chron. 9:6]
Was not told me —"Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither hath entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath in reservation for them that love him." (1 Cor. 2:9) R3285:2
[2 Chron. 9:9]
120 talents of gold —Estimated at $3,000,000. R2067:5
[2 Chron. 9:17]
Made a great throne —Solomon laid aside his father's throne, and made a unique and costly one for his own use. R1283:1*
[2 Chron. 9:23]
To hear his wisdom —Representatives of many nations will say, "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths." (Isa. 2:3) R2053:1
[2 Chron. 9:30]
Forty years —Link No.26 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4 Possibly typifying the harvest of the Millennial age. R4018:2*
[2 Chron. 10:4]
Our yoke grievous —The best-governed people are not always the most contented. R3384:3
[2 Chron. 10:14]
With scorpions —Whips with metal lumps on the strands. R3384:6
[2 Chron. 10:16]
All Israel went —The one house or family of Israel. The 10 tribes which split off have been since called the "lost tribes," not a separate house. R862:5
[2 Chron. 10:17]
Rehoboam reigned over them —Those of all Israel whose worship of the Lord centered in Jerusalem, chiefly the tribe of Judah from whom the promised Messiah was to come. R3385:2,4
[2 Chron. 10:19]
And Israel rebelled —The division of the typical kingdom 393 years before the overthrow of Zedekiah corresponds to the division of Christendom into Papacy and Protestantism in 1521 AD, when Luther was excommunicated, 393 years before 1914, the time for the overthrow of Christendom. R3574:1*
[2 Chron. 11:4]
This thing is done of me —The division of the kingdom worked to the advantage of Judah and Benjamin, humbling them, drawing them nearer to the Lord, more zealous of his worship and more faithful in resisting idolatry. R2362:3
[2 Chron. 11:13]
All Israel —Represented by the one house which stumbled at the first advent. R862:5
[2 Chron. 11:16]
Came to Jerusalem —King Rehoboam and the people of Judah experienced a sort of religious reformation, attracting the more religious of the two tribe kingdom. R2362:3
[2 Chron. 12:1]
Forsook the law —Finding himself strong in the kingdom, Rehoboam became lax in respect to its religious conditions. R2362:6
[2 Chron. 12:2]
Against Jerusalem —There has been discovered at Karnak, Egypt, a splendid structure erected by the very Shishak who conquered Rehoboam, commemorating his victories. R3467:6
[2 Chron. 12:5]
Therefore have I also left —Teaching them the important lesson that if the Lord let go of them they would be swallowed up of their enemies. R2363:1
[2 Chron. 12:9]
Shishak —See comment on 2 Chron. 12:2.
Took away the treasures —This was intended of the Lord to teach Israel that if the Lord let go of them they would be swallowed up of their enemies, and that he always made obedience profitable to them in their temporal welfare. R2363:1
[2 Chron. 12:13]
Seventeen years —Link No.27 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 12:16]
And Rehoboam slept —Death is a condition of rest, of quiet, of peaceful unconsciousness. R5059:6, R4794:2; HG121:6
[2 Chron. 13:2]
Three years —Link No.28 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 13:5]
Covenant of salt —Covenant of faithfulness. R4907:1
[2 Chron. 13:8]
Kingdom of the LORD —In some respects typical of the Kingdom promised, when Messiah should reign. A248 Though the earth is now given up to the kingdom of the Gentiles, the time was when God had a kingdom on earth. HG47:3
Golden calves —Probably because the people, while in Egypt, were accustomed to the worship of the sacred bull, Apis, of Egyptian mythology. R2325:5
[2 Chron. 14:2]
Good and right —In the midst of an unfavorable setting, Asa quickly developed a loyalty to God and soundness of judgment beneficial to his kingdom. R4724:2 We have seen children of evil parentage become nauseated by evil and take right paths. R4724:2
[2 Chron. 14:3]
Took away the altars —Erected on various hilltops, at which the orgies of heathendom were practiced. R3392:3 It would be improper now for the people of the United States to decide what is false worship and abolish it or interfere with absolute religious liberty because the people of the United States are not God's Kingdom as was Israel. R2364:2
Brake down the images —Asa did much to abolish idolatry in his kingdom and to sway the minds of the people to the reverence and obedience of Almighty God. R4724:3
Cut down the groves —Accessories to the worship of Baal and Ashtaroth by those who affected to be largely worshippers of nature. R3392:3
[2 Chron. 14:4]
Judah —The two-tribe kingdom. R3392:1
[2 Chron. 14:5]
He took away —Such action has been misunderstood to imply that rulers in other countries should take similar action for the destruction of all false religions. R3392:3 It would be entirely improper for any king, governor, president or emperor of earth today to exercise such power, claiming divine approval. R3392:5, R2363:5, R2364:2
[2 Chron. 14:6]
Built fenced cities —Fortress cities as a protection against attack from Egypt on the south and west, from Syria on the north and east, and from the ten-tribe kingdom on the immediate north. R3392:6
No war in those years —Asa had peace for ten years, during which time he encouraged his people and trained an army. R4724:3
[2 Chron. 14:7]
Build these cities —Fortified cities on the extremity of his kingdom for protection against attacks of enemies. R4724:3 We should erect fortresses of character which will be a defense against attacks of the world, the flesh and the devil. R4725:4, R3392:6
[2 Chron. 14:8]
An army of men —These preparations for war had the divine approval, but in no sense indicated that we should take a similar course, for we contend not with flesh and blood. R3392:6
