Judgment and Joy

The tone of Isaiah's message changes again. "Look!"  He says, as if to get listeners' attention.   "The name of Jehovah is coming from far away, burning with his anger and with heavy clouds. As for his lips, they have become full of denunciation, and his tongue is like a devouring fire." (Isaiah 30:27)   Thus far, Jehovah has stayed away, allowing the enemies of his people to follow their own course.  Now he draws closer-like a  steadily approaching thunderstorm-to execute  judgment.  "His spirit is like a flooding torrent that reaches clear to the neck, to swing the nations to and fro with a sieve of worthlessness; and a bridle that causes one to wander about will be the jaws of the peoples." (Isaiah 30:28) Enemies of God's people will be encircled by "a flooding torrent," violently shaken "to and fro with a sieve," and reined in with "a bridle."  They will be destroyed. 

Again Isaiah's tone changes as he describes the happy condition of faithful worshipers who will one day return to their land.  "You people will come to have  a song like that in the night that one sanctifies oneself for a festival, and rejoicing  of heart like that of one walking with a flute to enter into the mountain of Jehovah, to the rock of Israel."  (Isaiah 30:29)   True Christians today experience  a similar "rejoicing of heart" as they contemplate the judgment of Satan's world; the protection extended to them by Jehovah, the "Rock of salvation;"  and the Kingdom blessings to come. -Psalm 95:1.

After this expression of gladness, Isaiah returns to the theme of judgment and identifies the object of God's wrath.  "Jehovah will certainly make the dignity of his voice to be heard and will make the descending of his arm to be seen, in the raging of anger and the flame of a devouring fire and cloudburst and rainstorm and hailstones.   For because of the voice of Jehovah Assyria will be struck with terror; and he will strike it even with a staff."  (Isaiah 30:30, 31)  With this graphic design, Isaiah emphasizes the reality of God's judgment of Assyria.  In effect, Assyria stands before God and trembles at the sight of his 'descending arm' of judgment. 

The prophet continues:  "Every swing of his rod of chastisement that Jehovah will cause to settle down upon Assyria  will certainly prove to be with tambourines and with harps; and with bottles of brandishing he will actually fight against them.  For his Topheth is set in order from recent times; it is also prepared for the king himself.  he has made its pile deep.  Fire and wood are in abundance.  The breath of Jehovah, like a torrent of sulphur, is burning against it."  (Isaiah 30:32, 33)  Topheth, in the Valley of Hinnom, is used here as a figurative place burning with fire.  By showing that Assyria will end up there.  Isaiah stresses the sudden destruction that is to come upon that nation. -Compare 2 Kings 23:10.

Although, this judgment message is directed against Assyria, the significance of Isaiah's prophecy goes further.  (Romans 15:4)  Jehovah will again, as it were, come from afar to flood, shake, and bridle all those who oppress his people.  (Ezekiel 38:18-23; 2 Peter 3:7; Revelation 19:11-21)  May that day come quickly!  Meanwhile, Christians eagerly await the day of deliverance.  They derive strength from reflecting upon the vivid words recorded in Isaiah chapter 30.  These words encourage God's servants to treasure the privilege of prayer, apply themselves to Bible study, and meditate upon the Kingdom blessings to come.  (Psalm 42:1, 2; Proverbs 2:1-6; Romans 12:12)  Thus Isaiah's words help  all of us to keep in expectation of Jehovah.

Next time:  No Help From This World, Chapter Twenty-Four

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

Contemplate Future Blessings

Those responding to the voice of the Grand Instructor will scatter their graven images, viewing them as something disgusting.  (Read Isaiah 30:22) Then, those responsive ones will enjoy wonderful blessings. These  are described by Isaiah, as recorded in Isaiah 30:23-26,  a delightful restoration prophecy that that has its  initial fulfillment when  a Jewish remnant returns from captivity in 537 B.C.E. Today, this prophecy helps us to see the marvelous blessings that the Messiah brings about in the spiritual paradise now and the literal Paradise to come.

"He will certainly give the rain for your seed with which you sow the ground, and as the produce of the ground bread, which must become fat and oily.  Your livestock will graze in that day in a spacious pasture.  And the cattle and the full-grown asses cultivating the ground will eat fodder seasoned with sorrel, which was winnowed with the shovel  and with the fork."  (Isaiah 30:23, 24)  "Fat and oily" bread-food rich in nourishment -will be man's daily staple.  The land will produce so abundantly that even the animals  will benefit.  Livestock will be fed "fodder seasoned  with sorrel"-tasty fodder reserved for rare occasions.  This food has even been "winnowed"-a treatment normally reserved for grain intended for human consumption.  What delightful details Isaiah presents here to illustrate the richness of Jehovah's blessing on faithful mankind!

"Upon every high mountain and upon every elevated hill there must come to be streams."  (Isaiah 30:25a)  Isaiah presents an apt word picture emphasizing the completeness of Jehovah's blessings.  No shortage of water-a precious commodity that will flow not only in the lowlands but on every mountain, even 'upon every high mountain and upon every elevated hill."  Yes, hunger will be a thing of the past.  (Psalm 72:16)  Further, the prophet's attention shifts to things even higher than  the mountains.  "The light of the full moon and must become as the light of the glowing sun; and the very light of the glowing sun will become seven times as much, like the light of seven days, in the day that
Jehovah binds up the breakdown of his people and heals even  the severe wound resulting from the stroke by him."  ((Isaiah 30:26)  What a thrilling climax to this brilliant prophecy!  The glory of God will shine forth in all its splendor.  The blessing in store for God's faithful worshipers will exceed vastly -sevenfold-anything that they have experience before. 

Next time: Judgment and Joy

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

Hear God's Guiding Voice by Reading His Word

As Isaiah continue his address, he reminds his listeners that distress will come.  The people will receive "bread in the form of distress and water in the form of oppression." (Isaiah 30:20a)  The distress and  oppression that they will experience when under siege will become as familiar as bread and water.  Even so, Jehovah is ready to come to the rescue of righthearted ones.  "Your Grand instructor will no longer hide himself, and your eyes must become eyes seeing your Grand instructor.  And your own ears will hear a word behind you saying:  'This is the way.  Walk in it, you people,' in case you people should go to the right or in case you should go to the left." -Isaiah 30:20b, 21.

Jehovah is the "Grand Instructor."  He has no equal as a teacher.  How, though, can people "see" and "hear" him?   Jehovah reveals himself through his prophets, whose words are recorded in the Bible.  (Amos 3:6, 7) Today, when faithful worshipers read the Bible, it is as if God's fatherly voice is telling them the way to go and urging them to readjust their course of conduct so as to walk in it.  Each Christian should listen carefully as Jehovah speaks through the pages of the Bible and through Bible-based publications provided by "the faithful and discreet slave."  (Matthew 24:45-47) Let each on apply himself to the Bible reading, for 'it means his life.' -Deuteronomy 32:46, 47; Isaiah 48:17.

Next time: Contemplate Future Blessings

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

Jehovah Comforts His People by Answering Prayers

Some, though, may feel discouraged because deliverance has not come as soon as they had hoped.  (Proverbs 13:12; 2 Peter 3:9) May they draw comfort from Isaiah's next words, which highlights a special aspect of Jehovah's personality. "When the very people in Zion will dwell in Jerusalem, you will by no means weep.  He will without fail show you favor at the sound of your outcry; as soon as he hears it he will actually answer you."  (Isaiah 30:19)   Isaiah conveys tenderness in these words by switching from the plural "you"  in verse 18 to the singular "you" in verse 19.  When Jehovah comforts distressed ones, he treats each person individually. As a Father, he does not ask a discouraged son, 'Why can't you be strong like your brother?'  (Galatians 6:4) Instead, he listens attentively to each one.  In fact, "as soon  as he hears it he will actually answer."  What reassuring words! Discouraged ones can be greatly strengthened if they pray to Jehovah. -Psalm 65:2.

