Matthew Poole and continuators on Ezekiel 20:37

37 And I will cause you to pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant.

I will bring you out by Number, yet so as you shall, either by a voluntary submission own my Scepter, and Government, or by a conquer'd subjection, yield to my Sword, and Power.

Either referring to the manner of Shepherds in that Countrey, which did tell their Sheep in, and out of the Fold; or rather, as a King, whose Scepter protects some, and dasheth others, and maintains his own right. I will difference persons and persons, that I may deal with each suitable to their state and carriage.

i. e. The voluntary and obedient into Covenant with my self.

Marginal references: Or, a [illegible: 1 word].