Why the Samaritans’ Help Was Refused

Zerubbabel and his associates were familiar with these and many similar scriptures, and the recent captivity had provided many evidences of their fulfillment. And now, having turned with all the heart to God and renewed their covenant relationship with Him, they had been permitted to return to Judea to restore what had been destroyed. At the beginning of their efforts, should they enter into a covenant with idolaters? They had rededicated themselves to the Lord at the altar set up before the ruins of His temple. Now they refused to form an alliance with those who were familiar with God’s law but would not yield to its claims. Never can God’s people afford to compromise principle by allying themselves with those who do not fear Him.RR 199.6