UK 3:10{How much there is that is striking in the chapter from which the above text is taken, as well as in the chapter preceding it. The Lord's land parceled out among Gentiles; the rightful Heir to it just born in a manger; and an anomalous condition in the religious polity of Israel, two high priests. Then a voice breaks in on this state of things; but it is not the rams'-horn trumpets of Joshua's day, claiming the land for the Lord. That would not have been confessing the ruined condition and the sins of Israel. John is not driving back Jordan to prepare the way of the Lord, but calling a people down there to confess their sins. It is taking the true place before the Lord of utter failure, and this remnant Jesus joins. He can attach Himself in grace to such, and when taking that position was sealed by the Holy Ghost, and owned by the Father's voice. How good it is to be in the secret of the Lord! (See
Psa. 25:1414The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him; and he will show them his covenant. (Psalm 25:14)). In later days He writes the name of His God, and the name of the city of His God, and His own new name, on the lowly remnant who
hold fast His word and
do not deny His name.