Isaiah 8:7
the Lord will surely bring against them the mighty floodwaters of the Euphrates--the king of Assyria and all his pomp. It will overflow its channels and overrun its banks.
the Lord is about to bring
This phrase emphasizes the sovereignty and active role of God in the unfolding events. The Hebrew root for "Lord" is "YHWH," the sacred name of God, signifying His eternal presence and authority. The phrase "is about to bring" indicates imminent action, underscoring God's control over history and His ability to orchestrate events according to His divine will. This serves as a reminder of God's omnipotence and His involvement in the affairs of nations.

against them
The pronoun "them" refers to the people of Judah, who are facing divine judgment due to their disobedience and lack of faith. Historically, this reflects the period when Judah was threatened by external powers due to its political alliances and spiritual infidelity. The phrase highlights the direct consequence of turning away from God, serving as a warning to remain faithful and obedient.

the mighty floodwaters of the Euphrates
The Euphrates River, one of the great rivers of the ancient Near East, symbolizes overwhelming power and destruction. In the Hebrew context, "mighty floodwaters" evoke images of chaos and uncontrollable force. This metaphor illustrates the impending invasion by Assyria, which would come with the same unstoppable force as a flood, overwhelming the land and its people. It serves as a vivid picture of God's judgment executed through historical events.

the king of Assyria
The Assyrian Empire was a dominant power during the time of Isaiah, known for its military might and expansionist policies. The "king of Assyria" represents the instrument of God's judgment. Historically, Assyria's campaigns were marked by brutality and conquest, and their involvement in Judah's affairs was a direct consequence of the nation's failure to trust in God. This highlights the theme of divine sovereignty, where God uses even pagan nations to fulfill His purposes.

and all his pomp
"Pomp" refers to the grandeur and pride associated with Assyria's military and political power. The Hebrew word can imply arrogance and self-exaltation. This phrase serves as a reminder of the futility of human pride in the face of divine judgment. Despite Assyria's might and splendor, it is ultimately subject to God's will. This underscores the biblical principle that human power is transient and subordinate to God's eternal authority.

It will overflow its channels and overrun its banks
This imagery of overflowing channels and banks conveys the idea of complete inundation and devastation. The Hebrew language often uses such vivid imagery to communicate the totality of God's judgment. Historically, this reflects the Assyrian invasion that would sweep through the land, leaving destruction in its wake. It serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the need for repentance and reliance on His protection.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Lord
The sovereign God of Israel, who is orchestrating events as a response to the people's actions.

2. The Euphrates
A major river in the ancient Near East, symbolizing the power and might of the Assyrian Empire.

3. The King of Assyria
Represents the Assyrian Empire, which God uses as an instrument of judgment against Israel.

4. Israel
The Northern Kingdom, which is facing impending judgment due to its disobedience and lack of faith.

5. Isaiah
The prophet delivering God's message of warning and judgment to the people of Israel.
Teaching Points
God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God uses nations and events to fulfill His purposes, demonstrating His control over history.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Israel's failure to trust and obey God leads to severe consequences, reminding us of the importance of faithfulness.

The Power of Symbolism
The imagery of floodwaters illustrates the overwhelming nature of God's judgment, encouraging us to heed His warnings.

Trust in God's Plan
Even in judgment, God’s actions are part of His redemptive plan, urging us to trust His wisdom and timing.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Isaiah are vital in communicating God's messages, highlighting the importance of listening to God's word today.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the imagery of the Euphrates as floodwaters help us understand the nature of God's judgment in Isaiah 8:7?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the events described in Isaiah 8:7, and how does this apply to our lives today?

3. Reflect on a time when you faced consequences for disobedience. How can this passage encourage you to remain faithful to God?

4. How does the role of Isaiah as a prophet challenge us to listen to and apply God's word in our current context?

5. Compare the use of water as a symbol in Isaiah 8:7 and Revelation 17:15. What can we learn about the power and reach of God's judgment and salvation?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Isaiah 7:17
This verse also speaks of the coming of the Assyrian king as a form of judgment, providing context for the prophecy in Isaiah 8:7.