Next time: Hear God's Voice by Reading His Word

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

Comfort Amid Condemnation

 While these sobering words are still echoing in the ears of Isaiah's listeners, the tone of his message changes.  Threat of disaster gives way to a promise of blessings.  "Therefore Jehovah will keep in expectation of showing you favor, and therefore he will rise up to show you mercy.  For Jehovah is a God of judgment.  Happy are all those keeping in expectation of him."  (Isaiah 30:18)  What heartening words!  Jehovah is a compassionate Father who yearns to help his children.  He delights in showing mercy. -Psalm 103:13; Isaiah 55:7.

These reassuring words apply to the Jewish remnant who are mercifully allowed to survive the destruction of Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E. and to the few who return to the Promised Land in 537 B.C.E.  However, the prophet's words also comfort Christians today.  We are reminded that Jehovah will "rise up" in our behalf, bringing an end to this wicked world.  Faithful worshipers can be confident that Jehovah-"a God of judgment"-will not allow Satan's world to exist for one day longer than justice requires.  Therefore, "those keeping in expectation of him" have much reason to be happy.

Next time: Jehovah Comforts His People by Answering Prayers

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

Jehovah's Offer Rejected

For Isaiah's listeners though, destruction is not inevitable.  There is a way out.  The prophet explains:  "This is what the Sovereign Lord Jehovah, the Holy One of Israel, has said:  'By coming back and resting you people will be saved.  Your mightiness will prove  to be simply in keeping undisturbed  and in trustfulness.' "  (Isaiah 30:15a)   Jehovah is ready to save his people-if they show faith by "resting," or refraining from trying to secure salvation through human alliances, and by "keeping undisturbed," or demonstrating trust in God's protective power by not giving way to fear.  "But," Isaiah tells the people, "you were not willing." -Isaiah 30:15b.

Isaiah then elaborates:  "And you proceeded to say:  'No, but on horses we shall flee!'  That is why you will flee.  'And on swift horses we shall ride!'  That is why those pursuing you will show themselves swift."  (Isaiah 30:16) The Judeans think that swift horses, rather than Jehovah, will mean their salvation.  (Deuteronomy 17:16; Proverbs  21:31)  However, counters the prophet, their trust will be an illusion because their enemies will overtake them.  Even large numbers will not help them.  "A thousand will tremble on account of the rebuke of one; on account of the rebuke of the five you will flee."  (Isaiah 30:17a) The armies  of Judah will panic and flee at the shout of just a handful of the enemy.  In the end, only a remnant will remain, left alone, "like a mast on the top of a mountain and like signal on a hill."  (Isaiah 30:17b) True to the prophecy, when Jerusalem is destroyed in 607 B.C.E., only a remnant survive. -Jeremiah 25:8-11.

Next time: Comfort Amid Condemnation

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

The Consequences of Rebellion

Judah has rejected God's word, trusted in a lie, and relied upon "what is devious."  (Isaiah 30:12b) What will be the consequences? Jehovah, instead of leaving the scene as the nation wishes, will cause the nation to cease to exist!  This will happen suddenly and completely, as Isaiah stresses with an illustration.  The rebelliousness of the nation is like "a broken section about to fall down, a swelling out in a highly raised wall, the breakdown of which may come suddenly, in an instant.'  (Isaiah 30:13)  Just as a growing bulge in a high wall will eventually cause the wall to collapse, so the increasing rebelliousness of Isaiah's contemporaries will cause the collapse of the nation. 

With another illustration  Isaiah shows the completeness of the coming destruction:  "One will certainly break it as in the breaking of a large jar of the potters, crushed to pieces without one's sparing it, so that there cannot  be found among its crushed pieces a fragment of earthenware with which to rake the fire from the fireplace or to skim water from a marshy place."  (Isaiah 30:14)   Judah's destruction will be so complete that nothing of value will remain-not even a potsherd big enough  to scoop hot ashes from a fireplace or to skim water from a marsh.  What a shameful end!  The coming destruction of those who rebel against true worship today will be equally  sudden and complete. -Hebrews 6:4-8; 2 Peter 2:1.

Next time: Jehovah's Offer Rejected

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

Opposition to the Prophet's Message

Jehovah tells Isaiah to write down the message that he has just delivered so that  "It may serve for a future day, for a witness to time indefinite."  (Isaiah 30:8) Jehovah's disapproval of putting alliances with man above reliance on Him must be recorded for the benefit of future generations-including our generation today.  (2 Peter 3:1-4)  But there is a more immediate need for a written record.   "It is  a rebellious people, untruthful sons, sons who have been unwilling to hear the law of Jehovah." (Isaiah 30:9) The people have rejected God's counsel.  Hence, it must be written down so that later they cannot deny that they received a proper warning. -Proverbs 28:9; Isaiah 8:1, 2.

Isaiah now offers an example of the people's rebellious attitude.  They "have said to the one seeing, 'You must not see,' and the ones having visions, 'You must not envision for us any straightforward things.  Speak to us smooth things; envision deceptive things.' "  (Isaiah 30:10)  By ordering faithful prophets to stop speaking what is "straightforward," or true, and to speak  instead of what  is "smooth" and  "deceptive," or false, the leaders of Judah show that they want to have their ears tickled.  They want to be praised, not condemned.  In their opinion, any prophet not willing to prophesy according to their taste should "turn aside from the way; deviate from the path."  (Isaiah 30:11a)  He should either speak ear-pleasing things or stop preaching altogether!

Isaiah's opponents insist:  "Cause the Holy One of Israel to cease just on account of us." (Isaiah 30:11b)  Let Isaiah stop speaking in the name of Jehovah, "the Holy One of Israel!"  This very title irritates them because Jehovah's exalted standards show up their contemptible condition.  How does Isaiah react?  He declares:  "This is what the Holy One of Israel has said." (Isaiah 30:12a)  Without hesitation, Isaiah speaks the very words his opposers hate to hear.  He will not be intimidated.  What  fine example for us!  When it comes to proclaiming  God's message, Christians must never compromise.  (Acts 5:27-29) Like Isaiah they keep on proclaiming:  'This is what Jehovah has said'!

Next time: The Consequences of Rebellion

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

Folly and Fatality

For some time the leaders of Judah have been scheming in secret to find a way to avoid coming under the yoke of Assyria.  However, Jehovah has been watching.  Now he exposed their scheme:  " 'Woe  to the stubborn sons,'  is the utterance of Jehovah, 'those disposed to carry out counsel, but not that from me; and to pour out a libation, but not with my spirit, in order to add sin to sin; those who are setting out to go down  to Egypt.' " -Isaiah 30:1, 2.

What a shock for those scheming leaders to hear their plan revealed!  Traveling to Egypt in order to make an alliance  with her is more than hostile action against Assyria; it is rebellion against Jehovah God.  In the time of King David, the nation looked to Jehovah as a stronghold and took refuge  'in the shadow of his wings.'  (Psalm 27:1; 36:7) Now they "Take shelter in the stronghold of Pharaoh"  and "take refuse in the shadow of Egypt."  (Isaiah 30:2b)  They have put Egypt in the place of God! What treason!  Read Isaiah 30:3-5.

