What does "the LORD will make Himself known" reveal about God's character? Scripture Focus Isaiah 19:21: “The LORD will make Himself known to Egypt, and on that day the Egyptians will know the LORD. They will worship with sacrifices and offerings; they will make vows to the LORD and fulfill them.” Immediate Observations • The initiative belongs to God—He “will make Himself known.” • The revelation is purposeful: it results in people “knowing” Him. • Worship naturally follows true knowledge of God. • The setting involves a Gentile nation, showing God’s heart beyond Israel. What the Phrase Tells Us About God’s Character • Self-Revealing: God is not distant or hidden; He actively discloses Himself (cf. Amos 3:7). • Sovereign: He chooses when, where, and to whom He reveals Himself (cf. Exodus 6:2–3). • Gracious: Revelation to Egypt—longtime enemy of Israel—proves His mercy extends to outsiders (cf. Jonah 4:2). • Personal: “Make Himself known” implies relationship, not mere information (cf. Jeremiah 9:24). • Missional: God’s purpose includes all nations, fulfilling His promise to Abraham that “all peoples” will be blessed (Genesis 12:3). • Transformational: Knowledge of God produces worship and obedience; revelation changes behavior (cf. Romans 12:1–2). • Faithful to His Word: Prophetic declarations come to pass; His character guarantees fulfillment (Numbers 23:19). Why This Matters for Us Today • Confidence: We can trust God to reveal Himself in His Word and by His Spirit. • Assurance: Our salvation rests on His initiative, not our search. • Inclusivity: No person or nation is beyond the reach of His grace. • Expectancy: Because He is faithful, we anticipate His ongoing work in the world. • Worship: Genuine knowledge of God compels heartfelt worship and obedience. Additional Scriptures Echoing This Truth • Ezekiel 38:23: “I will magnify Myself and sanctify Myself, and I will make Myself known in the sight of many nations.” • Isaiah 45:5–6: “I am the LORD, and there is no other… so that all may know from the rising to the setting of the sun that there is none but Me.” • John 1:18: “No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is Himself God… has made Him known.” • Acts 17:27: “God intended that they would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us.” • Revelation 7:9–10: A multitude from every nation stands before the throne, proof that His self-revelation accomplishes its goal. |
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