[2 Chron. 14:9]
Came out against them —To punish Asa for erecting fortifications, etc., to bring away more spoil and to reduce the nation again to the condition of a vassal. R3393:1
Zerah the Ethiopian —Supposed to have been Osorkon II of Egypt. R3392:6
[2 Chron. 14:11]
Cried unto the LORD —A perfectly proper thing for him to do as the representative of God's chosen people; but prayers for victory in war are improper when made by any nation since Israel's rejection of the Lord at the time of his crucifixion. R3393:4 Asa's faith looked up to God, realizing that with him was the power to give or to withhold victory. R4724:3 We are to look to the Lord for victory: "For when I am weak (in myself), then am I strong (in the Lord)." (2 Cor. 12:10) R4725:4
We rest on thee —Pray, trusting God's power. R5380:5*
[2 Chron. 14:12]
So the LORD smote —In the battle which followed Asa and his army were successful. R4724:3
[2 Chron. 15:2]
Asa —Whose environments in youth had been unfavorable but who quickly developed a loyalty to God and soundness of judgment beneficial to his kingdom. R4724:2
The LORD Is with you —They had all done well and faithfully and therefore God's blessing was with them. R4724:5
While ye be with him —The continuance of divine blessing would depend upon their faithfulness to God and to the requirements of his Law. R4724:5
If ye forsake him —The hour of victory is more dangerous than the hour of distress; the heart is more apt to be proud and feel its own importance. The divine warning helped Asa and his people take a firmer stand for righteousness. R4724:5 Nor should a great victory elate us and make us careless and self-sufficient. R4725:4
[2 Chron. 15:3]
Israel —The ten tribes. R5733:3
[2 Chron. 15:4]
He was found of them —The Lord helped Israel proportionately as they at any time had turned to him. R5733:3 Reveals God's care over his people when they seek him. R5733:5
[2 Chron. 15:7]
Be ye strong therefore —Asa had manifested a disposition in harmony with God and now had this encouraging message. R5733:3
Work shall be rewarded —God's promise to Israel was his divine blessing of peace and earthly prosperity in proportion to their loyalty to him. R4725:1 Contrariwise, spiritual Israel is assured of tribulation, hatred, opposition and suffering in the world, but with the peace of God and a spiritual reward. R4725:1
[2 Chron. 15:8]
Abominable idols —No idolatry was thenceforth permitted in the kingdom under penalty of death. R4724:6 We should put away all idolatry of money, fame, honor of men, and do the will of the Lord from the heart. R4725:4
Renewed the altar —Today, proportionately as creed idols and their worship would cease, the repair of the true altar of God would progress and many would rejoice to present their bodies living sacrifices. (Rom. 12:1, 2) R5734:1 As the Bible comes to be rightly understood, the unscriptural follies of the creeds will be appreciated. R5734:1
[2 Chron. 15:9]
Out of Israel —Many of the ten-tribe kingdom who were piously inclined and still respected God and his promises were glad to leave their king and ally themselves with the tribe of Judah, where the great God was worshipped and they were known as "Jews." R5733:3, R2380:2, R2084:6 God grants blessings to those who humble themselves and are obedient. R2380:2
[2 Chron. 15:10]
They gathered themselves —A great convention was held—a holiness convention. R2363:5
[2 Chron. 15:12]
Entered into a covenant —A great national awakening along religious lines. R5733:5 Such a company of consecrated covenanters, enlightened as we are today, would be a mighty force, a mighty power. R5734:4
[2 Chron. 15:15]
Lord gave them rest —The Lord's blessing continued with the kingdom of Judah. R4724:6
[2 Chron. 15:17]
Were not taken away —It is not sufficient that we outwardly acknowledge the Lord to be our God; we must also be zealous in serving his cause. R2363:3
The heart of Asa was perfect —Asa was not serving the Lord because it would be the most profitable course for himself and for the nation but from a heart that was in harmony with God. R2363:3Perfection of heart in the Lord's consecrated people of the Gospel age means a great deal more—a full consecration in thought, word and deed. R2364:4
[2 Chron. 16:9]
Eyes of the LORD —The Lord's influence, his power of knowing, whatever the means. R5634:2 His divine wisdom. SM623:1 Let your child feel that your eye and God's is ever upon him, just as we feel that God's eye is upon us. R1097:5*
The whole earth —This does not mean that God personally beholds every individual act of every person on earth, but that he takes cognizance of matters throughout the world by means of his power, his agencies. R5634:2
[2 Chron. 16:10]
Put him in a prison —The statement that his heart was right before God does not signify that he was always right. R2364:3
[2 Chron. 16:12]
Diseased in his feet —His sickness was a punishment for his sin according to the Israelitish covenant with God. R2029:2 God has not promised to keep spiritual Israel free from sickness, pain and trouble. R2364:5
Not to the LORD —Who had entered into covenant relationship with the Jews to bless them physically if faithful to him. R2364:4 His heart should have repented and turned toward God, but instead he turned to the physicians. R2029:2
To the physicians —Enchanters, magicians, black-art doctors using Satanic powers. R2364:5 There is no intimation here that it would be wrong to make use of bona-fide medical skill and aid today. R2364:5
[2 Chron. 16:13]
One and fortieth year —Link No.29 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 17:1]
Jehoshaphat his son —Who had the great advantage that his parents were Godly people. R4730:1
Reigned —While Ahab was king of Israel Jehoshaphat succeeded to the throne of Judah. R4730:1
