"ISAIAH."   A Series of short studies through the Book of Isaiah.   FOR HOME OR CLASS USE.     By R. H. BOLL.   (Ten Cents each; One Dollar a Dozen.)   Published and Distributed by WORD AND WORK LOUISVILLE, KY.

      Inwoven in Israel's history as threads of gold in a tapestry run the voices of the prophets. In the historical portions of the Old Testament we come across "men of God," "seers," "prophets," who arose at various times of crisis and spake forth messages of God to the people. Some of Israel's prophets, however, left their messages, wholly or in part, in writing. These recorded writings and messages of the prophets take up about one-fourth of the bulk of the Old Testament; the historical part taking up one-half, and the poetical books (Job, Psalms, Prov., Song of Solomon, Ecclesiastes) the remaining fourth. It must have been for special reasons that God had these words of the prophets recorded and preserved for the perusal of future generations, and (as we shall see) especially for us "upon whom the ends of the ages are come." First of all now we will endeavor to answer some questions.

      There is a sense in which all the Old Testament writers are termed prophets (Heb. 1:1); but in the stricter meaning, a prophet was a messenger inspired of God (2 Pet. 1:21) to speak God's word to men. Their "essential characteristic" is 'that they were instruments of revealing God's will to man . . . . specially by predicting future events." (Smith's Bible Dict., Vol. III.) They were chiefly God's spokesmen to Israel, but also (from Israel as a base) to other nations. The occasion of their messages was nearly always some failure on part of the people. They dealt primarily with the moral and religious conditions of their own times; but their utterances always had an outlook toward the final outcome: the great future events, which were often foreshadowed by the then present circumstances. The leading topics of their predictions were:

      The Captivity and Dispersion of Israel.
      The Messiah: His humiliation and glory.
      The Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord.
      The Messiah's Glorious Kingdom over all the earth.

      It is generally conceded that the Prophets offer more difficulty of interpretation than the rest of the Scriptures. These difficulties are not, however, so great as generally represented, and do not bar us from obtaining the blessing of a faithful study.

      How are the prophecies to be interpreted?

      In general--like all other Scripture.

      1. The first presumption is always that God means just what He says.

      2. Figurative language is to be taken as in every other portion of the Book: namely, we must not arbitrarily declare [2] anything to be "figurative"; and we must not be arbitrary in the interpreting of figures.

      3. As to Symbolic Speech: As in common figures we must not regard anything as "symbolical" without valid reason, nor guess at a symbol's meaning, but rather, carefully trace God's use of any special symbol in other parts of His word. When in doubt whether a prediction was symbolical or not, I have followed the rule to interpret it in both ways, and let it stand so. It is quite possible that some predictions are fulfilled both symbolically and literally.

      4. Prophecy (like history) tends to repeat itself, for the same factors and forces are constantly at work. It is not strange therefore that a prediction may be fulfilled more than once, more or less clearly or fully. The true, full, final fulfillment of a prediction, however, will fill out its whole scope perfectly. If any prophecy has not been so completely redeemed, we must expect God to make good His word.

      5. Like all other Scriptures, the prophetic word can be spiritually applied, for it is full of spiritual principles. But application is not interpretation.

      Other points will be discussed as they arise in the course of study.

      1. They are a part (and a large part) of God's word. "Every Scripture inspired of God is profitable, etc." 2 Tim, 3:14-17.

      2. In great extent they have more bearing and significance to us than for the people to whom they were originally given. (1 Pet. 1:9-12).

      3. We are specially exhorted to study them. (2 Pet. 1:19; 3:2. Note also Rom. 11:25; 1 Thess. 4:13).

      4. It is the special privilege of God's friends to know His plans and purposes. (Gen. 18:16-21; Ps. 25:14; John 15:15; Rev. 1:1).

      5. Ignorance of Prophecy not only deprives us of the blessing God has wrapped up for us in His prophetic word, but lays us open to the danger of the abounding false prophetical teachings.

      STUDY 1. Open your Bible at Isaiah 1 and read verse 1. This is evidently a general heading for the whole book. One fact is told us about Isaiah himself. The times during which he prophesied are dated by the names of the kings who reigned in Judah, four being mentioned, Today read that part of Israel's history in 2 Chronicles, chapter 26-28 and through 32. Note the length and prosperity of Uzziah's reign. Isaiah began not long before Uzziah's death (Isa. 6:1). What was the character of Jotham's reign? Ahaz is one of the most striking examples of faithlessness, Hezekiah of faithfulness.

      STUDY 2. "The Great Arraignment." Isa. 1. Note verse 2. What does Isaiah claim for the prophecy he is pronouncing? Note same in vs. 20, 24. (Consider 2 Pet. 1:21.). Concerning [3] whom this prophecy? v. 1. Whom does God call to witness in v. 2? Comp. Ps. 50:4; Jer. 22:29. Does the word of God deserve the attention of all heaven and earth? God's grief is stated in v. 2. In what way was ungrateful Israel more irrational than brute beasts? v. 3. Note what they had done and how they had suffered for it, vs. 4-8. Why? Amos 3:2. What only saved them from the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah? See Gen. 18:6, 26, 32. Will God ever wipe out Israel as He did Sodom? (Jer. 30:11). Why not? (There will always be a faithful Remnant. Rom. 11:5). The section from vs. 10-20 shows that no worship or service or sacrifice is accepted at the hands of those who will not do right. What is the "faithful city" in v. 21? (See v. 1). Will Jehovah always leave Jerusalem in such a condition? Vs. 24-26. Compare Isa. 4:3, 4. What makes it absolutely certain that it will be just that way? v. 2; Jer. 1:12.

      STUDY 3. Jerusalem restored through Judgment. Isa. 2-4. Concerning whom is this prophecy? v. 1. What is meant by the mountain of Jehovah's house? Comp. Micah 3:12 and 4:1. When will this mountain be exalted and honored above every other mountain in the world? Why will it become the center of all the world's interest to which all nations shall make their pilgrimage? vs. 2, 3. What will Jehovah do here for all the nations that resort thither? v. 4. Comp. Isa. 25:6, 7. Has the word and law of God ever gone out from Zion and Jerusalem, since this was uttered? Luke 24:47; Acts 2. Has the rest of the prophecy been fulfilled? Look and think carefully as to this. If not, will it be? Why? The condition of Jacob: Isa. 2:5-9. This raises before the prophet's eye the vision of the Day of the Lord. Vs. 11-21. See what sort of Day that is. Zeph. 1:14-18. Upon what will its terrific force especially strike? What effect? vs. 11, 17-21. Comp. Ps. 46:8-10. What counsel does God give us, seeing that all human power and glory must come to such an end as this? v. 22. Cp. Ps. 146:3; Jer. 17:5-8.

      STUDY 4. Judgment' denounced upon Judah and Jerusalem. Isa. 3. This continues the prophecy of Isa. 2-4. First by what means: God would cut off the national sustenance, the able and mighty statesmen, military and religious leader, and even the helpers of minor rank (vs. 2, 3); and would give the directing of the state into the hands of incompetents. (v. 4). The result is seen in v. 5. Consider this verse as a picture of our times; mutual oppression, of labor by capital, for example, and vice versa; failure of respect and reverence for age, authority, dignity. (Comp. Jude 8, 9). Vs. 6, 7 pictures a national decay and dissolution, so hopeless that no one would care to be king. The reason is stated in vs. 8, 9. But in the midst of all impending judgment the righteous are reassured; vs. 10, 11--two verses good to think on in every time of trouble. With verse 14 compare 1:23; with v. 15, Ps. 14:4. The effeminacy of the daughters of Zion comes in for judgment in vs. 16 to 4:1. What does the Lord think of the vanity and extravagance, not to say indecency, of dress of Christian women? [4]

      STUDY 5. Jerusalem's glorious Restoration. Isa. 4. This is the last portion of the prophecy begun at chapt. 2:1. 4:1 belongs to the preceding paragraph, as the Revised Version shows. The point is that by the losses of war the number of men would be so diminished that to avoid an unmarried estate (which to the Jewish woman seemed a reproach) seven women would besiege one man, petitioning for even a nominal marriage. The prophecy of the restoration begins with v. 2. Recall 1:24-26. Jerusalem stands distinguished as the city which has a glorious future secured to her by the word of God. V. 2 speaks of a remnant who shall eat the blessings of the land, and to whom the Branch of Jehovah shall be precious (Jer. 23:5-8). Jerusalem and all her inhabitants shall be holy (Joel 3:17) when the Lord shall have cleansed her. The "pillar of cloud" witness of Jehovah's presence, has now become a canopy over the city. Jerusalem is yet to be the Lord's glorious resting place. (Is. 11:10; Ps. 132:13, 14.)

