Matthew Poole and continuators on Ezekiel 11:16

16 Therefore say, thus saith the Lord GOD, Although I have cast them far off among the heathen, and although I have scattered them among the countreys, yet will I be to them as a little Sanctuary in the countreys whether they shall come.

In Apology and vindication of them backt with excellent promises in the following verses.

Say to them, and of them in Babylon.

The obstinate Iews at Ierusalem will call them Apostates and Renegadoes; but let such false accusers know that they were sent thither, and that I the Lord sent them thither, and will own them there too.

Not from my self, but from you, your polluted Land, and dreadful approaching Judgments.

The Chaldaeans, or such as the Chaldaeans placed them among.

Dispersed and separated them from one another in many Countreys which were under the King of Babylon: Yet they are dear to me, and my purposes are for them more gracious than yours are for them, or then mine are for you.

For a little while; i. e. during the Seventy years Captivity; or for a few of them, the remnant was ever little: Or, as it refers to the Sanctuary, a little one in opposition to that great, rich, splendid and admired Temple at Ierusalem, which when they need most, shall help least; but I, saith God, will be really to my Captives what the proud self-deceiving Iews promise their Temple shall be to them; both for Glory, Defence, and for Worship, which shall with heart and love be given by these I have sent away, and wherever they are, their Prayers, Synagogue-Worship, and Obedience shall be to me as well-pleasing as they shall desire. They at distance weep on Chebar Banks: You O Rebellious! Pollute the Temple by your Idolatries, I will comfort the Mourners, I will punish you Polluters of my Temple and Worship.

Marginal references: Nations.