The Analysis.
The Apostle here still continues in explaining and illustrating the covetousnesse of these men by way of a similitude, which he makes betweene them and Balaam the son of Bosor. Now the quality wherein they are compared is first propounded in generall, that they followed his way, that is, they imitated him in the like manner of doing, and then set forth in particular, 1 By the effect, that they forsook the right way, and went astray into by wayes, that is, into naughty and wicked wayes. 2 By the proper cause of this effect, that they loved the wages of unrighteousnesse, like as he loved it, that is, for the desire of filthy lucre they gave themselves over unto impiety and unrighteousnesse. 3 By the adjunct that followes upon this effect, namely, Gods rebuking of him, v.16. which is set forth by the instrument, that he made use of to do it, namely, a dumbe Asse. The fitnesse also of this instrument as he was made use of at that time, is declared by their inequality, because he shewes that this Asse was in some sort wiser then his Master. For when the Master, though he was a Prophet, was mad, this Asse by his wisdome as it were, rebuked and corrected that madnesse.
Quest. But here a question may be made concerning this Balaam the son of Bosor, who is here called a Prophet, and yet is said to have sinned most wickedly, Whether he were a true Prophet of God, or no?
Answ. He was sometime endued with the gift of Prophesie that God had communicated unto him, as it appears, Num. 22. so 23, 24. But in a speciall manner in 23. 26. the Lord is said to have put words into his mouth, so also verse 20. & cap.24. 2. the Spirit of the Lord is said to have come upon him, and verse 4. he is said to have heard the words of God. Yet he was not a holy Prophet of God, but as he was given to other vices, and especially to covetousnesse, so also he was skilfull in the Magick arts, by whose helpe, as it is said Numb. 24.1. he used to seek for inchantments. Such an one therefore he was amongst the Prophets, as Iudas was amongst the Apostles: of which sort also the old Prophet that dwelt at Bethel, seemes to have beene in some respect.