      STUDY 6. The Song of the Vineyard. Isa. 5. This chapter forms a complete prophecy. The parable of the vineyard, vs. 1-7, needs no comment. It is in proportion to our advantages that God holds reckoning with us. How severe His judgment on fruitlessness! (John 15:1, 2; Luke 13:6, 9; Matt. 21:18-22; Heb. 6:7, 8). Vs. 5, 6 mark the decreed desolation of Israel. Comp. Ps. 80. Six Woes, vs. 8-30. (1) Land-greed. Particularly condemnable in Israel, vs. 8-10 (Lev. 25:23-28). (2) Upon the revellers and profligates--practical (if not avowed) infidels, vs. 11-17; Amos 6:5, 6. Cp. v. 12 with Ps. 28:5. Vs. 13, 14 shows how the thoughtless throng go down to Sheol. V. 17 a view of the desolated land. (3) Defiant evildoers, vs. 18, 19. They dare God to fulfil His threats. Compare Amos 5:18-20. (4) Perverters of truth, who try to confuse and obliterate the distinction between good and evil, v. 20. (5) The self-conceited, scholars, philosophers, counsellors, v. 21. (6) The drunken judges, vs. 22, 23. Verses 24-30 declares the retribution upon all these. Note last sentence of v. 25: we shall see it recur five times. The prophet sees a great army coming swiftly from afar to execute God's sentence upon the guilty people, fulfilled in Assyria, Babylon, Rome. V. 30 uses a figure not uncommon to describe vast multitudes in commotion; comp. 17:12.

      STUDY 7. Isaiah's Call and Commission. Isa. 6. Sometime after Isaiah's actual ministry as prophet had begun, for see 1:1. A king had died; but Isaiah now has the vision of the King (v. 5). He sees the King's holiness and stands confounded. (Comp. Job 42:5, 6). The symbolic action of vs. 6, 7 portrays atonement and cleansing. (Cp. Ps. 51:2, 7). Then (and not until then) he is able to offer himself to God for service. Is it not so today? True service follows after conviction and cleansing. (Tit. 2:14). Let all who think to do acceptable works before being cleansed take note of this. The mission of Isaiah is to harden rather than to save, vs. 9, 10. (Comp. 2 Cor. 2:15, 16). The prophet in dismay asks how long. The answer is "Until the [5] Nation is wholly destroyed" (for so is the doom) all except that remnant (cp. 1:9). That is the stock (the stump) that remains after the tree is felled. On the symbolism of the stump consult Dan. 4:15, 26; comp. also Job 14:7-9. This passage (vs. 9, 10) is quoted three times in the New Testament, each time in connection with an important crisis. (Matt. 13:14, 15 and parallels; John 12:39-41; Acts 28:26-28). Note how in John 12:41 it is declared that it was the Lord Jesus Christ's glory Isaiah saw on this occasion. Isaiah never got over the vision of God's awful holiness. Blessed the preacher who starts out with a sound conception of God's terrible holiness and wondrous mercy. This is the secret of earnestness and faithfulness and effectiveness.

      STUDY 8. The "Book of Immanuel." Isaiah 7-12. This is a new section--a continuous and connected strain of prophecy, extending over six chapters. Today's lesson is chapt. 7. Read 2 Chron. 28:1-7, 19 for a sketch of the times. The present occasion of distress is stated in Isa. 7:2. Isaiah is sent with a message from Jehovah to meet Ahaz at a designated place. The message: (1) A command: "Take heed, be quiet, fear not, neither let thy heart faint." Cp. v. 2. (2) An assurance from Jehovah: The purpose of the enemies "shall not stand, neither shall it come to pass." (3) A warning: "If ye shall not believe, surely ye shall not be established." (4) The offer of a sign from God to confirm Isaiah's message. This latter Ahaz refused under hypocritical pretense, lest by accepting he might be under obligation to Jehovah. Then Jehovah gives a sign: v. 14, one of the important prophecies of Christ; see Matt. 1:23. Note that the sign is not to Ahaz personally but to "you" (plural), that is, the "house of David." A virgin should conceive and bear a son, and call His name "God-With-Us." Whatever near and typical and preliminary fulfillment this passage may have had in that generation (and it may have had some imperfect accomplishment then) it becomes evident that the prophecy reaches much further, unto a perfect and glorious fulfillment. For the child Immanuel of 7:14 is certainly the child of 9:6, 7, and therefore also the "shoot" and "branch" of Jesse's stock in 11:1-5. This could be none other than the promised Messiah. "Butter and honey"--that is wilderness food (cp. v. 22) for the land should be desolate. The two kings of v. 16 are Rezin and Pekah. Soon after (in Hezekiah's days, 2 Kings 17) the king of Assyria devastated those two countries. The Messiah also was reared some six centuries later in that territory, which even then had never regained its glory. With v. 17 consider Ahaz' alliance, 2 Chron. 28:20, 21. The rest of the chapter describes the resulting desolation.

      STUDY 9. The "Book of Immanuel" continued. Isaiah 8. "Maher-shalal-hash-baz" may be the typical fulfilment of 7:14; but only if the "prophetess" of v. 3 was not "Shear-jashub's" mother (7:3); else she could not have been called a "virgin" even in the accommodated sense that this was her first-born. V. 4. The desolation came soon (v. 4) though not fully accomplished till some years later. Vs. 5-8 is against Israel, i. e., the northern, [6] the ten-tribe kingdom, who had gone into alliance with Rezin of Syria, against Judah (7:1, 2). Immanuel mentioned again in v. 8: the land is His land. The defeat of Jerusalem's enemies in the nearer emergency--and, after the prophetic manner, Jerusalem's deliverance in her last and greatest extremity yet future--foreseen in vs. 9-22. The nations muster and gather and roar against her only to be broken to pieces (cp. Dan. 2:35; Ps. 83:13). This is one of the most frequent prophetic pictures. Read Joel 3:9-17; Zech. 14:1-9; Isa. 17:12-14; 29:1-8. On v. 10 see Ps. 2; Ps. 33:10, 11; Prov. 21:30. Here is God's counsel for times of panic, vs. 11-15; cp. 7:4 and 1 Pet. 3:14, 15. Christians may need this again ere long. The "they" of v. 19 are "this people," the panicky unbelievers of vs. 11, 12; here they turn to "Spiritualism" and consulting with demons for comfort; much of that going on today. Their end is described in vs. 21, 22, God's word is enough for God's true people: they will not resort to fortune tellers and soothsayers and "mediums."

      STUDY 10. The "Book of Immanuel," continued. Isa. 9 to 10:4. No gloom to the sort of people spoken to in vs. 12, 13. For them is light. A preliminary fulfillment of vs. 1, 2 in Matt. 4:15, 16. With v. 3 compare Jer. 30:18, 19. In the days of Jerusalem's greatest extremity she will be completely and forever freed from the stranger's dominion. Jer. 30:8; cp. Luke 21:24. Thenceforth no more war or conflict for her. This blessed outcome due to the Divine child that shall be born to reign on David's throne. V. 8 begins a new strain: judgment upon "Ephraim"--the northern kingdom. Note refrain in vs. 12, 17, 21 and 10:4. Cp. 5:25. V. 13 shows that the true design of God's chastening is. With v. 16 cp. Matt. 15:14. V. 18 shows that sin consumes men without respect of persons. In 10:1-4 another Woe, which added to the six of chapter 5 makes a seventh; on wicked legislators who make laws to the detriment of the poor and helpless. "What will ye do in the day of visitation?"

      STUDY 11. The Assyrian. First, we must get the setting. What had the Assyrian already done in Hezekiah's time? 2 Kings 17:1-6. It had been predicted to Ahaz that Israel would be desolated by the King of Assyria, and that Judah would be invaded (Isa. 7:16, 17; 8:7, 8). Read now carefully Isa. 36 and 37. Note the Assyrian's proud, boastful message, and how he ranks the God of Israel along with the gods of the nations and despises them all alike. Then Hezekiah's distress; a second message (by letter, this time) of the same insulting tone, which letter Hezekiah spreads before Jehovah; and then God's answer (1) to the Assyrian; (2) to Hezekiah. Then the marvellous deliverance. The account of this is given in detail in II. Kings 18, 19. Study it now in order to prepare for the prophetic message in Isa. 10.

