A17640:2809
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. 23. He bringeth the Princes to nothing, and maketh the Judges of the earth as vanity.
Vers. 23. He bringeth the Princes to nothing, and maketh the Iudges of the earth as vanitie.
Still he continues to extol Gods providence,1 by which he governs the whole world, but especially mank nd. In the former verse he begun to touch this doctrine; to wit, that God hath not created the world to ⟨p. 412⟩leave it at six and seven, as we say, but hold his sovereignty and dominion over it; meaning still to retain the keeping and sustaining of it in his own hands. But because it pleaseth him to show himself more familiarly to men, the Prophet hath chosen this particular, that he might therein set forth and praise his providence. The sum is, that Gods dominion extends it self far and wide, so as he governs all things in heaven and earth according to his good pleasure: but therewithal he teacheth (which was a point worthy of note) that in his government of mankind one may manifestly perceive notable marks of his power and providence. Now he contents not himself to note it in general terms, but picks out one particular instance which might the better awaken our drowsy minds. All things that befall the common multitude are soon forgotten, and is quickly out of mind as matters unworthy the talking of: but when Kingdoms and Monarchies wherein men are advanced to great dignities come once to fall, then it seems the very earth is shaken with it. The Prophet therefore stirs up our attention very fitly by such documents. Surely a man would think that Princes and Magistrates are separated from the common condition of men, and exempt from the ordinary calamities which befall others, because by their glory they seem to dazzle the eyes and minds of every one that beholds them: but they themselves for the most part are utterly blind, and therefore our Prophet especially aims at them, saying, That the Lord brings them to nothing. Hath the Lord so great force against the mighty Princes of the earth? What shall become of the baser sort? Can he not, trow ye, deal well enough with them, and handle them as he list? Can he not give, and take away strength, and the greatness of mens spirits when he will?