Against Israel —The iniquity and idolatry of Israel reacted favorably by driving the most saintly characters of all the tribes to Judah, including the priests and Levites who were still loyal to God. R4730:1
[2 Chron. 17:2]
Set garrisons —He fortified its various boundaries, especially toward the land of Israel, Judah's nearest neighbor. R4730:2
[2 Chron. 17:3]
Was with Jehoshaphat —Jehoshaphat's fidelity to the Lord was rewarded with prosperity for his kingdom. R4730:2 Does not mean that all prosperous persons and nations are in divine fellowship.R4730:2
Of his father David —Copying after David's earliest course of devotion to the Lord. R2365:1
[2 Chron. 17:5]
He had riches —Prosperity is not always a sign of divine favor, but to Jehoshaphat and his kingdom it was because Judah still represented God's chosen nation in a special manner. R4730:3
[2 Chron. 17:6]
Heart was lifted up —Not in pride and self-adulation, but with encouragement, as recognizing the fulfillment of the divine promises in the blessings enjoyed. R2365:1
Ways of the LORD —As Ahab exceeded his father Omri as an evil-doer, so Jehoshaphat exceeded his father Asa as an upholder of the divine Law. R4730:2
The high places —The young king began a general crusade against every idolatrous place and custom in the kingdom. R4730:2
[2 Chron. 17:7]
Teach in the cities —Perceiving the necessity of knowledge as a basis for faith, the king instituted a general system of instruction in the Word of the Lord throughout his kingdom. R2365:2In proportion as the Lord's people are intimately acquainted with his Word, they are made free from earthly affairs and realize their obligations to the King of kings. R2365:3
[2 Chron. 17:10]
Fear of the LORD —The world recognizes in a general way that there is some truth in Christianity. R2365:5
[2 Chron. 17:11]
Presents, and tribute —Neighboring nations sought Judah's favor and paid tribute until Jehoshaphat's kingdom was very prosperous. R4730:2
[2 Chron. 18:1]
Joined affinity —Ambitious to unite the two nations, Jehoshaphat made a marriage alliance for his son with the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel of the ten-tribe kingdom. R3393:3 The Lord's people should be especially on guard against associations with the ungodly. R3394:2 "Be not unequally yoked together with unbelievers" (2 Cor. 6:14) neither by marriage nor by business partnerships and close friendships. R4730:5
With Ahab —Jehoshaphat's most important mistake was in affiliating with Ahab. R4730:5 The lesson to us is that we need to "keep ourselves unspotted from the world." (Jas. 1:27) R3394:1
[2 Chron. 18:3]
We will be with thee —Out of courtesy and to cultivate the friendship of Ahab Jehoshaphat yielded and accompanied him, with disastrous results. R3394:2
[2 Chron. 18:22]
A lying spirit —One of the fallen angels. R2173:4
[2 Chron. 19:1]
Jehoshaphat —Noted as one of the best kings in the history of Judah. R3393:3
King of Judah —He had been reigning 20 years at the time of the events narrated in this lesson. R3393:3
[2 Chron. 19:2]
Help the ungodly —Indicating the Lord's disapproval of Jehoshaphat's fellowship with Ahab. R4730:6 We should be especially on guard against associations, fellowships, matrimonial alliances, etc., with the ungodly. R3394:2 "Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly." (Psa. 1:1). R2366:1
Wrath upon thee —Indicated by his ignominious return without any evidence of divine favor. R3394:2
[2 Chron. 19:3]
Good things found in thee —While reproving Jehoshaphat, the Lord graciously mentioned approval of his destroying idolatrous worship and of his heart seeking the Lord. R3394:3
Taken away the groves —He had utterly destroyed all the groves where idolatry had been practiced. R3393:3
[2 Chron. 19:4]
Went out again —The experience led him to still greater zeal for righteousness. He went out amongst the people and effected a religious revival. R3394:3
Brought them back —To a higher appreciation of the Lord and observance of his statutes. R3394:3
[2 Chron. 19:6]
Take heed what ye do —The king had a very high sense of justice and honor, expressing grand sentiments worthy of a saint of this Gospel age. R3394:3 Evidence that the lesson of verse 2 was not lost upon Jehoshaphat. R2366:1 What may the world hope for when the great King Immanuel shall rule with superhuman knowledge and wisdom. R3394:4
Judge not for man —The Lord's people should render to no man less than is due him; and not only be just but generous. R3394:4
[2 Chron. 19:7]
No iniquity —God is not the author of sin. He is just and right, hating evil and condemning sin in every form. R870:6
[2 Chron. 19:10]
Blood and blood —The degree of murder, whether first, second or third. R3395:1
[2 Chron. 19:11]
The Levites —The tribe especially consecrated to the Lord's service. R3394:5
Deal courageously —Justly. R5413:3 In the Kingdom we shall be required to render righteous and courageous judgment. R5414:4 In doing unpleasant tasks which are necessary, but in a kindly manner. R5414:5, R3395:4 Whoever has a duty to perform let him not fear. R5414:5, R3395:4
LORD shall be with —Applicable to the Jews because they were a typical people of God. R5414:4 There is no partiality with the Creator, no class distinction, neither high nor low, rich nor poor, noble nor peasant. R5413:3
The good —His whole dealing at this time is with the Church. R5414:2 The Lord will be with the good work that his faithful people will do. R5414:1
[2 Chron. 20:22]
The LORD set ambushments —Believed to be an illustration of the time of trouble at the end of the Christian era. Q769:2
[2 Chron. 20:31]
Twenty and five years —Link No.30 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 20:37]
Hast joined thyself —In a business partnership with one out of harmony with the Lord. R2366:2