      STUDY 12. The Prophecy about the Assyrian. Isa. 10:4-34. The Assyrian is but the tool of Jehovah--an instrument of unrighteousness"--the rod and staff by which just chastisement is inflicted upon guilty nations. (vs. 5, 6.) The Assyrian [7] himself is unconscious of that. He follows only the impulse of his own wild ambition in boastfulness and pride of power, blaspheming God incidently. (Vs. 7-11). Because of this, God will turn his hand in judgment upon the Assyrian, as soon as He has done using him. (Vs. 12-19). The Assyrian's mistake in v. 13 appears from Acts 17:26. Consider world-affairs of the present day in the light of this. The Assyrian will meet his doom when he clashes with the Holy One of Israel who dwells in Zion (v. 17). After the manner of the prophets, Isaiah now slips from the present case of the Assyrian (who is therefore the type of the final great oppressor, the Assyrian of the End) to Israel's last great trial and deliverance. (Vs. 20-27). Then they will be cured forever of depending on the arm of flesh for help (Hosea 14:3). Who is the "mighty God" to whom the Remnant will return? See Isa. 9:6. See in 7:3, margin, the meaning of "Shear-jashub," and consider 8:18. On the Remnant, see Jer. 31:2, 7, 8. God will not make a full end of Israel (Jer. 30:11), but of His work in the earth (v. 13) which involves a terrific slaughter and will greatly diminish its inhabitants. (Ps. 46:8-10). After that deliverance Israel will be free and unmolested. (Jer. 30:4-10). The progress of the Assyrian army toward Jerusalem is traced, and the people re-assured, vs. 28-34.

      STUDY 13. The Reign of the Branch of Jesse's Stock. Isa. 11. The Assyrian army is likened to a forest (10:18, 33, 34)--mighty trees that shall be cut down. But out of the stock of Jesse (David's ancestor) shall come a little shoot, a bit of a branch, which shall prove mightier than all the mighty Assyrian forest. He is anointed with the Holy Spirit; He rules in strict righteousness. Comp. with v. 4, 2 Thess. 2:8 and Rev. 19:11-16. The results of His rule, vs. 6-9. The nations shall seek unto Him and His resting-place will be glorious. (Isa. 4:3-5; Ps. 132:13-17). Read Psalm 72. In that day, for the second time, all the scattered remnant of the outcasts of Israel will be regathered from the ends of the earth, and they shall have the supremacy over the nations. Comp. v. 16 with Jer. 16:14-16. With vs. 6-9 consider Acts 3:19-21.

      STUDY 14. Israel's Song of Thanksgiving. Isa. 12. Compare their song when they were freed from Egyptian bondage, Exod. 15 and note resemblance. Recall Jer. 16:14, 15. With v. 1 compare Isa. 40:1, 2; 54:7-10. Their long waiting-time is over (Mic. 7:7-12). Their exceeding great blessing becomes a blessing world-wide, to all nations, vs. 4-6. Read here (Ps. 67; Rom. 11:12, 15). Henceforth God dwells in their midst. Joel 3:17.

      STUDY 15. The Burden of Babylon. Isa. 13. Here we meet again the prophetic peculiarity: The near impending doom of Babylon is his first theme (vs. 2-5), but the vision opens out into the all-important End-time. For Babylon re-appears in the time of the End. (Rev. 18) and her future judgment (of which that earlier judgment was but a premonition) is intimately [8] bound up with the great Day of the Lord, the punishment of the whole world, the final deliverance of Israel, (vs. 6-16). The Day of Jehovah--we have had a description of it, in Isa. 2:12-22, and in the reference to Zeph. 1:14-18, which re-read. Comp. also Hag. 2:21, 22. Note the cause and extent of the punishment in v. 11; and the result, v. 12. With v. 10 comp. Luke 21:25, 26. In verses 17-22 he returns again to the foreground of the picture: the then nearing judgment of Babylon.

      STUDY 16. The Burden of Babylon continued. Isaiah 14. The day of Babylon's fall and the destruction of Babylon's king is also the day of Israel's restoration and reinstatement. Vs. 1, 2. Jehovah's determinations regarding Israel. The time-note in v. 3 shows that this refers to nothing in the past. Their first restoration from Babylonian captivity left them in bondage and miserable servitude (Ezr. 9:9; Neh. 9:32, 36, 37). This King of Babylon is the last great oppressor of Israel, the last universal ruler and head of the last world-power; identical with the Man of Sin of 2 Thess. 2, and the Beast of Rev. 13. Comp. vs. 13, 14, his wicked ambitions, with 2 Thess. 2:4; Rev. 13:5, 8, 15. With his destruction relief comes to the whole earth, for he was the afflicter of all mankind (vs. 6-8). Sheol's greeting of him when he descends into the land of the dead is very impressive. Note the five-fold "I will" in vs. 13, 14. (Compare with this personage Dan. 7:23-25; 8:23-25; esp. 11:36, 47 and 12:1). This too is "the Assyrian" of the End, vs. 24-27; recall chapt. 10. The burden concerning Philistia. vs. 28-32. Her rest does not come with the Assyrian's destruction. Philistia's ambassador gets an answer to his enquiry. (V. 32).

      STUDY 17. The Burden of Moab. Isa. 15, 16. On Moab's character and destiny, see Jer. 48, esp. vs. 7, 11, 12, 26-29, 42, 47. We must not forget that what is said of Moab herself, applies also to other nations who are of like character. 16:1-5 falls into the "Kingdom period"--the reign of the gracious King (Isa. 11:1-5; Ps. 72). V. 1. A tribute, a propitiatory gift from Selah (a fortress of Moab) is sent (meant for in overture of peace) to Zion. Vs. 2-4 the fugitive remnant of Moab find mercy at the hands of Israel. The Prince of the House of David rules in Zion. (Isa. 11:1-5). This is the far view, the vision of Moab's part in the end-time. 16:6-14 are occupied with the nearer judgments that were then about to fall upon Moab.

      STUDY 18. The Burden of Damascus. Isa. 17. Remember that Damascus (capital of Syria) was confederate with Ephraim. (Isa. 7:1-9); therefore the judgments of the two are given together, v. 3. Israel's fearful sifting (vs. 4-6) has its desired effect "in that day," vs. 7-9. Their former guilt, vs. 10, 11; Deut. 32:15; Isa. 22:11. The Last Storm: Israel's last distress. vs. 12-14. It is "the day of Jacob's trouble; but he shall be saved out of it." (Jer. 30:4-7.) Note the figure of the seas and the rushing waters, "the uproar of many peoples," and the chaff chased before the wind, and the whirling dust. See [9] Dan. 2:35; Ps. 83:2-13. The sudden deliverance: v. 14; Isa. 29:5-8; Zech. 14:2-9.

      STUDY 19. The Land of Whirring Wings. Isa. 18. This prophecy is obscurely worded and ambiguous in language. Is it a land of shadowing wings (to protect Israel?); or a land of whirring wings, beyond the rivers of Ethiopia (and therefore in the West, beyond the sea)? Is the nation scattered and peeled Israel, despoiled by the rivers (8:7); or is it another nation, a nation "tall and smooth," whose land is divided into sections by its rivers? The import of the matter is world-wide (v. 3). The land of rustling wings sends ambassadors in vessels of paper-reed upon the waters, to another nation (the nation "tall and smooth, etc."). There follows a world-judgment, and the "nation tall and smooth" brings its tribute offering to Jehovah who dwelleth in Zion. Comp. Isa. 16:1; 60:9. The prophecy looks forward to the glorious day to come.

      STUDY 20. The Burden of Egypt. Isa. 19, 20. A significant feature of the judgment of Egypt: God brings about their destruction by depriving them of counsel and wise guidance. Thus they soon work out their own destruction. In their folly they turn to occult arts, which hastens their down-fall and bondage. From 19:17-25 the prophecy is unfulfilled. Note Jehovah's gracious ultimate purpose toward Egypt, vs. 24, 25, Assyria herself even included in it. For does He not love the whole world? Remember, too, the fact that these prophecies disclose God's ways and plans, His attitude and manner of dealing with all sorts of human beings. With chapter 20 (which shows the folly of depending on Egypt for help) compare 30:1-5.

      STUDY 21. The Burden of "the Wilderness of the Sea." Isa. 21. The prophecy has reference to the doom of Babylon. Their careless feasting in the fateful hour (v. 5) is a matter of history. Cp. Dan. 5:1-4, 30, 31. The watchman announces to the Lord with lion-voice what he sees; and the Lord replies, vs. 8, 9. The nearer fulfillment of this is in Babylon's fall at the hands of the Medes, 13:17. The remoter fulfillment is pointed out in Rev. 14:8 and Rev. 18. Read Jer. 51. Babylon is the Lord's threshing-floor; but see Mic. 4:13. The Burden of Dumah. Vs. 11, 12. Mt. Seir is in Edom. An anxious question. What is the answer? There is indeed a morning dawning for those who fear God's name (Mal. 4:2); but to others it will be the fall of the dreadful night (Amos 5:18-20). The Burden upon Arabia, vs. 13-17. Its fulfillment is secured by the best assurance, v. 17.

