Isaiah 45:11-13

Thus saith the Lord— Thus, &c.—They ask me of things to come: Would ye then give me commands concerning my sons, and concerning the work of my hands? As much as to say, "You, hypocrites, inquire into the future fate of the church, and ask and consult my prophets concerning it: Would you therefore give me commandments, and that concerning my sons, and the work of my hands? For if you suppose—which you do, by inquiring of my prophets—that I know future things, you ought also thence to collect, that I am the true God, the ruler of the universe, and of my people; and who, it is reasonable to suppose, am endowed with the highest wisdom: So that you foolishly cavil against my designs, as if you could mend them; the designs of my providence towards my sons, and the work of my own hands: Sons whom, as a father, I cannot neglect." The reader must observe, that this verse is in immediate opposition to the reproof in the preceding ones. The Almighty adds, I have made the earth, &c. "Can I therefore want power or wisdom to raise up a deliverer of my people, and Cyrus in particular?" for it is evident that he is spoken of in the 13th verse. See chap. Isaiah 41:2. Cyrus not only dismissed the Jewish captives without price or reward, but bestowed very liberal presents upon them, and exhorted his subjects to the same liberality. See the first chapter of Ezra.