[2 Chron. 21:1]
Jehoshaphat slept —Death is a condition of rest, of quiet, of peaceful unconsciousness. R5059:6, R4794:2
[2 Chron. 21:20]
Eight years —Link No.31 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4 Usher gives it as a reign of four years, while the Bible says it was eight years. B52
[2 Chron. 22:2]
Forty and two years old —Not 22, as in 2 Kings 8:26. HG1O5:2
One year —Link No.32 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 22:12]
Six years —Link No.33 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 24:1]
Forty years —Link No.34 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4 Usher reckons this as 39 years, while the Bible gives it as forty years. B52
[2 Chron. 24:2]
Jehoida the priest —The Lord's High Priest, whose wife, Joash's aunt, had secreted Joash as an infant. R2366:3 Joash's foster-father. R2366:6
[2 Chron. 24:5]
Levites hastened it not —Probably because the people of Judah had come to doubt the priesthood. R2367:1, R3447:6
[2 Chron. 24:7]
Broken up the house of God —Stones had been taken for building the temple of Baal, representing the damage done to the true Temple during the Dark Ages. R3448:1,2
[2 Chron. 24:9]
The collection —A tax of half a shekel on each male of 20 years old and upward (See Exod. 30:11-16). R2367:1
[2 Chron. 24:10]
All the people —The remnant of the ten tribes joined in the work. R2084:5
Rejoiced —"The Lord loveth a cheerful (Greek, hilarious—merry) giver." (2 Cor. 9:7) R3448:5
Cast Into the chest —When they once see the need of repairs and the safety of the channel the people of God will be encouraged to do everything necessary for the accomplishment of the work. R3448:4
[2 Chron. 24:12]
Jehoiada —Representing our High Priest, Christ. R3448:2
Repair the house —To this end we are exhorted by the Apostle to build one another up in the most holy faith. R2367:4 It is our duty to keep our bodies, which are temples of the holy Spirit, pure in thought, word and act, and to take reasonable care of our physical systems. R2367:2
[2 Chron. 25:1]
Twenty and nine years —Link No.35 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 25:18]
Sent to Amaziah —Even before the captivity a fellowship had sprung up between the people of the two divisions of Judah and Israel. R2084:5
[2 Chron. 26:3]
Fifty and two years —Link No.36 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 26:9]
Fortified them —It was quite proper for the kings of Israel and Judah to defend the land which the Almighty had specially given to their nation. R4786:2
[2 Chron. 26:16]
To his destruction —"Pride goeth before destruction." (Prov. 16:18). R4786:2
Went into the temple —Uzziah evidently felt that God was proud of him and would be pleased to have him enter the Temple after the manner of the priests. R4786:2 Many successful people fall into the same error in their approach to God. R4786:2
[2 Chron. 26:17]
Valiant men —Courageous men. King Uzziah was likely to resent any interference. R4786:6
[2 Chron. 26:18]
Not unto thee —The great King Eternal has rules and regulations governing all attempts to approach him. R4786:3
But to the priests —Recognizing Jesus as the great antitypical Priest none should intrude into the divine presence in prayer other than through him. R4786:5
Thou hast trespassed —If the king had good intentions they should have guided him to a study of the divine arrangements. Ignorance of the Law is no excuse. R4786:6
Honour from the LORD —True honor cannot be found in opposition to the divine arrangements. R4786:6
[2 Chron. 26:19]
Leprosy —Typifying sin. R4786:5
[2 Chron. 26:20]
LORD had smitten him —Signifying typically that whoever with knowledge would approach God aside from his ordained priest would come under divine sentence as a wilful sinner. R4786:5
[2 Chron. 27:1]
Sixteen years —Link No.37 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 28:1]
Sixteen years - Link No.38 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4 Usher incorrectly reckons this as 15 years. B52
[2 Chron. 28:27]
Hezekiah his son —King Hezekiah has a wonderful record as a man of God; yet he was the son of a bad father who was the son of a good father who was the son of a bad father. This alternation illustrates that heredity has counterbalances in nature. R4812:1 It is not necessary that we should inherit all the evil traits of our ancestors. R2379:2
[2 Chron. 29:1]
Hezeklah —Signifying "strength of Jehovah." R3462:3 Reckoned in the Lord's sight as one of the three most acceptable kings of Judah. R3462:3
Nine and twenty years —Link No. 39 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 29:2]
That which was right —His entire reign was one of reformation. R3462:3 He was not double-minded but with his whole heart he sought to do right, to do the Lord's will. R4812:2, R3462:3 It is supposed that Isaiah, who was related to the royal family, was Hezekiah's tutor and helped guide him into right ways. R2379:2 Teaches the necessity for having a positive or strong will, rightly directed. R4812:2
[2 Chron. 29:3]
In the first month —He was already well instructed and thoroughly consecrated to the Lord at the time of his entrance to kingship. R2379:3
[2 Chron. 29:4]
Priests —Typical of God's saintly or sanctified people. R4812:4
Levites —Typical of the household of faith. R4812:4
[2 Chron. 29:5]
Sanctify now yourselves —Before the cleansing of the Temple began the king directed the priests and Levites first to sanctify themselves. R4812:3 No one is properly ready to serve God in any form or work until he has come to a sanctified condition of heart. R4812:4 "Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord's house." (Isa. 52:11) R4812:4
House of the LORD —The great King commands his consecrated people to purify the Temple of God, which is the Church. R4812:4
