Commentary upon the Prophecy of Isaiah

The Prophet shows wherein the true offices of piety which are principally commanded of God consist, namely,¹ in comforting the poor and oppressed. Object. But it seems the Prophet utterly abolisheth fasting, when in stead thereof he recites those works which are much more acceptable unto God. I answer, Ans. ²that fasting is then approved, when charity is joined with it. The Prophet brings us to this principle, to wit, that our consciences may be pure & sound, & that we exercise our selves in showing brotherly kindness one to another. For if this order be duly observed, then fasting being added thereto, will be pleasing and acceptable to the Lord. But, may some say, here is not a word uttered touching ⟨p. 597⟩the purity of the heart. Ans. I answer, it is understood by the fruits that proceed from the same, or from the works by which it is easy to discern what the heart is. In the next place he numbers up the duties of the second Table, and so under this part understands the observation of the whole Law; as we have seen in Chap. 56. For it is not enough to be beneficial to our neighbours, if in the mean while we contemn God. But we are to note our Prophets meaning: for in as much as we cannot hold the band of brotherly love with our neighbours, unless the love of God go before, to examine whether this love and fear of his Majesty be in us or no, he requires these Christian duties, as the nearest signs thereof, namely, if we live with our brethren, justly, lovingly, and without offering them any hard measure. Add also, that an outward appearance will not serve the turn: for where the Spirit of God bears not rule, there charity is cold. And therefore S. Paul makes express mention of love among the fruits of the Spirit: