4 And Jehoshaphat said unto the king of Israel, Inquire, I pray thee, at the Word of the LORD to-day.

5 Therefore the king of Israel gathered together of prophets four hundred men, and said unto them, Shall we go to Ramoth-gilead to battle, or shall I forbear? And they said, Go up; for God will deliver it into the king's hand.

6 But Jehoshaphat said, 'Is there not here a prophet of the LORD t besides, that we might inquire of him?

7 And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, There is yet one man by whom we may inquire of the LORD: but I hate him; for he never prophesieth good unto P me, but always evil: the same is Micaiah the son of Imla. And Jehoshaphat said, Let not the king say so.

aphat; and thus it will be, wherever or whenever God shall please to stir up the hearts of kings, princes, and ministers, to teach the people in every part of their territories, according to the word of God. This is also the proper way of promoting public peace and prosperity; and, it will prove a better protection of nations, than an increase of powerful armies or navies: yet it may very properly be connected with the ordinary methods of defence.-Persons in authority have "much business" to which they ought to attend: and they should consider that stable peace, and increasing numbers of well maintained and orderly subjects, are more honorable than the most successful wars: and whatever ability any man possesses, he should willingly devote himself to God, and serve him

NOTES.

church in all ages; for great reformations and revivals of religion have generally been thus effected. It is especially sanctioned by the example of Christ and his apostles, and recommended as the divine method of spreading the gospel through the nations of the earth; itinerant preaching having almost always preceded, and made way for, the stated ministry of regular pastors. But it is a work which requires peculiar talents and dispositions, and a peculiar call in Providence; and is not rashly and hastily to be ventured upon by every novice, who has learned to speak about the gospel, and has more zeal, than knowledge, prudence, humility, or experience. An unblemished character, a disinterested spirit, an exemplary deadness to the world, unaffected humility, deep acquaintance with the human heart, and prepara-with all that he has. tion for enduring the cross, not only with boldness, but with meekness, patience, and sweetness CHAP. XVIII. V. 1. Affinity, &c.] Jehoram of temper, are indispensably necessary in such a the son of Jehoshaphat married Athaliah the service. They who engage in it should go upon daughter of Ahab. (Notes, 1 Kings 22:2. 2 Kings broad scriptural grounds, and dwell chiefly upon 8:18,26.) Perhaps pride and ambition had some those grand essentials of religion, in which pious influence in forming this fatal union: but probably men of different persuasions are agreed; plainly Jehoshaphat was allured to it, by the hopes of ceproving every thing from the word of God, run-menting a durable peace between Judah and Isning nothing into extremes, and avoiding all dis-rael, whom he wished to consider as brethren. putes, however urged to it, about the shibboleths of a party. In this way itinerant preaching is a blessing which all, who love the souls of men, must wish to be vouchsafed to every part of every nation upon earth. And if those who are in authority, would employ select men of known and approved piety and ability, protected and countenanced by them, to go from city to city, and from village to village, through the kingdom, teaching|| in every place the plain acknowledged truths and V.2-6. Notes, 1 Kings 22:1-7.—We will be precepts of the Bible, immense good might be with thee in the war. (3) Thus Jehoshaphat exdone. Those stated teachers, who have been pressly engaged to assist Ahab, before he proposgrossly negligent or profligate, must either be dis-ed to inquire of God. (Note, Josh. 9:14,15.)— graced or reformed; others might be stirred up to 'Ahab entertained both Jehoshaphat and his atuse greater diligence; and the instructions of 'tendants, with great splendor. ... He caressed him stated faithful ministers would receive an addi- 'so at this feast, and used such arguments, as pretional sanction, which could not fail of producing "vailed with him to undertake this expedition a happy effect. Thus it was in the days of Jehosh-What he had consented to in the midst of their

494]

(Note, 2 Kings 8:18.) Ahab perceived Jehoshaphat to be so strong, that he had no hopes of prevailing against him, and therefore he courted his friendship. But this affinity was evil in itself, and peculiarly dangerous to Jehoshaphat; who, though firm and courageous in resisting and overcoming opposition and difficulties, was easily persuaded by fair words into improper compliances. (Notes, 1 Kings 22:4,7,29. 2 Kings 3:7.)

hoshaphat the king of Judah, went up to Ramoth-gilead.

