The Snare of Questionable Entertainment

Next comes Isaiah's second woe:  "Woe to those who are getting up early in the  morning that they may seek just intoxicating liquor, who are lingering till late in the evening darkness so that wine itself inflames them!  And there must prove to be harp and string instrument, tambourine  and flute, and wine at their feasts; but the activity of Jehovah they do not look  at, and the work of his hands they have not seen.' -Isaiah 5:11, 12.

Jehovah is "the happy God" and does not begrudge his servants reasonable recreation.  (1 Timothy 1:11)  However, these pleasure-seekers go beyond all limits!  "Those who get drunk are usually drunk at night," says the Bible.  (1 Thessalonians 5:7)  But the revelers of the prophecy begin their drunken sprees at daybreak and carry on drinking into the evening!   They behave as if God did not exist, as if he would not hold them accountable for their  actions.  Isaiah predicts a dark future for such ones.  "My people will have to go into exile  for lack of knowledge; and  their glory will be famished men, and their crowd will be parched with thirst."  (Isaiah 5:13)  Because of refusing to act according to true knowledge, God's covenant people-the high and the low-will go down into Sheol. - Read Isaiah 5:14-17.

"Revelries," or "wild parties," were also a problem among some Christians int he first century.  (Galatians 5:21;Byington; 2 Peter 2:13) So it is not surprising that some dedicated Christians today have shown poor judgment when it comes to social gatherings. Unrestrained use of alcoholic beverages has caused some to become loud and boisterous.  (Proverbs 20:1) There have even been those who behaved immorally under the influence of excessive alcohol, and some gatherings have been allowed to goon virtually all night, interfering with Christian activities the next day.

Balanced Christians, however, produce godly fruit and exercise restraint and moderation in their choice of recreation.  They heed Paul's advice found at Romans 13:13:  "As in the daytime let us walk decently, not in revelries and drunken bouts."

Next time: Hating Sin and Loving Truth

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

The Price of Greed

In verse 8, Isaiah is no longer quoting Jehovah's words.  Condemning some of the "wild grapes" produced in Judah, he personally pronounces the first of six woes: "Woe to the ones joining house to house, and those who annex field to field until there is no more room and you men have been made to dwell all by yourselves in the midst of the  land!  In my ears Jehovah of armies has sworn that many houses, though great and good, will become an outright object of astonishment, without an inhabitant.  For even ten acres of vineyard will produce but one bath measure, and even a homer measure of seed will produce but an ephah measure." -Isaiah 5:8-10.

In ancient Israel all land ultimately belonged to Jehovah. (News flash! All over this universe, all the land belongs to Jehovah, we just borrow it to live on)  Each family had a God-given inheritance, which they could rent or loan out but never sell "in perpetuity."  (Leviticus 25:23) This law prevented abuses, such as real estate monopolies.  It also protected families from sinking to far into poverty.  Some in Judah, however, were greedily breaking God's laws regarding property.  Micah wrote: "They have desired fields and have seized them; also houses, and have taken them; and they have defrauded able-bodied man and his household, a man and his hereditary possession."  (Micah 2:2)  But Proverbs 20:21 warns: "An inheritance is being got by greed at first, but its own future will not be blessed."

Jehovah promises to strip these greedy ones of their ill-gotten gain.  The houses they extort will be "without an inhabitant."  The lands they covet will produce a mere fraction of their capacity.  Exactly how and when this cruse will be fulfilled is not stated.  Likely it refers, at least in part,  to the conditions brought on by the future Babylonian exile. -Isaiah 27:10.

Christians today must abhor insatiable greed like that manifested by some Israelites back then.  (Proverbs 27:20)  when material things take on an exaggerated importance, it is easy to stoop to unscrupulous  ways of getting money.  One could easily become ensnared in shady business dealings or unrealistic get-rich-schemes.  "He that is hastening to gain riches will not remain innocent."  (Proverbs 28:20) How important it is, then, to be content with what we have! -1 Timothy 6:8.

Next time: The Snare of Questionable Entertainment

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

"Wild Grapes"

"Wild Grapes"

Having gone to extraordinary lengths to nurture and cultivate his vineyard, Jehovah rightfully expects it  to become "a vineyard of foaming wine!"  (Isaiah 27:2) However, instead of producing usable fruit, it produces "wild grapes," literally "stinking things" or "putrid (rotten) berries."  (Isaiah 5:2; Jeremiah 2:21)  Therefore, Jehovah declares that he will remove his protective  "hedge" from around the nations.  The nation will be 'set as a thing destroyed' and will experience abandonment and drought.  (Read Isaiah 5:6)  Moses had warned that they would undergo such things if they disobeyed God's Law. -Deuteronomy 11:17; 28:63, 64; 29:22, 23.

God expects the nation to produce good fruits.  Isaiah's contemporary Micah declares:  "What is Jehovah asking back from you but to exercise justice and to love kindness and to be modest in walking with your God?"  (Micah 6:8; Zechariah 7:9)  However, the nation fails to heed Jehovah's exhortation.  "[God] kept hoping for judgment, but, look! the breaking of law; for righteousness , but, look! an outcry."  (Isaiah 5:7b)  Moses predicted that the unfaithful nation would produce poisonous grapes from "the vine of Sodom."  (Deuteronomy 32:32) Likely, then, sexual immorality, including homosexuality, is part of their deviation from God's Law.  (Leviticus 18:22)  The expression "breaking of law" can also be rendered "outpouring of blood."  Such brutal treatment has no doubt resulted in "an outcry" from mistreated ones-an outcry that has reached  the ears of the Planter of the vineyard. -Compare Job 34:28.

Jehovah God is "a lover of righteousness and justice."  (Psalm 33:5) He commanded the Jews:  "You people must not do injustice in the judgment.  You must not treat the lowly with partiality, and you must not prefer the person of a great one.  With justice you should judge your associate."  (Leviticus 19:15)  we must therefore shun partiality in our dealings with one another, never allowing such things as race, age, wealth or poverty to color our judgment of people.  (James 2:1-4)  It is particularly important that those serving in positions of oversight ' do nothing according to  a biased leaning,' always seeking to hear both sides of a matter before making judgment. -1 Timothy 5:21; Proverbs 18:13.

Further, it would be easy for Christians living in a lawless world to develop a negative  or a rebellious attitude toward godly standards.  But true Christians must be "ready to obey" God's Laws.  (James 3:17)  Despite the sexual immorality and violence of "the present wicked system of things" they need to 'keep strict watch that how they walk is not as unwise but as wise persons.'  (Galatians 1:4; Ephesians 5:15)  They want to shun permissive views of sex, and when disagreements arise, they should settle these without "anger and wrath and screaming and abusive speech."  (Ephesians  4:31) By cultivating righteousness, true Christians bring honor to God and gain his favor.

Next time: The Price of Greed

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Identifying God's Vineyard Today

Jesus may have had Isaiah's words in mind when he gave the parable of the murderous cultivators: "There was a man, a householder, who planted a vineyard and put a fence around it and dug a wine press in it and erected a tower, and let it out to cultivators, and traveled abroad."  Unhappily, the cultivators betrayed the vineyard owner, even killing his son.  Jesus went on to show that this parable  involved more than just literal Israel when he said: "The Kingdom of God will be taken from you  [fleshly Israel] and be given to a nation producing its fruits." - Matthew 21:33-41, 43.

That new  "nation" proved to be  "the Israel of God" - a spiritual nation of anointed Christians totaling 144,000.  (Galatians 6:16; 1 Peter 2:9, 10; Revelation 7:3, 4) Jesus compared these disciples to "branches" on "the true vine," namely, himself.  Naturally, these branches are expected to bear fruit.  (John 15:1-5)  They must manifest Christ like qualities and participate in the work of preaching  "this good news of the Kingdom."  (Matthew 24:14; Galatians 5:22, 23) But ever since the death of the twelve apostles, the great majority of those who claim to be branches of "the true vine" have proved to be counterfeits -producing wild grapes instead of good fruits. -Matthew 13:24-30, 38, 39.