      STUDY 22. The Burden of the Valley of Vision. Isaiah 22. Clearly refers to Jerusalem, vs. 4, 9. The prophet beholds her in dire distress, and shares with her, vs. 1-5. In the face of danger Judah made every provision for defense and protection except the one thing needful: they looked not unto Him that did it and purposed it long ago, and who alone could have helped. (31:1.) How like the unbelief of our own day! They do not regard the operation of His hands (5:12; Ps. 28:5). When God [10] calls them to repentance they say. "It is of no use," and in the recklessness of unbelieving despair, they say, "Let us eat and drink for tomorrow we die." This iniquity God does not forgive. (Vs. 12-14). Hilkiah and the Key of David, vs. 15-25. Key, robe, and girdle were Shebna's, the insignia of his office as treasurer and steward of the house of David. It is transferred to Hilkiah. The "government" of v. 21 was the administration of David's house, which was the steward's prerogative. In Rev. 1 and 3 this imagery is applied to Christ, for it is His to dispense "the sure mercies of David," and to administrate the blessings of the Davidic Covenant. Is Hilkiah a type of Christ, and v. 25 an intimation of Christ's death? Dan. 9:27.

      STUDY 23. The Burden of Tyre. Isa. 23. Her impending doom, vs. 1-7. Jehovah did it, vs. 8-12. God has set Himself to overthrow man's pride, and the glory of his godless civilization and proud achievement. Consider and compare with ours, the spirit of Cain's civilization. Gen. 4:16-24. Tyre was the exponent of commercialism. That is the biggest word in the world's national and, international affairs today. It must meet the same fate as Tyre's commercialism. In vs. 13-18 we see Tyre also restored and sending her profits and merchandise as tribute to Jehovah to sustain His ministers. Her traffic shall be consecrated to Him. (Cp. Zech. 14:20, 21). Read over Ezek. 26, 27, 28.

      Here end the "Burdens;" only once after this a burden message occurs. (Isa. 30:6).

The Forty-sixth Psalm: An introduction to what follows:

      STUDY 24. World-Judgment. Isa. 24. From whose hand do the judgments fall? How wide in extent? In R. V. margin "land" is given as alternative of "earth"; both are correct, for the land of Israel is first in view; but see "world" in v. 4. This is world-wide. Do the strong expressions of vs. 1, 3, 4 leave any room for survivors? See vs. 6. 13. (Compare Isa. 13:11 and 66:16, 18, 19.) Will any class of men be exempted? V. 2. But which class, will feel the fullest force of this judgment? V. 4. Recall 2:12-17. But the remnant that is left enter upon a glorious era, vs. 14-16a. (Cp. 14:7). From 16b-22 he returns to the avenging judgments. The "earth" in vs. 19, 20 is evidently the established order of human society; though the literal accomplishment in terrific earthquakes is not to be denied and excluded. Cp. Luke 21:11; Rev. 6:12; 16:18. V. 21 is of especial moment: two governing classes come in for punishment, one super-terrestrial, the other terrestrial; the one the "kings of the earth upon the earth" (Rev. 19:19); the other the "prince of the power of the air," with his "spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places" who are the super-mundane rulers of the world (Cp. Dan. 10) in "this present evil age" (Gal. 1:4), even the "worldrulers of this darkness," who are not flesh and blood, and with whom the Christian is now in spiritual conflict. (See Eph. 2:2; 6:12.) Compare with this the binding and imprisonment of Satan (Rev. 20:1-6)--the "prince of the world," and "god of this world"; and note the ensuing glorious reign of Jehovah (v. 23).

      STUDY 25. The Song of the Remnant. Isaiah 25. They praise His Name now, for the "counsels of old" (the promises of long ago). He has now fulfilled "in faithfulness and truth." The great city (see on chapt. 13, 14, and comp. Rev. 16:19) is destroyed; Jehovah Himself has become the Refuge of the helpless in that awful Day. See Joel 3:16 in its setting. With vs. 6, 7 compare Isa. 2:1-4. According to vs. 8, 9 this follows the Lord's coming and the "first resurrection." (Rev. 20:1-6.) Again we find the fulfillment of the age-old promise of Israel's ascendancy over her enemies. (Gen. 22:17; comp. Isa. 11:14). Will the enemies be there?

      STUDY 26. The Song of Judah. Isa. 26. Their city needs no better protection than "the salvation of Jehovah." 31:5. Comp. v. 8 with 25:9. V. 11 (first clause) is a good statement of the case as it stands today. After long years of vain toiling and suffering Israel obtains at last by grace that for which they had vainly striven; vs. 12, 18: cp. Rom. 9:32; Isa. 64:4. "Other lords!" Ah, Israel had felt their heavy yoke (Deut. 28:47, 48); and now at length they are glad to bow to the easy yoke of their Shepherd-Lord who loved them; v. 13. Comp. v. 14 with Exod. 14:30; with v. 15, Isa. 9:3. In Israel's extreme distress they cried to God and their deliverance came. Cp. Dan. 12:1, 2. Emphasize the first word of v. 19 in contrast with v. 14. [12] Verse 20, 21 return again to the Day of Vengeance. His people are put in safety first. Comp. Rev. 7:3, 4; 12:14.

      STUDY 27. The Day's Work. Isa. 27. Who is the "swift," and who the "crooked" serpent, and what "the monster that is in the sea"? Without attempt to say definitely, this connects with 24:21. Cp. Rev. 19:20. After this execution of wrath, Jehovah is seen rejoicing over His vineyard (Israel) keeping and protecting it. With v. 6 cp. 37:31; Rom. 11:15; with vs. 7, 8, Jer. 30:11. God did not smite them (Israel) as He smote their enemies. With v. 9, comp. Isa. 40:1, 2; Prov. 20:30; Heb. 12:10. Their severe chastisement and restoration rehearsed in vs. 10-13.

      STUDY 28. The Judgment on Ephraim, and the Scoffers of Judah. Isa. 28. First part directed against the ten-tribe kingdom, the kingdom of Israel (7:2, 9). Their judgment also shall result in the exaltation of Jehovah. (V. 5). Their miserable, moral and spiritual condition is set forth in vs. 7-13. Vs. 9, 10 is the scoffers' speech.; vs. 11-13 Jehovah's reply. Note Paul's application of v. 11 in 1 Cor. 14:21 where he argues that strange tongues appear in connection with the judgments upon unbelieving Israel; and are therefore a sign for unbelievers. Verses 14-22 is God's message of warning and mercy. Israel, to defy Jehovah's judgment (v. 2) has entered into a compact and covenant with the threatening power; thus hoping to escape the over-flowing scourge, v. 15. This while having first reference to the near judgment of the Assyrian invasion (8:8) has a greater application to the great world-judgments of the end-time (vs. 21, 22). What a picture, too, of the refuge sinners take under false professions, false religions, infidelity, doctrines of men, claims of morality, universalism, sacerdotalism, etc.; all which are destined to meet with the end described in vs. 17, 18. God offers a better refuge, the one true Foundation-stone (1 Cor. 3:11; 1 Pet. 2:6). On verse 21 see 1 Chron. 14:11-16. Note that wrath and judgment are a strange work to God. Vs. 23-29 teach by simile God adapts His methods of dealing to times and circumstances: He does not plow forever, nor harrow always; and as the husbandman deals, with every sort of seed and crop according to its nature and kind, so does God in His dealings with men.

      STUDY 29. About Jerusalem. Isaiah 29. "Ariel" is Jerusalem (2 Sam. 5:9) Jerusalem's final crisis haunts the pages of prophecy. See on ch. 17:12-18. All nations are gathered against her; in the extremity of her distress Jehovah interferes (Zech. 14; Joel 3). Note how suddenly her relief comes, and how her adversaries are reduced to chaff and small dust. (Ps. 83, esp. v. 13; Dan. 2:35). Vs. 9-12. Blindness is itself a judgment, as well as precursor of judgment. So is Israel today; Rom. 11:8, 25. So is most of Christendom today. V. 13 describes their conventional manner of worship. A matter of human custom rather than living spiritual sacrifice and service. How that applies to modern church conditions! See the Savior's significant wording of it, in Matt. 15:9. On v. 15 see Ezk. 8:12; on v. 16, Ps. 94:7-10. Contrast the future condition of v. 1-8 with 9, 10. [13] The kind described in vs. 20, 21 is not dead yet. (Luke 11:53, 54). Vs. 22-24, Jacob's happy future.

