John Trapp on Isaiah 48:5

Ver. 5. I have even from the beginning, &c.] See ver. 3. It is probable that there were many among the Jews, who when they ſaw themſelves to be ſo puniſhed, and the heathen proſpered, would be ready to think that the God of Iſrael either could not or would not do for his people, as thoſe Devil-gods did for theirs. For their help therefore under ſuch a temptation, God was pleaſed to foretell his people what good or evil ſhould betide them; and accordingly to accompliſh it.