As  if to answer  any suggestion that the mission to Egypt is merely a casual visit, Isaiah gives more details.  "The pronouncement against the beasts of the south:  Through the land of distress, and hard conditions, of the lion and the leopard growling, of the viper and the flying fiery snake, on the shoulders of full-grown asses they carry their resources, and on the humps of camels their supplies."  (Isaiah 30:6a)  Clearly, the journey is well planned.  Envoys organize a caravan of camels and asses, which they load with costly goods and lead down to Egypt through a barren wilderness infested with growling lions and venomous snakes. Finally, they envoys reach their destination and hand their treasures to the Egyptians.  They have bought protection-or so they think.   However, Jehovah says:  "In behalf of the people they will prove of no benefit.  And the Egyptians are mere vanity, and they will help simply for nothing.  Therefore I have called this one:  'Rahab-they are for sitting still.' "  (Isaiah 30:6b, 7)  "Rahab, " a "sea monster," came to symbolize Egypt.  (Isaiah 51:9, 10)  She promises everything but does nothing.  Judah's alliance with her is a fatal mistake.

As Isaiah describes the journey of the envoys, his listeners may remember a similar journey made in the days of Moses.  Their forefathers walked through that very same "fear-inspiring wilderness."  (Deuteronomy 8:14-16)  In Moses' day, however, the Israelites were traveling away from Egypt and out of bondage.  This time the envoys travel to Egypt and, effective into subjection.  What folly!  May we never make such a bad decision and exchange our spiritual freedom for slavery! -Compare Galatians 5:1.

Next time: Opposition to the Prophet's Message

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

Keep in Expectation of Jehovah, Chapter Twenty-Three

IN ISAIAH chapter 30, we read further divine pronouncements against the wicked.  Nevertheless, this part of Isaiah's prophecy highlights some of Jehovah's heart-warming qualities.  In fact, Jehovah's characteristics are described  in such vivid terms that we can, as it were, see his comforting presence, hear his guiding voice, and feel his healing touch. -Isaiah 30"20, 21, 26.

Even so, Isaiah's countrymen, the apostate inhabitants of Judah, refuse to return to Jehovah.  Instead, they put their trust in man.  How does Jehovah feel about this?  And how does this part of Isaiah's prophecy help Christians today to keep in expectation of Jehovah?  (Isaiah 30:18)  Let us find out.

Next time: Folly and Fatality

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

"Deaf Ones Will Certainly Hear"

However, there is salvation for individuals who exercise faith.  (Read Isaiah 29:17-24; compare Luke 7:22)  "Deaf ones" will "hear the words of the book," the message from God's Word.  Yes, this is not a healing of physical deafness.  It is a spiritual healing.  Isaiah once again points forward to the establishment of the Messianic Kingdom and the restoration of pure worship on earth by the Messiah's rule.  This has taken place in our time, and millions of sincere ones are allowing themselves  to be corrected by Jehovah and are learning to praise him.  What a thrilling fulfillment! Ultimately, the day will come  when everyone, every breathing thing, will praise Jehovah and sanctify his holy name. -Psalm 150:6.

What do such "deaf ones" who hear God's Word today learn?  That all Christians, especially those to whom the congregation looks as examples, must scrupulously avoid 'going astray because of intoxicating liquor.'  (Isaiah 28:7)  Further, we  must never tire of hearing God's reminders which help us to have a spiritual viewpoint of all things.  While Christians are properly subject to governmental authorities and look to them to provide certain services, salvation comes, not from the secular world, but from Jehovah God. Also, we must never forget that like the judgment on apostate Jerusalem, God's judgment on this generation is inescapable.  With Jehovah's help we can continue to proclaim  his warning despite opposition, as did Isaiah. -Isaiah 28:14, 22; Matthew 24:34; Romans 13:1-4.

Elders and parents can learn from the way Jehovah administers discipline, always seeking to restore wrongdoers to God's favor, not merely  to punish them.  (Isaiah 28:26-29; compare Jeremiah 30"11) And all of us, including young people, are reminded of how vital  it is to be serving Jehovah from the heart, not just going through the motions of being  a Christian in order to please men.  (Isaiah 29:13) We must show that unlike the faithless inhabitants of Judah, we have a wholesome fear of Jehovah and a profound respect for him.  (Isaiah 29:16) Moreover, we need to show that we are willing to be corrected by and to learn from Jehovah. -Isaiah 29:24.

How important it is to have faith and confidence in Jehovah and in his way of doing things!  (Compare Psalm 146:3)  To most, the warning message we preach will sound childish.  The prospective destruction of an organization, Christendom, that claims to serve God is a strange, an unusual concept.   But Jehovah will accomplish his 'strange deed."  Of that, there can be no doubt.  Hence, through the last days of this system of things, God's servants put full trust in his Kingdom and in his appointed King, Jesus Christ.  They know that Jehovah's saving acts-performed along with his 'unusual work'-will bring eternal blessings  to all obedient mankind.

Next time: Keep in Expectation of Jehovah, Chapter Twenty-Three

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

Conclusion of Woe to Jerusalem!

At the time that Isaiah utters this portion of his prophecy, the leaders of Judah do not have faith like that of Hezekiah.  They have drunk themselves into a spiritual stupor by means of their alliances with ungodly nations.  "Linger, you men, and be amazed; blind yourselves, and be blinded.  They have become intoxicated, but not with wine; they have moved unsteadily, but not because of intoxicating liquor."  (Isaiah 29:9)  Spiritually drunk, these leaders are unable to discern the import of the vision given to Jehovah's true prophet.  Isaiah states:  "Upon you men Jehovah has poured a spirit of deep sleep; and he closes your eyes, the prophets and he has covered even your heads, the visionaries.  And for you men the vision of everything becomes lie the words of the book that has been sealed up, which they give to someone knowing the writing, saying: 'Read this out loud, please,' and he has to say:  'I do no know writing at all.' " -Isaiah 29:10-12.

Judah's religious leaders profess to be spiritually discreet, but they have left Jehovah.  They teach instead their own twisted ideas of right and wrong, justifying their faithless and immoral activities and their leading the people into God's disfavor.  By means of "something wonderful"-his 'strange deed' -Jehovah will call them to account for their hypocrisy.  He says: "For the reason that this people have come near with their mouth, and they have glorified me merely with their lips, and they have removed their heart itself far away from me, and their fear toward me becomes men's commandment that is being taught, therefore, here I am, the One that will act wonderfully again with this people, in a wonderful manner and with something wonderful; and the wisdom of their wise men must perish and the very understanding of their discreet men will conceal itself."  (Isaiah 29:13, 14)   Judah's self-styled wisdom and understanding will perish when Jehovah maneuvers things for her entire apostate religious system to be wiped out by the Babylonian World Power.  The same thing happened in the first century after the self-styled  wise leaders of the Jews led the nation astray.  Something similar will happen in our own day to Christendom. -Matthew 15:8, 9; Romans 11:8.

For now, however, the bragging leaders of Judah believe that they are clever enough to get away with their perversion of true worship.  Are they? Isaiah tears off their  mask, exposing them as having no genuine fear of God and thus not true wisdom: "Woe to those who are going very deep in concealing counsel from Jehovah himself, and whose deeds  have occurred in  a dark place, while they say:  'Who is seeing us, and who is knowing of us?  The perversity of you men! should the potter himself be accounted just like the clay?  For should the thing made say respecting its maker:  'He did not make me'?  And does the very thing formed actually say respecting its former:  'He showed no understanding?'?"  (Isaiah 209:15, 16; compare Psalm 111:10)  No matter how well concealed  they think they are, they stand "naked and openly exposed" to the eyes of God. -Hebrews 4:13.

