And now - The words imply a contrast of God’s dealings, rather than a contrast of time. I am not to the remnant of this people. He …

Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Let your hands be strong, ye that hear in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets, which were in the …

The Prophet, having taught us that God was reconciled to His people, now seasonably exhorts the Jews to prepare themselves for work and to exert th…

But now I [will] not [be] to the residue of this people ,
&c.] The remnant brought out of captivity, settled in the …

Only those who lay their hands to the plough of duty will have them strengthened with the promises of mercy: those who avoid their fathers' faults …