The Lord will smite thy people. Quest. Why the people for his sin? Answ.
1. Because the generality of them sinned in complying with his wicked and idolatrous commands through fear, 2 Chronicles 21:11.
2. Because he suffered in his people's destruction: for as the honour, and safety, and strength of a king lies in the multitude and prosperity of his people, Proverbs 14:28; so when they are diminished and destroyed, the king is very much weakened and endangered by it. Thy children and thy wives; whose lives shall go for the lives of thy brethren, 2 Chronicles 21:4.