Next time: "Deaf Ones Will Certainly Hear"

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

Woe to Jerusalem!

What, though, is Jehovah now speaking about?  "Woe to Ariel, to Ariel, the town where David encamped!  Add year upon year, you people; let the festivals run the round. And I have to make things tight for Ariel, and there must come to be mourning and lamentation, and she must become to me as the altar hearth of God."  (Isaiah 29:1, 2) "Ariel" possibly means "The Altar Hearth of God," and here it evidently refers to Jerusalem.  That is where the temple with its altar of sacrifice is located.  The Jews follow the routine of holding festivals and offering sacrifices there, but Jehovah takes no pleasure in their worship.  (Hosea 6:6)  Rather, he decrees that the city itself is to become an "altar hearth" in a different sense.  Like an altar, it will run with blood and be subjected  to fire.  Jehovah even describes how this will happen:  "I must encamp on all sides against you, and I must lay siege  to you with a palisade and raise up against you siegeworks. And you  must become low so that your saying will sound low."  (Isaiah 29:3, 4)  This is fulfilled for Judah and Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E. when the Babylonian army besieges and destroys the city and burns the temple.  Jerusalem is brought down as low as the ground on which she was built. 

Before that fateful time, Judah does from time to time have a king who obeys Jehovah's Law.  What then?  Jehovah fights for his people. Even though the enemy may cover the land, the become like "fine powder"  and "chaff." In his due time, Jehovah disperses them "with thunder and with quaking and with a great sound, storm wind and tempest, and the flame of a devouring fire." -Isaiah 29:5, 6.

Hostile armies may eagerly anticipate sacking Jerusalem and gorging themselves on the spoils of war.  But they are in for a rude awakening!  like a starving man who dreams that he is feasting and then wakes up as hungry as ever, the enemies of Judah will not enjoy the feast that they so eagerly anticipate.  (Read Isaiah 29:7, 8)  Consider what happens to the Assyrian army under Sennacherib when it threatens Jerusalem in faithful King Hezekiah's day.  (Isaiah, chapters 36 and 37) In one night, without a human band being raised , the fear-inspiring Assyrian war machine is turned back-185,000of its valiant warriors dead!  Dreams of conquest will again be frustrated when the war machine of Gog of Magog gears up against Jehovah's people in the near future. -Ezekiel 38:10-12; 39: 6, 7. 

Next time: Conclusion of Woe to Jerusalem!

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

Jehovah's 'Strange Deed'

The final outcome of affairs will be completely contrary to what Judah's religious leaders are hoping for.  Jehovah will do something strange to the spiritual drunkards of Judah.  "Judah will rise up just as at Mount Perazim, he will be agitated just as in the lower plain near Gibeon, that he may do his deed-his deed is strange-and that he may work his work-his work is unusual."  (Isaiah 28:21)  In the days of King David, Jehovah gave his people notable victories over the Philistines at Mount Perazim and on the low plain of Gibeon.  (1 Chronicles 14:10-16) In the days of Joshua, he even caused the sun to stand still over Gibeon so that the victory of Israel over the Amorites could be complete. (Joshua 10:8-14)  That was must unusual!  Now Jehovah will fight again but this time against those who profess to be his people.  Could anything be more strange or unusual? Not in view of the fact that Jerusalem is the center of Jehovah's worship and the city of Jehovah's anointed king.  Up to now, the royal house of David in Jerusalem has never been overthrown.  Nevertheless, Jehovah will surely carry out his 'strange deed.' -Compare Habakkuk 1:5-7.

Therefore, Isaiah cautions:  "Do not show yourselves scoffers, in order that your hands may not grow strong, for there is a extermination, even something decided upon that I have heard of from the Sovereign Lord, Jehovah of armies, for all the land."  (Isaiah 28:22) Although the leaders scoff, Isaiah's message is true.  He has heard it from Jehovah, with whom those leaders are in a covenant relationship.  Similarly today, the religious leaders  of Christendom scoff when they hear of Jehovah's 'strange deed."  They even rant and rave.  But the message Jehovah's Witnesses proclaim is true.  It is found in the Bible, a book that those leaders claim to represent.

As for sincere individuals who do not follow those leaders, Jehovah will readjust them and restore them to his favor.  (Read Isaiah 28:23-29)  Just as a farmer uses gentler methods to thresh a more delicate grain, such as cumin, so Jehovah adjusts his discipline according to the individual and the circumstances.  He is never arbitrary or heavy-handed but acts with a view to the potential rehabilitation of erring ones.  Yes, if individuals respond to Jehovah's appeal, there is hope.  Similarly today, while the fate of Christendom as a whole is sealed, any individual who subjects himself to Jehovah's Kingdom can avoid the coming adverse judgment.

Next time:  Woe to Jerusalem!

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

"A Covenant With Death"

Isaiah continues his pronouncement:  "You men have said: 'We have concluded with Death; and with Sheol  we have effected a vision; the overflowing flash flood, in case it should pass through, will not come to us, for we have made a lie our refuge and in falsehood we have concealed ourselves.' "
 (Isaiah 28:14, 15)  Judah's leaders brag that their political alliances insulate them from defeat.  They feel that they have made "a covenant with Death" to leave them alone.  But their hollow refuge will not shield them.   Their alliances are a lie, a falsehood. Similarly today, Christendom's close relationship with the leaders of the world will not protect her when Jehovah's time for her accounting comes.  Indeed, it will prove to be her undoing. -Revelation 17:16, 17.

When, then, should these religious leaders be looking! Isaiah now records Jehovah's promise:  "Here I am laying as a foundation in Zion a stone, a tried stone, the precious corner of a sure foundation.  No one exercising faith will get panicky.  And I will make  justice the measuring line and righteousness the leveling instrument; and the hail must sweep away the refuge of a lie, and the waters themselves will flood out the very place of concealment."  (Isaiah 28:16, 17) Not long after Isaiah speaks these words faithful King Hezekiah is enthroned in Zion, and his kingdom is saved, not by neighboring allies, but by Jehovah's intervention. However, these inspired  words are not fulfilled in Hezekiah. The apostle Peter, quoting  Isaiah's words, showed that Jesus Christ, a distant descendant of Hezekiah, is "the tried stone"  and that no one exercising faith in Him need have any fear.  (1 Peter 2:6) How sad that the leaders of Christendom, while calling themselves Christian, have done what Jesus refused to do!  They have sought  prominence and power in this world rather than wait on Jehovah to bring about the Kingdom under Jesus Christ the King. -Matthew 4:8-10.

When "the overflowing flash flood" of Babylon's armies passes through the land, Jehovah will expose Judah's political refuse as the lie that it is.   "Your covenant with Death will certainly be dissolved, " says Jehovah.  "The overflowing  flash flood, when it passes through-you must also become for it a trampling place. As often as it passes through, . . .it must become nothing but a reason for a quaking to make others understand what has been heard."  (Isaiah 28:18, 19)  it is as if they were to lie down to take their ease, but in vain.  Either their feet stick out in the cold or they pull up their legs and the  cover is too narrow to wrap up in to keep warm.  This was the uncomfortable situation in Isaiah's day. And it is  the situation today for any who put their  trust in Christendom's refuge of a lie.  How disgusting that as a result of involving themselves in politics, some of Christendom's religious leaders have found themselves  implicated in such terrible atrocities as ethnic cleansing and genocide!