2 Kings 17:6
Describes the actual historical event of the Assyrian conquest of Israel, fulfilling the prophecy.

Jeremiah 46:7-8
Uses similar imagery of floodwaters to describe the power of invading nations, reinforcing the theme of divine judgment.

Revelation 17:15
Symbolically uses water to represent peoples and nations, connecting to the idea of overwhelming forces.
A Virtual Renunciation of the Consolation of IsraelS. Cox, D. D.Isaiah 8:5-8
By Cool Siloam's Shady RillC. A. Healing, B. A.Isaiah 8:5-8
Choice and its ConsequencesJ. Parker, D. D.Isaiah 8:5-8
Christ the True ShiloahS. Cox, D. D.Isaiah 8:5-8
Consolation Amidst Predictions of JudgmentF. Delitzsch.Isaiah 8:5-8
God's Gentle CareD. Fraser, D. D.Isaiah 8:5-8
Judgment and SalvationA. B. Davidson, LL. D.Isaiah 8:5-8
Shiloah a Type of Gospel GraceW. A. Gray.Isaiah 8:5-8
Shiloah and the Euphrates, or Mercy and JudgmentHomilistIsaiah 8:5-8
The Choices of LifeW. A. Gray.Isaiah 8:5-8
The False Standard and the Fatal IssueW. Clarkson Isaiah 8:5-8
The Jewish Temptation to a False TrustS. Cox, D. D.Isaiah 8:5-8
The Waters of ShiloahS. Cox, D. D.Isaiah 8:5-8
Wise and Unwise ChoicesIsaiah 8:5-8
God with UsE. Johnson Isaiah 8:5-15
People
Immanuel, Isaiah, Jacob, Jeberechiah, Mahershalalhashbaz, Remaliah, Rezin, Uriah, Urijah, Zechariah
Places
Assyria, Damascus, Euphrates River, Jerusalem, Judah, Mount Zion, Samaria, Shiloah
Topics
Abundant, Asshur, Assyria, Banks, Behold, Bring, Bringeth, Bringing, Brings, Cause, Channels, Deep, Edges, Euphrates, Flood, Floodwaters, Glory, Mighty, Mount, Overflow, Overflowing, Pomp, Rise, River, Run, Sending, Streams, Strong, Waters
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Isaiah 8:7

     4045   chaos

Isaiah 8:4-7

     7216   exile, in Assyria

Isaiah 8:5-8

     8728   enemies, of Israel and Judah

Isaiah 8:6-8

     4260   rivers and streams
     7259   promised land, later history
     8224   dependence

Isaiah 8:7-8

     4690   wings
     4803   breadth

Isaiah 8:7-10

     2227   Immanuel

Library
Shiloah and Euphrates
Forasmuch as this people refuseth the waters of Shiloah that go softly ... the Lord bringeth up upon them the waters of the river, strong and many.' ISAIAH viii. 6, 7. The kingdom of Judah was threatened with a great danger in an alliance between Israel and Damascus. The cowardly King Ahaz, instead of listening to Isaiah's strong assurances and relying on the help of God, made what he thought a master-stroke of policy in invoking the help of the formidable Assyrian power. That ambitious military
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Search the Scriptures
I feel at this particular crisis of religious affairs, it is imperative upon the Christian minister to urge his people to hold fast the doctrines of the truth--the words of God. This seems likely to become the age of preaching, rather than the age of praying. We now see everywhere large congregations assembling in halls and abbeys to listen to the Word preached; and it is an ominous sign of the times, that these preachings are not only espoused by the orthodox, but even by those whom we have considered
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 4: 1858

Exposition of the Doctrines of Grace
? Perseverance of the Saints--"The Final Perseverance of Believers in Christ Jesus," by William O'Neill (message 5). The Rev. C. H. SPURGEON took the chair at 3 o'clock. The proceedings were commenced by singing the 21st Hymn-- Saved from the damning power of sin, The law's tremendous curse, We'll now the sacred song begin Where God began with us. We'll sing the vast unmeasured grace Which, from the days of old, Did all his chosen sons embrace, As sheep within the fold. The basis of eternal love
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 7: 1861

