Matthew Poole and continuators on Ezekiel 13:22

22 Because with lies ye have made the heart of the righteous sad, whom I have not made sad; and strengthned the hands of the wicked, that he should not return from his wicked way, by promising him life.

Diametrically opposing what my Prophets told to my people in my name.

The Soul, which in weak ones received some sadning impressions from your lies; in the strongest and wisest 'twas matter of grief, to see so many contradict the Lord to their own ruin.

Who keep my Law, and have respect to all my precepts though none can fulfil the Law, the upright and just▪

Against whom you do thunder out your woes, but I know better how to distribute my orders, I never commissioned, nor ever will commission, any Prophet to sadden the heart of a just one, who n[illegible: 1 letter]eds and is fit for encouragement, or to threaten where they should promise.

Your flatteries perswade the worst to think they are in a good way, need not repent, and return, and so, their hearts hardned in wickedness, their hands do work it, God would convince and turn the wicked, but you confirm them that they return not from sin, you assure them, but 'tis with lying words, that they shall not dye by Pestilence, nor Famin, nor Sword, but live and prosper.

Marginal references: Jer. 23.14.; Or, that I should save his life.; Heb. by quickning him.