Next time: Jehovah's 'Strange Deed'

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

Spiritual Drunkards Today

Were Isaiah's prophecies fulfilled only on ancient Israel and Judah?  By no means! Both Jesus and Paul quoted his words and applied them to the nation of their day.   (Isaiah 29:10, 13; Matthew 15:8, 9; Romans 11:8) Today, too, a situation has arisen like that of Isaiah's day.

This time, it is the righteous leaders of Christendom who put their faith in politics.  They stagger about unsteadily, like the drunkards of Israel  and Judah, interfering in political matters, rejoicing at being consulted by the so-called great ones of this world.  Instead of speaking pure Bible truth, the speak uncleanness.  Their spiritual vision is blurred, and they are not safe guides for mankind. -Matthew 15:14.

How do the leaders of Christendom react when Jehovah's Witnesses draw their attention to the only true hope, God's Kingdom?  they do not understand.  To them, the Witnesses seem to be babbling repetitiously, like babes.  The religious leaders look down on these messengers and mock them.  Like the Jews of Jesus' day, they do not want God's Kingdom not do they want their flocks to hear about it. (Matthew 23:13) Hence, they are put  on notice that Jehovah will not always speak by means of his harmless messengers.  The time will come  when those who do not subject themselves to God's Kingdom will be "broken and ensnared and caught," yes, utterly destroyed.

Next time: "A Covenant With Death"

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

"They Have Gone Astray"

The day of reckoning for Samaria comes in 740 B.C.E. when the Assyrians devastate the land and the northern kingdom ceases to exist as an independent nation.  What about Judah? Her land will be invaded by Assyria, and later Babylon will destroy her capital city.  But during Isaiah's lifetime, Judah's temple and priesthood will remain in operation and her prophets continue to prophesy.  Should Judah gloat over the coming demise of her northern neighbor?  Certainly not! Jehovah will also settle accounts with Judah and her leaders for their disobedience  and lack of faith.

Directing his message to Judah, Isaiah continues:  "And these also-because of wine they have gone astray and because of intoxicating liquor they have wandered about. Priest and prophet-they have gone astray because of intoxicating liquor, they have become confused as a result of the wine, they have wandered about as  a result of the intoxicating liquor; they have gone astray in their seeing, they have reeled as to decision.  For the tables themselves have become full of filthy vomit-there is no place without it."  (Isaiah 28:7, 8)  How disgusting!  Literal drunkenness in God's house would be bad enough.  But these priests and prophets are spiritually intoxicated-their minds beclouded by overconfidence in their human alliances.  They have deceived themselves into thinking  that their course is the only practical one, perhaps believing that they now have a backup plan in case Jehovah's protection proves inadequate.  In their spiritually inebriated state, these religious leaders spew out revolting, unclean expressions that betray their grievous lack of genuine faith in God's promises.

How do Judah's leaders react to Jehovah's warning?  They mock Isaiah, accusing him of speaking to them as if they were infants:  "Whom will one instruct in knowledge, and whom  will one make understand what has been heard?  Those who have been weaned from the milk, those moved away from the breasts?  For it is 'command upon command, command upon command, measure line upon measuring line, measuring line upon measuring line, here a little, there a little.' " (Isaiah 28:9, 10) How repetitious and strange Isaiah sounds to them!  he keeps repeating himself, saying: 'This is what Jehovah has commanded! This is what Jehovah has commanded!  This is Jehovah's standard!  This is Jehovah's standard!  But Jehovah will soon "speak" to the inhabitants of Judah by means of action.  He will send against them the armies of Babylon-foreigners who really  do speak a different language.  Those armies will certainly carry out Jehovah's  "command upon command," and Judah will fall. -Read Isaiah 28:11-13.

Next time: Spiritual Drunkards Today

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

"The Drunkards of Ephraim"

Isaiah begins his prophecy with startling words:  "Woe to the eminent crown of the drunkards of Ephraim, and the fading blossom of its decoration of beauty that is upon the head of the fertile valley of those overpowered by wine!  Look!  Jehovah has someone strong and vigorous.  Like a thunderous storm of hail, . . .he will certainly do a casting down to the earth with force.  With the feet the eminent crowns of the drunkards of Ephraim will be trampled down." -Isaiah 28:1-3.

Ephraim, the most prominent of the ten northern tribes, has come to stand for the entire kingdom of Israel.  Its capital, Samaria, enjoys a beautiful and commanding location at "the head of the fertile valley."  Ephraim's leaders are proud of their "eminent crown," of independence from the Davidic kingship in Jerusalem.  But they are "drunkards," spiritually inebriated because of their alliance with Syria against Judah. Everything they cherish is about to be trampled under the feet of invaders. -Compare Isaiah 29:9.

Ephraim does not realize its precarious position.  Isaiah continues:  "The fading flower of its decoration of beauty that is upon the head of the fertile valley must become like the early fig before summer, that, when the seer sees it, while it is yet in his palm, he swallows it down."  (Isaiah 28:4)  Ephraim will fall into the hand of Assyria, a sweet morsel to be consumed in a single bite.  Is there no hope, then?  Well, as is so often the case, Isaiah's judgment prophecies are tempered with hope.  Even though the nation falls, faithful individuals will survive, with Jehovah's help.  "Jehovah of armies will become as a crown of decoration and as a garland of beauty to the ones remaining over of his people, and as a spirit of justice to the one sitting in the judgment, and as mightiness to those turning away the battle from the gate." -Isaiah 28:5, 6.

Next time: "They Have Gone Astray"

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

Isaiah Foretells Jehovah's 'Strange Deed'

FOR a brief moment, Israel and Judah feel secure.  Their leaders have forged political alliances with larger, more powerful nations, in an effort to find safety in a dangerous world.  Samaria, the capital of Israel, has turned to neighboring as Syria, while Jerusalem, the capital of Judah, has rested her hope on ruthless Assyria.

In addition to putting their trust in new political allies, some in the northern kingd0om may expect Jehovah to protect them-despite their continuing  to use golden calves in worship.  Judah is likewise  convinced that she can count on Jehovah's protection.  After all, is not Jehovah's temple located in Jerusalem, their capital city?  But there are unexpected events ahead for both nations.  Jehovah  inspires Judah to foretell developments that will seem truly strange to his wayward people.  And his words contain vital lessons for everyone today.

Next time: "The Drunkards of Ephraim"

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

"A Vineyard of Foaming Wine"

With another song, Isaiah now beautifully illustrates the fruitfulness of Jehovah's freed people:  "In that day sing to her, you people: 'A vineyard of foaming wine!  I, Jehovah, am safeguarding her.  Every moment I shall water her. In order that no one turn his attention against her, I shall safeguard her even night and day.' " ( Isaiah 27:2, 3) The remnant of spiritual Israel and their hardworking associates have indeed filled the entire earth with spiritual produce.  What a cause for celebration-for song! All credit goes to Jehovah, the one lovingly attending to his vineyard. -Compare John 15:1-8.