Prefatory Scripture Passages.
To the Law and to the Testimony; if they speak not according to this Word, it is because there is no light in them.-- Isa. viii. 20. Thus saith the Lord; Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls.--Jer. vi. 16. That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive. But
G. H. Gerberding—The Way of Salvation in the Lutheran Church

Of the Scriptures
Eph. ii. 20.--"And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone." Believers are "the temple of the living God," in which he dwells and walks, 2 Cor. vi. 16. Every one of them is a little sanctuary and temple to his Majesty, "sanctify the Lord of hosts in your hearts." Though he be "the high and lofty One that inhabits eternity," yet he is pleased to come down to this poor cottage of a creature's heart, and dwell in it. Is not this
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Gihon, the Same with the Fountain of Siloam.
I. In 1 Kings 1:33,38, that which is, in the Hebrew, "Bring ye Solomon to Gihon: and they brought him to Gihon"; is rendered by the Chaldee, "Bring ye him to Siloam: and they brought him to Siloam." Where Kimchi thus; "Gihon is Siloam, and it is called by a double name. And David commanded, that they should anoint Solomon at Gihon for a good omen, to wit, that, as the waters of the fountain are everlasting, so might his kingdom be." So also the Jerusalem writers; "They do not anoint the king, but
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

Trials of the Christian
AFFLICTION--ITS NATURE AND BENEFITS. The school of the cross is the school of light; it discovers the world's vanity, baseness, and wickedness, and lets us see more of God's mind. Out of dark afflictions comes a spiritual light. In times of affliction, we commonly meet with the sweetest experiences of the love of God. The end of affliction is the discovery of sin; and of that, to bring us to a Saviour. Doth not God ofttimes even take occasion, by the hardest of things that come upon us, to visit
John Bunyan—The Riches of Bunyan

That it is not Lawful for the Well Affected Subjects to Concur in Such an Engagement in War, and Associate with the Malignant Party.
That It Is Not Lawful For The Well Affected Subjects To Concur In Such An Engagement In War, And Associate With The Malignant Party. Some convinced of the unlawfulness of the public resolutions and proceedings, in reference to the employing of the malignant party, yet do not find such clearness and satisfaction in their own consciences as to forbid the subjects to concur in this war, and associate with the army so constituted. Therefore it is needful to speak something to this point, That it is
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

The Universality of Actual Grace
The gratuity of grace does not conflict with its universality. Though God distributes His graces freely, He grants them to all men without exception, because He wills all to be saved. This divine "will to save" (voluntas Dei salvifica) may be regarded in relation either to the wayfaring state or to the status termini. Regarded from the first-mentioned point of view it is a merciful will (voluntas misericordiae) and is generally called first or antecedent will (voluntas prima s. antecedens)
Joseph Pohle—Grace, Actual and Habitual

Jesus' Temporary Residence at Capernaum.
^A Matt. IV. 13-16. ^a 13 And leaving Nazareth [This expression means that Jesus now ceased to make Nazareth his home. For description of Nazareth, see page 60], he came and dwelt in Capernaum [See page 119. Capernaum means city of Nahum, or village of consolation. Its modern name, "Tel-Hum," means hill of Nahum. The word "dwelt" means that Jesus made this town his headquarters. He owned no house there (Matt. viii. 20). He may have dwelt with some of his disciples--for instance, Simon Peter--Matt.
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Of the Character of the Unregenerate.
Ephes. ii. 1, 2. And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. AMONG all the various trusts which men can repose in each other, hardly any appears to be more solemn and tremendous, than the direction of their sacred time, and especially of those hours which they spend in the exercise of public devotion.
Philip Doddridge—Practical Discourses on Regeneration

To Pastors and Teachers
To Pastors and Teachers If all who laboured for the conversion of others were to introduce them immediately into Prayer and the Interior Life, and make it their main design to gain and win over the heart, numberless as well as permanent conversions would certainly ensue. On the contrary, few and transient fruits must attend that labour which is confined to outward matters; such as burdening the disciple with a thousand precepts for external exercises, instead of leaving the soul to Christ by the
Madame Guyon—A Short and Easy Method of Prayer

