The LORD Has Chosen Israel 1But now listen, O Jacob My servant, 2This is the word of the LORD, your Maker, who formed you from the womb and who will help you: “Do not be afraid, O Jacob My servant, Jeshurun,a whom I have chosen. 3For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and currents on the dry ground. I will pour out My Spirit on your descendants, and My blessing on your offspring. 4They will sprout among the grass like willowsb by flowing streams. 5One will say, ‘I belong to the LORD,’ another will call himself by the name of Jacob, and still another will write on his hand, ‘The LORD’s,’ and will take the name of Israel.” 6Thus says the LORD, the King and Redeemer of Israel, the LORD of Hosts: “I am the first and I am the last, 7Who then is like Me? Let him say so! Let him declare his case before Me, since I established an ancient people. Let him foretell the things to come, 8Do not tremble or fear. Have I not told you and declared it long ago? You are My witnesses! Is there any God but Me? There is no other Rock; 9All makers of idols are nothing, and the things they treasure are worthless. Their witnesses fail to see or comprehend, 10Who fashions a god or casts an idol 11Behold, all his companions will be put to shame, for the craftsmen themselves are only human. Let them all assemble and take their stand; they will all be brought to terror and shame. 12The blacksmith takes a tool and labors over the coals; he fashions an idol with hammers and forges it with his strong arms. Yet he grows hungry and loses his strength; he fails to drink water and grows faint. 13The woodworker extends a measuring line; he marks it out with a stylus; he shapes it with chisels and outlines it with a compass. He fashions it in the likeness of man, like man in all his glory, that it may dwell in a shrine. 14He cuts down cedars or retrieves a cypressc or oak. He lets it grow strong among the trees of the forest. He plants a laurel, and the rain makes it grow. 15It serves as fuel for man. He takes some of it to warm himself, and he kindles a fire and bakes his bread. He also fashions it into a god and worships it; he makes an idol and bows down to it. 16He burns half of it in the fire, and he roasts meat on that half. He eats the roast and is satisfied. Indeed, he warms himself and says, “Ah! I am warm; I see the fire.” 17From the rest he makes a god, his graven image. He bows down to it and worships; he prays to it and says, “Save me, for you are my god.” 18They do not comprehend or discern, for He has shut their eyes so they cannot see and closed their minds so they cannot understand. 19And no one considers in his heart, no one has the knowledge or insight to say, “I burned half of it in the fire, and I baked bread on its coals; I roasted meat and I ate. Shall I make something detestable with the rest of it? Shall I bow down to a block of wood?” 20He feeds on ashes. His deluded heart has led him astray, and he cannot deliver himself or say, “Is not this thing in my right hand a lie?” Jerusalem to Be Restored 21Remember these things, O Jacob, for you are My servant, O Israel. I have made you, and you are My servant; O Israel, I will never forget you. 22I have blotted out your transgressions like a cloud, and your sins like a mist. Return to Me, for I have redeemed you. 23Sing for joy, O heavens, for the LORD has done this; shout aloud, O depths of the earth. Break forth in song, O mountains, you forests and all your trees. For the LORD has redeemed Jacob, and revealed His glory in Israel. 24Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer who formed you from the womb: “I am the LORD, who has made all things, who alone stretched out the heavens, who by Myself spread out the earth, 25who foils the signs of false prophets and makes fools of diviners, who confounds the wise and turns their knowledge into nonsense, 26who confirms the message of His servant and fulfills the counsel of His messengers, who says of Jerusalem, ‘She will be inhabited,’ and of the cities of Judah, ‘They will be rebuilt, and I will restore their ruins,’ 27who says to the depths of the sea, ‘Be dry, and I will dry up your currents,’ 28who says of Cyrus, ‘My shepherd will fulfill all that I desire,’ who says of Jerusalem, ‘She will be rebuilt,’ and of the temple, ‘Let its foundation be laid.’” Footnotes: 2 a Jeshurun means the upright one, a term of endearment for Israel. 