Commentary upon the Prophecy of Isaiah

Vers. 9. All ye beasts of the field, come to devour, even all ye beasts of the forest.

Vers. 9. All ye beasts of the field, come to deuoure, euen all ye beasts of the forest.

¹IT seems this prophecy agrees not with the former, because whatsoever the Prophet hath hitherunto spoken was full of sweet consolation, and now he denounceth terrible threatenings, and an horrible destruction. Truly one would take these things as contradictory one to another. But having comforted the faithful, we must not think it strange if he now advertise them notwithstanding touching the calamity which should ensue, §1to the end that when they should see all things in an uproar and confusion, yet they should §2not faint nor be discouraged: as also that their necessities might therewithal stir them up to run to the free grace of God with the §3greater zeal and diligence. There was yet another reason. For the hypocrites abuse Gods promises, and glory thereof falsely: they are ready to conceive a vain hope, proudly insulting in those matters which do nothing at all belong unto them. Now you see the cause then why the Prophet meant to disappoint them of all matter of rejoicing. And thus this prophecy hath a two-fold use: First, to preserve the faithful from desperation at the sight of so many calamities which should in a manner overwhelm them: and that even whilst all things were quiet, by faith foreseeing the evils to come,² yet they should content themselves with this only remedy. Secondly, that the hypocrites might be astonished with fear and trembling, that they should not insult in their overweenings, nor bless themselves, under pretence of these promises.

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