Therefore, Isaiah's condemnation of Judah applies today to Christendom.  A study of her history-her wars, her crusades, her Inquisitions-reveals just how sour her fruit has been!  Nevertheless, the true vineyard of anointed Christians and their "great crowd" companions must heed Isaiah's words.  (Revelation 7:9)  If they are to please the vineyard's owner, they must, individually and as a group, produce fruits that  please him.

Next time: "Wild Grapes"

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

The Vineyard and Its Owner

Who is the owner, and what is the vineyard?  The vineyard owner points to the answers to these questions when he himself speaks:  "Now, O you inhabitants of Jerusalem and you men of Judah, please judge between me and my vineyard.  What is there yet to do for my vineyard that I have not already done in it?  Why is it that I hoped for it to produce grapes, but it gradually produced wild grapes?  And now, please, may I make known to you men what I am doing to my vineyard: There will be a removing of its hedge, and it must be destined  for burning down.  There must be a breaking down of its stone wall, and it must be destined  for a place of trampling." - Isaiah 5:3-5.

Yes, Jehovah is the owner of the vineyard, and he has put himself, as it were, in a courtroom, asking for judgment to be rendered between him and his disappointing vineyard.  What, then, is the vineyard?  The owner explains:  "The vineyard of Jehovah of armies is the house of Israel and the men of Judah are the plantation of which he was fond." -Isaiah 5:7.

Isaiah calls Jehovah, the owner of the vineyard, "my loved one."  (Isaiah 5:1)  Isaiah can speak of God in such an intimate way only because he has a close relationship  with Him.  (Compare Job 29:4; Psalm 25:14)  However, the prophet's love for God pales in comparison with the love God has shown for his "vineyard"-the nation that he 'planted.' -Compare Exodus 15:17; Psalm 80:8, 9.

Jehovah "planted" his nation in the land of Canaan and gave them  his laws and regulations, which served as a wall to protect them from being corrupted by other nations.  (Exodus 19:5, 6; Psalm 147:19, 20; Ephesians 2:14) Furthermore, Jehovah gave them judges, priests, and prophets to instruct them.  (2 Kings 17:13; Malachi 2:7; Acts 13:20)  When Israel was threatened  by military aggression, Jehovah raised up deliverers.  (Hebrews 11:32, 33)  With reason, Jehovah asks:  "What is there yet to do for my vineyard that I have not already done in it?" 

 Next time: Identifying God's Vineyard Today

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

The Care of the Vineyard!

Whether Isaiah literally sings this parable to his listeners or not, it surely captures their attention.  Most are probably familiar with the work of planting a vineyard, and Isaiah's description is vivid and realistic.  Like vine growers today, the vineyard owner plants, not grape seeds, but a "choice," or  rich, "red vine"-a cutting or shoot from another vine.  Appropriately, he plants this vineyard "on a fruitful hillside," a place where a vineyard will thrive.

It takes hard work to make a vineyard produce.  Isaiah describes the owner's 'digging the land and ridding it of stones'-tedious, exhausting work!  He likely uses the large stones "to build a tower."  In ancient times such towers served as stations for watchmen  who guarded the crops against thieves and animals.  Also, he builds a stone wall to line the vineyard terraces.  (Isaiah 5:5) This was commonly done to prevent the washing away of vital topsoil.

Having worked so hard to protect his vineyard, the owner has every right to expect that it will bear fruit.  In anticipation of this, he hews out a winepress.  But does the hoped-for-harvest materialize? No, the vineyard produces wild grapes.

Next time: The Vineyard and Its Owner

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Woe to the Unfaithful Vineyard! Chapter seven

"FOR  exquisite beauty of language and consummate skill in effective communication, this parable is virtually peerless."  So said one Bible commentator referring  to the opening verses in Isaiah chapter 5.  More than simply a work of art, Isaiah's words paint a touching portrait of the loving care that Jehovah has for his people>  At the same time, these words warn us against things that displease him.

Isaiah's parable begins: "Let me sing, please, to be beloved one a song of my loved one concerning his vineyard.  There was a vineyard that my beloved one came to have on a fruitful hillside.  And he proceeded to dig it up and to rid it of stones and to plant  it with a choice red vine, and to build a tower in the middle of it. And there was also a winepress that he hewed out in it.  And he kept hoping for it to produce grapes, but it gradually produced wild grapes." -Isaiah 5:1, 2; compare Mark 12:1.

Next time: The Care of the Vineyard

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Conclusion of A Promise of Loving Care

When faced with the scorching heat of persecution and the storms of opposition, the cleansed remnant will find Jehovah to be their Source of protection, security, and refuge.  (Psalm 91:1, 2; 121:5) A beautiful prospect is thus set before them: If they leave behind the unclean beliefs and practices of Babylon, submit to the cleansing of Jehovah's judgment, and endeavor to remain holy, they will remain safe, as if in "a booth" of divine protection.

Notice that first comes the cleansing, then the blessings.  This has proved true in our day. Back in 1919 the anointed remnant humbly submitted to being refined, and Jehovah "washed away" their uncleanness.  Since then, "a great crowd" of other sheep have also allowed themselves to be cleansed by Jehovah.  (Revelation 7:9) Thus cleansed, the remnant and their companions have been blessed-Jehovah has taken them into his protective care.  He does not miraculously prevent  the heat of persecution or the storms of opposition from bearing down on them.  But he does protect them, as if erecting over them 'a booth for shade and a hiding place from the rainstorm.'  How?

Consider this:  Some of the most powerful governments in history have banned the preaching work of Jehovah's Witnesses or have tried to eliminate them completely. Yet, the Jehovah's Witnesses have remained firm and have continued to preach without letup!  Why have mighty nations been unable to put a stop to the activity of this relatively small and seemingly defenseless group of people?  Because Jehovah has placed his servants  in "a booth" of protection that no human can tear down! 

What about us as individuals?  Having Jehovah as our Protector does not mean that we have a problem-free life in this system of things.  Many faithful Christians  face severe adversities, such as poverty, natural disasters, war, sickness and death.  When facing such distresses, let us never forget that our God is with us.  He protects us spiritually, providing what we need-even "power beyond what is normal"-to endure trials faithfully.  (2 Corinthians 4:7)  Safe in his presence, we need not fear. After all, as long as we do our best to keep ourselves holy in his sight, nothing "will be able to separate us from God's love." -Romans 8:38, 39.

Next time: Woe to the Unfaithful Vineyard! chapter seven

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

A Promise of Loving Care

Next Isaiah shows how the inhabitants of the restored land will come to be holy and what blessings await them.  He says: "When Jehovah will have washed away the excrement of the daughters of Zion and he will rinse away even the bloodshed of Jerusalem from within her by the spirit of judgment and by the spirit of burning down, Jehovah will also certainly  create over every established   place  of Mount Zion and over her convention place a cloud by day and a smoke, and the brightness of a flaming fire by night; because over all the glory there will be a shelter." -Isaiah 4:4, 5.

Earlier Isaiah rebuked "the daughters of Zion," whose moral corruption was hidden beneath their showy ornaments.  He also exposed the bloodguilt of the people  generally, urging them to wash themselves.  (Isaiah 1:15, 16; 3:16-23)  Here, though, he looks ahead to the time when God himself will have "washed away the excrement,"  or moral filth, and 'cleansed the bloodstains.'  (Isaiah 4:4, New International Version)  How will this cleansing be effected?  By "the spirit of judgment" and by "the spirit of burning down."  The coming destruction of Jerusal3em  and the exile in Babylon  will be blasts of God's judgment and burning anger on an unclean nation.  The remnant that  survives these calamities and returns home will have been humbled, refined.  That is why they will be holy to Jehovah and receive  mercy. -Compare  Malachi 3:2, 3.