4 b Or poplars 14 c Or pine or juniper or fir Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Isaiah 44 Summary The LORD Has Chosen IsraelVerses 1–5 – Promise of Comfort and Spirit-Filled Renewal Verses 6–8 – The Eternal, Sole God Verses 9–20 – Satire on Idol-Making Verses 21–23 – Remembered, Redeemed, Rejoicing Verses 24–28 – Creator and Commander of History: Cyrus Named Isaiah 44 presents a beautiful testament to God's unending love and unparalleled power. The chapter speaks of God's choosing of Israel, the absurdity of idolatry, and God's redemption and forgiveness. This is where God foretells the rise of Cyrus the Great, depicting His sovereignty over the future. Historical Setting Isaiah prophesied in Jerusalem roughly 740–680 BC, spanning the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah (Isaiah 1:1). Chapter 44 looks ahead to the sixth-century exile and beyond it to the Persian era. While Judah had not yet fallen, God already spoke comfort for future captives and identified the deliverer—Cyrus (v. 28), king of Persia (reigned 559–530 BC). This precise naming about 150 years early is unique in ancient literature and underlines God’s sovereignty over history. Key Doctrinal Themes • Election and Assurance: God repeatedly calls Israel “My servant” (vv. 1-2, 21), echoing Deuteronomy 7:6-8. • Outpouring of the Spirit: The imagery of water (v. 3) anticipates Joel 2:28 and Acts 2, showing God’s plan to refresh and empower His people. • Monotheism: “Apart from Me there is no God” (v. 6) is a cornerstone of biblical faith, echoed in Deuteronomy 4:35 and James 2:19. • Vanity of Idolatry: The satire (vv. 9-20) parallels Psalm 115:4-8 and 1 Corinthians 8:4, stressing the futility of trusting man-made objects. • Predictive Prophecy: God’s naming of Cyrus proves He alone directs future events, reinforcing Isaiah 46:10 and John 13:19. Language and Imagery • “Pour out water” (v. 3) evokes desert life; rainfall meant survival. The Spirit is pictured as life-giving refreshment (John 7:37-39). • “First and Last” (v. 6) frames history—from creation (Genesis 1:1) to new creation (Revelation 22:13). • The idol narrative follows a humorous three-act play: forging metal (vv. 12-13), carving wood (vv. 13-17), and worshiping the leftovers (vv. 18-20). • “Redeemed” (v. 22) employs marketplace language of buying back, recalling the Exodus (Exodus 6:6) and foreshadowing Christ’s ransom (1 Peter 1:18-19). Archaeological Insights • The Cyrus Cylinder (British Museum) records Cyrus’s policy of letting exiles return and rebuild temples, mirroring Isaiah 44:28 and Ezra 1:1-4. • Persian royal inscriptions often label the king “shepherd,” matching God’s title for Cyrus (v. 28). • Excavations at Babylon reveal mass-produced clay idols, illustrating Isaiah’s critique of factory-made gods. • Judean fortifications like Lachish show burn layers from Assyrian attacks (701 BC), reminding readers of threats looming over Judah when Isaiah spoke. Prophecy and Fulfillment 1. Return and Rebuilding: Isaiah’s promise came true when Cyrus issued his decree (Ezra 1:1-4). 2. Spirit Outpouring: Partially fulfilled at Pentecost (Acts 2), yet still pointing toward a wider future blessing on Israel (Romans 11:26-27). 3. Monotheism Proclaimed: The spread of biblical faith across the world testifies to God’s claim in vv. 6-8. Cross-Scripture Connections • Genesis 12:2-3 – God’s blessing on Abraham parallels the descendants flourishing in Isaiah 44:3-5. • Jeremiah 31:31-34 – New covenant language aligns with the Spirit’s inner renewal. • Revelation 1:17 – “I am the First and the Last” identifies Jesus with Yahweh, affirming His deity. • Colossians 1:16-17 – Christ as Creator aligns with Isaiah 44:24. • 1 Corinthians 1:19 – Paul cites Isaiah 44:25’s theme of frustrating the wise. Practical Application • Security in Identity: Believers today can rest in God’s repeated “fear not” (v. 2). • Dependence on the Spirit: Just as rain restores parched soil, continual reliance on the Spirit brings vitality to personal and congregational life. • Reject Modern Idols: Career, technology, or status can occupy the same place wooden idols once held. Isaiah’s satire invites self-examination. • Trust God’s Control of History: The precise prophecy about Cyrus encourages confidence that God still guides national and personal events toward His purposes. Connections to Additional Scriptures Revelation 1:8Echoes the theme of God's eternal nature: I am the Alpha and the Omega, says the Lord God, who is and was and is to come—the Almighty. Psalm 115:4-8 Describes the futility of idols, similar to Isaiah 44. 