In the previous chapter, God assured that the Assyrians would be judged, and Judah would be delivered. In this chapter, great blessings are prophesied, such as a righteous government in the future (Christ’s Kingdom).

1. The ideal man and the ideal citizens (vs. 1-8)

This text has primarily in mind King Hezekiah because he was the king of Judah. He was the one who would reign in righteous when he dropped his Egyptian policy. He did, and after the defeat of the Assyrians in 701 BC, God approved of Hezekiah’s administration. However, this message goes far beyond Hezekiah. This is typical Messianic prophecy. It is Christ’s Kingdom that is in the background. Notice the following:-

• A general description of the influence of individual character (vs. 1-2). The first meaning of the text is a reference to those who shall be in that government. But, the text goes beyond this to speak of Christ.
• The ideal citizens will have spiritual alertness (vs. 3).
• There shall be a restoration of conscience before God (vs. 4). The spiritual renewal during the reign of Hezekiah promoted trust in God’s Word, and because of that, hearts were changed. God also would bless in miraculous ways.
• Social lies shall no longer exist. (vs. 5). The spiritual renewal during the reign of Hezekiah meant that spiritual reality would be exposed for all to see.
• There shall be sinners upon the earth in the days of the Kingdom. (vs. 6-8). Wickedness shall be discovered and punished wheresoever it is, and virtue shall be manifested and rewarded, and all things shall be managed with sincerity and simplicity.

2. The women of the city of Jerusalem (vs. 9-12)

The confidence that these women have is false. The word “assurance” in verse 17 is the same word that is translated “careless” in verses 9-11. There is a play on words in this passage. The word translated “at ease” in verse 9 is the same word that is translated “quiet” in verse 18. There is nothing wrong with feeling secure and undisturbed as long as one’s trust is solidly based on the Lord. Instead of an indulgent, self-focused life, they would be required to tremble, be troubled, and put on the clothing of mourning.

3. The catastrophe of Jerusalem (vs. 13-14)

The Assyrian invasion will come and God would use the tough economic times to wake Judah up. The tough times touched everyone.

4. The future blessing (vs. 15-20)

God used the invasion from Assyria, the tough times, and the humble mourning of the people to prepare them for an outpouring of His Spirit. God wanted to do more than scatter a few drops of His mercy and blessing; He wanted His Spirit to be poured out upon His people. It doesn’t come from among men, or because of men’s efforts. It comes from heaven, from on high. When the Holy Spirit is poured out, what was barren and desolate before is now full of life and fruitfulness. True fruitfulness comes from the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. It is marked by the fruits of the Spirit.

Categories: Isaiah