Introduction.

a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. original: "een Prieſter in der eeuwigheyt na Melchiſedechs ordinantie." This refers to a priesthood not based on ancestry, but on an eternal divine appointment, as described in Psalm 110 and the Book of Hebrews. This was proven by the destruction of the Aaronic priesthood, the removal of their sanctuary, and the destruction of the house of their God.

1 Samuel 8:5.
Year 2881. And the very same significance applied to their Kingdom; for the Israelites, moved by their own impulse, requested a King just like other heathens. However, Divine wisdom did not wish to be pressured by them, nor to have a law established as to how and when He should reveal His King. He therefore gave a King in His anger This refers to King Saul, who was granted to the Israelites after they rejected God as their direct ruler., who by his deeds showed that he was not found through wisdom but demanded by men. He was Hosea 13:11.
1 Samuel 16:1.
1 Samuel 16:11.
Year 2891. finally rejected, and in his place (as proof of God’s purpose) a Shepherd was chosen—namely, David, a man after His heart, who would do all His will. To him, He wished to build an enduring house. Through his son Solomon, He allowed Year 2941. a mirror and perfect expression of a wise government to be seen, full of peace, riches, and glory; he built the Temple in Jerusalem and seemed to possess a firm, unchangeable throne for his Kingdom. 1 Kings 11:1. Yet, so that Israel would not be dazzled by this The author warns against focusing on earthly splendor rather than spiritual truth., the wise King fell into folly, and his kingdom was divided after him, with only the house of Judah remaining under his own, because one tribe was Isaiah 11:1.
Psalm 45:7. enough to carry a shadow of the future glory and to bring forth as a sprout that King whose scepter would be righteous and whose Kingdom would be imperishable.

This tribe of Judah was subjected to much stumbling and peril, not only of losing its scepter, but also of falling from true religion; for various wicked and idolatrous kings Year 3163. held the rule there, such as Joram, Ahaziah, Joash, Amaziah, Ahaz, Manasseh, Amon, and others like them. Under these, God sent