What is the meaning of Isaiah 56:1? This is what the LORD says • The verse opens by rooting every word that follows in God’s own authority. When the Creator speaks, His message carries absolute weight (Isaiah 40:8; 2 Timothy 3:16). • Isaiah repeatedly introduces divine proclamations with this phrase, reminding hearers that the instructions are not mere human suggestions but the settled will of the Sovereign LORD (Isaiah 1:18; 55:8-9). Maintain justice • “Maintain” implies ongoing, deliberate action—justice is not a one-time deed but a lifestyle. • Justice reflects God’s own character (Deuteronomy 32:4). To neglect justice is to misrepresent Him (Jeremiah 22:3; Micah 6:8). • Practical outworking: – Fair dealings in business (Leviticus 19:35-36). – Protection of the vulnerable (Zechariah 7:9-10). – Impartial judgments in community life (Deuteronomy 1:17). Do what is right • “Right” encompasses personal integrity and moral choices that align with God’s standard (Psalm 15:2). • Scripture links righteousness with obedience: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). • Living rightly involves: – Honesty in speech (Ephesians 4:25). – Purity in conduct (1 Peter 1:15-16). – Love that fulfills the law (Romans 13:10). My salvation is coming soon • God motivates obedience with the promise of imminent deliverance. In Isaiah’s day this pointed toward the return from exile, yet it ultimately anticipates the Messianic rescue fulfilled in Christ (Luke 2:30-32). • “Soon” underscores urgency; believers are to live expectantly (Romans 13:11-12; Revelation 22:12). • Salvation is God’s work, not ours—our role is readiness through faithful living (Isaiah 40:10; Titus 2:11-13). My righteousness will be revealed • God’s righteousness is His perfect, covenant-keeping faithfulness on public display (Isaiah 46:13). • At the cross and empty tomb God unveiled this righteousness decisively (Romans 1:16-17; 3:21-26). • Future dimension: the full revelation will come when Christ returns to judge and to reign (2 Thessalonians 1:6-10). summary Isaiah 56:1 calls God’s people to an active, daily pursuit of justice and righteousness because the LORD is on the move. His salvation is near, His righteousness certain. Living under this promise means reflecting His character now while anticipating the glorious unveiling of His righteous rule soon to be seen by all. |
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