Jehovah through Isaiah, promise that he will take this cleansed remnant into his loving care.  The expressions  "a cloud,"  "a smoke," and "a flaming fire" are reminiscent of how Jehovah cared for the Israelites  after they left Egypt.  A "pillar of fire and cloud" protected them from the pursuing Egyptians; it also led them in the wilderness. (Exodus 13:21, 22; 14:19, 20, 24)  When Jehovah manifested himself at Mount Sinai, the mountain "smoked all over."  (Exodus 19:18) The cleansed exiles, then, will not need to fear.  Jehovah will be their Protector.  He will be with them whether they gather in their own homes or meet together in holy conventions.

Isaiah concludes his description of divine protection by focusing on everyday life.  He writes:  "There will come to be a booth for a  shade by day  from the dry heat, and for a  refuge and for a hiding place from the rainstorm and from the precipitation."  (Isaiah 4:6) A booth, or hut, was often built in a vineyard or in a field to provide much needed shelter from the burning sun of the dry season and from the cold and storms of the rainy season. -Compare Jonah 4:5.

Next time: Conclusion of A Promise of Loving Care

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

A Remnant Becomes Holy to Jehovah

We have already been introduced to the remnant that would be shown mercy by Jehovah, but  now Isaiah describes them in more detail.  He writes:  "It must occur that the ones remaining in Zion and the ones left over in Jerusalem will be said to be holy to him, everyone written down for life in Jerusalem." -Isaiah 4:3.

Who are "the ones remaining" and "the ones left over"?  They are the escaped ones mentioned in the preceding verse-the Jewish exiles who will be permitted to return to Judah.  Now Isaiah shows why Jehovah will have mercy on them-they will "be holy to him."  Holiness means "religious cleanness or purity; sacredness."  To be holy involves being clean, or pure, in word and action, to measure up to Jehovah's standard of what is right and proper.  Yes, Jehovah will have mercy on those who are "holy to him," and he will allow them to return to "the holy city," Jerusalem. -Nehemiah 11:1.

Will this faithful remnant remain there?  They will be "written down for life in Jerusalem," promises Isaiah.  This reminds us of the Jewish custom of keeping careful registers of Israel's families and tribes.  (Nehemiah 7:5)  To be written in a register meant to be alive, for when a person died, his name was removed.  In other parts of the Bible, we read of  a figurative register, or book, containing the names of those whom Jehovah rewards with life.  But this book receives names conditionally, for Jehovah can 'wipe out' names.  (Exodus 32:32, 33; Psalm 69:28)  Isaiah's words, then, imply a sobering warning-the returnees may continue living in their restored land only if they remain holy in God's sight.

In 537 B.C.E., the remnant that returned to Jerusalem did so with a pure motive-to restore true worship.  No one contaminated by pagan religious practices or by the unclean conduct that Isaiah had so forcefully warned against had a right to return.  (Isaiah 1:15-17)  Only those whom Jehovah viewed as holy could head back to Judah.  (Isaiah 35:8)  Similarly, since their release from spiritual captivity in 1919, the anointed remnant, now joined by millions of  "other sheep" -those with the hope of everlasting life on earth-have made every effort to be holy in God's sight.  (John  10:16)  They have rid themselves  of Babylonish teachings and practices. Individually, they strive to hold to God's  high standards of morality.  (1 Peter 1:14-16)  Jehovah's mercy on them has not been in vain.

Recall that Jehovah noted those in Israel who were holy and that he 'wrote down their names for life.'  Today, too, Jehovah notices our endeavors to be clean in mind and body as we 'present our bodies a sacrifice living, holy , accept able to God.'  (Romans 12:1) And all who follow such a life course are recorded by God in his "book of life" -the figurative record containing the names of those who are in line to receive everlasting life, either in heaven or on earth. (Philippians 4:3; Malachi 3:16) Let us, then, do our utmost to remain holy in God's eyes, for then we may keep our names in that precious "book." -Revelation 3:5.

Next time: A Promise of Loving Care

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Conclusion of 'The Sprouting of Jehovah'

True to Isaiah's words, the storm of judgment arrived in 607 B.C.E. when the Babylonian's  destroyed Jerusalem and many Israelites perished.  Some survived and were taken into exile in Babylon, but if it had not been for God's mercy, there would have been no survivors at all.  (Nehemiah 9:31) Eventually, Judah was left completely desolate.  (2 Chronicles 36:17-21) Then, in 547 B.C.E., the God of mercy allowed "escaped ones" to return to Judah in order to restore true worship;."  (Ezra 1:1-4; 2:1)  The heartfelt repentance of these returning exiles is beautifully expressed in Psalm 137, which was likely written during the captivity or shortly thereafter.  Back in Judah they tilled the soil and sowed seed in the land.  Think of how they must have felt when they saw that  God was blessing their efforts, causing the land to sprout  like the fruitful "garden of Eden"! -Ezekiel 36:24-36.

A similar restoration has taken place in our day.  Early in the 20th century, the Bible Students, as Jehovah's Witnesses were then known, came into spiritual captivity to "Babylon the Great," the world empire of false religion.  (Revelation 17:5)  Although having rejected many false religious teachings, the Bible Students were still tainted by  certain Babylonish ideas and practices.  As a result of clergy-inspired opposition, some of them were literally imprisoned. Their spiritual land-their religious, or spiritual, estate-was left desolate.

But in the spring of 1919, Jehovah had mercy on this remnant of spiritual Israelites.  (Galatians 6:16)  He saw  their repentance and their desire to worship him in truth, so he brought about their release from literal imprisonment and, more important, from spiritual captivity.  These "escaped ones" were restored to their God-given spiritual estate, which he caused to sprout abundantly.  This spiritual estate has presented an inviting, attractive  appearance, which has drawn millions of other God-fearing people to join the remnant in true worship. 

Isaiah's words here magnify the mercy that God has toward his people.  Although the Israelites as a nation turned against Jehovah, he had mercy on a repentant remnant.  We can draw comfort from knowing that even those who err seriously can return to Jehovah  with hope.  Repentant ones need not feel that they are beyond Jehovah's mercy, for he does not reject a contrite heart.  (Psalm 51:17)   The Bible assures us: "Jehovah is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness.  As a father shows mercy to his sons, Jehovah has shown mercy to  those fearing him."  (Psalm  103:8, 13)  Surely such a merciful God deserves all our praise!

Next time: A Remnant Becomes Holy to Jehovah

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

'The Sprouting of Jehovah'

Isaiah's tone becomes warm as he looks beyond  the coming tempest to a more peaceful time. He writes:  ["The sprouting  (sprout)  of Jehovah" will come to be for decoration and for glory, and the fruitage of the land will be something to be proud of and something beautiful  for those of Israel who have escaped." -Isaiah 4:2.

Isaiah here speaks of restoration.  The Hebrew noun rendered "sprout" refers to 'that which springs up, a shoot, a branch.'  It is associated with prosperity, in crease, and blessings from Jehovah.  Isaiah thus paints a picture of hope-the approaching desolation will not last forever.  With Jehovah's blessing, the once-prosperous land of Judah will again bring forth abundant fruitage. -Leviticus 26:3-5.

Isaiah uses vivid terms to describe the grandeur of  transformation that lies ahead.  The sprouting of Jehovah will "be for decoration and for glory."  the word "decoration" calls to mind the beauty of the Promised Land when Jehovah gave it to Israel centuries earlier.  It was so beautiful that  it was considered  "the decoration ["jewel," New American Bible] of all the lands."  (Ezekiel 20:6) Isaiah's words thus assure the people that the land of Judah will be restored to its former glory and beauty.  Indeed, it will be like a crowning jewel on the earth. 