      STUDY 30. Warning against an alliance with Egypt. Isaiah 30 and 31. With vs. 1-7 read 2:22; 20:6. Should God's people ask counsel at His mouth before entering into alliances or transactions? Prov. 3:5, 6. These not only did not ask, but spurned the counsel offered them; v. 9-14. What aspect of God's character was particularly distasteful to these people? V. 11. Is it much better today? With v. 18 study Jer. 29:11. The blessed future God plans for Israel again takes the foreground in vs. 19-26. With v. 26 cp. Hos. 6:1. The "bridle that causeth to err," v. 28; comp. 2 Thess. 2:11; also Rev. 16:13, 14. Another protest, 31:1-3. Never through Egypt, but only through God will their ultimate deliverance come, 31:4-9. How we fly to human help and refuge when the God who has smitten is the only one who can heal! (Hos. 5:13-6:3). The Assyrian of the End is the great representative and personification of evil--the "man of sin." With this enemy will Israel conclude a compact. (28:15, 18).

      STUDY 31. Kingdom Days. Isaiah 32. Who is the King in verse 1, and the Man in v. 2? The answer is easy. But who are the princes that shall rule with Him? See Rev. 2:26, 27; 3:21, 20:4; 2 Tim. 2:12. The veil done away (Isa. 25:6, 7; 29:18) and the great Deceiver bound (Rev. 20:1-3), things are now seen as they are (vs. 4-8). The "careless" women. (Comp. 3:16, etc.) are told of the impending desolation (vs. 9-14); but this, as Israel's punishment always, is limited by an "until." (Luke 21:24; Rom. 11:25). On v. 15 see 29:17, 18; on the outpouring of the Spirit, 44:3, 4; Ezek. 39:28, 29; Joel 2:28-32; Zech. 12:10. Pentecost was a fulfillment, but did not fill out the measure and extent of the prediction: Acts 2 does not exhaust the prophecy. (See principles of prophetic interpretation, pages 2, 3). The present faithful activity of God's people (v. 20) is an essential factor to bring about the good days of vs. 16-18. To do our task faithfully today in view of the great consummation which God has promised and will bring about is true faith. Prophecy inspires true hearts to present earnestness and obedience.

      STUDY 32. Zion's Redemption. Isa. 33. The man (or nation) who does evil with impunity is hastening to a doom of woe. Read on this Ps. 73:3-20 and Ps. 37. Israel, penitent, calls on Jehovah in the day of her trouble, according to Prov. 20:22. An illustration of vs. 3, 4 is found in 2 Kings 7:6, 7. Zion's righteousness after her cleansing, v. 5; see 1:26, 27; 4:3, 4. In Ps. 72 the prediction of v. 6 is found enlarged. Out of the distress and the judgment of vs. 7-12 comes this glorious condition. With v. 8 compare the notes on 28:15, 18. When Jehovah thus comes down to take His possession of Zion, the sinners in Zion are filled with consternation (v. 14). "Who can dwell with Him?" they ask. God answers according to Ps. 15. He is thenceforth visibly present in redeemed Zion. Cp. 4:5, 6.

      STUDY 33. A Message of Judgment to all Nations, [14] especially Edom, Isaiah 34. It cannot be but that world-wide judgment--utter slaughter and destruction against all nations and their armies must precede that better day. The unparalleled war of our time is the beginning at least of this universal sentence. (Vs. 1-4.) He turns especially against Edom--Israel's inveterate and bitter enemy. The world's punishment is in reference to the Jews (v. 8, Joel 3); the hatred against whom will lead to the final great demonstration of Armageddon, the gathering of all nations against Jerusalem, where the finishing stroke will overtake them. See Ps. 83, where Edom is prominently mentioned.

      STUDY 34. Times of Restoration. Isaiah 35. Like a clear burst of sunlight when the black clouds have rolled by, like the rainbow after the storm, comes this vision of God's gracious redemption. (Jer. 29:11). To God's trembling people the day of Vengeance issues in salvation (Comp. 1 Thess. 5:3, 9). The very curse of nature is lifted. God did not make the desolate wilderness at the first, and the glowing sands of the desert. God's first will was not that thorns and thistles should grow, that the beasts of the field should tear one another and be a menace to man. In the restoration times that will be corrected. (11:6-9; 55:12, 13). For this the whole creation waits (Rom. 8:18-25). It comes with the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 3:21). Vs. 5-10, esp. v. 8 are sometimes given a spiritual application to the present dispensation. There is no objection to the position that such glorious predictions have their spiritual anticipations in this day; or that spiritual principles which are of universal application, pervade all the word of God. Nevertheless the fulfillment of these things are not yet. They bide the day of the Lord's Second Coming.

      STUDY 35. Isaiah 36-39 and Retrospect. We are at the end of the first great division of the Prophecy of Isaiah. Chapters 36-39 form a historical interlude, a parenthesis, between the first and second great divisions. We have had marked subdivisions in this first part of Isaiah:

      I. The Great Arraignment. Chapter 1.
      II. Zion Restored Through Judgments. Chapters 2 to 4.
      III. The Song of the Vineyard. Chapter 5.
      IV. Isaiah's Call and Commission. Chapter 6.
      V. The "Book of Immanuel." Chapters 7-12.
      VI. The Book of the "Burdens." Chapters 13 to 23.
      VII. World Judgment and Restoration. Chapters 24-35.

      Would it not be well now to gather the various predictions under classes; as, for example:

      1. All the prophecies concerning Christ.
      2. All the prophecies concerning Israel (and Judah).
          a. Desolation and Distress.
          b. Redemption and Restoration.
      3. All the prophecies concerning other nations.

      Lastly--in every chapter look for spiritual and practical [15] teaching for present application. There is a great wealth of it throughout.

      The last great division of Isaiah is ch. 40-66; The Book of Zion's Comfort and Redemption. Critics have assigned this latter portion of the prophecy to a different author, a "Deutero-Isaiah" (Second Isaiah). In the New Testament Isaiah is quoted by name 21 times: ten of these quotations are taken from the "former" portion (1-39); eleven from the "latter" portion. Both alike are indiscriminately assigned to "Isaiah" by the Lord Jesus and His apostles. The critics are not wiser in this matter than Jesus Christ and the inspired writers of the New Testament; and this testimony of the New Testament settles the question for common Christians, and makes further proof which could be presented to the unity of Isaiah's prophecy unnecessary.

      STUDY 36. The Message of Comfort. Isaiah 40:1-11. The first two verses strike the key-note of the whole latter portion. A message of consolation and redemption pervades these 27 chapters. Her waiting-time, her trouble, warfare, and heavy chastisements are overpast, and the Lord turns to comfort her. Abruptly follows the voice of the Herald--familiar from its quotation in Matt. 3 and Luke 4. But has verse 5 been fulfilled? Only in a much modified way. If the mission of the Fore-runner had succeeded, (John 1:6, 7), it would have been exactly and literally fulfilled, as some day it shall be. But John was rejected of his generation, and the world-wide blessing waits. In verse 6-8 we have a dialog (as pointed out by Moulton and others) (1) A voice of command: "Cry." (2) A plaintive voice, discouraged over the extreme weakness and misery of Israel, and weary in hopeless waiting, replies, What is the use? (64:5, 6). We are like grass that grows but to wither in a day. (3) The answer: Despite all human weakness and vain hope--the word of God shall not fail of fulfillment. Therefore cry, cry! What encouragement to the preacher today! Now (vs. 9-11) a glad message to Zion: Her Shepherd-King comes. (Jer. 31:10; Matt. 2:6). These four voices form the introduction to this portion of Isaiah.

      STUDY 37. The True God, fainting Israel's Rock and Stay. Isaiah 40:21-31. Jehovah's infinite power and wisdom is held up (in contrast with the idols of the nations) that His afflicted people may take new hope, vs. 12-26. This is one of the most wonderful passages in the Bible. The force of verse 27 is that Israel has got to the point where she thinks that God has ceased to care or pay any attention to her; and that she will nevermore obtain help and vindication at His hands. But He has not forgotten. (49:14-16.) Just because she is now utterly weak and helpless (Deut. 32:36) will He rise up for her help. To the faint--to those who have no might and resource of their own, and know it--to them He imparts power and strength. This is God's way today and always. (Matt. 5:3; 11:28). The youths [16] and Young Men (representing human strength at its best) shall fail and utterly fall, for human strength is wholly insufficient; but those weak ones who lean upon Jehovah, shall be more than conquerors.

