Summary
Isaiah 48:1–8 – Stubborn People, Foretold Events
What happens: God exposes Israel’s stiff neck. He foretold former things so they could not credit idols. New things now come, yet they remain treacherous from birth.
What it means: God reveals truth to humble His people. Knowledge without obedience shows human sinfulness.
Isaiah 48:9–11 – For My Name’s Sake
What happens: God restrains anger and refines Israel for His name’s sake. He will not give His glory to another.
What it means: God’s mercy protects His reputation and people. Holiness guides His patience and discipline.
Isaiah 48:12–16 – The First and the Last Sends His Servant
What happens: God, the First and the Last, calls the heavens and earth to witness His power. The Lord God, with His Spirit, sends His commissioned speaker.
What it means: The triune God reveals His mission. Authority and Spirit-backed sending highlight covenant purpose.
Isaiah 48:17–19 – Peace Like a River, If Only
What happens: The Redeemer teaches profit and the way to walk. If Israel had listened, peace would flow like a river and offspring be countless.
What it means: Obedience brings flourishing. God’s instruction is love, and ignoring it shrinks blessing.
Isaiah 48:20–22 – Go Out of Babylon
What happens: A call goes out to depart from Babylon with singing. God provided water in the desert. There is no peace for the wicked.
What it means: Salvation includes separation from bondage and joyful witness. Peace belongs to the repentant, not to hardened evil.
Application
- Honor God’s name by trusting His refining work.
- Listen to His teaching to walk in lasting peace.
- Leave enslaving patterns and celebrate God’s redemption.