Truly, Jehovah's earlier anger has been replaced by joy!  "There is no rage that I have. Who will give me thorn bushes and weeds in the battle?  I will step on such. I will set such on fire at the same time.  Otherwise let him take hold of my stronghold, let him make peace with me; peace let him make with me." (Isaiah 27:4, 5)  To ensure  that his vines continue  to produce an abundance of "foaming wine," Jehovah crushes and consumes as will fire any weed like influence that could corrupt his vineyard. Hence, let no one endanger the welfare of the Christian congregation!  Rather, let all  'take hold of Jehovah's stronghold,' seeking his favor and protection. In so doing, they make peace with God-something so important that Isaiah mentions it twice.  The result?  "In the coming days Jacob will take root, Israel will put forth blossoms and actually sprout; and they will simply fill the surface of  the productive land with produce."  (Isaiah 27:6)  What wonderful evidence of Jehovah's power the fulfillment of this verse is!  Since 1919, anointed Christians have filled the earth with "produce," nourishing spiritual food.  As a result, they have come to be joined by millions of loyal other sheep, who together with them "are rendering [God] sacred service day and night."  (Revelation 7:15)  In the midst of a corrupt world, these joyfully maintain his elevated standards. And Jehovah continues to bless them with increase.  May we never lose sight of the grand privilege of partaking of "produce"  and sharing it with other through our own shout of praise!

Next time: Isaiah Foretells Jehovah's 'Strange Deed', Chapter Twenty-Two

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

"They Will Rise Up"

Isaiah returns to the situation facing Judah while she is still captive to Babylon.  He compares  the nation to a woman who is in labor but who without help is unable to give birth.  (Read Isaiah 26:17, 18)   That help comes in 537  B.C.E., and Jehovah's people return to their homeland, eager to rebuild the temple and restore true worship.  In effect, the nation is raised from the dead.  "Your dead ones will live.  A corpse of mine-they will rise up. Awake and cry out joyfully, you residents in the dust! For your dew is as the dew of mallows, and the earth itself will let even those impotent in death drop in birth."  (Isaiah 26:19)  What  a demonstration of Jehovah's power!  Further, what a great demonstration there was when these words were fulfilled in a spiritual sense in 1919!  (Revelation 11:7-11) And how we look forward to the time when these words are fulfilled in a literal way the new world and those important in death 'hear Jesus' voice and come out' from the memorial tombs! -John 5:28, 29.

However, if faithful ones are to enjoy the spiritual blessings promised through Isaiah, they must obey Jehovah's commands:  "Go, my people, enter into your interior rooms, and shut your doors behind you.  Hide yourself for but a moment until the denunciation passes over.  For, look! Jehovah is coming forth from his place to call to account the error of the inhabitant of the land against him, and the land will certainly expose her bloodshed and will no longer cover over her killed ones."  (Isaiah 26:20, 21; compare Zephaniah 1:14)  This passage may have an initial fulfillment  when the Medes and the Persians, led by King Cyrus, conquer Babylon in 539 B.C.E. According to the Greek historian Xenophon, when Cyrus enters Babylon, he commands everyone to stay in their homes because his cavalry has "orders to cut down all whom they found out of doors."  Today, the "interior rooms" of this prophecy could be closely linked with the tens of thousands of congregations of Jehovah's people around the world.   Such congregations will continue to play a key role in our lives, even through "the great tribulation." (Revelation 7:14)  How vital that we maintain  a wholesome attitude toward the congregation and regularly associate with it!

Soon the end will come for Satan's world.  How Jehovah will protect his people during that fear-inspiring time, we do not yet know. (Zephaniah 2:3)  However, we do know that our survival will depend on our faith in Jehovah and our loyalty and obedience to him.

Looking toward time, Isaiah prophesies:  "In that day Jehovah, with his hard and great and strong sword will turn his attention to Leviathan, the gliding serpent, even  to Leviathan the crooked serpent, and he ill certainly kill the sea monster that is in the sea."  (Isaiah 27:1) In the initial fulfillment, "Leviathan" refers to the countries to which Israel has been scattered, such as Babylon, Egypt, and Assyria.  These countries will be unable to prevent the return of Jehovah's people to their homeland at the proper time.  Who, though, is the modern-day Leviathan?  It appears  to be Satan-"the original serpent"-and his wicked system of things here on earth, his tool for warring against spiritual Israel.  (Revelation 12:9, 10; 13:14,. 16, 17, 18:24) "Leviathan" lost his hold on God's people in 1919, and soon he will disappear altogether when Jehovah will" certainly kill the  sea monster."  Meantime, nothing "Leviathan" may try to do against Jehovah's people will have real success. -Isaiah 54:17.

Next time: "A Vineyard of Foaming Wine"

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

"Whom Jehovah Loves He Disciplines"

Isaiah knows that any peace and prosperity that his fellow countrymen enjoy is due to Jehovah's blessing. "O Jehovah, you will adjudge peace to us, because even all our works you have performed for us."  (Isaiah 26:12) In spite of this and in spite of Jehovah's  having set before his people the opportunity to become  "a kingdom of priests and a holy nation," Judah has had a checkered history.   (Exodus 19:6) Repeatedly, her people have turned to the worship of false gods. As a result, time after time they have been disciplined.  Such discipline, however, is evidence of Jehovah's love because "whom Jehovah loves he disciplines." -Hebrews 12:6.

Often, Jehovah disciplines his people by allowing other nations, "other masters," to dominate them.  (Read Isaiah 26:13)  In 607 B.C.E., he allows the Babylonian's  to take them into exile.  Does this benefit them?  Suffering in itself does not benefit a person. However, if the sufferer learns from what happens, repents, and gives Jehovah exclusive devotion, then he benefits.  (Deuteronomy 4:25-31)  Do any Jews show godly repentance?  Yes!  Isaiah says prophetically:  "By you only shall we make mention of your name." After their return from exile in 537 B.C.E., the Jews often need discipline for other sins, but they never again fall prey to worshiping gods of stone.

What of Judah's captors?  "Impotent in death, they will not rise up.  Therefore you have turned your attention that you  might annihilate them and destroy all mention of them." (Isaiah 26:14) Babylon will suffer for the cruelties visited upon Jehovah's chosen nation. By means of the Medes and the Persians, Jehovah will overturn proud Babylon and free his exiled people.  That great city Babylon, will be rendered impotent, as good as dead.  Eventually, she will cease to exist.

In the modern fulfillment, a remnant of chastened spiritual Israel was set free from Babylon the Great and restored to Jehovah's service in 1919.  Revitalized, anointed Christians threw themselves into their preaching work.  (Matthew 24:14)  In turn, Jehovah has blessed them with increase, even bringing in a great crowd of "other sheep"  to serve with them.  (John 10:16) "You have added to the nation; O Jehovah, you have added to the nation; you have glorified yourself.  You have extended afar all the borders of the land. O Jehovah, during distress they have turned their attention to you; they have poured out a whisper of prayer when they had your disciplining." -Isaiah 26:15, 16.

Next time: "They Will Rise Up"

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

Desiring Righteousness and Jehovah's "Memorial"

After this triumphant song, Isaiah reveals the depth of his own devotion and the rewards of serving the God of righteousness.  (Read Isaiah 26:7-9) The prophet provides a fine example of 'hoping in Jehovah' and of having a deep desire for Jehovah's "name" and "memorial."  What is Jehovah's  memorial? Exodus 3:15 says:  "Jehovah is my name to time indefinite, and this is the memorial of me to generation after generation."  Isaiah cherishes Jehovah's name and all that it stands for, including His righteous standards and ways.  Those who cultivate  a similar love for Jehovah are assured of his blessing. -Psalm 5:8; 25:4, 5; 135:13; Hosea 12:5.