Who, though, will be on hand to enjoy the restored beauty of the land?  "Those of Israel who have escaped,"  writes Isaiah.  Yes, some will survive the humiliating destruction previously foretold.  (Isaiah 3:25, 26)  A remnant of the survivors will return to Judah and share in  its restoration. For these returnees-"the escaped one"-the abundant produce of their restored land will become "something to be proud of and something beautiful."  (Isaiah 4:2) The humiliation of desolation will give way to a renewed sense of pride. 

Next time: Conclusion of 'The Sprouting of Jehovah'

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Jehovah God Has Mercy on a Remnant, Chapter Six

A VIOLENT storm descends upon a densely populated region.  Strong winds, torrential rains, and heavy flooding cut a wide swath through the land, destroying homes, damaging crops, and claiming lives.  But soon the storm passes, and in its aftermath a period of calm sets in.  For those who have survived, it is a time of restoration and rebuilding.

The prophet Isaiah foretells something similar concerning Judah and Jerusalem.  The storm clouds of divine judgment are moving ominously closer - and  with good reason!  The guilt of the nation is heavy. Both the rulers and the people have filled the land with injustice and bloodshed.  Through Isaiah, Jehovah lays bare  Judah's guilt and warns that He will execute judgment on that delinquent nation.  (Isaiah 3:25)  The land of Judah will be left completely desolate in the wake of this storm.  That prospect must sadden Isaiah.

But there is good news!  The storm of Jehovah's righteous judgment will pass, and a remnant will survive.  Yes, Jehovah's judgment of Judah will be tempered with  mercy!  Isaiah's message recorded at Isaiah  4:2-6 looks ahead to this blessed time.  It is as if the sun breaks out from behind the clouds; the scene shifts from the sights and sounds of judgment-described  at Isaiah 2:6 -4:1-to a beautifully renewed land and  people. 

Isaiah's prophecy regarding the restoration of a remnant and their subsequent security also finds a fulfillment in our time -"the final part of the days."  (Isaiah 2:2-4)  Let us discuss  this timely message, for not only does it have prophetic significance but it also teaches us about Jehovah's mercy and how we as individuals might receive it.

Next time: 'The Sprouting of Jehovah'

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

"She Will Certainly Be Cleaned Out"

Speaking new to the city of Jerusalem, Jehovah proclaims:  "By the sword your own men will fall, and your mightiness by war. And her entrances will have to mourn and express sorry, and she will certainly be cleaned out.  She will sit down on the very earth."  (Isaiah 3:25, 26)  The men of Jerusalem, even her mighty ones, will be slain in battle.  the city will be leveled to the ground.  For "her entrances," it will be a time to  "mourn and express sorrow."  Jerusalem will be "cleaned out" and laid desolate.

The loss of men by the sword will have drastic consequences for the women of Jerusalem.  Concluding this part of the prophetic book, Isaiah  foretells:  "Seven women will actually grab hold of one man in that day, saying:  "We shall eat our own bread and wear our own mantles; only may we be called by your name to take away our reproach.' " (Isaiah 4:1)  The shortage of marriageable men will become so severe that several women will attach themselves to one man in order to be called by his name -that is, to be publicly known as his wives - and thus be free of reproach of being without a husband.  the Mosaic Law required that  a husband provide sustenance and clothing for his wife.  (Exodus21:10)  However, agreeing to  'eat their own bread and wear their own clothing,' these women are willing to release the man from his legal obligations. What a desperate situation for the once haughty "daughters of Zion"! 

Jehovah humiliates self-exalted ones.  In 607 B.C.E., he does indeed make the haughtiness of his chosen people  "bow down" and cause their "loftiness" to become  "low."  May true Christians never forget that "God opposes the haughty ones, but he gives undeserved kindness to the humble ones." -James 4:6.

Next time: Jehovah God Has Mercy on a Remnant, chapter six

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

"A Brand Mark Instead of Prettiness

After denouncing the wrongs of the leaders, Jehovah turns to the women of Zion, or Jerusalem.  Apparently for reasons of fashion, "the daughters of Zion" wear "step chains" -chainlets fastened to their ankles - which make a melodious tinkling sound.  The women restrict  their stride and walk along  "with tripping steps," cultivating  what might be considered a genteel feminine gait.  What, if anything is wrong with this? It is the attitude of these women.  Jehovah says: "The daughters of Zion have become haughty and they walk with their throats stretched forth and ogling with their eyes."  (Isaiah 3:16)  Such haughtiness does not escape retribution.

Hence, when Jehovah's judgment comes upon the land, these haughty "daughters of Zion" will lose everything - even the beauty of which they are so proud.  Jehovah prophesies: "Jehovah also will actually make the crown of the head of the daughters of Zion scabby, and Jehovah himself will  lay their very forehead bare.  In that day Jehovah will take away the beauty of the bangles and the headbands and the moon-shaped ornaments, the eardrops and the bracelets and the veils, the headdresses and the step chains and the breastbands and the 'houses of the soul'  [probably perfume receptacles] and the ornamental humming shells [or charms], the finger rings and the nose rings, the robs of state and the overtunics and the cloaks and the purses, and the hand mirrors and the undergarments and the turbans and the  large veils."  (Isaiah 3:17-23) What a tragic reveal! 

The prophetic message goes on to say:  "Instead of balsam all there will come to be merely a musty smell; and instead of a belt, a rope; and instead of an artistic hair arrangement, baldness; and instead of a rich garment, a girding of sackcloth; a brand mark instead of prettiness."  (Isaiah 3:24)   In 607 B.C.E., the proud women of Jerusalem fall from wealth to poverty.   They lose their freedom and receive "a brand mark" of slavery.

Next time: "She Will Certainly Be Cleaned Out'

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

'Leaders Are Causing You to Wander'

For a human society to be stable, it must have its "support and stay"-such necessities as food and water and, more important, trustworthy leaders who are able to guide the people and maintain social order.  Concerning ancient Israel, though, Isaiah foretells:  "Look! The true Lord, Jehovah armies, is removing from Jerusalem and from Judah support and stay, the whole support of bread and the whole support of water, mighty man and warrior, judge and prophet, and practice of divination and elderly man, chief of fifty and highly respected man and counselor and expert in magical arts, and the skilled charmer." (Isaiah 3:1-3)   Mere boys will become princes and rule capriciously.  Not only will the rulers oppress the people but "the  people will actually tyrannize one over the other. .  . They will storm, the boy against the old man, and the lightly esteemed one against the one to be honored."  (Isaiah 3:4, 5)  Children "storm" against their elders, lacking respect for them.  So low will the condition of life that one will say to another who has not qualifications for rulership: "You have a mantle. A dictator you ought to become to us, and this overthrown mass should be under your hand."  (Isaiah 3:6)  But the ones thus invited will refuse, insisting that they have neither the ability to heal the wounded land nor the wealth to handle the responsibility.  They will say:  I shall not become a wound dresser; and in my house there is neither bread nor a mantle. You men must not set me as  dictator over the people." -Isaiah 3:7.

Isaiah continues:  "Jerusalem has stumbled, and Judah itself has fallen, because their tongue and their dealings are against Jehovah, in behaving rebelliously in the eyes of his glory.  The very expression of their faces actually testifies against them, and of their sin like that of Sodom they do tell.  They have not hidden it.  Woe to their soul!   For they have dealt out to themselves calamity."  (Isaiah 3:8, 9)   God's  people have rebelled against the true God in words and deeds.  Even the shameless and unrepentant expressions on their faces expose their sins, which are as disgusting as those of Sodom.  They are in a covenant with Jehovah God, yet he will not change his standards for them.  "It will be well with the righteous one, for they will eat the very fruitage of their dealings.  Woe to the wicked one! - Calamity; for the treatment rendered by his own hands will be rendered to him!  As for my people, its task assigners are dealing severely, and mere women actually rule over it.  O my people, those leading you are causing you to wander,  and the way of your paths they have confused." -Isaiah 3:10-12.

