\\INTRODUCTION TO ISAIAH 52\\

This chapter is a prophecy of the glorious state of the church in the
latter day, typified by the deliverance of the Jews from Babylon. The
church, under the names of Zion and Jerusalem, is exhorted to awake and
clothe herself with strength, and with beautiful garments, to shake off
her dust, and loose her bands, since she should become a pure and
separate people, \\#Isa 52:1,2\\ and whereas the Lord's people had been
afflicted formerly by the Egyptians, and more lately by the Assyrians, a
free redemption is promised them; and the rather they might expect it,
since the Lord was no gainer by their affliction, but a loser in his
name and honour, as well as they distressed, \\#Isa 52:3-5\\. And it is
suggested, that the knowledge of the Lord should be spread, the good
tidings of peace and salvation be delightfully published, and that the
ministers of the Gospel should have clear light, and be harmonious and
unanimous in the publishing of it, \\#Isa 52:6-8\\. Upon which the waste
places of Jerusalem are called upon to rejoice, both because of the
restoration of the Jews, and the conversion of the Gentiles,
\\#Isa 2:9,10\\. And the people of God are called to go out of Babylon, the
manner of their departure is directed, and something said for their
encouragement, \\#Isa 52:11,12\\. And the chapter is concluded with some
account of the Messiah, of his humiliation and exaltation, and of his
work and office, \\#Isa 52:13-15\\, and which are enlarged upon in the next
chapter, which ought properly to begin with these last verses.