by Gary J. D— (inmate & “inside preacher” in Oklahoma prison system)
GOD’s words given to Isaiah through the HOLY SPIRIT are rich in prophecy, particularly in warnings of the impending judgments to fall upon the nation of Israel. The book, written during the time of the divided kingdom, speaks of the coming MESSIAH, and although “the Church “is not mentioned in the writings, the implications are prominent, especially in chapter 7, verse 14. In that passage, we’re introduced to “EMMANUEL.”
In Isaiah’s words, we learn much about our HOLY GOD As HIS attributes, expectations, and promises are made clear when HE deals through HIS prophet, with a rebellious, divided nation. Isaiah presents a Chrystal clear view of GOD’s grace, of the judgments to be unleashed upon the enemies of GOD’s people, and the blessings to be extended to the Gentiles through the MESSIAH.
GOD’s grace and HIS kindness as our loving FATHER are evident. The guilt of sin having been established (v.15, “your hands are full of blood”), the “white as snow” imagery of v.17 demonstrates the power of GOD’s grace to purify the greatest iniquity and remove the guilt of sin. Verse 19 stresses that forgiveness is the product of true repentance. GOD’s HOLINESS demands this cleansing and HIS GRACE provides forgiveness through obedience.
Our HOLY GOD requires praise and worship from us today, just as HE did in previous ages. Psalms 146-150, among others, begin with “Praise ye the LORD.” Chapter 25 in Isaiah is a song of praise, and it asks for GOD’s favor upon Israel. Within this chapter, GOD’s loving empathy is identified: “HE will swallow up death in victory; and the LORD GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces” (v.8). We are to “exalt” GOD and Praise” (HIS) names (v.1).
Israel has been taken captive in exile and all is seemingly hopeless for this destitute people, chosen by GOD. Israel, imaged as a “barren woman,” is told to “fear not; for thou shall not be ashamed” (54:4) The “shame” and “reproach” of Israel’s sins was the catalyst for its captivity in Egypt, its exile in Babylon, and for its dispersion, at the time of Isaiah’s writing (712 B.C.); the future kingdom, prophesied here, will be a glorious time of redemption.
Galatians 4:28, “Now we, brethren, as Isaac, are the children of promise,” speaks to the promises of GOD to Christian believers because we, also, are “spiritual heirs” to the promises given to Abraham (3:29). We, New Testament Christians…the church…have “all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in CHRIST” (Romans 8:16-17)
Through rebellion and captivity, GOD remembered HIS people, Israel, and HIS promises to them. Isaiah, often acknowledged as the chief prophet, created a prophetic portrait of redemption and an undeniable image of GOD’s unlimited grace and faithfulness.
As CHRISTIANS, GOD’s nature and attributes are made even more clear because we have the words, works, and promises of the CHRIST, “GOD with us,” as prophesied in Isiah. “Fear not,” for HE is the “Alpha and Omega” (Revelation 21:6), the “LORD of GLORY” (James 2:1) and the “LORD of all” (Acts 10:3, 6). Have you trusted HIM with your eternity?
“And this is the record that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in HIS SON.” – 1 John 5:11