To the elders and the princes in Judah, Jehovah 'passes sentence' and 'enters into judgment": "Your yourselves have burned down the vineyard.  What was taken by robbery from the afflicted one is in your houses.  What do you men mean in that you crush my people, and that you grind the very faces of the afflicted ones?" (Isaiah 3:13-15) Instead of working for the welfare of the people, leaders engage in deceitful practices.  They misuse their authority by enriching themselves and depriving the poor and needy.  But these leaders must answer to Jehovah of armies for their oppression of the afflicted.  What a warning this is to those in position of responsibility today!  May they be ever careful not to misuse their authority.

Christendom - particularly her clergy and principal ones -has fraudulently acquired much that should belong to the common people, whom she has oppressed and continues to  oppress.  She has also beaten, persecuted, and maltreated the people of God and has brought great reproach upon Jehovah's name.  In his due time, Jehovah will certainly enter into judgment against her.

Next time: "A Brand Mark Instead of Prettiness"

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

"To the ShrewMice and the Bats"

How will idol worshipers view their idols during Jehovah's great day?  Isaiah answers:  "People will enter into the caves of the rocks and into the holes of the dust because o the dreadfulness of Jehovah and from his splendid superiority, when he rises up for the earth to suffer shocks.  In that day  the earthling man will throw his worthless gods of  silver and his valueless gods of gold . . .to the shrewmice and to the bats, in order  to enter into the holes in the rocks and into the clefts of the crags, because of the dreadfulness of Jehovah and from his splendid superiority, when he rises up for the earth to suffer shocks.  For your own sakes, hold off from the earthling man, whose breath is in his nostrils, for on what basis is he himself to be taken into account?" -Isaiah 2:19-22.

Shrewmice live in holes in the ground, and bats roost in dark and desolate caves.  Moreover, where a large number of bats roost in one place, there is a repulsive smell and a buildup of thick layers of droppings. Casting idols into such places is fitting.  A place of darkness and uncleanness is all that they deserve. As for the people, they will seek refuge in caves and clefts in the rock on the day of Jehovah's judgment.  So the fate of the idols and their worshipers will be the same.  True to Isaiah's prophecy, lifeless idols saved neither their worshipers nor Jerusalem from Nebuchadnezzar's hands in 607 B.C.E.

During the coming day of Jehovah's judgment upon Christendom and other segments of the world empire of false religion, what will people do?  Faced with deteriorating conditions earth wide, most will likely come to realize that their idols are valueless.  In place of these, they may well seek refuge and protection in nonspiritual, earthly organizations, perhaps including the United Nations, the "scarlet-colored wild beast" of Revelation chapter 17.  It is "the ten horns" of that symbolic wild beast that will destroy Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion, of which Christendom is a significant part. -Revelation 17: 3, 8-12, 16, 17.

Although the devastating and burning of Babylon the Great may be the direct work of those symbolic ten horns, it is, in fact, the execution of Jehovah's judgment.  Concerning Babylon the Great, Revelation 18:8 states: "That is why in one day her plagues will come, death and mourning and famine, and she will be completely burned with fire, because Jehovah God, who judged her, is strong."  So to Jehovah God, the Almighty, goes the credit for liberating mankind from domination by false religion. As Isaiah states, "Jehovah alone must be put on high in that day.  For it is the day belonging to Jehovah of armies." -Isaiah 2:11b, 12a.

Next time: 'Leaders Are Causing You to Wander'

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

The Impending "Day of Jehovah"

The Scriptures point to a "day of Jehovah" that will be of far greater significance than the day of judgment upon ancient Jerusalem and Judah.  The apostle Paul, under inspiration, associated the coming "day of Jehovah' with the presence of the enthroned King, Jesus Christ.  (2 Thessalonians 2:1, 2) Peter  spoke of that day in connection with the establishment of 'new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness is to dwell.' (2 Peter 3:10-13)  It is the day on which Jehovah will execute his judgment upon the entire wicked system of things, including Christendom. 

"Alas for the day," says the prophet Joel, "because the day of Jehovah is near, and like a despoiling from the Almighty One it will come!"  In view of the imminence of that "day," should not security during that fear-inspiring time concern everyone?  "Who can hold up under it?" Asks Joel.  He answers:  "Jehovah will be a refuge for his people."  (Joel 1:15; 2:11; 3:16)  Will Jehovah God be a refuge for those who have a haughty spirit and who put their confidence in riches, military might, and man-made gods?  Impossible! God abandoned even his chosen people when they acted this way.  How vital that all of God's servants "seek righteousness, seek meekness," and examine serious the place of Jehovah's worship in their lives! -Zephaniah 2:2, 3.

Next time: "To the Shrew mice and to the Bats"

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

'Haughty Eyes Must Become Low'

Isaiah continues: "Enter into the rock and hide yourself in the dust because of the dreadfulness of Jehovah, and from his splendid superiority." (Isaiah 2:10)  But no rock will be big enough to protect hem, no cover thick enough to conceal them, from Jehovah, the Almighty.  When he comes to execute his judgment,  "The haughty eyes of earthling man must become low, and the loftiness of men must bow down; and Jehovah alone must be put on high in that day." -Isaiah 2:11.

"The day belonging to Jehovah of armies" is coming. It will be a time for God to express his anger "upon all the massive trees of Bashan; and upon all he lofty mountains and upon all the hills that are lifted up; and upon every high tower and upon every fortified wall; and upon all the ships of Tarshish and  upon all desirable boats."  (Isaiah 2:12-16)  Yes, every organization raised up by man as a symbol of his pride and every ungodly individual will be given attention in the day of Jehovah's wrath.  Thus, "the haughtiness of the earthling man must bow down, and the  loftiness of men must become low; and Jehovah alone must be put on high in that day." -Isaiah 2:17.

The foretold day of judgment comes upon the Jews in 607 B.C.E. when Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar destroys Jerusalem.  The inhabitants see their beloved city aflame, its proud buildings, demolished, its mighty wall smashed. The temple of Jehovah is reduced to rubble.   Neither their treasures nor their chariots  amount to anything on  "the day belonging to Jehovah of armies."  And their idols?  It happens just as Isaiah foretells:  "the valueless gods themselves will pass away completely."  (Isaiah 2:18) The Jews-princes and mighty men included-are taken into exile to Babylon.  Jerusalem is to lie desolate for 70 years.

How similar the condition of Christendom is to that of Jerusalem and Judah in Isaiah's day!  Christendom has certainly cultivated  a close relationship with the nations of this world.  She is an enthusiastic supporter of the United Nations and has filled her house with idols and unscriptural practices.  Her adherents are materialistic  and put their confidence in military  might.  And do they not view their clergy as worthy of great distinction, attributing to them titles and honors?  Christendom's self-exaltation will without fail be brought to nothing. But when?

Next time: The Impending "Day of Jehovah"

From the Book  Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Jehovah Humiliates Self-Exalted Ones - In Pride They Bow Down

In Pride They Bow Down

Confessing the error of his people, Isaiah says:  "They have become full of what is from the East, and they are practicers of magic like the Philistines, and with children of foreigners they abound."  (Isaiah 2:6b) Some 800 years earlier, Jehovah had commanded his chosen people:  "Do not make yourselves unclean by any of these things  [by which] the nations whom I am sending out from before you have made themselves unclean." (Leviticus 18:24) Concerning those whom he had selected as his special property, Jehovah forced Balaam to say:  "From the top of the rocks I see them, and from the hills I behold them. There as a people they keep tabernacling isolated  and among the nations they do not recon themselves."  (Numbers 23:9, 12)  Yet, by Isaiah's day Jehovah's chosen ones have adopted the abominable practices of the surrounding nations and are "full of what is from the East."  Rather than putting faith in Jehovah and his word, they are practicing "magic like the Philistines."  Far from keeping separate from the nations, the land 'abounds' with "the children of the foreigners"-doubtless, foreigners who introduce ungodly practices to God's people. 

