Isaiah 21:17

The remaining archers, the warriors of Kedar, will be few." For the LORD, the God of Israel, has spoken.

Study Bible

The remaining archers, the warriors of Kedar, will be few.
This phrase refers to the descendants of Kedar, a nomadic tribe descended from Ishmael, known for their skill in archery. Historically, Kedar was a powerful tribe in the Arabian Peninsula, often associated with trade and warfare. The prophecy indicates a significant reduction in their numbers, suggesting a divine judgment or military defeat. This aligns with other biblical prophecies where God diminishes the strength of nations as a form of judgment (Isaiah 13:17-19). The mention of archers highlights their military prowess, which will be rendered ineffective, symbolizing the futility of relying on human strength over divine will.

For the LORD, the God of Israel, has spoken.
This phrase emphasizes the authority and certainty of the prophecy. The use of "the LORD, the God of Israel" underscores the covenant relationship between God and Israel, highlighting His sovereignty over all nations, not just Israel. It assures the fulfillment of the prophecy, as God's word is infallible and irrevocable (Isaiah 55:11). This declaration serves as a reminder of God's ultimate control over history and His ability to bring about His purposes, reinforcing the theme of divine sovereignty found throughout the book of Isaiah.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Archers of Kedar
Kedar was a nomadic tribe descended from Ishmael, known for their skill in archery. They were a powerful and influential group in the Arabian desert.

2. The LORD, the God of Israel
This refers to Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel, who is sovereign over all nations and peoples.

3. Prophecy of Isaiah
Isaiah, a major prophet in the Old Testament, is delivering a message of judgment against the nations, including Kedar.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God's pronouncement against Kedar demonstrates His control over all nations. No power, no matter how skilled or numerous, can stand against His will.

The Certainty of God's Word
The phrase "For the LORD, the God of Israel, has spoken" underscores the reliability and authority of God's word. What He declares will come to pass.

The Transience of Human Strength
The reduction of Kedar's archers serves as a reminder that human strength and skill are temporary and ultimately subject to God's purposes.

The Importance of Humility
Recognizing God's sovereignty should lead us to humility, acknowledging that our abilities and resources are gifts from Him and should be used in accordance with His will.

Trust in God's Justice
The prophecy assures us that God will bring justice to the nations. We can trust Him to address wrongs and establish His righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Kedar in Isaiah 21:17 reflect God's sovereignty over all nations?

2. In what ways does the reduction of Kedar's archers illustrate the transience of human strength and skill?

3. How can we apply the certainty of God's word in our daily lives, especially when facing uncertainty?

4. What lessons can we learn about humility from the judgment pronounced on Kedar?

5. How does understanding God's justice in Isaiah 21:17 encourage us to trust Him in situations where we see injustice today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:13
This verse lists the descendants of Ishmael, including Kedar, establishing their lineage and historical context.

Psalm 120:5
This verse mentions Kedar in a context of distress, highlighting the tension between Israel and the surrounding nations.

Jeremiah 49:28-29
These verses also prophesy against Kedar, emphasizing the theme of divine judgment on the nations.