Matthew Henry Commentary Song Of Solomon 8:8-12

"We have a little sister, And she hath no breasts: What shall we do for our sister In the day when she shall be spoken for? If she be a wall, We will build upon her a turret of silver: And if she be a door, We will inclose her with boards of cedar. I am a wall, and my breasts like the towers [thereof] Then was I in his eyes as one that found peace. Solomon had a vineyard at Baal-hamon; He let out the vineyard unto keepers; Every one for the fruit thereof was to bring a thousand [pieces] of silver. My vineyard, which is mine, is before me: Thou, O Solomon, shalt have the thousand, And those that keep the fruit thereof two hundred." — Song Of Solomon 8:8-12 (ASV)

The church pleads for the Gentiles, who at that time did not have the word of God, nor the means of grace. Those who are brought to Christ themselves should consider what they can do to help others to Him. Babes in Christ are always seen among Christians, and the welfare of their weak fellow believers is an object of continual prayer with the stronger believers.

If the beginning of this work were compared to a wall built upon Him, the precious Foundation and Corner-stone, then the Gentile church would become like a palace for the great King, built of solid silver. If the first preaching of the gospel were like the making of a door through the wall of partition, that door should be lasting, as if cased with boards of durable cedar. She will be carefully and effectually protected, enclosed so as to receive no damage.

The church is full of care for those not yet called. Christ says, "I will do all that is necessary to be done for them." Consider with what satisfaction we should look back upon the times and seasons when we were in His eyes as those that find favour. Our hearts are our vineyards, which we must keep with all diligence.

To Christ, and to His praise, all our fruits must be dedicated. All who work for Christ, work for themselves, and will be immeasurable gainers by it.

Song of Solomon 8:13–14 These verses close the conference between Christ and His church. He first addresses her as dwelling in the gardens, the assemblies and ordinances of His saints. He exhorts her to be constant and frequent in prayers, supplications, and praises, in which He delights. She replies, craving His speedy return to take her to be wholly with Him.

The heavens, those high mountains of sweet spices, must contain Christ until the time comes when every eye shall see him, in all the glory of the better world. True believers, just as they are looking for it, are also hastening to the coming of that day of the Lord. Let every Christian endeavour to perform the duties of their station, that people may see their good works and glorify their heavenly Father.

If we continue earnest in prayer for what we need, our thanksgivings will abound, and our joy will be full; our souls will be enriched, and our labours will be prospered. We will be enabled to look forward to death and judgment without fear. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.