He shall cause them that come of Jacob to take root

The future prosperity of the Church the effects of Divine influence

I. IN RESPECT OF NUMBER. Under the ancient dispensation, the spiritual Israel were comparatively few. But at the commencement of the Christian dispensation the wall of partition was broken down, and the boundaries of the Church were greatly enlarged.

II. IN RESPECT OF SPIRITUAL VIGOUR. Others remain in a state of spiritual death. But concerning them “that come of Jacob,” it is here asserted that they shall take root.

III. IN RESPECT OF BEAUTY. Christ Himself, “the branch of the Lord, is beautiful and glorious” (Isaiah 4:2); and believers in Christ are made comely through His comeliness put upon them (Ezekiel 16:14).

IV. IN RESPECT OF FRUITFULNESS. Believers are denominated in Scripture, “trees of righteousness,” to intimate that they should “bring forth fruit unto God.” They abound “in every good word and work.”

V. IN RESPECT OF JOY. It is when the dews of heaven “drop upon the pastures of the wilderness” that it is said, “the little hills rejoice on every side.” The abundant joy of New Testament times, especially of the times referred to in the passage before us, is often spoken of in Scripture.

VI. IN RESPECT OF STABILITY. It is here promised that the Lord “shall cause them that come of Jacob to take root” The vicissitudes which take place in human affairs teach us the vanity of the world, and the perishing nature of all that seems most durable in this region of shadows. The Church of God, however, has been like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved.

VII. IN RESPECT OF EXTENT. (R. Jack.)

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