In Song of Solomon, chapter six, verse eight, “There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, and virgins without number.” The women of Jerusalem are classified as queens, concubines, and virgins, who are of marriageable age. The true Church is in closer relation to the Bridegroom than all the rest of the world. But the Shulamite cannot be compared with any of them; she is one of a kind, in a class by herself.
The real excellence and holiness on earth centre in the church. Christ goes forth subduing his enemies, while his followers gain victories over the world, the flesh, and the devil. He shows the tenderness of a Redeemer, the delight he takes in his redeemed people, and the workings of His own grace in them. True believers alone can possess the beauty of holiness. And when their real character is known, it will be commended. Both the church and believers, at their first conversion, look forth as the morning, their light being small, but increasing.
As to their sanctification, they are fair as the moon, deriving all their light, grace, and holiness from Christ; and as to justification, clear as the sun, clothed with Christ, the Sun of righteousness, and fighting the good fight of faith, under the banners of Christ, against all spiritual enemies.
Threescore queens, and fourscore concubines; a certain number for an uncertain. The sense seems to be this: There are many beautiful queens and concubines in the world, in the courts of princes, and particularly in Solomon’s court; but none of them is to be compared with my spouse, and my heart is set upon none of them, but only upon my spouse. When couples get married and become spouses, their lives begin together —a journey unlike anyone else’s. And God is in control.