[2 Chron. 29:7]
The God of Israel —Jehovah, to whom the price was to be paid. E449
[2 Chron. 29:16]
Uncleanness —Typical of the idols and traditions of men in the form of venerable creeds of the past defiling the Temple of God. R4813:4, R3463:4
[2 Chron. 29:18]
We have cleansed —If any have fallen into worldliness, sin, worship of Mammon, etc., there should be first a cleansing, a reformation. R3463:2 A great reformation came in the days of Luther, Melancthon and others. R3463:4 "Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit." (2 Cor. 7:1) F409
All the vessels —The vessels of the Lord's house must be cleansed of all defilements—their human traditions, heathen philosophies and superstitions. R4813:4
[2 Chron. 29:19]
All the vessels —Probably including certain brass plates and borders which King Asa had removed from the altar and tables for use in other places. R3462:6
[2 Chron. 29:21]
Seven —A symbol of perfection or completeness, thus intensifying the matter. R3463:1
A sin offering —Shadows and types of the true sacrifices for sins by which the Lamb of God taketh away the sin of the world. R685:4
Altar of the LORD —Jehovah, to whom the price was paid. E449; R685:4
[2 Chron. 29:24]
An atonement —Not the regular atonement day sacrifice, because the proper day had passed; the sacrifices offered were effective merely for the remainder of the year. R3463:1 The Lord's people, after a reformation, should appeal to God for at-one-ment with him, for forgiveness of sins. R3463:2
For all Israel —Exhibiting Hezekiah's generous spirit. R3463:2 The whole nation seems to have come to a realization of its low condition and need of an uplift. R3463:1 Hezekiah recognized that the divine promises were made to all the seed of Abraham. R2379:5
[2 Chron. 29:30]
Sang praises with gladness —The work of reestablishing the true religion was not to be accomplished in a doleful manner. R3463:5
[2 Chron. 29:31]
Thank offerings —The Lord's truly consecrated today rejoice to be free from the sins of the past and worship the Lord with thank-offerings and praise. R3463:5
[2 Chron. 30:1]
Sent to all Israel —Isaiah's prophecy respecting the carrying away of Israel into captivity was already in progress and this invitation served to incite "Israelites indeed" to return to the Lord's worship. R2380:1
[2 Chron. 30:5]
Throughout all Israel —Not only to his own kingdom of Judah, but also to the ten tribes. R4812:5 Such a message of true fellowship to the true Israel is made alike to all, ignoring all creeds and parties. R2380:6
[2 Chron. 30:10]
They laughed —In the northern kingdom, where idolatry had a stronger hold, the invitation was derided by many. R4812:5
Them to scorn —Now, as then, the proud will stand up for sectarianism and for its honors and dignities, and will fail to get the divine blessing. R2381:1
[2 Chron. 30:11]
Divers of Asher and —The true, faithful Israelites were gathered out of the ten-tribe kingdom into the two-tribe kingdom at that early day. R2380:3 All are to be esteemed and treated as Israelites indeed who trust in the precious blood of Christ and are consecrated to the service of the Lord. R2380:6
Humbled themselves —A few humble ones from almost all sects, parties and creeds will be attracted. R2381:1
[2 Chron. 30:18]
Not cleansed themselves —Similarly, in the Church of Christ, we find some who but imperfectly comprehend the sanctification of life necessary to a proper participation in the Lord's "feast of fat things." R4813:1
Prayed for them —Let us not denounce as hypocrites those who imperfectly comprehend sanctification of life, but pray for them and assist them in the more excellent way. R4813:1
[2 Chron. 30:23]
With gladness —There is no other peace or joy so soul-satisfying as that which comes from fellowship with the Creator through Christ in the antitypical passover. R4812:6
[2 Chron. 30:25]
Came out of Israel —The true faithful Israelites were gathered out of the ten-tribe kingdom into the two-tribe kingdom. R2380:3 It was the remnant of Israel and not merely of Judah that was gathered into the Gospel age, while the remainder were "blinded." R2380:3 All "Israelites indeed," trusting in the precious blood of Christ, are one in Christ Jesus and are to be esteemed as brethren. R2380:6
[2 Chron. 30:26]
Great joy —Many seek pleasure and joy but few find it. Real pleasure is in finding the Lord and coming into heart-harmony with him. R4812:6
[2 Chron. 31:1]
Brake the images —One of these idols is sectarianism; another is money; another is lust; another, selfish ambition. They are legion with one family name, selfishness. R2381:4
[2 Chron. 31:6]
Israel and Judah —The more religious in Ephraim removed to Judah and identified themselves therewith. Thus Judah eventually represented the cream of the nation. R3464:2 God's dealings with nominal spiritual Israel are gradually separating to the Lord an overcoming class. R3464:5
[2 Chron. 31:21]
With all his heart —Hezekiah claimed, as all should be able to, that he walked before the Lord with a perfect heart, with a perfect will, with thoroughly good intentions. R3588:4
[2 Chron. 32:2]
Against Jerusalem —The march of Sennacherib's army meant destruction and captivity to many small cities and towns on his route toward Jerusalem. R3581:6
[2 Chron. 32:9]
Send his servants —Although tribute was sent, he sent three chief generals to Jerusalem to accomplish its captivity while he remained with his army besieging Lachish. R3582:2 We cannot purchase peace with things consecrated to the Lord—compromise the truth. So surely as the Lord's consecrated people do this, the Lord will permit to come upon them the very difficulties which they seek to avert. R2381:6
[2 Chron. 32:18]
In the Jews' speech —The Hebrew language was used, in order that the people might understand their hopeless situation; yet they remained calm. R3582:3
