Verse 33
33. Subdued kingdoms These were secular exploits, yet performed in service of the theocracy, and in firm allegiance to Jehovah, God of Israel. Conscientious generalship and statesmanship, performed in the right spirit, are in the line of faith. Happy the man who serves his country in allegiance to his God.
Wrought righteousness As just judges, rulers, and reformers. So Samuel, (1 Samuel 12:3-4;) David, (2 Samuel 8:15;) so Elijah, Elisha, and Josiah. Obtained the fulfilment of promises. This is no contradiction to 39. The old heroes rejoiced in the fulfilment of many a promise, but the entire body never attained the promise, namely, of the heavenly country, (Hebrews 11:16,) the land of the better resurrection.
Stopped the mouths of lions Daniel, who expressly boasted, “My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions’ mouths;” and it is added, “because he believed in his God.” Faith in God, the God of Israel, in opposition to the Chaldean idolatries, was the nerve of his action.
Be the first to react on this!
