Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
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Esther
Book: Esther
Chapter: 9
Overview:
The success of the Jews.
(1-19) The
Feast of
Purim in
remembrance of this.
(20-32)
1-19 The enemies of the Jews hoped to have power over them
By
the former edict. If they had attempted nothing against the
people of
God, they would not themselves have suffered. The
Jews, acting together, strengthened one another. Let us learn to
stand
Fast in one
Spirit, and with one mind, striving together
against the enemies of our souls, who endeavour to rob us of our
Faith, which is more precious than our lives. The Jews, to the
honour of their religion, showed contempt of worldly wealth, that
they might make it appear they desired nothing except their own
preservation. In every case the people of
God should manifest
humanity and disinterestedness, frequently refusing advantages
which might lawfully be obtained. The Jews celebrated their
festival the
Day after they had finished their work. When we
have received great mercies from
God, we ought to be speedy in
making thankful returns to him.
20-32 The observance of the Jewish feasts, is a public
declaration of the
Truth of the Old
Testament Scriptures. And as
the Old
Testament Scriptures are true, the
Messiah expected
By
the Jews is come long ago; and none but
Jesus of
Nazareth can be
that
Messiah. The festival was appointed
By authority, yet under
the direction of the
Spirit of
God. It was called the
Feast of
Purim, from a Persian
Word, which signifies a
Lot. The name of
this festival would remind them of the almighty power of the
God
of
Israel, who served his own purposes
By the superstitions of
the
Heathen. In reviewing our mercies, we should advert to
former fears and distresses. When our mercies are personal, we
should not
By forgetfulness lose the comfort of them, or
withhold from the
Lord the
Glory due to his name. May the
Lord
teach us to rejoice, with that holy joy which anticipates and
prepares for the blessedness of
Heaven. Every instance of Divine
Goodness to ourselves, is a new obligation laid
On us to do
good, to those especially who most need our bounty. Above all,
Redemption By Christ binds us to be merciful, 2Co 8:9.