The Pulpit Commentary — Ezra — Section 53

HOMILIES BY VARIOUS AUTHORS. Yers. 4-16.-The world's opposition to the Church. We observe, in reference to the world's opposition to the Church- I. THAT IT OFTEN SEEKS TO HINDER USEFUL ENTERPRISE. These Samaritans sought to "trouble them in building" ( ver. 4 ). As Israel was employed in rebuilding the ruined temple, so the Church is engaged in erecting a great spiritual temple; this noble enterprise is hindered by the varied enmity of the world. The moral building is hindered as well by the pleasures as by the enmity of men : how sinful to hinder the work of God. II. THAT IT COMBINES A VARIED AGENCY. 1. Costly. "And hired counsellors against them" (ver. 5). The world often expends much time and money in its opposition to the work of God; it always has "counsellors" ready to take its unprofitable pay. The Church opposes with the unsearchable riches of Christ. 2. Numerous. The enemies of the Church are legion ; but more are for it than all that can be against it. 3. Competent. The men here named were capable of the most effective method of obtaining their end ; the enemies of the Church are often socially great and mentally gifted. Leaming is sometimes arrayed against the Church. But God bath chosen the weak things of the earth to confound the mighty. 4. lriff,uential. These men have influence with the king, and stay the work of Israel. But a faithful Israel has power with God, and shall prevail. Strange are the intellectual and eocial elements allied against the Church. III. THAT IT TAKES ADVANTAGE OF POLITICAL CHANGES. "And in the reign of A.hasuerus" (ver. 6). During the former r~ign the Samaritan en0;1ity did _n_ot '?btain much favour ; but 1t is more successful with the new kmg. This opposition 1s-l. Persistent. Kings may die, but it continues. 2. Vigilant. It is ever on the outlook for new opportunity. 3. Flattering. Thus it seeks to win its way with the new monarch. The Church must remember that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, to-day, and ever; his purpose standeth sure. 4. An appeal to self-interest. "En- damage the revenue of the kings" (ver. 13). IV. THAT IT MAKES A CUNNING USE OF MISREPRESENTATION. "They will not pay toll" (ver. 13). The worldly opposition represents the Church of God e.s injurious to the state. 1. Rebdlious. "Building th? rebellion~" (v~r. 12). That the Church will obey God rather than the kmg ; true 1£ their laws come into collision; but are not Christians the most law-abiding subjects? Clt. IV. 7-16.] 'l'ltE DOOit OF EZRA. 57