Not all, however, love Jehovah and his lofty standards.  (Read Isaiah 26:10) The wicked , even when invited, stubbornly refuse to learn righteousness in order to enter "The land of straightforwardness," the land occupied by Jehovah's  morally and spiritually straightforward servants.  Consequently, the wicked "will not see the eminence of Jehovah."  They will not live to enjoy the blessing that will flow to mankind after Jehovah's name has been sanctified.  Even in the new world, when the whole earth will be a "land of straightforwardness,"  some may fail to respond to Jehovah's loving-kindness.  The names of such ones will not be written in the book of life. -Isaiah 65:20; Revelation 20:12, 15.

"O Jehovah, your hand has become high, but they do not behold it.  They will behold and be ashamed at the zeal for your people.  Yes, the very fire for your own adversaries will eat them up."  (Isaiah 26:11)  In Isaiah's day, the hand of Jehovah has shown itself to be exalted when Jehovah protects his people by acting against their enemies.  Bu most have not recognized this.  Such ones, spiritually blind by choice, will eventually be forced to  "behold," or acknowledge, Jehovah when they are eaten up by the fire of his zeal.  (Zephaniah 1:18)  God later says to Ezekiel:  "They will have to know that I am Jehovah." -Ezekiel 38:23.

Next time: "Whom Jehovah Loves He Disciplines"

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

A Song of Salvation

What of God's people?  Thrilled to have Jehovah's favor and protection, they raise their voices in song:  "In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: 'We have a strong city. He sets salvation itself for walls and rampart.  Open the gates, you men, that the righteous nation that is keeping faithful conduct may enter.' " (Isaiah 26:1, 20)  While these words no doubt had fulfillment in ancient times, they also have a clear fulfillment today.  Jehovah's  "righteous nation," spiritual Israel, is endowed with a strong city like organization.  What a cause for rejoicing for song!

What kind of people come into this "city"?  The song gives the answer:  "The inclination that is well supported you [God] will safeguard in continuous peace, because it is in you that one is made to trust.  Trust in Jehovah, you people, for all times, for in Jah Jehovah is the Rock of times indefinite."  (Isaiah 26:3, 4)  "The inclination" Jehovah supports is the desire to obey his righteous principles and to trust in him, not in the floundering commercial, political, and religious systems of the world.  "Jah Jehovah" is the only reliable Rock of security.  Those having full confidence in Jehovah receive his protection and enjoy "continuous peace." -Proverbs 3:5, 6; Philippians 4:6, 7.

What a contrast to what happens to the enemies of God's people!  "He has laid low those inhabiting the height, the elevated town.  He abases it, he abases it to the earth; he brings in touch with the dust.  The foot will trample it down, the feet of the afflicted one, the steps of the lowly ones."  (Isaiah 36:5, 6) Again, Isaiah may be here referring to an "elevated town" in Moab, or he may mean some other city, such as Babylon, which is certainly elevated in haughtiness.  whatever the case, Jehovah has turned  the tables on "the elevated town," and his  'lowly and afflicted ones"  trample it.  Today this prophecy aptly fits Babylon the Great, particularly Christendom.  In 1919 this "elevated town" was forced to release  Jehovah's people-a humiliating fall-and they, in turn, have taken to trampling upon their old captor.  (Revelation 14:8)  How? By publicly announcing  Jehovah's coming vengeance upon her. -Revelation 8:7-12; 9:14-19.

Next time: Desiring Righteousness and Jehovah's  "Memorial"

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

The Haughty Are Abased

Jehovah saves those of his people who manifest humility.  However, Israel's neighbor Moab is proud, and Jehovah detests pride.  (Proverbs 16:18) Moab, therefore, is slated for humiliation.  "The hand of Jehovah will settle down on this mountain, and Moab must be trodden down in its place as when a straw heap is trodden down in a manure place. And he must slap out his hands in the midst of it as when a swimmer slaps them out to swim, and he must abase its haughtiness with the tricky movements of his hands.  And the fortified city, with your high walls of security, he must lay low; he must abase it, bring into contact with the earth, to the dust." -Isaiah 25:10-12.

Jehovah's hand will "settle down" on the mountain of Moab.  The result?  Haughty Moab is to be slapped and trodden down  as "in a manure place."  In Isaiah's time, straw is trampled into piles of dung to make fertilizer; so Isaiah foretells humiliation for Moab, despite her high seemingly secure walls.

Why does Jehovah single out Moab for such harsh counsel?  the Moabites are descendants of Lot, the nephew of Abraham and a worshiper of Jehovah.  Thus, they are not only neighbors of God's covenant nation but also relatives. Despite this, they have adopted false gods and manifested hard-set enmity toward Israel.  They deserve their fate.  In this, Moab is like the enemies of Jehovah's servants today.  She is especially like Christendom, which claims to have roots in the first-century Christian congregation but which, as seen earlier, is the principal part of Babylon the Great.

Next time: A Song of Salvation

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

'A Banquet for All the Peoples'

Like a loving father, Jehovah not only protects but also feeds his children, especially in a spiritual way. After liberating his people in 1919, he set before them a victory banquet, an abundant supply of spiritual food:  "Jehovah of armies will certainly make for all the peoples, in this mountain a banquet of well-oiled dishes, a banquet of wine kept on the dregs of well-oiled dishes filled with marrow of wind kept on the dregs, filtered." -Isaiah 25"6.

The banquet is spread in Jehovah's "mountain."  What is this mountain?  It is "the mountain of the house of Jehovah" to which all nations stream "in the final part of the days."  It is Jehovah's  "holy mountain," where his faithful worshipers do no harm and cause no ruin.  (Isaiah 2:2; 11:9)  In this elevated place of worship, Jehovah spreads his lush banquet for faithful ones.  And the spiritual good things now supplied  so generously foreshadow the physical good things that will be provided when God's Kingdom becomes the sole government of mankind. Then hunger will be no more.  "There will come to be plenty of grain on the earth; on the top of the mountains there will be an overflow." -Psalm 72:8, 16.

Those who now partake of the divinely provided spiritual feast have glorious prospects.  Listen to Isaiah's next words.  Comparing sin and death to a suffocating  "woven work," or "envelopement," he says:  "In this mountain [Jehovah] will certainly swallow up the face of the envelopement that is enveloping over all the peoples, and the woven work that is interwoven upon all the nations.  He will actually swallow up death forever, and the Sovereign Lord Jehovah will certainly wipe the tears from all faces." -Isaiah 25:7, 8a.

Yes, no more sin and death! (Revelation 21:3, 4) Moreover, the lying reproach that Jehovah's servants have endured for thousands of years will also be done away with. "The reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth, for Jehovah himself has spoken it." (Isaiah 25:8b)  How will this happen?  Jehovah will remove the source of that reproach, Satan and his seed.  (Revelation 20:1-3)  Little wonder that God's people will be moved to exclaim:  "Look! This is our God.  We have hoped in him, and he will save us.  This is Jehovah. we have hoped in him.  Let us be joyful and rejoice in the salvation by him. -Isaiah 25:9.

Next time: The Haughty Are Abased

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

Jehovah's Hand Becomes High, Chapter Twenty-One

ISAIAH has deep love for Jehovah and delights in praising him.  He cries out:  "O Jehovah, you are my God. I exalt you, I laud your name."  What helps the prophet to have such fine appreciation for his Creator?  A major factor is his knowledge of Jehovah and of his activities.  Isaiah's next words reveal this knowledge:  "For you have done wonderful things, counsels from early times, in faithfulness, in trustworthiness."  (Isaiah 25:1)  Like Joshua before him, Isaiah knows that Jehovah is faithful and trustworthy and that all his "counsels"-the things he purposes-come true. -Joshua 23:14.