1 John 5:21 A New Testament exhortation to keep away from idols. Ephesians 1:7 Speaks of redemption through Christ's blood, aligning with God's promise of redemption in Isaiah. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty and IdentityIsaiah 44:6 declares, This is what the LORD says—He who is the King of Israel and its Redeemer, the LORD of Hosts: 'I am the first and I am the last, and there is no God but Me.' God asserts His unique position as the eternal, unchanging, and only true God. The Futility of Idolatry Verses 9-20 describe the absurdity of idol-making, highlighting the foolishness of worshiping man-made objects. Idols are powerless and cannot save; they are a product of human hands and imagination. God's Promise of Redemption In verses 21-22, God reassures Israel of His forgiveness and redemption: I have swept away your transgressions like a cloud, and your sins like a mist. Return to Me, for I have redeemed you. God's grace and mercy are emphasized, offering hope and restoration. The Call to Remember and Rejoice Verse 23 calls creation to rejoice in God's redemptive work: Sing for joy, O heavens, for the LORD has done this; shout aloud, O depths of the earth. Break into singing, O mountains, O forest and every tree therein! For the LORD has redeemed Jacob and displays His glory in Israel. Practical Applications Reject Modern IdolsIdentify and turn away from anything that takes precedence over God in your life, whether it be material possessions, status, or personal ambitions. Trust in God's Sovereignty In times of uncertainty, remember that God is the first and the last, and His plans are perfect and unchanging. Embrace God's Forgiveness Accept God's offer of redemption and live in the freedom of His forgiveness, knowing that your sins are wiped away. Celebrate God's Work Cultivate a heart of gratitude and worship, rejoicing in the ways God has redeemed and blessed you. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh)The central figure in Isaiah 44, Yahweh is the God of Israel, the Creator, and the Redeemer. He declares His sovereignty and uniqueness as the only true God. The Hebrew name used is יְהוָה (YHWH), which is often rendered as "LORD" in English translations. 2. Jacob Refers to the patriarch Jacob, whose name is often used to represent the nation of Israel. In Isaiah 44:1, God addresses Jacob, symbolizing His chosen people. The Hebrew name is יַעֲקֹב (Ya'akov). 3. Israel The nation descended from Jacob, often used interchangeably with Jacob in prophetic literature. In Isaiah 44:1, Israel is called God's servant, emphasizing their special relationship with Him. The Hebrew name is יִשְׂרָאֵל (Yisra'el). 4. Jeshurun A poetic name for Israel, meaning "upright one" or "beloved one." It is used in Isaiah 44:2 to convey affection and a sense of righteousness. The Hebrew name is יְשֻׁרוּן (Yeshurun). 5. Cyrus Although not mentioned by name in Isaiah 44, Cyrus the Great is alluded to as the one who will fulfill God's purpose by allowing the Israelites to return from exile. This is more explicitly stated in Isaiah 45. The Hebrew name is כּוֹרֶשׁ (Koresh). Places 1. IsraelThis is the nation chosen by God, often referred to as His servant. In Isaiah 44, Israel is reminded of its identity and relationship with God. The Hebrew root for Israel is "יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Yisra'el), meaning "God contends" or "one who struggles with God." 2. Jerusalem Although not explicitly mentioned in Isaiah 44, Jerusalem is often implied as the central city of Israel, representing the heart of the nation and its spiritual center. The Hebrew root for Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), meaning "foundation of peace." 