Noting the current economic prosperity and the military strength of Judah under King Uzziah, Isaiah states:  There land is filled with silver and gold, and there is no limit to their treasures.  And their land is filled with horses, and there is no limit to their chariots."  (Isaiah 2:7)  Do the people thank Jehovah for such wealth and military strength? (2 Chronicles 26:1, 6-15)  Far from it!  Instead, they put their trust in the wealth itself and turn away from its Source, Jehovah God.  The result?  "Their land is filled with valueless gods. To the work of one's hands they bow down, to that which one's fingers have made. And earthling man bows down, and man becomes low, and you cannot possibly pardon them."  (Isaiah 2:8, 9)  They turn their faces away from the living God and bow down to lifeless idols.

Bowing down can be a sign of humility.  But bowing down to lifeless things is futile, making the idol worshiper "low," degenerate.  How can Jehovah pardon such a sin? What will these idolaters do when Jehovah calls them to account? 

Next time: 'Haughty Eyes Must Become Low'

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Jehovah Humiliates Self-Exalted Ones

Jehovah Humiliates Self-Exalted Ones

DISGUSTED with the condition of Jerusalem and Judah, the prophet Isaiah now turns to Jehovah God and declares: "You have forsaken your people, the house of Jacob."  (Isaiah 2:6a)  What has provoked God to reject the people whom he himself had chosen as his "special property"? -Deuteronomy 14:2.

Isaiah's denunciation of the Jews of his time is of great interest to us. Why? Because the condition of Christendom today is very similar to that of Isaiah's  people, and so is the judgment that Jehovah pronounces.  Paying attention to Isaiah's proclamation will give us a  clear understand of what God condemns and will help us to shun practices that he disapproves of.  With keen anticipation, then, let us consider Jehovah prophetic word as recorded at Isaiah 2:6-4:1.

Next time: In Pride They Bow Down

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

A Future of Peace

Jehovah has done a marvelous thing in this "the final part of the days."  He has gathered from all nations, people who want to serve him.  He has taught them to walk in his ways, ways of peace.  These are the ones who will survive the coming "great tribulation" and pass into a peaceful new world in which war will be abolished forever. -Revelation 7:14.

Swords-weaponry -will be no more.  The psalmist wrote of that time:  "Come, you people, behold the activities of Jehovah, how he has set astonishing events on the earth.  He is making wars to cease to the extremity of the earth.  The bow he breaks apart and does cut the spear in pieces; the wagons he burns in the fire."  (Psalm 46:8, 9)  In view of such a prospect, Isaiah's following exhortation is as appropriate today as it was when he wrote it:  "O men of the house of Jacob, come  and let us walk in the light of Jehovah."  (Isaiah 2:5)  Yes, let Jehovah's light illuminate our path now, and we will walk in his way for all eternity. -Micah 4:5.

Next time: Chapter five- Jehovah Humiliates Self-Exalted Ones

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Pursuing the Ways of Peace

The peace of God's people goes far beyond a refusal to engage in warfare.  Though they are found in more than 230 lands and represent countless languages and cultures, they enjoy peace with one another. In them is found a modern fulfillment of the words of Jesus, who said to his disciples in the first century:  "By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves."  (John  13:35)  Christians today are "peacemakers."  (Matthew 5:9)  They "seek peace and pursue it."  (1 Peter 3:11) Sustaining them is Jehovah, "the God who gives peace." -Romans 15:33.

There are dramatic examples of those who have learned to be peacemakers.  A you man writes of his early life:  "Hard experience taught me how to defend myself.  It made me tough and angry about life. I would always end up in fights.  Each day, I would fight a different kid in the neighborhood, sometimes with fists, sometimes with rocks or bottles. I grew up being very violent."  Eventually, however, he responded to the invitation to go to "the mountain of the house of Jehovah."  He learned God's ways and became a peaceable servant of God.

Most of Jehovah's servants do not come from such a violent background.  Still, even in relatively small things-acts of kindness, forgiveness, and empathy-they strive to promote peace with others.  Although imperfect, they endeavor to apply the Bible's counsel to "continue putting up with one another and forgiving one another freely if anyone has a cause for complaint against another." -Colossians 3:13.

Next time: A Future of Peace

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Swords Into Plowshares

Now we come to the next verse, part of which is inscribed on the wall at the UN plaza.  Isaiah writes:  " He will certainly render judgment among the nations and set matters straight respecting many peoples.  And they will have to beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning shears. Nation will not lift up sword against nation, neither will they learn war anymore." -Isaiah 2:4

To achieve this would be no small accomplishment.  Federico Mayor, director-general of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, once said: "All the obscenities of war,  brought home to us nowadays by audio-visual equipment, do not seem able to halt the advance of the huge war machine set up and maintained over many centuries. Present generations have the almost impossible, Biblical task of 'beating their swords into plowshares' and making transition from an instinct for war-developed since time immemorial-to a feeling for peace.  To achieve this would be the best and most  noble act that the global village' could accomplish, and the best legacy to our descendants."

The nations as a whole will never achieve this lofty goal.  It is simply beyond their reach.  Isaiah's words ware fulfilled by individuals from many nations, who are united in pure worship.  Jehovah has  "set matters straight" among them. He has taught his people to live at peace with one another.  Truly, in a divided and strife-ridden world, they have figuratively beaten their "swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning shears." How?

For one thing, they do not take sides in the wars of the nations. Shortly before Jesus' death, armed men came to arrest him.  When Peter lashed out with a sword to defend  his Master, Jesus said to him:   "Return your sword to its place for all those who take the sword will perish by the sword."  (Matthew 26:52) Since then, Jesus' footstep followers have beaten their swords into plowshares and have refrained from taking up weapons  to kill their fellow man and from supporting war efforts in other ways.  Thy "pursue peace with all people." -Hebrews 12:14.

Next time: Pursuing the Ways of Peace

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

A People Taught Jehovah's Way

Isaiah tells us more about those who embrace pure worship today.  He says:  "Many peoples will certainly go and say:  'Come, you people, and let us go to the mountain of Jehovah, to the house of God of Jacob; and he will instruct us about his ways, and we will walk in his paths.'  For out of Zion law will go forth, and the word of Jehovah out of Jerusalem." -Isaiah 2:3.

Jehovah does not let his people wander about like lost sheep.  Through the Bible and  Bible-based publications, he imparts to them his "law" and his  "word" so that  they lean his ways.  This knowledge equips them to "walk in his paths."  Out of hearts filled with appreciation and in harmony with divine direction, they speak to one another about the ways of Jehovah.  They gather together at large conventions and in smaller groups-At Kingdom Halls and in private homes-so as to listen to and learn the ways of God.  (Deuteronomy 31:12, 13)  Thus they imitate the pattern of  the early Christians, who met together to encourage and incite one another to abound in "love and fine works." -Hebrews 10:24, 25.

They invited others to "go up" to the exalted worship of Jehovah God.  How well this harmonizes with the command Jesus gave to his disciples just before his ascension  to heaven!  He told them:  "Go therefore and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit, teaching them to observe all the things I have commanded you."  (Matthew 28:19, 20)  With divine backing, Jehovah's Witnesses obediently go throughout the earth, teaching and making disciples, baptizing them.

