A17640:1277
Commentary upon the Prophecy of Isaiah
A commentary upon the prophecy of Isaiah. By Mr. John Calvin. Whereunto are added four tables ... Translated out of French into English: by C.C.A commentary vpon the prophecie of Isaiah. By Mr. Iohn Caluin. Whereunto are added foure tables ... Translated out of French into English: by C.C.
London: printed by Felix Kyngston, 1609
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
Vers. 12. Where are now thy wise men, that they may tell thee, or may know what the Lord of hosts hath determined against Egypt?
Vers. 12. Where are now thy wise men, that they may tell thee, or may know what the Lord of hostes hath determined against Egypt?
Although it be word for word; And they shall show thee, and shall know: yet the clause should be thus resolved, That they may show thee, yea that they may know at the last. Which phrase of speech is very common among the Hebrews. Now because the Egyptians had their soothsayers, they thought nothing to obscure or secret, but they might have sufficient resolution from them of it: for they went to ask counsel as well in things of small importance, as in great; and held whatsoever these men said, as oracles. This vanity the Prophet derides, saying; How will they show you that which they know not? Hath God made them of his counsel? It is very likely also that the art which they used in divining, is here condemned: for the art was not only unlawful of it self, but enchantments and sorceries were contained under it.1 There are three ways whereby we may know or foresee things to come. The first and chiefest is, by the revelation of the holy Ghost, who only can resolve us: as also by the gift of prophecy, which is imparted §1but to a few: the second, by Astronomy: §2the third, by conferring of things already past, §3whence they have been accustomed to gather the definition of prudence.