John Calvin Commentary Isaiah 54:14

"In righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far from oppression, for thou shalt not fear; and from terror, for it shall not come near thee." — Isaiah 54:14 (ASV)

In righteousness. He means that God will be the maker and architect of His Church. I am aware that some explain it differently, and think that “righteousness” means “good works.” Indeed, that exposition has some plausibility, arising because the Prophet spoke about doctrine; for we are taught for this very purpose, so that we may lead a pious and holy life.

But the Prophet’s meaning was different: namely, that the Church shall be restored under God’s guidance (for God wishes to be its guardian and defender), and that he contrasts “righteousness” with the violence and oppression by which the Church has been thrown down. Or, at least, he expresses “stability,” as if he had said that it shall not be a frail building, or one that might deceive people for a short time by a merely deceptive appearance. This is because God will sincerely defend His work and, being “righteous,” will not only restore it completely but will afterward preserve it safely for a long time.

Thus, although people are allied in every way for the destruction of the Church, they will gain nothing, for the Lord guards her by His “righteousness.” We have seen this type of expression before; and for this reason, I think that the interpretation I have given is simpler, though some may think that another interpretation is more plausible.