Jer_31:3 The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, [saying], Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.
Ver. 3. The Lord hath appeared of old unto me.] This seemeth to be the people’s objection. {a} You tell us what was done of old; but these are ancient things, and little pertaining to us, who are now under a heavy captivity; iam refrixit et obsoleta videtur Dei beneficentia. Hereunto is answered,
Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love.] I am one and the same. I am Jehovah that change not, whatever thou mayest think of me, because I seem angry at thy misdoings.
Therefore with lovingkinduess have I drawn thee.] Or, Therefore will I draw out lovingkindness towards thee. {as Psa_36:10} {See Trapp on "Psa_36:10"}