      STUDY 38. Jehovah's Challenge to the Nations. Isaiah 41. It is a question whether verses 2-5 refer to Cyrus, the Persian King (45:1-3) whom God had destined to release Israel from Babylonian captivity. It is possible that here the one named in verse 2 is identical with Israel of verses 8, 15, in the final onslaught of the nations against them. The one whom God raises up, like Israel of old (Numbers 22:4, 6) subjugates the nations, his adversaries. (Num. 24:8). The enemies on their part (vs.5-7) make great preparations of armaments (or idols?) to meet this avenger. But God consoles His people: "Fear thou not." Note two things about this encouragement, (1) God never says merely "Be not afraid," but always gives a reason and foundation for confidence. (Comp. Josh. 1). (2) The ground of confidence is never the world's--"You are strong and great and wise"--that is, self-confidence; but Jacob is a worm. Israel's power lies not in themselves, but in God alone. Vs. 8-14 are of exquisite beauty and tenderness, and our hearts may confidently rely upon the spiritual promise that runs through, which is so beautifully gathered up in the old hymn.

      In verses 21-29 Jehovah challenges the idols to show their power. The specific challenge He throws into their faces is their inability to predict and bring to pass future things. (vs. 22, 23, 26). Verse 25 is again taken to refer to Cyrus. But Cyrus is also a type of Jesus Christ. With the vanity of the idols (vs. 23, 29) compare the unbelief or besotted Jews, Zeph. 1:12.

      STUDY 39. Jehovah's Servant. Isa. 42. In the preceding chapter the Servant has been mentioned. The term is used, first, collectively, to designate Israel, the nation. To this end were they called and chosen. (43:10) Israel, however, has never fulfilled her calling; but out of her midst arises One who fills out the whole measure, the one true "Israel," THE SERVANT OF JEHOVAH, who as individual is distinguished from the nation. Whether this Servant is spoken of, or whether the nation, must be determined from the context. Here (42:1-9) it is the Servant, Jesus Christ our Lord. Vs. 1-4 are familiar. (Matt. 12:18-21). The Omnipotent God backs Him, and declares the Servant's office and calling. (vs. 5-7). Note how in verse 6, He is distinguished from both "the people," and "the Gentiles." God does not give His glory to "another"--a different and foreign power (v. 8); but His Son, the Servant, is clothed in the Father's glory. (John 17:1, 5; Heb. 1:3). As a result of His work in judgment and salvation the whole earth is glad. (vs. 10-13; Ps. 96). God has indeed waited long (why? 2 Pet. 3:9); and men abused His [17] long-suffering (57:11; Ps. 50:21; Eccl. 8:11)--but now: vs. 14-17. The servant in vs. 18-20 is again the nation, as also in 43:1-13.

      STUDY 40. Jehovah the Savior of the Servant-Nation. Isaiah 43. For though they have failed, Jehovah does not go back in His purposes. (Rom. 11:29) Israel's day of peace and glory (through the work of the Servant) is coming. God formed them (vs. 1, 8) from the womb; miraculous from their inception in the birth of Isaac; and He formed them for what? v. 21. The wonderful promises of vs. 1, 2, have found, and will find accomplishment in Israel (Exod. 1.4; Josh 3; Isa. 30:27-29; Zech. 13:9) but are spiritually applicable to God's people always. (Rom. 15:4). (We must distinguish between the strict reference in which a statement of God's word is given, and its applicability in principle to many situations). Although God will sacrifice nations to establish Israel's place and honor in the earth (vs. 3, 4) yet His ultimate purpose from the call of Abraham (Gen. 12:2, 3), is nothing less than world-wide blessing through Israel. (Rom. 11:12, 15; Ps. 67). Verse 10 marks their high calling: they are the witnesses and servants to the one true God. (Comp. Deut. 6:4). Their impending deliverance from Babylon (vs. 14-21); but as often, the nearer horizon of the prophet's vision melts into the far horizon of the greater restoration of the latter days. (Comp. v. 18 with Jer. 16:14, 15). Their present sinful condition shall be swallowed up in Jehovah's redeeming, forgiving love. V. 25.

      STUDY 41. Idols and God. Isaiah 44 to 45:13. Verses 1-5 continue the gracious predictions to Israel. First of all the outpouring of the Spirit upon them, which will work so marvellous a change in their outward and inner affairs. (32:13-18; Ezek. 36:24-28; Joel 2:28-32; Zech. 12:10). Pentecost does not exhaust these predictions so far as the nation of Israel is concerned. From verses 6-20, a strong contrast between the God of Israel and the idols of the nations. Again He points to His sole prerogative and power to predict the future events. (v. 7). The "sacred books" of the nations cannot do it. Mohammed wisely refrained from the attempt in his Koran. Vs. 12-20: the idol gets its existence through the smith and carpenter, who himself must be sustained by food and drink, or else he cannot make the idol! This and other glaring follies are due to Divine judgment. (v. 18; Rom. 1:21-23). Note carefully four statements in verse 20. The theme of 43:25 is reverted to in verses 22, 23. From verse 24 to 45:13 the prophecy is occupied with Cyrus--a sample of the power claimed in verse 7. Note verses 25 and 26. The "evil" of 45:7 is not moral evil, but trouble. Vs. 8-10 are parenthetical.

      STUDY 42. The True God, Israel's Glory. Isaiah 45:14-46:13. On account of Israel's wonderful God she will be sought after by all nations. (45:14). Compare with this 55:5; 60:1-9; Zech. 8:20-23. Consider 2:2-4 again. Verse 15 is a very notable statement: He is an unobtrusive God: He desires to be sought and sought after. (Acts 17:26, 27; Jer. 29:13). Others may have sought Him in vain, but in Israel He is revealed and [18] made known. (v. 19; Ps. 147:19, 20) Verse 22 explains why the desire of the nations shall be toward Israel's God. Verse 23 is quoted in Rom. 14:11. In Jehovah alone--in no other god, nor in any one or anything else shall men find their need of righteousness and strength supplied. (v. 24). The text of chapter 46 is found in 45:20, latter half. It is a contrast between the gods that are carried and the God who carries us. The climax lies in verse 7. The excellency of Israel's God lies in this that He hears and answers prayer. Deut. 4:7. He invites men to call on Him in the day of trouble. Ps. 50:15. But false gods cannot answer the cry of distress (v. 7): they leave their followers in the lurch. (1 Kings 18:26, 29). Therefore to Jehovah, the prayer-hearing, prayer-answering God, shall all nations ultimately turn. (Ps. 65:8; 86:7-10). He is God and there is none else beside Him, a living God who speaks of things that are not as though they were; for He purposes and brings to pass.

      STUDY 43. The Judgment of Babylon. Isaiah 47. Babylon was the city that was to hold Israel in captivity. Verse 6 explains why Israel fell into her hands. Comp. Ps. 79 and 137. Her pride goes before her fall. vs. 7-11. She trusted much in her occult arts, but they could not save her from God's stroke. Recall chapters 13, 14, and read Jer. 51.

      STUDY 44. Israel Rebuked and Consoled. Isaiah 48. Empty profession, vs. 1, 2. Verse 8 seems hard, but see Deut. 29:4, and Ezek. 20. He will do much for them for His Name's sake (v. 9; Deut. 32:26, 27; Ezek. 36:20-23, 32) for they are His people and His good Name is bound up with them. After all, what an advantage to be numbered with the people of God! Them He chastens and refines (v. 10) and bestows loving care upon them for His Name's sake. (v. 11; Ps. 23:3). Verse 13 is a wondrous picture of His greatness and power; the Universe rises to its feet and stands at attention when He speaks to it. This again to reassure them of His power to deliver. vs. 14, 15. In verse 16 we have a peculiar pre-intimation that it is Jehovah who sends Jehovah--the Father, the Son. Comp. Zeph. 2:8-10. Memorize vs. 17, 18. Comp. Deut. 5:20. In vs. 20, 21 he calls out their liberation from Babylon.

      STUDY 45. The Servant of Jehovah and Redeemed Zion. Isaiah 49. The Servant speaks in verses 1-4; Jehovah replies in vs. 5-13. Zion utters her hopeless grief in verse 14, and is reassured by Jehovah (on the ground of the Servant's work). On verse 1 see Matt. 1:21; Luke 1:35. What a failure His work seemed to be; but in exact contrast with Israel's despondent speech, 40:27, is His confidence. Jehovah assures Him that His obedience in tears and blood would result not only in Israel's redemption, but also in that of all nations. V. 6 quoted, Acts 13:47. His rejection is plainly foretold in verse 7, as also His exaltation. Verse 8a is quoted in 2 Cor. 6. With v. 8b compare 42:6. All the earth will be glad when Israel is blessed. (Rom. 11:12, 15). Verses 14-16 are beautiful and tender. There follows a wonderful prediction of Jerusalem's Restoration. How men can [19] interpret this as having reference to the church, is inconceivable. The spiritual lesson underlying, is of course always applicable to God's people, and to the church today; but the prophecy is of Zion, once sinful, now pardoned; once desolate, now repopulated and prosperous; once outcast, now honored and glorified. The restoration from Babylon under Cyrus does not even faintly answer to these predictions.

