Isaiah 23:18

Yet her profits and wages will be set apart to the LORD; they will not be stored or saved, for her profit will go to those who live before the LORD, for abundant food and fine clothing.

Study Bible

Yet her profits and wages will be set apart to the LORD;
This phrase refers to the wealth of Tyre, a prominent ancient Phoenician city known for its trade and commerce. Historically, Tyre was a significant maritime power, and its wealth was derived from its strategic location and trade networks. The setting apart of profits to the LORD indicates a transformation from secular to sacred use, suggesting a future dedication of resources to God's purposes. This reflects the biblical principle of consecration, where material wealth is redirected to serve divine purposes, as seen in the dedication of spoils in Joshua 6:19.

they will not be stored or saved,
The idea that the profits will not be stored or saved implies a shift from accumulation for personal or national gain to immediate use for God's purposes. This contrasts with the typical practice of hoarding wealth for security or future needs, as critiqued in Luke 12:16-21, where Jesus warns against storing up earthly treasures. The emphasis here is on the transient nature of material wealth and the call to prioritize spiritual over material security.

for her profit will go to those who live before the LORD,
This phrase suggests that the wealth of Tyre will benefit those who are devoted to God, possibly referring to the priests or the people of Israel who serve in the temple. It highlights a redistribution of resources from a pagan city to the covenant community, aligning with the biblical theme of God using the wealth of the nations for His people, as seen in Isaiah 60:5-7. This can also be seen as a type of Christ, where the wealth of the world is ultimately used to support the mission and ministry of God's kingdom.

for abundant food and fine clothing.
The provision of abundant food and fine clothing signifies the meeting of both basic and luxurious needs, indicating God's provision and blessing. In biblical times, food and clothing were primary indicators of wealth and prosperity. This echoes the promise of God's provision for His people, as seen in Matthew 6:31-33, where Jesus assures that God will provide for those who seek His kingdom. The mention of fine clothing also alludes to the priestly garments, symbolizing purity and service to God, as described in Exodus 28.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tyre
An ancient Phoenician city known for its wealth and trade. Tyre was a significant maritime power and a hub of commerce in the ancient world.

2. The LORD
Refers to Yahweh, the God of Israel, who is sovereign over all nations and their wealth.

3. Those who live in the presence of the LORD
This phrase likely refers to the people of Israel, particularly those who serve in the temple or are dedicated to God's service.

4. Profits and Earnings
The wealth generated by Tyre through its extensive trade networks.

5. Isaiah
The prophet who conveyed God's messages to the people of Israel and surrounding nations, including the prophecy concerning Tyre.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Wealth
God is the ultimate owner of all wealth and resources. Even the riches of a powerful city like Tyre are subject to His will and purposes.

Consecration of Material Resources
Wealth should be used for God's glory and the benefit of His people. This challenges us to consider how we use our own resources in service to God and others.

Judgment and Redemption
God's judgment on Tyre serves as a reminder of His justice, but the redirection of its wealth for holy purposes also highlights His redemptive plan.

Generosity and Provision
The passage encourages believers to trust in God's provision and to be generous, knowing that God can use even the wealth of the nations to provide for His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy concerning Tyre in Isaiah 23:18 demonstrate God's control over nations and their wealth?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of setting apart our "profits and earnings" for the LORD in our daily lives?

3. How does the redirection of Tyre's wealth to those who live in the presence of the LORD reflect God's priorities for His people?

4. What are some modern parallels to Tyre's wealth and influence, and how can Christians engage with these in a way that honors God?

5. How do the themes of judgment and redemption in Isaiah 23:18 connect with the broader account of Scripture, particularly in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 26-28
These chapters provide a detailed prophecy against Tyre, similar to Isaiah's message, emphasizing God's judgment and the eventual downfall of the city.

Psalm 45:12
This verse speaks of the wealth of Tyre being brought as a gift, indicating the city's historical prosperity and its eventual dedication to the LORD.

Zechariah 14:20-21
These verses describe a future time when everything will be holy to the LORD, echoing the idea of wealth being set apart for God's purposes.