29 And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, I will disguise myself, and will go to the battle; but put thou on thy robes. So the king of Israel disguised himself, and they went to the battle.

33 And a certain man drew a bow † at a venture, and smote the king of Israel between the joints of the harness: therefore he said to his chariot-man, Turn thine hand, that thou mayest carry me out of the host; for I am wounded.

34 And the battle increased that day: howbeit the king of Israel stayed himself 30 Now the king of Syria had com-up in his chariot against the Syrians until manded the captains of the chariots that the even; and about the time of the sun were with him, saying, Fight ye not with going down he died. i small or great, save only with the king of Israel.

CHAP. XIX.

joining alliance with Ahab; but commended in other respects, 1-3. He visits and reforms his kingdom, 4: and gives a charge to the judges, priests, and Levites, in the cities of Judah, and at Jerusalem, 5-11.

31 And it came to pass, when the cap-Jehoshaphat, on his return, is reproved by Jehu the prophet, for tains of the chariots saw Jehoshaphat, that they said, It is the king of Israel: therefore they compassed about him to fight: but * Jehoshaphat cried out, and the LORD helped him; and m God moved them to depart from him.

32 For it came to pass, that, when the captains of the chariots perceived that it was not the king of Israel, they turned back again from pursuing him.

e 1 Sam. 23:8. 1 Kings 14:2-6. | k 13:14. 14:11. Ex. 14:10. Ps. 20:38. Job 24:15. Jer. 23:24.

116:1,2. 2 Cor. 1:9,10.

126:7. Ps. 46:1,11. 94:17. 118:
13.

m Ezra 1:1. 7:27. Neh. 1:11.
Prov. 16:7. 21:1

*Heb. from after him.

V. 28, 29. (Notes, 1 Kings 22:29,30.) It has been thought, that Ahab wished Jehoshaphat to fall by the Syrians, in expectation that the affairs of Judah would come under his management, as the father-in-law of Jehoram.

V. 30-34. Notes, 1 Kings 22:31-35.-God moved, &c. (31) In the extremity of danger, Jehoshaphat made the Lord his Refuge, who remembered his servant, though out of the path of duty; and, in answer to his prayer, inclined his pursuers to depart from him, by a secret but powerful influence on their minds.

returned to his house in peace to ND Jehoshaphat the king of Judah

Jerusalem.

2 And Jehu the son of Hanani & the

seer went out to meet him, and said to king Jehoshaphat, Shouldest thou help

n See on 1 Kings 22.34.
Heb. in his simplicity. 2 Sam.

15:11.

Heb. between the joints and between the breast-plate. 1 Kings 22:34,35.

Heb. made sick. 35:23.

o See on 16,19,27.-Num. 32:23.
Prov. 13:21. 28:17.

e

they acted their parts with the name of God in their mouths, have secretly been prompted by Satan, "deceiving and being deceived." We should therefore be reminded not only to "inquire of the LORD," but careful likewise by whom we inquire of him; and also that we inquire his will, before we commit ourselves, by engagements that may be contrary to it.-They who flatter the humors of the rich and great will in general be most favored; and those who offend the pride, or disturb the consciences, of such as are strangers to the power of godliness, will be hated, and may lay their account with hard usage: nay, such pious persons as associate with ungodly people, must often witness and seem to approve of, very abominable things. The event, however, will shew faithful teachers in their proper light; so that even the wicked will be constrained to allow the propriety of their conduct. In the mean time, let them go on with confidence in God, simply declaring his whole message, and patiently bear

PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS. Abundant riches and honor do indeed give large opportunities of doing good; but they are attended with such strong temptations, as very few who possess them are enabled to withstand. It is therefore a certain proof, that men are not well acquainted with the artifices of Satan, and the deceitfulness of their own hearts, and that they have much self-confidence, when they coveting the cross; for "great will be their reward in riches in order to do good; for they are far more|| heaven."-Satan is allowed to deceive those, who likely to get harm by them. Among other evils, reject the testimony of God's prophets.-No polthey often betray pious persons into improper icy can avert the stroke of the Lord's vengeance, marriages, for themselves or their children. It when the time arrives; nor can his people ever appears beneath them to join affinity with inferior be destitute of a refuge. He both can and will families; but "not many mighty or noble are extricate them even from those difficulties and called:" and so they are seduced to prefer titles perils, into which they have sinfully brought and estates, to faith and holiness; and the effects themselves, when they earnestly and humbly call are generally lamentable to themselves, to pos-upon him: and, as he has all hearts in his hand, terity, and to the cause of godliness.-We should follow peace with all men: but we ought to have no intimacies with the workers of iniquity; for their caresses, flatteries, and feasts, are more dangerous than their most imbittered rage; and in fact they are frequently the result of politic enmity, and at best proceed from mercenary selflove. Indeed, the most enormous wickedness is often veiled under a shew of piety.-A very great majority of professed ministers, in many ages and places, have been teachers of lies: who, while 4961

he can easily rescue them in their most urgent distresses.-"O LORD God of Hosts, blessed is the man that putteth his trust in thee!"

NOTES.

CHAP. XIX. V. 1. This peaceful return home exceeded Jehoshaphat's expectations, and was contrary to his deserts: and he was thus discriminated from Ahab to whom he had said, "I am as thou art." (18:3,29. Note, 1 Kings 22:4.) 1 suppose, as soon as the battle was over, he im

f 18:7. Ex. 20:5. Deut. 5:9. 7: 10. 32:41 33:11. Ps. 21:8. 68: 1. 81:15. John 15:18,23. Rom. 1:30. 87. Jam. 4:4.

32:25 Ps. 90.7,8. Rom. 1:18. 1 Cor 11-31,32.

h 17:36 1 Kings 14:13. Rom.†

7:18

i See on 12:14.-30:19. Ezra 7: 10. Ps. 57.7.

Heb returned and went out. 1 Sam. 7:15-17.

k Gen 21:33. Judg. 20:1.
1 Josh 17-15. Judg, 19.1.

m See on 15:8-13.-29:10,11.
1 Sam 7:3,4. Mal. 4:6. Luke
1:17

n 8. Deut. 16:18-20. Rom. 13:

1-5. 1 Pet. 2:13,14.

o Josh. 22:5. 1 Chr. 28:10. Luke
12:15. 21:8. Acts 5:35. 22:26.
p Deut. 1:17. Ps. 82:1-6. Ec.

5:8.

Heb. matter of judgment.
q Gen. 42:18. Ex. 18:21,22,25,
26. Neh. 5:15. Is. 1:23-26.

r Gen. 18:25. Deut. 32:4. Rom.
9:14.

Is Deut. 10:17,18. Job 34:19.
Matt. 22:16. Acts 10:34. Rom.
2:11. Gal. 2:6. Eph. 6:9. Col.
3:25. 1 Pet. 1:17.

t Ex. 23:8. Deut. 16:19. Is. 1:
23. 33:15. Mic. 7:3.

'mediately went to Jerusalem, to return thanks 'to God for his wonderful preservation.' Bp. Patrick

V 2. Jehu was the son of Hanani, who was cast into prison by Asa for reproving him; (Note, 16:7-10.) yet he was not afraid of bringing a similar message to Jehoshaphat. That prince's alliance with a notorious idolater was a bad example to his subjects, which exceedingly tended to counteract his endeavors for reformation: and Ahab's expedition was undertaken in defiance of the word of God, and attended with such circumstances, as rendered Jehoshaphat inexcusable in helping him. For this misconduct "wrath was upon him from before the LORD:" not the wrath of an Enemy or avenging Judge, but that of an offended Father; and the fatal effects of this affinity upon his family and kingdom, were as awful evidences of this wrath, as could be perienced by one that did not finally perish. (Notes, 21:4,18-20. 22:5,7--9. 2 Sam. 12:10. 2 Kings 11:1,2.)--Went out to meet him.] 'Be'fore he came into the city, that being admonish'ed by him, he might be the more affected with 'the mercy of God towards him in his deliverance.' Bp. Patrick.

V. 3. Marg. Ref. Notes, 17:1-9.

ing his intimacy with Ahab as a kind of dispensation, to such as chose to avail themselves of it.

