Matthew Poole and continuators on Jeremiah 12:1

1 RIghteous art thou, O LORD, when I plead with thee , yet let me talk with thee of thy judgments . Wherefore doth the way of the wicked prosper? wherefore are all they happy that deal very treacherously ?

The Prophet begins here with a Recognition of Gods unquestionable Righteousness and Justice, in all his Providential dispensations in the Government of the World. Some read the latter part, should I plead with thee? But let it be should I plead? or, although, or, when I plead, that is, argue with thee, yet the Prophet doth it not without a previous resolution to agree the Lords dispensations just, whatsoever he should say.

Yet saith he, let me talk with thee, not by way of accusing thee, but for my own satisfaction concerning thy judicial dispensations in the government of the World.

Wherefore doth the way of the wicked prosper? wherefore are all they happy that deal treacherously, by all they, he means many of them, and is thought to have spoken with a special relation to the Priests at Anathoth, that had conspired against his life. The Prosperity of the wicked hath in all times been a Riddle, and a sore Temptation to the best of Gods people; To Iob, chap. 21.7.13. to David, Psal. 37.1. & 73.2.12. & 94.3.4. Hab. 1.4, 5. Lord, saith Ieremy, I know thy wayes of Providence are just and righteous, but they are dark and hidden from me, I cannot understand why thou doest this.

Marginal references: Psal. 51.4.; Or, Let me reason the case with thee.; Job 12.6. & 21.13. Mal. 3.15.