"But if we Walk in the Light, as He is in the Light, we have Fellowship one with Another, and the Blood of Jesus Christ His
1 John i. 7.--"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." Art is the imitation of nature, and true religion is a divine art, that consists in the imitation of God himself, the author of nature. Therefore it is a more high and transcendent thing, of a sublimer nature than all the arts and sciences among men. Those reach but to some resemblance of the wisdom of God, expressed in his works,
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

The Wicked Husbandmen.
"Hear another parable: There was a certain householder, which planted a vineyard, and hedged it round about, and digged a winepress in it, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country: and when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandmen, that they might receive the fruits of it. And the husbandmen took his servants, and beat one, and killed another, and stoned another. Again, he sent other servants more than the first: and they did unto
William Arnot—The Parables of Our Lord

Letter xix (A. D. 1127) to Suger, Abbot of S. Denis
To Suger, Abbot of S. Denis He praises Suger, who had unexpectedly renounced the pride and luxury of the world to give himself to the modest habits of the religious life. He blames severely the clerk who devotes himself rather to the service of princes than that of God. 1. A piece of good news has reached our district; it cannot fail to do great good to whomsoever it shall have come. For who that fear God, hearing what great things He has done for your soul, do not rejoice and wonder at the great
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux

First Sunday in Lent
Text: Second Corinthians 6, 1-10. 1 And working together with him we entreat also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain 2 (for he saith, At an acceptable time I hearkened unto thee, and in a day of salvation did I succor thee: behold, now is the acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation): 3 giving no occasion of stumbling in anything, that our ministration be not blamed; 4 but in everything commending ourselves, as ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities,
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. II

Covenanting a Privilege of Believers.
Whatever attainment is made by any as distinguished from the wicked, or whatever gracious benefit is enjoyed, is a spiritual privilege. Adoption into the family of God is of this character. "He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power (margin, or, the right; or, privilege) to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name."[617] And every co-ordinate benefit is essentially so likewise. The evidence besides, that Covenanting
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting

Christ's Prophetic Office
'The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet,' &c. Deut 18:85. Having spoken of the person of Christ, we are next to speak of the offices of Christ. These are Prophetic, Priestly, and Regal. 'The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet.' Enunciatur hic locus de Christo. It is spoken of Christ.' There are several names given to Christ as a Prophet. He is called the Counsellor' in Isa 9:9. In uno Christo Angelus foederis completur [The Messenger of the Covenant appears in Christ alone].
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

A Treatise of the Fear of God;
SHOWING WHAT IT IS, AND HOW DISTINGUISHED FROM THAT WHICH IS NOT SO. ALSO, WHENCE IT COMES; WHO HAS IT; WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS; AND WHAT THE PRIVILEGES OF THOSE THAT HAVE IT IN THEIR HEARTS. London: Printed for N. Ponder, at the Peacock in the Poultry, over against the Stocks market: 1679. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom," and "a fountain of life"--the foundation on which all wisdom rests, as well as the source from whence it emanates. Upon a principle
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

That the Employing Of, and Associating with the Malignant Party, According as is Contained in the Public Resolutions, is Sinful and Unlawful.
That The Employing Of, And Associating With The Malignant Party, According As Is Contained In The Public Resolutions, Is Sinful And Unlawful. If there be in the land a malignant party of power and policy, and the exceptions contained in the Act of Levy do comprehend but few of that party, then there need be no more difficulty to prove, that the present public resolutions and proceedings do import an association and conjunction with a malignant party, than to gather a conclusion from clear premises.
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

History of the Interpretation.
1. AMONG THE JEWS. This History, as to its essential features, might, a priori, be sketched with tolerable certainty. From the nature of the case, we could scarcely expect that the Jews should have adopted views altogether erroneous as to the subject of the prophecy in question; for the Messiah appears in it, not in His humiliation, but in His glory--rich in gifts and blessings, and Pelagian self-delusion will, a priori, return an affirmative answer to the question as to whether one is
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament

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