Study Questions:

1. What beatitude is pronounced in Isaiah 56:2?
2. What promise does God make to the eunuchs who keep the Sabbath and embrace His covenant? (Isaiah 56:4, 5)
3. Why does the righteous perish? (Isaiah 57:1, 2)
4. According to Isaiah 57:15, in what two places does the Lord dwell?

Commentary and Reflection:

The Adventist Bible Commentary on Isaiah 56 states:

Es bienaventurado quien guarda el sábado y quien obedece a Dios, tanto el israelita como el extranjero. El plan y el deseo de Dios es la salvación de sus hijos de todas las razas.

“The central idea of chapter 56 is the conversion of the Gentiles. In contrast to this bright outlook, the somber reality of Israel’s unwillingness to receive them is portrayed. A great work of reform must take place before God can incorporate into His people those who are ‘alienated from the citizenship of Israel and strangers to the covenants of the promise’ (Eph. 2:12). This work of reform must focus on restoring faithful Sabbath observance. The message of this chapter is important and significant for the church today.” (ABC, Isaiah 56:1)

Blessed is the one who keeps the Sabbath and obeys God, whether an Israelite or a foreigner. God’s plan and desire is the salvation of His children from all nations.

Together with the Jews who return from captivity, there will be converts from other nations who will believe in the true God. There will also be Israelites who remain comfortable and assimilated in Babylon. This is human nature; each person makes their decision. Jehovah invites His people beforehand to leave Babylon, expressing His willingness in this chapter to receive foreigners. He warns the Jews not to be nationalistic or exclusive.

Israelites were forbidden to mutilate their bodies and thus were not to become eunuchs (Deuteronomy 23:1). However, God was willing to receive foreigners and eunuchs into His people. He welcomes and accepts us as we are when He finds us. They too could partake of the blessing of the Sabbath, provided they committed to Jehovah and obeyed Him (56:4-7). “My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.” The house of God is a house of prayer, and all are invited to it (56:7). How beautiful!

Jehovah gathers the dispersed of Israel and also gathers others (56:8). A great assembly awaits humanity, one where no one will be absent. It will take place at the final judgment. No human being who has ever lived will be excused. Some will be inside the city of God, others outside, but all must appear (Revelation 20:11-13).

In figurative language, Isaiah 56:9 describes the execution of final judgment. God commands, “All you beasts of the field, all you beasts of the forest, come to devour” (56:9).
The final sentence will be carried out on those who have followed their own path, including leaders and pastors who failed to warn of danger. These individuals live as if nothing will happen, as if Jehovah will not act (56:10, 11).

Isaiah 57 continues the message of chapter 56. It is a message of admonition to the people. Isaiah is comforted by the thought that God has a plan, even in the death of His children, though with our limited understanding, we often fail to grasp it: “The righteous man is taken away from evil” (57:1). Those who die rest while awaiting the day of the Lord (57:2).

The Adventist Bible Commentary says:

“The apostate Jews addressed by Isaiah in this passage were also guilty of offering human sacrifices (see Lev. 18:21; 20:2; cf. 2 Kings 16:3-4; 2 Chron. 28:3-4; Jer. 19:5; Ezek. 16:20). In some cases, this abomination was practiced in the Valley of Hinnom, south of Jerusalem (2 Kings 23:10; Jer. 7:31; 19:5-6).” (ABC, Isaiah 57:5)

“Behind the door and the doorpost you have set up your remembrance” (57:8). The custom of placing amulets behind doors is ancient. These practices have been inspired by the enemy for centuries: a broom behind the door, or a horseshoe.

How wonderful that “the High and Exalted One” also dwells with the contrite and humble in spirit! (57:15)

Jehovah is patient with His children and promises to heal and guide them. He will provide them with comfort and peace (57:18, 19).
In contrast, there is no peace for the wicked (57:20, 21). Sin produces conflict and anxiety, but the presence of God, obedience to His commandments, and the work of His Spirit bring healing and peace.

May the peace of God prevail in your heart and govern your life today.