Great reformations often have an insignificant commencement and are slow in developing their true proportions. Reformation work--
I. Requires a vigorous leader.
II. Should not be undertaken without a deliberate estimate of its magnitude and difficulty.
III. In its initial stages is almost certain to provoke opposition.
IV. Cannot be carried on without mutual co-operation.
V. Cannot succeed without the divine blessing. (HomileticCommentary.)
And gave them the king’s letters.
The king’s letters
Here is a beautiful picture of the Christian evangelist. When he goes abroad he has no introduction of himself to make--he simply delivers the King’s letters. When the preacher appears in the pulpit, all he has to do is to give the people the King’s letters; when the student bends his head over his desk in the study, it is only that he may study what is written in the letters of the King. The moment we begin to write letters of commendation for ourselves, we become as other men; our distinctiveness as ambassadors is lost. The King’s letters are full of light and love. They are addressed to every man. (J. Parker, D. D.)
When Sanballat the Horonite . . . it grieved them exceedingly.--
Secret jealousy
There is jealousy--
I. Tyrannical in its spirit.
II. Anti-religious in its attitude.
III. Covetously selfish in its motives.
IV. Self-torturingin its effects. (Homiletic Commentary.)
