God having been pleased to reserve the treasure of intelligence for his children, no wonder that so much ignorance and stupidity is seen in the [generality] of mankind. In the generality, I include even those specially chosen, until they are ingrafted into the body of the Church. Isaiah, moreover, while reminding us that the prophetical doctrine would prove incredible not only to strangers, but also to the Jews, who were desirous to be thought of the household of God, subjoins the reason, when he asks, “To whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?” ( [Isaiah 53:1] ). If at any time, then we are troubled at the small number of those who believe, let us, on the other hand, call to mind, that none comprehend the mysteries of God save those to whom it is given. John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion. 1.7.5
Compare Matthew 19:11.
Posts
2 comments:
Amen to that, Monsieur Cauvin.
Yes, we have to remember that in the time of the Reformation the Papists outnumbered the Reformers and the Protestants just as they do today. The Arminians today outnumber Calvinists in all likelihood. But numbers are NOT the measure of truth!
Amen, Tex....
But Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: Though the number of Israel's sons is like the sand of the sea, only the remnant will be saved; 28 for the Lord will execute His sentence completely and decisively on the earth. (Romans 9:27-28 CSB) Holman Christian Standard Bible
3:28 PM
Post a Comment