CHAPTER IV
THE second and third visions stand in closest possible connection with the first. " The good words and comfortable words" (i. I 3), which were God's answer to the intercession of the Angel of Jehovah on behalf of " Jerusalem and the cities of Judah," contained a twofold message: First, that Jehovah is jealous for Jerusalem and for Zion with a great jealousy, and is sore displeased (or " very angry ") with the nations who are at ease, who helped forward the affliction of Israel (i. 14, 15). Secondly, that He would " return to Jerusalem with mercies," the outward proofs of which would be (a) that His house would again be built in it, as the visible sign and pledge of the restored communion between Him and His people. (b} And " a line shall be stretched forth over Jerusalem," i.e., as already explained in my notes on that vision, " to mark the space it is to occupy in its restored condition, and the plan on which it is to be arranged."
And not only should Jerusalem itself be rebuilt, but the whole land should feel the blessed effects of Jehovah's return to His people with mercies; and its cities, which He calls " My cities," should " through prosperity yet be spread abroad," or " yet overflow with prosperity " (i. 1 6, 17).
Now, just as the second vision of the " horns," and " carpenters," or " workmen," is a continuation and sequel to the first part of the consoling message for it shows how the Gentile nations, who " have helped forward the affliction " by scattering Israel and treading down Jerusalem, shall themselves be broken up and finally overthrown