      STUDY 46. Jehovah's People and Jehovah's Servant. Isaiah 50-51:8. The purport of 50:1-3 is that for no lack of love on His part was Jehovah's people put away, nor for any lack of His power left unredeemed. On verse 1, comp. Jer. 3:8--Israel, but not Judah, was formally "divorced." From vs.4-9 the Servant speaks again. He is the God-instructed Teacher. His ear was fully open to God's word; and vs. 5, 6 shows the result to Himself. This is always true: a faithful reception of the Word separates a man from the world, and soon brings the world's hatred and persecution on him. (John 15:19; 17:14.) Verses 7-9--the Servant's sustaining confidence;--Comp. Rom. 8:31-34. Verse 10 is great. Are you in the dark? Trust and obey, and all will come right. In 51:1-3 the point is that as God could raise up the whole nation out of a man and woman who were "as good as dead" (Rom. 4:19) so is He equally able to comfort and restore desolate Zion. As to verse 7, are the sort of people described likely to come in for reproach and revilings? Why should they not mind it? Verse 8. Cp. v. 6; 1 John 2:17; Ps. 37.

      STUDY 47. "Awake, awake!" Isaiah 51:9-52:12. The prophet views "the arm of Jehovah," long listless, awakening for the redemption of Zion and her children, 51:9-11. Verse 11 is identical with 35:10. How they have trembled at man, and forgot their God who is able to save. Vs. 12-16. Jerusalem is now called to awake out of her death-stupor in which she lay, drunken with the "bowl of the cup of staggering" received at Jehovah's hand, v. 17. Comp. 40:1, 2. Here is her word of comfort: vs. 21-23. See Micah 7:9. Mark "no more" in verse 22. Has verse 23 been fulfilled? 52:1, 2 is wondrous sweet. Contrast 47:1-5. Note in verse 3 that they shall not pay for their land and restoration when God restores them: it will be God's free gift of grace, an amazement to the nations. Ps. 126. What is more beautiful than verse 7? (Quoted in Rom. 10). The watchmen whose eyes have failed in looking for the dawn (Ps. 130) now cry aloud: "Jehovah returneth to Zion." He has made Himself manifest in the eyes of all nations in the redemption of Zion. (vs. 8-10). Verses 11, 12 were literally fulfilled in the first return from Babylon. (Ezra 1).

      STUDY 48. The Suffering Messiah. Isaiah 52:13-53:12. It is Jehovah's Servant of whom the prophet speaks; and not Israel, the nation, collectively. This is an Individual who ministers on behalf of the nation (53:6, 8). 52:13 speaks of His exaltation; and 14 of the preceding sufferings--so great that many were astonished at a face so marred and a form so mangled as hardly [20] to seem human; but as they were astonished at His extreme sufferings, so should nations and kings be startled (v. 15, margin) at His glory. 53:1 indicates the very limited credence this strange wondrous gospel should receive in Israel (John 12:38). Out of the barren, sin-cursed desert of the earth, a tender plant, a fresh, living root! But beautiful in Jehovah's eyes, to men in general He holds no attraction (1 John 3:2). He is held in contempt and rejected; He is a Man of grief and sorrows; and as from an object of God's curse, they abhorred the sight of Him. Comp. Ps. 22. Why did He have to endure such a fate? Verses 4-6, too wonderful and sacred for comment, answer. This is vicarious suffering; this substitutionary sacrifice on behalf of men. (2 Cor. 5:21; Gal. 3:10, 13; 1 Pet. 2:24.) Verses 7, 8 continue the thought. This is the passage the Eunuch was reading when Philip met him (Acts 8:32-35). Little trouble to preach on Jesus from this text! Verse 9 marvellously predicts well known details concerning His death and burial. Verse 10 foreshows His resurrection--for despite His death He shall "prolong His days." When He sees the fruit of His soul's bitter travail (v. 11) He shall esteem it as His exceeding sweet recompense. The first half of v. 12 amounts to this, that this suffering servant should rank with the great and mighty--an understatement of the fact (Eph. 1:21; Phil. 2:9) but sufficient to make the desired impression of His exaltation (Cp. Ps. 89:27.) Christ's humiliation, sufferings, death burial, resurrection, exaltation and present intercession, are all found in this wonderful prophecy which has been in Jewish hands ever since 700 years before Christ, and its words are applicable to none else but Christ Jesus our Lord.

      STUDY 49. Reapings of Joy. Isaiah 54, 55. Verse 1 is quoted by Paul (Gal. 4:27) in illustration of the covenant of grace, as contrasted with the law. This is the Zion of promise, redeemed, believing, regenerate, manifesting the blessings of the new covenant brought in through Christ's death. The old Zion is the fruit and exponent of the bondage of the law-dispensation. Sarah, long barren, became the joyful mother of the nation; whereas Hagar, representing the fleshly law-covenant, though having precedence at first, is cast out and forgotten. Note in v. 5 the prediction that Zion's God shall be acknowledged as the God of the whole earth. Verses 7, 8 are beautiful, as also the promises of vs. 9-17. To v. 13 the Lord Jesus referred in John 6:45, applying the same with strict exactness, for He was there gathering His sheep, the citizens of the redeemed Jerusalem. Verses 16, 17 are full of sweet comfort and assurance to all who are Christ's. With the last clause compare Phil. 3:9. Chapter 55 is the call to Israel (extended in the gospel to all men) to come, receive the blessings purchased for them in ch. 53. The blessing is of grace, free; it comes first by hearing and believing (vs. 2, 3). David is the name of the covenant-head, and is applied from him to whom the promise was first given, to Him in whom it was realized. It means Beloved. Jesus Christ is the true David (Eph. 1:6). His mercies are sure, [21] because He lives forever (Acts 13:34, 35; Heb. 7:25). With v. 4 compare the yet future prediction of Rev. 11:15; and v. 5 is paralleled in 2:2, 3 and 60:1-9. The call for mercy is taken up again in v. 6. V. 8 gives the reason for the demand made in v. 7. From vs. 10-13 the ultimate success and issue of God's word.

      STUDY 50. Warnings and Rebukes to Israel. Isaiah, chapters 56-59. Chapt. 56: verse 1 marks the time. Comp. John the Baptist's and Christ's insistence on faithfulness to the Law, just before the Gospel was revealed (Matt. 3; 5:17-19; 23:1-3). Comp. v. 7 with Matt. 21:13; and v. 8 with John 10:16. With v. 9 begins a picture of careless, disobedient Israel, which continues down through ch. 59. Note 57:11--lying is the coward's refuge; and cowardice is unbelief in God. Cp. v. 13. God's true people are beautifully marked out in v. 15. What then are the two dwelling-places of God, set forth in v. 15? Verses 16-19 speak of pure grace (Rom. 5:20, 21)--but the peace so freely extended is not for those who will not turn from their wickedness, vs. 20, 21. 58:2 is illustrated in 1:10-17. Religious observances connected with a disobedient life are of no avail. 59:1-15 reveal the reason of unheard prayers. Shall we not search our own hearts in this matter? From v. 1.5b the prophet looks into the future, unto that Day of Vengeance which must precede the comforting of Zion (61:2, 3). When there is no intercessor vengeance is inevitable (Ps. 106:23; Ezek. 22:30, 31). Note v. 18 and "So" in v. 19. V. 20 is quoted in Rom. 11:26, 27, with slight alteration. Note that the gracious prophecy in Rom. 11 is to believing, penitent Israel. That there will be an effusion of the Spirit upon Israel in the day of their national restoration, we have already seen in other passages (32:15; 44:3; Ezek. 39:25-29).

      STUDY 51. Zion's Glory. Isaiah 60. Is verse 1 to be understood figuratively, of spiritual glory, or literally? The former in any case; but the latter also (v. 2; ch. 4:5). What is the general condition of the earth when that occurs? And what will the nations do? (ch. 2:3, 4). Verses 4-9 describe this in more detail. When the nations come, see whom they bring to Zion (vs. 4, 9; 14:2; 49:22; Jer. 16:16). All nations become tributary and subservient to restored Israel, and Jehovah will clothe her with glory (vs. 10-14). Note well that it is the Jerusalem that was afflicted, despised, forsaken, hated, that is thus restored and. glorified; different from the old only in the character of its regenerated people (vs. 14-16, 21). V. 17 reminds of the days of Zion's former greatest glory, now eclipsed. Are verses 19, 20 a figure or literal? Both. Jehovah is their spiritual light, as He is ours in Christ Jesus, making us independent of the world's lights. But as the pillar of cloud was to Israel in the desert, His presence will be an actual illumination in the night (4:4, 5). Comp. v. 21 with Eph. 2:10. When God saves by grace all the glory goes to Him.

