Isaiah 1 Commentary

Isaiah 1 Commentary

Isaiah’s vision concerns Judah and Jerusalem. Of course, it cannot be one vision! We are talking about many years of ministry spanning the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.

Again, and as we shall see not too long from now, the prophet shall speak to the nations! Judah isn’t the only audience.

This timeless gem is for humanity!

We have the purpose of prophecy right here in the opening chapter. “Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.”

“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”

Of course, Judah failed this test hitherto. Consequently, the land is sick. Wickedness is packaged with suffering.

Judah escaped the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah because of the remnant. The number of the righteous in Judah was significantly higher, and Abraham’s bargaining was a success!

Even without their prayers, the presence of saints can save the nation! But salvation means more time for individuals to turn to the LORD.

There is also a warning for the religious. “Quit your worship charades… monthly conferences, weekly Sabbaths, special meetings – meetings, meetings, meetings.” A frenzy of sacrifices.

The LORD abhors the mixture of wickedness and religious pretense. Religious rituals annoy the LORD when people have rebelled against the LORD.

Yes, the call is national in scope, but everything is personal. The remnant didn’t come together and sign a statement supportive of the LORD. They simply lived their faith.

Equally, wickedness wasn’t always a collective decision. “Your princes are rebellious… Everyone loves bribes.” We are talking about individual decisions. Forget the world, what is your decision? Will it pass the scrutiny of Heaven?

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