What is the meaning of Isaiah 55:5?

Surely you will summon a nation you do not know

“Surely you will summon a nation you do not know.” (Isaiah 55:5a)

• Isaiah looks ahead to a time when the people of God extend an unexpected invitation.

• The “you” first applies to Israel—but ultimately points to the Messiah, Jesus, who calls people far beyond ethnic Israel (Isaiah 42:6; Matthew 28:19).

• “A nation you do not know” highlights Gentiles formerly outside covenant fellowship (Genesis 12:3; Acts 13:47).

• The summons is proactive; God’s people won’t wait to be found—they will call others in.

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And nations who do not know you will run to you

“And nations who do not know you will run to you.” (Isaiah 55:5b)

• Those once ignorant of Israel’s God respond eagerly. The gospel proves magnetic (Isaiah 2:2–3; Zechariah 8:22–23).

• “Run” pictures urgency and joy, fulfilled when multitudes from every tongue come to Christ (Acts 2:5–11; Revelation 7:9–10).

• History confirms it: from Antioch to the ends of the earth, unfamiliar peoples have flocked to the Savior announced in this verse.

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For the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel

“For the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel…” (Isaiah 55:5c)

• The motive behind global mission is rooted in God’s character.

• “LORD” (Yahweh) underscores covenant faithfulness (Exodus 3:15).

• “Holy One of Israel” reminds us of His purity and uniqueness (Isaiah 6:3; 40:25).

• Because God is both personal (“your God”) and exalted (“Holy One”), He alone can orchestrate worldwide redemption.

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Has bestowed glory on you

“…has bestowed glory on you.” (Isaiah 55:5d)

• God lavishes honor so His people shine as a beacon (Isaiah 60:1–3; John 17:22).

• This glory is not self-generated; it is a gift, reflecting God’s own majesty (Psalm 115:1; 2 Corinthians 4:6).

• Practically, God’s glory on the Church draws the nations, confirming the promise made here.

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summary

Isaiah 55:5 prophesies that God’s people—ultimately represented in Christ—will actively invite previously unknown nations, and those nations will eagerly answer because God’s own radiant glory compels them. The verse celebrates the outbound call of the gospel, the enthusiastic response of the Gentiles, and the covenant-keeping, holy character of the LORD who grants His glory to make it all happen.