Commentary upon the Prophecy of Isaiah

But it may be demanded why the Lord saith he formed Jerusalem long ago, Quest. for there were many Cities more ancient then it. I answer, Ans. that this ought not to be referred to the outward form or building, but to the eternal decree of God, according to which he had chosen this City for his dwelling place. For albeit it was then only said when the Ark was made, This is my rest, here will I dwell, Psal. 132.14. And by Moses, I will come unto thee into the place wherein I shall put the remembrance of my name, and I will bless thee, Exod. 20.24: yet had God long before ordained it. For we were chosen before the foundations of the world were laid, as S. Paul teacheth, Ephes. 1.4. And S. James saith, That we were begotten by the word of truth, that we might be the first fruits of his creatures, Jam. 1.18. He will then conserve us above all his creatures, and will never suffer us to perish. Now as Christ is called the first borne of every creature, Colos. 1.13. so the Church also, which is his body; obtains in this world the preeminence of dignity and honour.

But it may be demanded why the Lord saith he formed Ierusalem long agoe, Quest. for there were many Cities more ancient then it. I answere, Ans. that this ought not to be referred to the outward forme or building, but to the eternall decree of God, according to which he had chosen this Citie for his dwelling place. For albeit it was then only said when the Arke was made, This is my rest, here will I dwell, Psal. 132.14. And by Moses, I will come vnto thee into the place wherein I shall put the remembrance of my name, and I will blesse thee, Exod. 20.24: yet had God long before ordeined it. For we were chosen before the foundations of the world were laid, as S. Paul teacheth, Ephes. 1.4. And S. Iames saith, That we were begotten by the word of truth, that we might be the first fruites of his creatures,