Hast thou not heard? - From the traditions of the fathers the instruction which you have received from ancient times. That history will furnish abundant sources of consolation, and abundant assurances that their interests are safe in his hands. It is well for the people of God in times of calamity and trial to recall to their recollection his former dealings with his church. No people had had so much light on this subject, and now that they were in trial, they ought to recall their former knowledge of his character, and remember his dealings of faithfulness with them and their fathers. The phrase, ‘Hast thou not known? refers to the fact that the Jewish people had had an abundant opportunity of learning, in their history, and from their fathers, the true character of God, and his entire ability to save them. This argument of the prophet, which continues to the close of the chapter, comprises the main scope of the chapter, which is to induce them to put confidence in God, and to believe that he was able and willing to deliver them. Hast thou not known? - This is the language of the prophet reproving them for complaining of being forsaken and assuring them that God was faithful to his promises. But those who trust in God will be constantly strengthened by his power, which will lead them on victoriously (30-31). Those who trust in their own strength will fail, no matter how capable they may appear to be. Through him the weak can be made strong (27-29). He has not forgotten them, nor has he lost his power. In view of all this, the Jewish exiles need not become discouraged through thinking that God is either unwilling or unable to help them. On the earth or in the heavens, God controls all (25-26). They are as easily destroyed as dry grass (21-24). Since Yahweh created all and rules over all, the leaders of the nations are as powerless before him as ants or grasshoppers. Yahweh’s people need have no fear of Babylon’s gods (18-20). How absurd, therefore, for people to make lifeless idols and trust in them instead of in the living, almighty God. Israel has no need to fear Babylon or any other ruling power, for nations also are insignificant and powerless before him (15-17). He does whatever he wants, without any help or advice from his creatures (12-14). God is the great Creator the universe appears insignificant compared with him. Should any doubt God’s ability to re-establish Israel in its homeland, the psalm of praise that follows drives away those doubts.
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