Isaiah 60-64
Isaiah repeatedly portrays a future world that is utterly transformed, a world in which Zion (Jerusalem) is central and exalted, enjoying complete peace and security, with all things set right under the leadership of One upon Whom the Spirit of the LORD rests. We see this in the following passages (among others):
- Isaiah 2:2-4 — Zion lifted up and beating swords into plowshares
- Isaiah 4:2-6 — The Branch of the LORD and a canopy over Zion
- Isaiah 9:1-7 — To us a Child is born
- Isaiah 11 — A Shoot from the stump of Jesse; the wolf dwelling with the lamb; a highway for the remnant of God’s people
- Isaiah 12 — Drawing water from the well of salvation
- Isaiah 14:1-2 — Compassion on Jacob
- Isaiah 25 — Swallowing up death forever and wiping away all tears
- Isaiah 27:12-13 — The remnant of Israel worshipping in Jerusalem
- Etc.
And we see this today in Isaiah 60-62. Zion is firmly established. All Israel is gathered back to the Promised Land. The wealth of the nations flows to Jerusalem. The gates of the city are open continually, for there is no danger or threat. There is no need for sun or moon, for the LORD Himself is the Light.
This is sure and certain Truth, but this vision is not realized in the short term. It is not found simply in the return of some exiles from Babylon, nor just in rebuilding the Temple or the walls of Jerusalem. There is yet a long road ahead, as expressed in the prayers of Isaiah 63-64. But God is faithful, and as we shall soon see, it is Jesus upon Whom the Spirit of the LORD rests. Stay tuned.