V. 5-11. In process of time, irregularities and abuses in the magistracy had interrupted the regular administration of justice: but Jehoshaphat carefully reduced this likewise to order; and took care that judges, and courts of justice, should be established in every considerable town, for the benefit of the neighborhood; but with appeal to the superior courts at Jerusalem. (Notes, Ex. 23:1-3,6-9. Deut. 16:18,19. 17:8-13. 1 Chr. 23:2-6. 26:30-32.) In all these courts the priests and Levites were joined with the principal persons of the other tribes: for the law of God was in an especial manner the statute-law of the realm; according to which both ecclesiastical causes, or the "judgment of the LORD," the pleas of the crown, or "the king's matters," and common ex-pleas, or "controversies," were to be determined. This settlement was completed, when the king and his attendants returned to Jerusalem from the circuit of the land: and both in the cities of Judah, and at Jerusalem, the king solemnly exhorted and charged the magistrates to do the duty of their office, in the fear of the Lord; as acting by his authority, in his presence, under his protection, copying his impartial justice and equity, and looking forward to the account which they must shortly render to him. (Marg. Ref. o—t. y.) 'It is most agreeable to the scripture to understand by the things of God, those which were defined by the law of God, and were to be judged of by that law: and by "the king's matters," such as not 'being defined by the divine law, were left to the 'judgment of the king; of which kind were all de· [49

V. 4. Jehoshaphat went no more to Samaria, but abode at Jerusalem, and in Judah, and attended to the affairs of his own kingdom. Being assured that the Lord had graciously accepted of his endeavors for reformation, he made a circuit through his kingdom to perfect that work, and to restore what had been overturned. For it seems, that the people had relapsed into idolatry, regard-|| VOL. II. 63

CHAP. XX. Jehoshaphat, alarmed by an invasion of the Moabites, Ammon ites, and others, proclaims a fast, 1-4. His prayer, 5-13. Jahaziel, the prophet, assures him of a signal deliverance, 14-17. Jehoshaphat and his people receive the promise with adoring thankfulness, 18, 19. He exhorts them to believe,

and appoints singers to praise the Lord, 20, 21. The invaders spoils, 22-25. They bless God at Berachah, return in tri

destroy one another, and the people of Judah gather immense

umph, and enjoy peace, 26-30. Jehoshaphat's good reign and acts, 31-34. He joins with Ahaziah in sending ships to Tharshish, which are wrecked, according to the prediction of

Eliezer, 35-37.

c

ldren of Ammon, and with them other beside the Ammonites, came against Jehoshaphat to battle.

2 Then there came some that told Jehoshaphat, saying, There cometh a great multitude against thee from beyond the sea on this side Syria; and, behold, they be in Hazazon-tamar, which is En

It the children of Moab, and the Chil- 8 19.2. Jer. 10:24. Rev. 3:10. Gen. 14:37.2.
T came to pass after this also, that gedi.

b

a 19:5,11. 32:1

b Ps. 83:5-8. Is. 7:1. 8:9,10. 16:6.

...

c

3:16.

e

Cant. 1:14.

