In that day shall the Lord defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem
The security of the Church in the midst of dangers
There is not a greater miracle of preservation and security than that which is exhibited in the salvation of the Church in her present condition as surrounded by spiritual enemies.
I. The promise. “In that day shall the Lord defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem.”
1. The defended. Jerusalem denotes the whole Church of Christ. It signifies the Christian.
2. The time of their defence. “In that day.” This may relate to the dispensation of the Gospel of Christ, when the Lord Jesus should accomplish His work for the defence and salvation of our souls. It may refer to the time of our conversion.
3. The person defending. “The Lord.” The defence is not put into the hands of an angel, or archangel; it is in the hands of the Lord.
II. The pledge given. “He that is feeble among them, at that day, shall be as David,” The word “feeble” means that he cannot save himself from sin, Satan, or the world. “As David.” Look at the character of brave, strong, successful, beloved, elevated, hated, yet saved David.
III. The simile drawn. “As God.” Like unto God in spotlessness, in spiritual resemblance, in general disposition, in immoveableness.
IV. The example given. “As the angel of the Lord.” This can only mean Christ. We are beloved as Christ by the Father. Perfect as Christ--in Christ--before God. Powerful as Christ, since it is in the power of Christ we overcome. (T. Bagnall-Baker, M. A.)