Next time: Swords Into Plowshares

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Worship Exalted in th Lives of People

Jehovah deserves all credit for the elevating of pure worship in our time.  Still, those who approach him are privileged to share in this work.  Just as it requires effort to climb a mountain, so, too, it requires effort to learn of and live according to God's righteous standards.  Like Christians in the first century, God's  servants today have left behind life-styles and practices that are not compatible with true worship.  Fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, thieves, greedy persons, drunkards, and others have changed their ways and been "washed clean" in God's sight. -1 Corinthians 6:9-11.

Typical is the experience of one young woman who wrote:  "I once was lost with no hope.  I lived a life of immorality and drunkenness.  I had sexual diseases. I also sold drugs and just didn't care about anything."  After studying the Bible, she made major changes in order to conform to God's standards.  Now she says:  "I enjoy peace of mind, self-respect, a hope for the future, a real family and, best of all, a relationship with our Father, Jehovah.

Even after coming to an approved standing before Jehovah, all must continue to elevate pure worship by giving it a place of prominence in their lives.  Thousands of years ago, through Isaiah, Jehovah expressed his confidence  that there would be multitudes today eager to make his worship the most important thing in their lives.  Are you among them?

Next time: A People Taught Jehovah's Way

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Conclusion of The Elevating of Pure Worship

During this time of harvest, Jehovah has progressively helped the anointed remnant to understand and apply his Word, the Bible.  This too has contributed to the elevating of pure worship.  Though 'darkness itself covers the earth,and thick the national groups,' the anointed are "shining as illuminators" among humankind, having been cleansed and refined by Jehovah.  (Isaiah 60:2; Philippians 2:15)  "Filled with accurate knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual comprehension," these spirit-anointed ones "shine as brightly as he sun in the kingdom of their Father." -Colossians 1:9; Matthew 13:43.

Moreover, others have streamed to "the mountain of the house of Jehovah."  Called by Jesus his "other sheep," These have the hope of living forever on a paradise earth. (John 10:16; Revelation 21:3, 4) Starting  in the 1030's, they appeared by the thousands, then by the hundreds of thousands, and now by the millions!   In a vision given to the apostle John, they are described as "a great crowd, which no man was able to number, out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues." -Revelation 7:9.

The prophet Haggai foretold the appearance of this great crowd.  He wrote: "This is what Jehovah of armies has said.  'Yet once -it is a little while- and I am rocking the heavens and the earth and the sea and the dry ground.  And I will rock all the nations [those  who} join anointed Christians in pure worship] must come in; and I will fill this house with glory,'  Jehovah of armies has said."  (Haggai 2:6, 7) The existence of this still-growing "great crowd" and their anointed companions elevates, yes glorifies, pure worship in Jehovah's house.  Never before have so many been recorded as united in the worship of the true God, and this brings glory to Jehovah and his enthroned King, Jesus Christ.  King Solomon wrote:  "In the multitude of people there is an adornment of a king." -Proverbs 14:28.

Next time: Worship Exalted in the Lives of People

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind, 2000

The Elevating of Pure Worship

The prophet says that "the mountain of the house of Jehovah," or pure  worship, would become  "firmly established above the top of the mountains" and be lifted up above the hills."  Long before Isaiah's time, King David brought the ark of the covenant up to Mount Zion in Jerusalem, which was located 2,500 feet above sea level.  There the ark rested until it was transferred to the completed temple on Mount Moriah.  (2 Samuel 5:7; 6:14-19; 2 Chronicles 3:1;  5:1-10)  Thus, by Isaiah's day the sacred  ark had already been physically elevated and placed in the temple, in a position higher than the many surrounding hills used for false worship.

Of course, in a spiritual sense, Jehovah's worship has always been superior to the religious practices of those who serve false gods.  During out day, however, Jehovah has exalted his worship heaven high, above all forms of unclean worship, yes, far above all "the hills" and "the top of the mountains."  How so?  Largely through the gathering together of those who want to worship him "with spirit and truth. -John 4:23.

Christ Jesus referred to "a conclusion of a system of things" as a time of harvest when the angels would gather in "the sons of the kingdom" - those with the hope of ruling with Jesus in heavenly glory.  (Matthew 13:36-43)  Since 1919,m Jehovah has empowered  "the remaining ones" of these sons to share with  the angels in the harvest work.  (Revelation 12:17) Thus, to start with, "the sons of the kingdom,"  Jesus' anointed brothers, are the ones gathered.  Then they share in further gathering work. 

Next time: Conclusion of The Elevating of Pure Worship

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind, 2000

A Mountain in Which to Worship

In a few words, Isaiah paints a vivid prophetic picture.  We see a lofty mountain, crowned by a glorious house, the temple of  Jehovah.  This  mountain towers above surrounding mountains and hills.  Yet, it is not foreboding or intimidating; it is appealing.  Peoples of all nations yearn to ascend to the mountain of the house of Jehovah; they stream to it.  This is to visualize, but what does it mean?

In Isaiah's day hills and mountains are often associated with worship.  For example, they serve as sites for idolatrous worship and for sanctuaries  of false gods.  (Deuteronomy 12:2; Jeremiah 3:6)  However, the house, or temple of Jehovah adorns the summit of Mount Moriah in Jerusalem. Faithful Israelites journey to Jerusalem three times a year and ascend Mount Moriah to worship God.  (Deuteronomy 16:16)  So the streaming of the nations to "the mountain of the house of Jehovah" pictures the gathering of many peoples to true worship.

Today, of course, God's people do not gather at  a literal mountain with a temple of stone.  Jehovah's temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by Roman armies in 70 C.E. Besides, the apostle Paul made it clear that the temple in Jerusalem and the tabernacle that preceded it were pictorial.  They represented a greater, spiritual reality, "the true tent, which Jehovah put up, and not man."  (Hebrews 8:2) That spiritual tent is the arrangement for approaching Jehovah in worship based on the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ.  (Hebrews 9:2-10, 23)  In harmony with this, "the mountain of the house of Jehovah" mentioned at Isaiah 2:2 represents the exalted pure worship of Jehovah in our time.  Those embracing pure worship do not gather at any geographic location; they gather in unity of worship.

Next time: The Elevating of Pure Worship

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Nations That Stream to Pure Worship

Isaiah chapter 2 begins with these words:  "The thing that Isaiah the son of Amoz visioned concerning Judah and Jerusalem: and it must occur in the final part of the days that the mountain of the house of Jehovah will become firmly established  above the top of  the mountain, and it will certainly be lifted up above the hills; and to it all the nations must stream." -Isaiah 2:1, 2.

Notice that what Isaiah foretells is not mere speculation.  Isaiah is directed to record events that "must occur" -without fail.  Whatever Jehovah purposes has "certain success."  (Isaiah 55:11)  Evidently to give emphasis to the reliability of his promise, God inspired the prophet Micah, a contemporary of Isaiah, to record in his book the same prophecy that is set out at Isaiah 2:2-4. -Micah 4:1-3.

When is Isaiah's prophecy to be fulfilled?  "In the final part of the days."  The New International Version reads: "In the last days."  The Christian Greek Scriptures foretold features that would identify this period.  Included among them are wars, earthquakes, pestilences, food shortages, and "critical times hard to deal with."  (2 Timothy 3:1-5; Luke 21:10, 11)  The fulfillment of such prophecies gives abundant evidence that we are living   "in the final part of the days,"  the last days of this present world system.  Logically, then, we would expect to see fulfilled in our time the things that Isaiah foretold.   (we already are seeing them)

Next time: A Mountain in Which to Worship

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind - Jehovah's House Lifted Up

Jehovah's House Lifted Up

"THEY shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation.  Neither shall they learn war any  more." These words are inscribed on wall at the United Nations plaza in New York City.  For decades the source of that quotation was not identified.  Since the aim of the UN is to work toward global peace, it was easy to conclude that the quote originated with the founders of the UN, in 1945.

