Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
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1 Samuel
Book: 1 Samuel
Chapter: 11
Overview:
Jabesh-Gilead delivered.
(1-11) Saul confirmed in his kingdom.
(12-15)
1-11 The first
Fruit of
Saul's government was the rescue of
Jabesh-Gilead from the Ammonites. To save their lives, men will
part with liberty, and even consent to have their eyes
Put out;
is it then
No Wisdom to part with that
Sin which is as dear to
us as our right
Eye, rather than to be cast into
Hell-
Fire? See
the
Faith and confidence of
Saul, and, grounded thereon, his
courage and resolution. See also his activity in this business.
When the
Spirit of the
Lord comes upon men, it will make them
expert, even without experience. When zeal for the
Glory of
God,
and
Love for the brethren, urge men to
Earnest efforts, and when
God is pleased to help, great effects may speedily be produced.
12-15 They now honoured
Saul whom they had despised; and if an
enemy be made a friend, that is more to our advantage than to
have him slain. The once despised
Saviour will at length be
acknowledged
By all as the
Lord's own anointed
King. As yet,
upon his
Mercy-seat, he receives the submission of rebels, and
even pleads their cause; but shortly, from his righteous
tribunal, he will condemn all who persist in opposing him.