I. The sad condition of the people of Israel at the time the prophet wrote. It was that of separation and of estrangement. Such a condition was--
1. Contrary to nature.
2. Displeasing to God.
3. Disastrous to themselves.
That and other sin had reduced them to a condition of national bankruptcy, physical serfdom, social misery, and moral degradation.
II. The happy condition to which the people of Israel were about to be restored. That of unity, harmony, and oneness. Union in a Christian Church is a condition greatly to be desiderated, and earnestly to be sought by all its members.
1. It is of great importance to the Church itself.
2. It is an immense advantage to the surrounding community.
3. It is well pleasing and highly honouring to God.
III. The agency by which this delightful change was to be effected.
1. He breathed into them a principle of spiritual life.
2. He sent them wise advisers and earnest intercessors.
3. He visited them with a sore trial. The Babylonish captivity. Common suffering often awakens common sympathy, and common sorrow begets mutual interest.
4. He appointed them a common work. The rebuilding of the city and temple of Jerusalem. A common service for Christ is still promotive of union among Christians.
5. He makes His residence in their midst (Eze_37:27). Christ in the midst of a Church acts like a magnet in the midst of steel particles: He attracts all to Himself. As Christians are enabled to love Christ and approach Christ, so will they love one another and approach one another. (F. Morgan.)
