John Calvin Commentary Matthew 12:20

"A bruised reed shall he not break, And smoking flax shall he not quench, Till he send forth judgment unto victory." — Matthew 12:20 (ASV)

Till he send out judgment into victory. The words of the prophet are a little different, he will bring forth the judgment unto truth. But the term employed by Matthew is very emphatic, and is intended to inform us, that justice is not established in the world without a great struggle and exertion. The devil throws all possible difficulties in the way, which cannot be removed without violent opposition. This is confirmed by the word victory, for victory is not obtained in any other way than by fighting.