3. Jacob This name is used interchangeably with Israel, referring to the patriarch and the nation descended from him. The Hebrew root for Jacob is "יַעֲקֹב" (Ya'akov), meaning "heel" or "supplanter." Events 1. God's Assurance to IsraelGod reassures Israel of His continued support and blessing. He calls Israel His chosen servant and promises not to forget them. This reflects the Hebrew root "yasha" (יָשַׁע), meaning to save or deliver, emphasizing God's role as a savior (Isaiah 44:1-2). 2. Promise of the Spirit God promises to pour out His Spirit on the descendants of Israel, symbolizing renewal and blessing. The Hebrew word "ruach" (רוּחַ) is used for spirit, indicating breath or wind, signifying life and divine presence (Isaiah 44:3-4). 3. Affirmation of Identity The people of Israel are encouraged to affirm their identity as belonging to the Lord. This is a call to recognize their covenant relationship with God (Isaiah 44:5). 4. God as the Only God God declares Himself as the only God, emphasizing His uniqueness and sovereignty. The Hebrew word "el" (אֵל) is used, underscoring His power and authority (Isaiah 44:6-8). 5. Futility of Idolatry The chapter describes the futility and absurdity of idol worship. It highlights the contrast between the living God and lifeless idols, using the Hebrew word "pesel" (פֶּסֶל) for idol, meaning a carved image (Isaiah 44:9-20). 6. Call to Remember God God calls Israel to remember Him and the acts He has done for them, urging them to return to Him. This is a reminder of their covenant and His faithfulness (Isaiah 44:21-22). 7. God's Redemption God proclaims His redemption of Israel, using the Hebrew word "ga'al" (גָּאַל), meaning to redeem or act as a kinsman-redeemer, highlighting His role in their salvation (Isaiah 44:23). 8. God's Sovereignty Over Creation The chapter concludes with a declaration of God's sovereignty over creation and history, affirming His control over all things (Isaiah 44:24-28). Topics 1. God’s Promise to Israel (Isaiah 44:1-5)This section begins with God addressing Israel as His chosen servant. The passage emphasizes God's commitment to bless and sustain His people. The Hebrew word for "servant" (עֶבֶד, 'eved) highlights Israel's role in God's plan. The promise of pouring out His Spirit (רוּחַ, ruach) signifies spiritual renewal and blessing. 2. The Uniqueness of God (Isaiah 44:6-8) God declares His sovereignty and uniqueness, stating, "I am the first and I am the last; apart from Me there is no God" (v. 6). The Hebrew term for "God" (אֱלֹהִים, Elohim) underscores His supreme authority. This section reassures Israel of God's unparalleled power and faithfulness. 3. The Folly of Idolatry (Isaiah 44:9-20) This passage critiques the absurdity of idol worship, describing the process of crafting idols and the futility of trusting in them. The Hebrew word for "idol" (פֶּסֶל, pesel) refers to carved images, highlighting their man-made nature. The text contrasts the lifelessness of idols with the living God. 4. God’s Redemption and Forgiveness (Isaiah 44:21-23) God calls Israel to remember their identity as His servant and assures them of redemption. The Hebrew root for "redeem" (גָּאַל, ga'al) conveys the idea of a kinsman-redeemer, emphasizing God's personal commitment to save His people. The passage concludes with a call to rejoice in God's salvation. 5. Prophecy of Cyrus (Isaiah 44:24-28) The chapter ends with a prophecy concerning Cyrus, whom God will use to fulfill His purposes. God asserts His control over history and His ability to use even foreign rulers to accomplish His will. The mention of Cyrus by name (כּוֹרֶשׁ, Koresh) demonstrates God's foreknowledge and sovereignty. Themes 1. God as the Only RedeemerIsaiah 44 emphasizes that the LORD is the sole redeemer of Israel. In verse 6, it states, "I am the first and I am the last; apart from Me there is no God." This underscores the monotheistic belief central to conservative Christianity, affirming that God alone is the savior and protector of His people. The Hebrew word for "redeemer" (גּוֹאֵל, go'el) conveys the idea of a kinsman-redeemer, highlighting God's personal and covenantal relationship with Israel. 