Commentary upon the Prophecy of Isaiah

Object. But that which he adds afterwards seems to bring but cold comfort with it, when he would have the Church to content her self with words, and the Spirit. Ans. As though forsooth there were some great happiness in hanging in suspense, touching the accomplishment of Gods promises. But howsoever the Prophet hereby recommends the excellency and worth of doctrine; yet notwithstanding I am well assured that it is not separated from his effect.

Obiect. But that which he addes afterwards seemes to bring but colde comfort with it, when he would haue the Church to content her selfe with vvords, and the Spirit. Ans. As though forsooth there were some great happinesse in hanging in suspence, touching the accomplishment of Gods promises. But howsoeuer the Prophet hereby recommends the excellencie and worth of doctrine; yet notwithstanding I am well assured that it is not separated from his effect.

Now in regard that God thus orders & dispenseth his grace, that he always exerciseth the patience of the faithful, whilst they live here below; and never wholly satisfies their desires: this is the cause why he brings them to the word. As if he should say, Thou shalt truly feel that I am liberal; and that I will many ways procure thy good: but thou oughtest not to wish greater happiness, then to feel my presence by my word. Whence we gather, that the greatest treasure the Church hath,¹ consists in this, that the Lord hath chosen her for his dwelling place, that in the hearts of the faithful he may make his abode by his Spirit, and may conserve the doctrine of the Gospel among them.

Now in regard that God thus orders & dispenceth his grace, that he alwaies exerciseth the patience of the faithfull, whilest they liue here below; and neuer wholly satisfies their desires: this is the cause why he brings them to the vvord. As if he should say, Thou shalt truely feele that I am liberall; and that I will many waies procure thy good: but thou oughtest not to wish greater happinesse, then to feele my presence by my word. Whence wee gather, that the greatest treasure the Church hath,