Commentary upon the Prophecy of Isaiah

Rebuke the people.] The word Jacach doth sometimes signify to expostulate, sometimes to correct, also to prepare, or make ready. But in this place the received interpretation doth very well agree, whereas the Prophet doth speak concerning the reformation of the Church. For there is need of correction, that we may learn to submit our selves unto God. For by reason of that rebellious nature which is inbred in us, we shall never profit in the word of God, unless we be brought under by violence. Therefore Christ also, Joh. 16.8. from hence takes the beginning of the Gospel: namely, that the world might be reproved of sin. Now that the doctrine might not want increase, Isaiah shows, that the stubbornness of our flesh must be broken: and therefore he assigns unto God, the part of a Judge rebuking, that he might examine our life; and by condemning our vices, might reform our manners for the better. And truly we see that the Gospel is of small force, but where the jurisdiction of the holy Spirit bears rule; which doth bring men unto repentance.

Rebuke the people.] The word Iacach doth sometimes signifie to expostulate, sometimes to correct, also to prepare, or make readie. But in this place the receiued interpretation doth very well agree, whereas the Prophet doth speake concerning the reformation of the Church. For there is neede of correction, that we may learne to submit our selues vnto God. For by reason of that rebellious nature which is inbred in vs, wee shall neuer profit in the word of God, vnlesse we be brought vnder by violence. Therefore Christ also, Ioh. 16.8. from hence takes the beginning of the Gospell: namely, that the world might be reprooued of sin. Now that the doctrine might not want increase, Isaiah shews, that ye stubburnnes of our flesh must be broken: and therefore hee assignes vnto God, the part of a Iudge rebuking, that hee might examine our life; and by condemning our vices, might reforme our manners for the better. And truely we see that the Gospell is of small force, but where the iurisdiction of the holy Spirit beares rule; which doth bring men vnto repentance.