Commentary upon the Prophecy of Isaiah

IT is ill done of the Hebrews to expound this whole verse of Hezekias For the Prophet speaks of a greater restoration of the Church: the Moabites were not as yet chastened, whilst the government of Hezekias flourished: and at that time the blessing of God began to shine again upon the Jews. It is as much then as if he had said, the enemies of the elect people do plot the ruin of this kingdom, which God had promised to stand firm;¹ yea, and that for ever. To the end then that the faithful might not be out of heart in this woeful scattering; the eternity of the kingdom which had been set before their eyes by an excellent prophecy,² is here brought to their remembrance. This place therefore can be referred to none other but to Jesus Christ, of whom Hezekiah, as also David and his successors were figures. These then do rather lead and conduct others to Christ, who is the only safe keeper and protector of his people: who indeed gathereth together the remnant that is scattered.³ Thus then he brings the faithful back unto Christ: as if he should say, You know what God you serve: he hath promised to be the only keeper of your salvation; to the end you may remain safe under his protection, John 10.28. And if it so fall out that things go cross sometimes; yet hath he promised you a redeemer: under whom you shall recover a new and steadfast felicity. What then if for a time you be sad and heavy? yet will this Saviour of the Church come in the end: who will set you in a flourishing liberty. And therefore settle your selves constantly in the expectation of him: yea even then when you shall see the estate of the Church miserably scattered.

IT is ill done of the Hebrewes to expound this whole verse of Hezekias For the Prophet speakes of a greater restauration of the Church: the Moabites were not as yet chastened, whilest the gouernement of Hezekias flourished: and at that time the blessing of God began to shine againe vpon the Iewes. It is as much then as if he had said, the enemies of the elect people doe plot the ruine of this kingdome, which God had promised to stand firme;¹