That were on the wall —Some of them soldiers with bows and arrows, spears, etc., to defend the walls. R3582:2
[2 Chron. 32:20]
Prayed —Hezekiah had undoubtedly come to deprecate his course in ignoring the advice of Isaiah in respect to the tribute. He was thoroughly humbled now. R3582:4 When our proudest, strongest foes seem triumphing the most, we should lay hold on the Lord's promises with the greatest confidence. R3582:6
Cried to heaven —Their faith grew stronger the more the false gods were brought into contrast with the true. R3582:4 Those most rooted and grounded are those who have been attested trying experiences and have had occasion to call mightily on the Lord for help. R3582:6
[2 Chron. 32:21]
Sent an angel —Probably a simoon (sandstorm) or pestilence. R2382:1 Not necessarily a member of the angelic order of beings, but simply a "messenger." R2382:2 The Lord could use as his angel or messenger a flame of fire, a stroke of lightning or a breath of pestilence. R3582:5 The extremity of Hezekiah and his people became God's opportunity. R3582:4
Which cut off —In answer to faith and prayer, yet in full accord with his foreknown plans. R3582:4
[2 Chron. 32:23]
Presents —In consequence of this marked deliverance of Judah from the superior power of Assyria. R2382:5
He was magnified —Honored, because the Lord's victory doubtless became known as that of Hezekiah. R3582:6
[2 Chron. 32:24]
In those days —731 BC, 125 years before the overthrow of Zedekiah, corresponding to the date of the French Revolution, 1789 AD, when Christendom seemed sick unto death, 125 years before 1914. R3574:2*
Hezeklah was sick —Evidently the sickness had somewhat to do with his prosperity and consequent pride and with his failure to render unto the Lord. R2382:6
He gave him a sign —The Lord's people of the New Creation are advised not to request signs of the Lord or to make tests. "We walk by faith, not by sight." (2 Cor. 5:7) R3589:1
[2 Chron. 32:25]
His heart was lifted up —Prosperity is often a severer test of character than adversity. R2382:6
[2 Chron. 32:30]
To the west side —Typifying the founding of the various Bible societies at the beginning of the nineteenth century. R3574:3*
[2 Chron. 33:1]
Was twelve years old —If properly trained he should have had by this time a fairly well-developed character for righteousness. R3598:3
When he began —Isaiah, his supposed grandfather, having died previously. R2386:3
To reign —The brightest children the most precocious, are in greatest danger if placed in positions of responsibility and influence early in life, without experienced advisors. R2386:6
Fifty and five years —Link No.40 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 33:2]
That which was evil —Hezekiah, though a good man, was evidently a poor father. R3598:2, R4839:2
[2 Chron. 33:3]
He built again —Probably within 10 years of his accession to power. R2386:6
[2 Chron. 33:6]
Children to pass —Children were sometimes offered in sacrifice to the false deities on the outstretched arms of a great, hollow brass image, heated by fires built underneath. R4840:1
Son of Hinnom —In Greek, Ge-Hinnom or Gehenna, illustrating the Second Death. R4840:4
Used witchcraft —It is sufficient that God warns us not to have anything to do with occult powers. R5800:1, R265:4
A familiar spirit —A wicked spirit, who pretended to be able to give him superhuman wisdom and advice. R2387:2
[2 Chron. 33:9]
To do worse —More evil. Sin is constitutional derangement. Through the fall the whole human family is prone to sin so that it requires continual effort under the guidance of the Lord not to go backward into sin. R3598:6
Than the heathen —The nations. The Amalekites, the Perizzites, the Hittites, and all those nations whom the Lord drove out of Canaan to make room for Israel. R3598:6 A lesson for spiritual Israel: there is a continual warfare between the flesh and the spirit and we must be continually on guard. R3599:1
[2 Chron. 33:10]
The LORD spake —Probably through the prophets Micah and Nahum. R2387:3
[2 Chron. 33:11]
To Babylon —The very story of the Chronicles has been found written on clay tables. R2101:5*
[2 Chron. 33:12]
Was in affliction —The judgment of the Lord as a punishment for sin which came upon Manasseh eventuated in a blessing for the evil-doer, illustrating the principle that will go into effect in the Millennial age. R3599:1
[2 Chron. 33:13]
Was intreated of him —Illustrating the mercy of God to the truly repentant. R3599:4
Then Manasseh knew —The clear intimation is that previously he did not know; that his sins were largely of ignorance. R2388:1
[2 Chron. 33:15]
And he took away —674 BC, corresponding to the antitypical cleansing of the sanctuary in 1846. R3574:4*
[2 Chron. 33:17]
In the high places —The evil effects of Manasseh's reign were never thoroughly effaced before his death. R3599:4 Many of the Lord's jewels are today suffering for sins that are past and forgiven. R3599:5 The degradations coming to the world through sin will survive the forgiveness of their sins. R3599:5
[2 Chron. 33:19]
They are written —Showing that the prophets did not confine themselves to oral teachings. R1145:3
[2 Chron. 33:21]
Two years —Link No.41 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 34:1]
One and thirty years —Link No. 42 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 34:3]
In the eighth year —651 BC, parallel to 1869 AD, when the editor of Zion's Watch Tower first began to search the Scriptures for the true plan of God. R3574:4*
While he was yet young —An example of the proper course for every young person in that the heart should be given to the Lord in the days of youth before evil experiences have come. R4838:5