2. The Futility of Idolatry The chapter vividly contrasts the power of God with the impotence of idols. Verses 9-20 describe the making of idols and their inability to save or respond, emphasizing their worthlessness. The Hebrew term for "idols" (אֱלִילִים, elilim) can also mean "worthless things," reinforcing the theme that idols are empty and powerless compared to the living God. 3. God’s Sovereignty and Omniscience Isaiah 44:7-8 highlights God's sovereignty and knowledge of all things, declaring, "Who then is like Me? Let him proclaim it." This theme reassures believers of God's ultimate control over history and His ability to declare the future, a comfort to those who trust in His divine plan. 4. Promise of Restoration and Blessing The chapter contains promises of restoration and blessing for Israel. In verse 3, God promises, "For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out My Spirit on your offspring." This theme of renewal and divine blessing is central to the hope of redemption and spiritual revival, resonating with the Christian belief in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. 5. God’s Creative Power Isaiah 44:24 declares, "I am the LORD, who has made all things, who alone stretched out the heavens." This theme emphasizes God's role as the Creator, affirming His authority over all creation. The Hebrew verb for "create" (בָּרָא, bara) is used exclusively for divine creation, underscoring the uniqueness of God's creative acts. 6. The Role of Prophecy The chapter underscores the importance of prophecy in revealing God's plans. In verse 26, it states, "who confirms the word of His servant and fulfills the counsel of His messengers." This theme highlights the reliability of God's word and the fulfillment of His promises, a cornerstone of faith for conservative Christians who view prophecy as evidence of divine truth. 7. Cyrus as God’s Instrument Isaiah 44:28 mentions Cyrus by name, "who says of Cyrus, ‘He is My shepherd, and he will accomplish all that I please.’" This theme illustrates how God uses individuals, even those outside the covenant community, to fulfill His purposes. It reflects the belief in God's providential use of world leaders to achieve His divine will. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Isaiah 44:6, how can the claim “I am the first and I am the last” be reconciled with other biblical passages attributing this title to different persons? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What is the significance of God choosing Israel in verses 1-5? 2. How does Isaiah contrast the One True God with the idols in verses 6-8? 3. What does the idol-making process, as described in verses 9-20, tell us about the nature of idolatry? 4. How does Isaiah 44 depict the power and sovereignty of God? 5. What does it mean that God has "swept away" Israel's sins? 6. How does the prophecy of Cyrus the Great showcase God's control over the future? 7. How can you relate the folly of idol worship to contemporary idolatries, such as money, fame, or power? 8. How can we embrace the concept of being "chosen" by God in our daily lives? 9. How does God's forgiveness towards Israel inspire you to seek forgiveness and forgive others? 10. How can the omnipotence of God, as depicted in this chapter, comfort us in times of uncertainty? 11. In light of Isaiah 44, how can we ensure that God remains the central focus of our worship? 12. In your opinion, what are some modern forms of idolatry, and how can we avoid them? 13. How can God’s commitment to His people, despite their disobedience, encourage us in our moments of doubt? 14. How might the foretelling of Cyrus the Great strengthen our faith in God's providence? 15. What do you think God means by "pouring out His spirit" onto His chosen people? 16. In what ways can we express gratitude for God’s forgiveness in our lives? 17. How does this chapter inform your understanding of the balance between God's justice and mercy? 18. How can we apply the lessons from God's commitment to Israel to our relationships and commitments? 19. How can we rely on God’s sovereignty and control over our future as seen in this chapter? 20. What practical steps can we take to actively remember and return to God, as Israel was called to do in verses 21-23? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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