This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘I will take a shoot from the lofty top of the cedar, and I will set it out. I will pluck a tender sprig from its topmost shoots, and I will plant it on a high and lofty mountain.
This restoration points to Christ, though the prophets begin with the people's return from exile under Cyrus, that was the true beginning of liberty which Christ alone perfected. The kingdom of Christ runs from the temple's rebuilding through His last appearing; we must not confine it to His ascension or early centuries, but trace it through all time until He comes.
AI summary
David's line seemed extinct, his throne broken by captivity, yet the unbelief of man cannot undo God's promise. He will raise another phoenix from those ashes: a Branch of David whom He Himself plants, not depending on any eagle's mercy, but destined to reign forever and shelter all the world.
AI summary
Commenting on Ezekiel 17:22-24
All nations shall know that I have humbled the mighty kingdoms of this world and exalted the low kingdom of Christ, which shall flourish and spread abundantly as an everlasting kingdom. What I speak, I do; the prophecy is certain and the fulfilment sure.
AI summary