      STUDY 52. Zion's Messiah and Redemption. Isaiah 61. Verses 1, 2 are familiar: the Lord read them out in the synagogue at Nazareth and applied them to Himself (Luke 4:18-29). But [22] note where He stopped. Why did He stop there? Has that Day of Vengeance yet come? What shall follow that awful Day? (vs. 2b, 3; comp. Jer. 30:7-9; Dan. 12:1). Comp. v. 4 with 60:10. The new position given Israel is the original one first intended, from which they were rejected, but not forever (Exod. 19:5, 6; Hos. 4:6; Rom. 11:29) and God will abundantly compensate all their past suffering (vs. 7-9). Zion exults in v. 10. We also are clothed in a robe of righteousness (Gal. 3:27; 1 Cor. 1:30, 31).

      STUDY 53. (Continuing the same theme). Isaiah 62. God declares that He will not rest until He accomplishes these glories for her. It is always permissible to use any part of scripture by way of analogy and illustration; but to say that the "new name" given to Jerusalem by Jehovah is the name "Christians" first applied to the disciples at Antioch (Acts 11:26), and that there we have the fulfillment of this scripture, is to disregard the whole context and throw the interpretation into hopeless confusion. The name "Christian" has sufficient endorsement in God's word without such a doubtful argument (1 Pet. 4:16). Note the expressions "no more," "any more," in v. 4. Vs. 6, 7 are a good lesson on importunate intercession. V. 11 was not fully fulfilled in Matt. 21:5. (Comp. 35:4; Matt.23:39). This vengeance described in 63:1-6.

      STUDY 54. Israel's Pleading. Isaiah 63, 64. The first part tallies with 35:4; Joel 3:13; Rev. 14:17-20. Note v. 4--the Day of Vengeance upon the Nations is the Day of Redemption for Israel. With v. 7 begins a plea for Israel which continues to the end of ch. 64. 63:9 is very tender and beautiful. V. 10 marks their fall. In 11-14 the Prodigal comes to himself. The prayer proper begins with v. 15. With v. 17 comp. Rom. 11:8, 25. The pity and pathos of it pervades the whole. They long for the days of old when God made bare His holy arm and stood up openly for their help (v. 3) and contrast their present helpless, hopeless estate (vs. 5-7). Truly they have come to the end of themselves. They have indeed fallen down and there was none to help (Ps. 107). The humble, childlike pleading of vs. 8-12 is very touching. Hos. 14 speaks of this time.

      STUDY 55. Disobedient Israel and the Faithful Remnant. Isaiah 65, 66. Verses 1, 2 are self-explanatorily applied by Paul in Rom. 9:30; 10:20, 21. Vs. 3-7 relate to rebellious Israel; vs. 8-10 the sparing of the nation for the sake of the faithful Remnant; 11-16 the contrast in their destinies. Verses 17-25 afford a picture of the millennial days. Unless this passage (v. 17 and 66:22) is the exception, the new heaven and new earth of Rev. 21 are not directly mentioned in the O. T. prophecy. That this is only the renewal and restoration which is coincident with Israel's restoration is evident from a comparison of Rev. 21:4 with Isa. 65:20, 22. Death is not yet wholly abolished (nor sin, for that matter) but there is great longevity, as in antediluvian days; and peace on earth, even in the lower creation. Comp. Isa. 11. In chapt. 66 the contrast between His servants, His faithful ones, [23] and the disobedient, continues through v. 6. Vs. 7-9 describes Israel's national return and salvation (Rom. 11:25, etc.) and vs. 10-14 her resulting happy estate. Verses 15-21 the Day of Vengeance. Note its extent, vs. 16, 18. Yet it is not a clean sweep, vs. 19-21. Comp. Joel 3; Zech. 14; Rev. 19:11-21. Verses 22-24 describe millennial conditions, however we may apply them--the worship, service, and warning example, to the nations of the earth in that glorious age to come. In that day the Church, glorified, shall share the Throne with her Lord and with Him exercise the sovereignty over the nations. (Rev. 3:21; 2:26, 27).

      STUDY 56. A Review of Isaiah. In its structure and chapter divisions, Isaiah has a remarkable resemblance to the Bible as a whole. The Bible has 66 books; Isaiah 66 chapters. The Bible falls into two great divisions; so does Isaiah. The Old Testament has 39 books--the former part of Isaiah 39 chapters; The New Testament 27 books; the latter part of Isaiah (40-66) 27 chapters. This will give us the chief outline of Isaiah in a form easy to be remembered. The more particular outline is as follows:

      We have now finished the prophecy of Isaiah. It has surely repaid all earnest study. In it we have seen God revealed in mercy and justice, in grace and judgment, in His wisdom and power; and His gracious ways and plans have been unfolded to us. In no other Old Testament book is Christ set forth so fully; no other book, the Psalms excepted, is so frequently quoted and referred to in the New Testament. In no other book of the Old Testament do we get so clear a vision of the Gospel in its facts and principles. For Review and Topical Study the following themes are suggested:

      God: His holiness, greatness, love, wisdom.
      Christ: His Person, His suffering; His glory; His work.
      The Holy Spirit.
      Israel: Her rejection; her restoration.
      Jerusalem, The Land of Israel.
      Gentile Nations.
      The Kingdom.

      Then go over each chapter and make note of spiritual lessons and applications to your personal life; and of any special verses you wish to remember. [24]

[ISAIAH 1-16.]

      The electronic version of R. H. Boll's "Isaiah": A Series of Short Studies through the Book of Isaiah (Louisville, KY: Word and Work, [1918]) has been produced from a copy of the pamphlet held by the Disciples of Christ Historical Society. No date of publication appears on the title page or copyright page; however the studies were first published as a series in Word and Work, January through May, 1918. Publication of the pamphlet was first announced in the "News and Notes" column Word and Work in July 1918, p. 241. A reprint was announced in "News and Notes" in July 1947, p. 173. A facsimile reprint was also issued by the Waterford Church of Christ in Taylorsville, KY, date unknown.

      The printed text is not paginated; inferential pagination in the electronic version has been represented by placing the page number in brackets following the last complete word on the printed page. Inconsistencies in spelling, capitalization, punctuation, and typography have been retained; however, corrections have been offered for misspellings and other accidental corruptions. Emendations are as follows:

            Printed Text [ Electronic Text
 -----------------------------------------------------------------------
 p. 2:      spe- ially [ specially
 p. 3:      chapter 26-28 [ chapters 26-28
 p. 5:      Ps. 51:2. 7). [ Ps. 51:2, 7).
 p. 6:      Isaiah. 8. [ Isaiah 8.
 p. 7:      Isa. 36 and 37). [ Isa. 36 and 37.
 p. 8:      Ps. 132:13-17) [ Ps. 132:13-17).
            ISAIAH 13:23. [ ISAIAH 13-23.
 p. 9:      Isaiah. 14. [ Isaiah 14.
 p. 10:     The prophecy has [ Isaiah 21. The prophecy has
            An anxious question [ An anxious question.
 p. 11:     Tyre's comercialism. [ Tyre's commercialism.
 p. 12:     "world'" [ "world"
 p. 13:     Ps. 94; 7-10. [ Ps. 94:7-10.
 p. 14:     Isaiah 31 and 32. [ Isaiah 30 and 31.
            (Hos. 5:13--6-3). [ (Hos. 5:13-6:3).
            (vs. 9:14); [ (vs. 9-14);
            pages 1, 2). [ pages 2, 3).
            The mon (or nation) [ The man (or nation)
 p. 15:     unparallelled [ unparalleled
            sentence. [ sentence.
 p. 17:     Isa. 49. [ Isa. 42.
 p. 20:     Isaiah 52:13-52:12. [ Isaiah 52:13-53:12.
            51:13 speaks [ 52:13 speaks
 p. 22:     With v, 4 [ With v. 4
            (Matt. 3;5 17-19; [ (Matt. 3; 5:17-19;
 p. 23:     vs. 2b, 3; [ (vs. 2b, 3;
            (vs. 5-7)). [ (vs. 5-7).
 

      Addenda and corrigenda are earnestly solicited.

Ernie Stefanik
Derry, PA

Created 16 December 2000.
Updated 18 June 2003.