Commentary upon the Prophecy of Isaiah

Isaiah also describes the estate of this kingdom, but it is under a similitude taken from earthly kingdoms. For he saith; that Christ shall be a King, who shall order and establish his kingdom by judgement and by justice. These indeed are the two means whereby worldly governments do flourish and stand steadfast; which on the contrary do by and by fall to ruin, when they are governed by violence and tyranny.¹ Therefore in regard that justice is an excellent defence and fortress of kingdoms and governments, and that the felicity of the whole people depends thereupon; the Prophet by this particular teacheth, that the Kingdom of Christ shall be an example and pattern of an excellent government.

Isaiah also describes the estate of this kingdome, but it is vnder a similitude taken from earthly kingdomes. For he saith; that Christ shall be a King, who shall order and establish his kingdome by iudgement and by iustice. These indeede are the two meanes whereby worldly gouernments doe flourish and stand stedfast; which on the contrary doe by and by fall to ruine, when they are gouerned by violence and tyranny.¹ Therefore in regard that iustice is an excellent defence and fortresse of kingdomes and gouernments, and that the felicitie of the whole people depends thereupon; the Prophet by this particular teacheth, that the Kingdome of Christ shall bee an example and paterne of an excellent gouernement.

1. 1Justice the fortress of Kingdoms.Iustice the fortresse of Kingdomes.

But this judgement and justice whereof he here speaks,¹ appertains not to outward policy; because we must hold the proportion which is between the kingdom of Christ and the conditions of it. Now it being spiritual, it is established by the power of the holy Ghost. Lastly, all this ought to be referred to the inward man; to wit, when we are regenerate of God to be made truly righteous. The outward justice indeed follows forthwith: but it is necessary that this renovation of the spirit and heart do go before.