He began to seek —It is one thing to be well disposed and another thing entirely to consecrate the heart to the Lord. R2390:3
In the twelfth year —By the time he was twenty, Josiah's religious convictions were so deep and fixed that he dared to begin the work of reformation. R4837:3, R3607:2 It is a great mistake to assume that children must first "sow wild oats" before they can appreciate righteousness. R4837:6
He began to purge —Under the Law every king of Israel had a responsibility to oppose idolatry with violence because the kingdom typically represented God and his reign of righteousness. But when fleshly Israel was cast off, all such laws were made null and void. R3607:3 With spiritual Israel each heart has its own dominion to conquer, to clear of idols. R3607:5
[2 Chron. 34:4]
Brake down the altars —As it was with Josiah's work, so it should be with all who present themselves to the Lord. They should begin by breaking off their sins, destroying the fleshly idols of the heart. R2390:5
[2 Chron. 34:5]
Burnt the bones —This work of reform had been prophesied for him years before (1 Kings 13:1-3; 2 Kings 23:15-17). R3607:3
[2 Chron. 34:8]
In the eighteenth year —641 BC, parallel to 1879 AD, the date of the founding of Zion's Watch Tower. R3574:4*
[2 Chron. 34:14]
Found —In the process of the cleaning up and restoring of the Temple services commanded by King Josiah. R3608:2
A book —Possibly including the five books of Moses and the book of Judges, including the original copy of Deuteronomy written by Moses' own hand. R4850:3, R3608:3, R2390:6 Now, in due time, the Word of God is being found, shining with wonderful brilliancy upon the path of the just. R4851:5
Law of the LORD —The Word of the Lord was lost during the Dark Ages, resulting in confusion and deterioration of spiritual vitality. His Word is found now in the sense of being easily accessible. R3609:3
[2 Chron. 34:15]
Shaphan the scribe —His position corresponded somewhat to the Secretary of State at the present time. R3608:2
In the house of the LORD —King Ahaz had caused the manuscripts to be burned, but in God's providence one copy of the Law was buried under a pile of stone and rubbish in one of the rooms surrounding the Court of the Temple. R3608:2 In one sense, the Word of the Lord is still hidden, covered with a thick coating of false teaching and human tradition. R3609:4
[2 Chron. 34:19]
The king had heard —Due to the long period of idolatry preceding Josiah's work of reformation, the king may have never heard of the divine Law up to this time. R4850:3 To the masses of the people today, God's Book is lost. R4851:1
Words of the law —He realized that the nation of Israel had committed the very sins recorded in Deuteronomy 28, and that therefore they were subject to the very penalties therein specified. R3608:3
Rent his clothes —The tearing of the loose outer garment in olden times was a symbol of distress, perplexity or fear. R3608:3 So it is with the Christian who at last discovers the true meaning of the great law of love, and feels his shortcomings. R2391:3
[2 Chron. 34:21]
Wrath of the LORD —Deuteronomy 28 is a statement of the penalty due Josiah's kingdom because of idolatry preceding his day. R4851:1
[2 Chron. 34:22]
Went to Huldah —Instead of Jeremiah or Zephaniah, perhaps to ascertain whether she would confirm their public prophecies of coming judgment upon the nation. R2391:1
The prophetess —God requires faithfulness on the part of female as well as male stewards in the use of all their talents. R1549:4
[2 Chron. 34:24]
Evil upon this place —It was too late for any national reformation, as it is now too late for the reformation of Christendom. R2391:4
Curses —Evils. R3608:5
[2 Chron. 34:27]
Thine heart was tender —Words of comfort and consolation for the king himself. R2391:4 The Lord's promise is comforting to all those who mourn in Zion, who are out of sympathy with evil and unrighteousness. R2391:6
[2 Chron. 34:28]
To thy grave —Qeber, tomb, place of interment. E348
In peace —The king, and presumably others who manifested a similar spirit, would be preserved from the trouble. It would not come at a time and manner as to involve them. R4851:1, R3608:5
[2 Chron. 34:33]
All the abominations —The purging from idolatry was still more thoroughly carried out and the work of reformation made more deep. R4851:1
They departed not —The majority of the Israelites were swayed by the example of the king, without any clear moral and religious sentiments of their own. R3608:6
[2 Chron. 35:1]
The fourteenth day —The full of the moon, symbol of the Law covenant and the people under that covenant. Christ's crucifixion at the full of the moon, and the fact that it immediately began to wane, foreshadowed Israel's national decline. F481
[2 Chron. 35:19]
In the eighteenth year —641 BC, parallel to 1879 AD, the date of the founding of Zion's Watch Tower. R3574:4*
This passover kept —Typifying the great passover, the resurrection of the dead in Christ in the year 1878 AD and the passing over of the feet members of the Body since that date at the moment of death. R3574:4*
[2 Chron. 35:20]
Josiah went out —Acting contrary to the Lord's will. Q765:2 What a lesson to all—to mind their own business and not to meddle in the affairs of others. Q765:2
[2 Chron. 35:22]
Valley of Megiddo —These battles were, in a sense, typical. Di; OV268:2
[2 Chron. 35:24]
And he died —Despite the promise of 2 Kings 22:20 that he would die in peace; indicating that the promise was conditioned on Josiah's continued faith and obedience to the Lord. Q765:2
[2 Chron. 36:5]
Eleven years —Link No.43 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4
[2 Chron. 36:9]
Was eight years old —An error of a copyist, should be 18 years. B53 2 Kings 24:8 says 18 years old. HG1O5:2
[2 Chron. 36:11]
Reigned —Until the overthrow of the dynasty. R3623:2
Eleven years —Link No.44 in the chain of Bible chronology. B50; R1980:4 This reign was actually ten years, four months and nine days, but is stated in round numbers. B48
[2 Chron. 36:13]
Made him swear by God —The taking of that oath was the immediate cause of his downfall. R3623:2
Stiffened his neck —A figure drawn from the stiffness of neck of a yoke of unruly bullocks, unmanageable, self-willed, resenting every effort to turn them in the right way. R3464:1Representing those who break the oath of their covenant with the Lord, thus suffering loss in every respect. R3623:3 Let us be faithful to our vow and, for the present, be submissive to the powers that be.R3624:5
[2 Chron. 36:16]
Mocked the messengers —Referred to by Jesus in the parable of the Wicked Husbandmen (Mark 12:3-5). R1796:1
[2 Chron. 36:17]
The king —Nebuchadnezzar. B191
Of the Chaldees —Of Babylon. B191
He gave them all —God foresaw the calamities which then came upon his chosen people; he foretold them and permitted them. R3623:5 The final overthrow of the typical kingdom is parallel to the final overthrow of nominal Christendom. R3575:2*
[2 Chron. 36:20]
Away to Babylon —Corresponding to the captivity of the true Church in mystic Babylon. B246; R1483:6
[2 Chron. 36:21]
By the mouth of Jeremiah —Who specifically told, not only of the destruction of the city, but also that it would be 70 years before the return of its inhabitants. (Jer. 25:12; Jer. 29:10) R4893:1
Land had enjoyed —The land did not enjoy her sabbaths while they dwelt upon it. (Lev. 26:34,43) HG59:2 During this time the 70 years of rest were accomplished for the land, but the return feature of the Jubilee was neglected until the antitype in 1874. R4779:5* The Jews were not forced to keep their sabbaths while in Babylon, but the land was forced to keep these sabbaths while the Jews were in Babylon. R4933:1; Q381:5
Her sabbaths —The sabbath system (the seventh day and fiftieth day, the seventh year and fiftieth year) was a connected whole. R2534:3
Lay desolate —"Without an inhabitant." (Jer. 44:2) HG47:2 Not 70 years captivity, but 70 years desolation. R3624:1, R1372:5, R1976:4 The time of the 70 years desolation of the land began in 606 BC with the carrying away of Zedekiah, not with his father's captivity 11 years previous. R5721:2,R3624:1 The date 606 BC marks the date of the beginning of the "Times of the Gentiles," the final conclusive punishment of "seven times" visited upon the Jewish people. A literal "time," or year, is 12 months of 30 days each; seven "times" would be 2520 days, representing 2520 actual years, ending in 1914. B89; R5721:2; Q356:2 We cannot make 70 years of desolation of the land into 51 years desolation for the sake of harmony with Ptolemy. We reject all of Ptolemy's Canon back of the first year of Cyrus, 536 BC. R3437:3
She kept sabbath —There is no record of Israel's keeping the Jubilees and the Lord here declares that they were neglected. R3624:1 God declared that their observance of the year sabbaths and jubilees was unsatisfactory to him, and he gave them all their jubilees at once. OVI00:T
To fulfil —The 70 years desolation of the land of Israel, accomplished by Nebuchadnezzar, fulfilled the entire number of typical jubilee years divinely foreordained. R4779:1*, R3624:2; OV100:1; PD48/59 Marking: (1) The beginning of the Great Jubilee cycle; (2) the close of God's typical kingdom; and (3) the beginning of the Times of the Gentiles. R1372:6
Threescore and ten —A period long enough to allow nearly all of them to die in exile, a period in which those who loved idolatry might go their way. R3623:5 The number 70 was put here to show us when the time should come for the Lord to bless Israel and the whole world. Q382:T These 70 years represent 19 Jubilees imperfectly observed in the period of 950 years from the time the Jews entered Canaan until 19 years previous to the desolation of the land, and 51 additional Jubilees of 49 years each, 2499 years from the observance of the last Jubilee to earth's Great Jubilee, the Times of Restitution of all things, October 1874. B192, B195; R1493:2, R3624:4; OV88:1
[2 Chron. 36:22]
First year of Cyrus —The year 536 BC, a date well established in secular history. The 70 years of desolation of which this is the end is therefore link No.45 in the chain of Bible chronology. The Bible chronology does not go beyond this point at which secular history becomes reliable. B51; R1980:5; B80; HG46:5 The year 536 BC corresponds to 1309 AD, the year when the Papal residence was transferred from Rome to Avignon, marking the first favorable condition for the liberation of the truth from bondage to Papacy (typified by Babylon). R3577:2*Like every other feature of God's plan, the deliverance of Israel from Babylon was promptly on time. R1483:3
He made a proclamation —The prophet had said that Cyrus would let Israel go, and God had to bend his will until he was in harmony with that prophecy. HG62:2
[2 Chron. 36:23]
Thus saith Cyrus —Signifying "sun" or "brightness" and representing the deliverance of spiritual Israel out of Babylon the Great by the bright shining of the Sun of Righteousness. R1483:6God had marked him out by the prophet Isaiah for this very purpose, calling him by name and specifying the work he was to do (Isa. 44:24, 28; Isa. 45:1-6). R1483:3
Who is there —Only a few, about 50,000, learned the lessons which their fathers refused to learn and accepted the offer to return. R3623:6 The remainder of the nation had become so comfortably settled in Babylon, socially and financially, that their interests in these things outweighed their faith in the Abrahamic promise. R3648:3
Let him go up —Not as masters of the land, but as servants of Cyrus and his successors. R1483:5