Commentary upon the Prophecy of Isaiah

¹This then ought to be seriously marked of all the Ministers of the word, that from his example, they may learn patiently to bear the burden of their office, though it be cumbersome and painful: not thinking it any disgrace to suffer many sore and tedious travels, seeing they have so many worthy patterns set before them. I grant it must needs discourage them exceedingly, when they see that things go not forward; and that their labours take not such good success as they desire: thinking it better to leave all, rather then to bestow so much labour in vain. They have need therefore often to remember, and to set before their eyes such examples. (Why so?) Because Isaiah fainted not, although he gained little by so many painful travels.

¹This then ought to be seriouslie marked of all the Ministers of the word, that from his example, they may learne patiently to beare the burthen of their office, though it be cumbersome and painefull: not thinking it any disgrace to suffer many sore and tedious trauels, seeing they haue so many worthie paternes set before them. I grant it must needs discourage them exceedinglie, when they see that things goe not forward; and that their labours take not such good successe as they desire: thinking it better to leaue all, rather then to bestow so much labour in vaine. They haue need therefore often to remember, and to set before their eies such examples. (Why so?) Because Isaiah fainted not, although he gained little by so many painfull trauels.

1. 1Isaiah a pattern for all Pastors.Isaiah a pa•erne for all Pastors.

Jeremiah ¹also ceased not by the space of 50. years to call upon this people, who in the mean while hardened their hearts the more: and yet we see they forsook not their charge, whatsoever difficulties came between. Even so must we follow our vocation, and constantly bear all sorts of encumbrances.