Sunday, December 1 – Isaiah 18, 19 – Additional Reading: Andrews Study Bible pg. 883

1. Who is the Lord speaking to when He states that they must be watching and listening for the signal on the mountain and the blowing of the trumpet? Isa. 18:3

2. What will the Lord do before the harvest? Isa. 18:5

3. How will the Lord disrupt the leaders of Egypt, and what could they do about it? Isa. 18:14-15

4. What will testify of the Lord of host to the land of Egypt? Isa. 19:19

5. How does the Lord describe Egypt, Assyria, and Israel? Isa. 19:24

Today’s study focuses on chapters 18 and 19 of the Book of Isaiah. These chapters are part of a larger section spanning from Isaiah 13:1 to 23:18, in which the Lord of Hosts communicates through the prophet about the destinies of various nations.

In chapter 18, the Lord speaks of the people of Cush, which may refer to the ancient land of Ethiopia along the Nile River south of Egypt. This is not the same Ethiopia as the present-day nation. While the land of Cush was described as mighty, it is oppressed by the still mightier Assyrians. Unlike prior chapters, this passage is not a prophecy against a nation.

Isaiah urges the people to be watchful for the Lord’s signal and listen for the trumpet’s sound. He assures them that God is aware of the threat posed by the Assyrians and will intervene at the right time. For now, the Lord is waiting, comparing His pause to the rising heat of a sunny day or the clouds that bring dew during the harvest. (Isaiah 18:3-4)

The prophet continues as he describes a situation where the people appear to be flourishing, yet God has a unique plan for them. He steps in just before their harvest is complete. While this might seem challenging at first, it encourages us to dig deeper: they aren’t truly established in God’s chosen land but are amidst opposition. (Isaiah 18:5-7)

This realization inspires us to appreciate the beauty of divine guidance and the purpose it brings, reminding us that growth often leads us to greater blessings ahead.

In the first part of chapter 19, we encounter a powerful poem that serves as the oracle against Egypt. Isaiah thoughtfully reveals the Lord’s imminent judgment, highlighting three areas where Egypt feels most secure: her cherished religious customs, the flourishing prosperity from the Nile, and her well-earned reputation for wisdom. It’s a profound depiction of how even the mightiest can be humbled, encouraging us to reflect on our own strengths and vulnerabilities. (Isaiah 19:1-15)

The people of Egypt will discover the amazing power of the Lord, turning to Him with heartfelt repentance and a commitment to serve Him wholeheartedly. They will joyfully express their devotion through sacrifices, offerings, and vows. In return, the Lord will reveal His love and strength, offering protection from their adversaries. Though He may guide Egypt with discipline, He will also graciously respond to their sincere cries for mercy, bringing healing and demonstrating His profound compassion and care. The journey ahead is full of hope and renewal! In a surprising turn of events during Isaiah’s time, the Assyrians came to join the Egyptians in worshiping the God of Israel. Egypt, Assyria, and Israel will unite as a blessing to the world, receiving blessings from God themselves. (Isaiah 19:16-25)

“What began as an oracle against Egypt climaxes into a reunion of enemies all blessed by the Lord: Egypt, Assyria, and Israel. The very notion of God’s people is expanded. Egypt is called by God “My people.” Assyria is called “the work of My hands,” and Israel “My inheritance.” Moreover, the promise of God to Abraham, according to which all the families of the earth shall be blessed through His descendants (Gen 12:3), gains a unique perspective with this prophecy.” (Andrews Study Bible pg. 883)

Chapter 19 presents a compelling prophetic vision that invites us to explore its significance. In this chapter, Isaiah depicts a future when three historically rival nations unite to honor the One True God. This unity brings blessings to the world and contributes to His Kingdom on earth, reflecting heavenly peace and perfection. It is uplifting to envision such harmony and to have hope for the future!

As God’s people navigate what we believe to be the last days, reflecting on these chapters from the book of Isaiah uplifts us. We can find comfort in knowing that our Lord controls all things, making the impossible possible.

“May the Lord bless you and keep you.”