Commentary upon the Prophecy of Isaiah

The Prophet shows again wherefore he threatened the ruin of this profane people. For in as much as all nations in a manner had conspired the destruction of the Church, it should seem that her utter subversion was now come. The Lord shows then that he will assist her in due season; for had he not resisted such enterprises, and repressed the plots of the enemies betimes, the Jews might have despaired: therefore he lets it be known that he hath a care of his Church, so as howsoever it pleaseth him to chastise her, yet shall she feel his help in time convenient. Yea, he will oppose his strength against the power of tyrants and of her enemies, lest they should overthrow her, and so attain their long expected hopes. That the Jews then might be emboldened to wait with patience, he not only separates them from the Ethiopians, but advertiseth them in like manner that God will moderate his judgements for their salvation.

THe Prophet shewes againe wherefore he threatned the ruine of this prophane people. For in as much as all nations in a maner had conspired the destruction of the Church, it should seeme that her vtter subuersion was now come. The Lord shewes then that he will assist her in due season; for had he not resisted such enterprises, and repressed the plots of the enemies betimes, the Iewes might haue despaired: therefore hee lets it be knowne that he hath a care of his Church, so as howsoeuer it pleaseth him to chastise her, yet shall she feele his help in time conuenient. Yea, hee will oppose his strength against the power of tyrants and of her enemies, lest they should ouerthrow her, and so attaine their long expected hopes. That the Iewes then might be imboldned to wait with patience, he not only separates them from the Ethiopians, but aduertiseth them in like maner that God will moderate his iudgements for their saluation.

Now he alludes to the second verse of this Chapter, where we saw the people of the Jews termed by these names and titles. He useth the verb To bring, because before this they should be led away as captives, so as it should be no more lawful for them to go up to the Temple, then for foreign nations. We must also note this word Rent: for his meaning is that the people shall be scattered, as if he should say, Howsoever you must be brought to a small number, and shall be but a poor remnant, yet shall this little portion that remains be offered unto God for a sacrifice.