The Ancient Witnesses

Chapter 6: The Fullness of Time • 201

and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles. He will not quarrel or cry aloud, nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets; a bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not quench, until he brings justice to victory. 64 “Everything in the passage fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah,” explained Eusebius, “including Jesus’ yielding to those who plotted against him, and also His command to those that were healed not to make Him known.” “What did the Prophet mean by saying ‘he did not break the bruised reed?” I asked. “Not only did Jesus not break the bruised reed,” replied Eusebius, “but, in a manner of speaking, he repaired it—strengthening the weak and the bruised in heart. He did not neglect the sick and sinful, who needed his medicine, nor did he bruise the repentant with hard judgment. He did not quench those whose evil smoked with the fire of passion by preventing them from following their sinful ways, nor did he punish them before the time, but left that for the general Judgment. This is why the Scripture says, and the smoking flax he shall not quench .” 65 “This is the heart of our Savior,” concluded Eusebius, returning to his place. “Another sign of the kingdom was seen when our Lord commanded his disciples not to make him known,” said Mentor. He read another passage from Matthew’s Gospel.

64 Matt. 12:14–20, quoting from Isa. 42:1-3.

65 Eusebius, Demonstration IX , 15. Eusebius of Caesarea and W.J. Ferrar (ed), The Proof of the Gospel, vol.1 (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1981), 182-183. ​