1 Sam. 23:29.

'liberations about what was expedient, or not ex-ministers ought not to fear or respect the persons 'pedient. The court had different presidents, of men, or be intimidated by the sufferings of oth"according to the nature of the causes. In things ers in the same cause, but must deliver their whole 'pertaining to God, Amariah the high priest sat message plainly; they should also endeavor to do 'as the first judge; in things pertaining to the king, it with forbearance, tenderness, and candor, which 'Zebadiah a principal person about the king will render reproofs less offensive and more effect'was the moderator.' Grotius, quoted by Bp. ual. When these are prudently given and propPatrick. The rest' (of the Levites) who were erly taken, they are not only salutary, but confer 'not judges, were ministers under them, to see honor on both parties; (Note, Prov. 25:11,12.) and 'their sentence executed. He bids them not be when, being united with due commendations, they 'afraid of any man, for God, who employed them, excite men to renewed vigilance and diligence in 'would stand by them, and defend them, if they their proper work, they become general benefits. 'were good and upright judges.' Bp. Patrick.— -The tendency of human nature to evil renders Some interpret, blood and blood, of relationship unremitting vigor necessary in all those, who and titles to estates; but it seems rather to mean would suppress abuses and effect reformation: for, causes concerning murder, maiming, or accident- on every relaxation, evils will revive and gather ally killing any one.-The judges were required strength rapidly, and all will need to be done to warn the people not to transgress; lest, beside over again.-The ministry and the magistracy, other reasons, their brethren should be involved when restricted to their distinct methods, may in the consequences of their crimes. concur in promoting godliness, as well as preserving public peace: and all legal decisions should be expedited in a regular and easy method, and with little expense; that the poor may be placed, as nearly as possible, at an equal advantage with the rich, in obtaining their dues.-Magistrates are the vicegerents, of the Governor and Judge of the world, and are therefore to be obeyed in all things lawful for the Lord's sake. (Notes, Rom. 13:1-7.) But there lies an appeal from their decisions to a superior tribunal; and they should be constantly and solemnly reminded, that they will be exposed to condemnation, if they do not act uprightly in the fear of God, without respect of persons, or taking of gifts. And, besides executing the laws of man impartially, it is their duty also to warn men not to trespass against the Lord, lest wrath come upon them and their brethren. (Note, 17:7-9.) They should therefore take heed and deal courageously, not fearing the displeasure of man, but confiding in the protection of God, who is with them in the judgment; that he may indeed be with them for their good. May he pro vide increasing numbers of good ministers and good magistrates, to suppress vice, and to promote the cause of truth and holiness!

The LORD, who is with you in judgment. (6) Which the Talmud thus translates, Ye do not Judge before the sons of men, but before the WORD of the LORD, and his glorious presence resides among you in the act of judgment; which is an il'lustrious testimony that the ancient Jews believ'ed more persons than one in the Deity.' Bp. Patrick.-Deal courageously. (11) Notes, Josh. 1:7. 2 Tim. 2:1,2.-The LORD shall be with the good.] Note, Phil. 4:8,9.

NOTES.

PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS. Nothing but perils, wrath, and painful effects, can be expected from intimacies with ungodly men; and that in proportion to the degree of their avowed hatred to the character, worship, and service of God. We ought therefore to shun all needless familiarity with them, and to shew them and all the world, our disapprobation of their principles and conduct; whatever may be their rank, abilities, or accomplishments; or however political interests or relative ties may plead for a coalition. We should indeed bear them good will, and be ready to relieve their distress, and to help them in their most important interests: but we ought to be cautious of involving ourselves with their secular undertakings, and still more of concurring with them in any of their sinful projects. CHAP. XX. V. 1, 2. (Notes, 14:1-15. 31:20, (Notes. 2 Cor. 6:14-18. Eph. 5:8-14. 2 John 7 21. 32:1-8. 1 Sam. 7:1-7.) "The fear of the -11. P. O.)-The unmerited mercies of God Lord had fallen upon the kingdoms round about are often united with severe rebukes and correc- Judah;" and Jehoshaphat had so long enjoyed tions; and these again are moderated by tokens of peace, that he seems to have neglected his militahis approbation, where our conduct has been good ry arrangements, and to have relaxed his vigiin his sight: for he would not have those discour-lance. (Notes, 17:10-19.) Perhaps his enemies aged, who "prepare their hearts to seek him;" and when there are really good things found in us, he will mercifully forgive the evil which we allow not or repent of, and accept the good, through the Savior's advocacy. In these things we should be followers of God: we must not "hate our offending brother, nor suffer sin upon him; but in any wise rebuke him;" (Note, Lev. 19:17.) but we should take more pleasure in commending what is evidently good; and bear much from those in whom "good things are found."-While 498]

observed this, and thought to take advantage of it; or they had heard "that wrath was upon him from before the LORD," for uniting with Ahab. This formidable armament consisted of Moabites, Ammonites, and the allies of the Ammonites; (Note, 10,11.) and came from "beyond the sea on this side Syria," that is the dead sea, or salt sea, which was considered as one of the western boundaries of Syria; and they were encamped in his dominions, at Engedi, (Marg. Ref. e, f.) before he was informed of their approach, or apprised of