In 1975, however, the name Isaiah was chiseled  into the wall below the quotation.  It was then evident that the words  were not of modern origin.  They were, in fact, recorded as a prophecy over 2,700 years ago in what is now the 2nd chapter of the book of Isaiah.  For millenniums lovers of peace have pondered over how and when the things Isaiah foretold would occur.  There is no longer  any need to wonder.  Today  we see before us the remarkable fulfillment of this ancient prophecy. 

Who are the nations that bear their swords into plowshares?  Surely, they are not the modern-day political nations and governments.  Until now these nations have developed swords, or weapons, both to wage war and to preserve "peace" through strength.  If anything, the tendency has always been for nations to beat  their plowshares into swords!  Isaiah's prophecy finds fulfillment in representatives from all nations, people who worship Jehovah, "The God of peace." -Philippians 4:9.

Next time: The Nations That Stream to Pure Worship

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Conclusion of Jehovah Will Refine His People

Idolatrous Judeans face something worse than shame, though.  Shifting the illustration, Jehovah now likens the idolater himself to a tree.  "You will become like a big tree the foliage of which is withering, and like a garden that has no water."  (Isaiah 1:30) In the hot dry climate of the Middle East, this illustration is apt.  No tree or garden can last for long without a steady supply of water.  Dried up, such vegetation is especially vulnerable to fire.  Hence, the illustration in verse 31 follows naturally.

"The vigorous man will certainly become tow, and the product of his activity a spark; and both of them will certainly go up in flames at the same time, with no one to do the extinguishing."  (Isaiah 1:31)   Who is this "vigorous man"?  The Hebrew expression conveys the sense of strength and wealth. It likely refers to the prosperous , self-assured follower of false gods.  In Isaiah's day, as in our own, there is no shortage of men who reject Jehovah and his pure worship.  Some even seem successful.  Yet, Jehovah warns that such men will be like "tow," coarse fibers of flax so frail and dry that they tear apart, as it were, at the very smell of fire.  (Judges 16:8, 9)  The product of the idolater's activity-whether his idol-gods, his wealth, or whatever he worships in place of Jehovah-will be like the igniting  "spark."  Both spark and tow will be consumed, wiped out, in a fire that no one can extinguish.  No power in the universe can overturn Jehovah's perfect judgments.

Is this final message compatible with the message of mercy and forgiveness in verse 18? By all means!  Jehovah has such warnings written down and delivered by his servants because he is merciful.  After all, "he does not desire any to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance."  (2 Peter 3:9)  It is the privilege of every true Christians today to proclaim God's warning messages to mankind so that repentant ones may benefit from his generous forgiveness  and live forever.  How kind is it on Jehovah's part to give mankind a chance to "set matters straight" with him before it is too late!

Next time: Jehovah's House Lifted Up

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind, 2000

Continue with Jehovah Will Refine His People

Continue with Jehovah Will Refine His People

In 1919, Jehovah's modern-day people emerged from the period of testing.  They were delivered from spiritual bondage to Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion.  The distinction between that faithful anointed remnant and the apostate clergy of Christendom became clear.  God again  blessed his people, 'bringing back for them judges and counselors'-faithful men who counsel God's people according  to his Word and not according to the traditions of men.  Today among the diminishing "little flock" and their increasing millions of  "other sheep" companions, there are thousands of such men. -Luke 12:32; John 10:16; Isaiah 32:1, 2;  60:17. 61:3, 4.

Elders keep in mind that they do, on occasion, act as "judges" in the congregation in order to keep it morally and spiritually clean and to correct wrongdoers.  They are deeply concerned with doing things God's way, imitating his merciful, balanced sense of justice.  In most matters, though, they serve as "counselors." This, of course, is a far cry from being princes or tyrants, and they make  every effort never to give even the appearance of "lording it over those who are God's inheritance." -1 Peter 5:3.

What about the "dross" mentioned in the prophecy of Isaiah? What happens to those who refuse to benefit from God's refinement process?  Isaiah continues:  "And the crash of revolters and that of sinful ones will be at the same time, and those leaving Jehovah will come to their finish.  For they will be ashamed of the mighty trees that you people desired, and you will be abashed because of the gardens that you have chosen." (Isaiah 1:28, 29)  Those who revolt and sin against Jehovah, ignoring the warning messages of his prophets until it is too late, do indeed "crash" and "come to their finish."  This happens in 607 B.C.E. What, however, do these references to trees and gardens mean?

The Judeans have a persistent problem with idolatry.  Trees, gardens and groves often figure in their debased practices.  For example, worshiper of Baal and his consort, Ashtoreth, believe that in the dry season, the two deities are dead and buried.  To prompt them to awaken and mate, bringing fertility to the land, the idolaters gather to carry out perverted sexual acts under "sacred" trees in groves or in gardens.  When rains and fertility come to the land, the false gods receive the credit; the idolaters feel confirmed in their superstitions. But when Jehovah brings the rebellious idolaters to their crashing finish, no idol-gods protect them.  The rebels are "ashamed" of these impotent trees and gardens.

Next time: Conclusion of Jehovah Will Refine His People

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind

Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind - Jehovah Will Refine His People

Jehovah Will Refine His People

Jehovah will not tolerate such abuse of power forever.  Isaiah continues:  "Therefore the utterance of the true Lord, Jehovah of armies, the Powerful One of Israel, is: 'Aha! I shall relieve myself of my adversaries, and I will avenge myself on my enemies.'" (Isaiah 1:24)  Jehovah is given three designations here, emphasizing his rightful lordship and his vast power.  The exclamation "Aha!" likely signifies that Jehovah's pity is now mixed with determination  to act upon his wrath. There is certainly reason for this.

Jehovah's own people have made themselves his enemies.  They fully merit divine vengeance. Jehovah will "relieve," or rid, himself of them.  Does this mean a complete permanent obliteration of his name people?  No, for Jehovah goes on to say:  And I will turn back my hand upon you, and I shall smelt away your scummy dross as with lye, and I will remove all your waste products."  (Isaiah 1:25) Jehovah now uses the refining process as an illustration. A refiner in ancient times often added lye to help separate the dross from the precious metal.  In a similar way, Jehovah, who does not see his people as completely wicked, will 'chastise them to the proper degree.'  He will remove from them only the "waste products"-the stubborn, undesirable ones, who refuse to learn and obey.  (Jeremiah 46:28) With these words, Isaiah has the privilege of writing down history in advance. 

Jehovah did indeed refine his people, removing the scummy dross of corrupt leaders and other rebels.  In 607 B.C.E., long after Jehovah's time, Jerusalem was destroyed and its inhabitants led off for the 70-year exile in Babylon.  This in some ways parallels and action God took much later.  The prophecy at Malachi 3:1-5, written long after the Babylonian exile, showed that God would again do a refining work.  It pointed to the time when Jehovah God would come to his spiritual temple accompanied by his "messenger of the covenant," Jesus Christ.  This evidently happened at the end of World War I.  Jehovah inspected all of those claiming to be Christians, sifting the true from the false.  With what result?

Jehovah answers:  "I will bring back again judges for you as at the first, and counselors for you as at the start. After this you will be called City of Righteousness, Faithful  Town.  With justice Zion herself will be redeemed, and those returning of her, with righteousness."  (Isaiah 1:26, 27)  Ancient Jerusalem experienced an initial fulfillment of this prophecy.  After the exiles returned to their beloved city in 537 B.C.E., there were once again faithful judges and counselors like those of the past.  The prophets Haggai and Zechariah, the priest Joshua, the scribe Ezra, and the governor Zerubbabel all served to guide and direct the faithful returning remnant to walk in God's paths.  However, an even more important fulfillment occurred in the 20th century.

Next time: Continue with Jehovah Will Refine His People

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind