A17640:3304
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. I have made the earth, and created man upon it: I, whose hands have spread out the heavens, I have even commanded all their army.
Vers. 12. I haue made the earth, and created man vpon it: I, whose hands haue spread out the heauens, I haue euen commanded all their armie.
IT seems as if the Prophet meant simply to defend and maintain the power of the true God against the false,1 as he hath done before: so as this sentence should contain in it a secret opposition between the true God, and the Idols whom the superstitious adore. Fools are wont to inquire at their Idols, as if the world were by them ruled and governed. But God on the contrary calls us to himself, telling us that it is he only who hath created heaven and earth, and hath placed man upon it, and that he hath spread out the heavens, &c. Gen. 1.1.7. and 2.15. But, as I think, it is better to apply this whole speech to the circumstance of this place. For can any thing be more preposterous, then to leave men unimpeached, whilst they presume to call Gods authority into question, whose majesty surpasseth the very heavens? He covertly taxeth then the rage of men, which dare insolently advance themselves even above the heavens themselves: but therewithal he advertiseth them, that if God should be brought to make his just defence, that he would find sufficient reasons to maintain his own cause. For if he govern the whole world in general, then must he needs have a special care of his chosen: neither respects he strangers so far, as to forget his own household servants, now scattered here and there, and wandering to and fro. Thus I expound this verse then, Must I, whose infinite and incomprehensible wisdom and power, shines in the creation & government of heaven & earth, not only be tied to mens laws, but be abased beneath their condition? But if any misdoubt of mine equity herein, if I govern and order