The counsels of Jehovah include his judgment declaration against Israel's enemies. Isaiah now pronounces one of these:  "You have made a city a pile of stones, a fortified town a crumbling ruin, a dwelling tower of strangers to be no city, which will not be rebuilt even to time indefinite."  (Isaiah 25:2)  What is the unnamed city?  Isaiah may be referring to Ar of Moab-Moab has long  been at enmity with God's people.  Or that he may be refereeing to another, stronger city-Babylon. -Isaiah 15:1; Zephaniah 2:8, 9.

How will Jehovah's enemies react when his counsel against their strong city comes true?  "Those  who are a strong people will glorify you; the town of the tyrannical nations, they will fear you."  (Isaiah 25:3)   It is understandable that the enemies of the almighty God will fear him.  How, though, do they glorify him?  Will they abandon their false gods and adopt pure worship?  Hardly! Rather, like Pharaoh and Nebuchadnezzar, they glorify Jehovah when they are compelled  to recognize his overwhelming superiority. -Exodus 10:16, 17; 12:30-33; Daniel 4:37.

Today "the town of the tyrannical nations" is "the great city that has a kingdom over the kings of the earth," namely, Babylon the Great," the world empire of false religion.  (Revelation 17:5, 18) The principal part of this empire is Christendom.  How do the religious leaders of Christendom glorify Jehovah?  By bitterly conceding the wonderful things he has accomplished in behalf of his Witnesses.  Particularly in 1919 when Jehovah restored his servants to dynamic  activity after their release  from spiritual captivity to Babylon the Great, these leaders  "became frightened and gave glory to the God of heaven." -Revelation 11:13.

Although fearsome when viewed by his enemies, Jehovah is a refuge to the meek and humble who want to serve him.  Religious and political tyrants may try everything to break the faith of true worshipers, but they fail because these have absolute confidence in Jehovah.  Eventually, he easily silences his opposers , doing so as if he were covering the burning desert sun with a cloud or blocking the force of a rainstorm with a wall. -Read Isaiah 25:4, 5.

Next time: 'A Banquet for All the Peoples'

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

Jehovah Will Reign in Glory

Isaiah's prophecy now takes on a greater scope, pointing to the final outworking of Jehovah's purpose:  "It must occur in that day that Jehovah  will turn his attention  upon the army of the height in the height, and upon the kings of the ground upon the ground.  And they will certainly be gathered with a gathering as of prisoners into the pit, and be shut up in the dungeon; and after an abundance of days they will be given attention. And the full moon has become abashed, and the glowing sun has become ashamed, for Jehovah of armies has become king in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem and in front of  his elderly men with glory." -Isaiah 24:21-23.

"The army of the height" may refer to the demonic "world rulers of the darkness, . . .the wicked spirit forces in the heavenly places."  (Ephesians 6:12) These have had a powerful influence on the world powers.  (Daniel 10:13, 20; 1 John 5:19)  Their goal is to turn people away from Jehovah and his pure worship.  How well they succeed in seducing Israel to follow the corrupt practices of the nations that surround them and thus merit God's divine judgment!  But Satan and his demons must answer to God when he finally turns his attention to them and to the rulers on earth, "the kings of the ground upon the ground,"   whom they have influenced to turn against God and to transgress his laws.  (Revelation 16:13, 14)  Speaking symbolically; Isaiah says that they will be gathered and "shut up in the dungeon." After an abundance of days," perhaps when Satan and his demons (but not "the kings of the ground upon the ground")   are temporarily released at the end of the Thousand Year Reign of Jesus Christ, God will bring upon them the final punishment  they deserve. -Revelation 20:3, 7-10.

This part of Isaiah's prophecy thus left the Jews with a wonderful assurance.  In Jehovah's due time, he would bring about the fall of ancient Babylon and restore the Jews to their homeland. In 537  B.C.E., when he demonstrates his power  and sovereignty in  this way in behalf of his people, it could truly be said to them: "Your God has become King!"  (Isaiah 52:7) In modern times, Jehovah 'became King' in 1914; when he installed Jesus Christ as King in His heavenly Kingdom.  (Psalm 96"10)  He also 'became king' in 1919 when he demonstrated the power of his kingship by liberating spiritual Israel from bondage to Babylon the Great.

Jehovah will again "become king" when he brings an  end to Babylon the Great and the rest of this wicked system of things.  (Zechariah 14:9; Revelation  19:1, 2, 19-21) Afterward, Jehovah's Kingdom rule will be so magnificent that neither  the gleaming full moon at night nor the glowing sun at high noon will match in  glory.  (Compare Revelation 22:5)  They will be ashamed, so to speak, to compare themselves to the glorious Jehovah of armies.  Jehovah will reign supreme.  His almighty power and glory will be manifest to all.  (Revelation 4:8-11; 5:13, 14) What a marvelous prospect!  At that time, the call of Psalm 97:1 will resound throughout the earth in its grandest fulfillment: "Jehovah himself has become king! Let the earth be joyful. Let the many islands rejoice."

Next time: Jehovah's Hand Become High,  Chapter Twenty-One

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

No Escape From Jehovah's Judgment

For now, though, rejoicing is premature.  Isaiah brings his contemporaries back to the present, stating:  "But I say: 'For me there is leanness, for me there is leanness!  Woe to me!  the treacherous dealers have dealt treacherously. Even with treachery the treacherous dealers have dealt treacherously.'  Dread and the hollow and the trap are upon you, you inhabitant of the land. And it must occur that anyone fleeing from the sound of the dreaded thing will fall into the hollow, and anyone coming up  from inside the hollow will be caught in the trap.  For the very floodgates on high will actually be opened, and the foundations of the land will rock.  The land has absolutely   burst apart, the land has  absolutely been shaken up, the land has absolutely been sent staggering.  The land  absolutely  moves unsteadily like a drunken man, and it has swayed to and fro like a look-out hut.  And its transgression has become heavy upon it, and it must fall, so that it will not rise up again." -Isaiah 24:16b-20.

Isaiah is filled with grief over what will befall his people.  the state of affairs  around him causes feelings of sickness and woe.  Treacherous ones abound and cause dread to the inhabitants of the land.  When Jehovah withdraws his protection, unfaithful inhabitants of Judah will experience terror both day and night.  They will be uncertain of their lives.  There will be no escaping the disaster that will befall them for forsaking Jehovah's commandments and ignoring godly wisdom.  (Proverbs 1:24-27) Calamity will come even though treacherous ones in the land, trying to convince the people that everything will be all right, use falsehood an deceit to lead them on a course to destruction.  (Jeremiah 27:9-15)  Enemies from outside will come in and plunder them and carry them away captive. All of this is very distressing to Isaiah.

Yet the prophet is  bound to declare  that there will be no escape.  Wherever people try to flee, they will be caught. Some may escape  one calamity, but they will be caught in another-there will be no security.  It will be just as with a hunted animal that escapes  falling into a pit only to be caught in a snare.  (Compare Amos 5:18, 19)  Jehovah's judgment power will be released from the heavens and will shake the very foundation s of the land.  Like a drunken man, the land reels and falls, heavy with guilt and unable to rise again.  (Amos 5:2)  Jehovah's judgment is final.  Utter destruction and ruin will befall the land.

Next time: Jehovah Will Reign in Glory

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

A Remnant "Cry Out Joyfully"

In order to harvest olives, the Israelites beat the trees with rods so that the fruit will fall.  According to God's Law, they are forbidden to go over the boughs of the trees to collect the remaining olives. Nor should they gather the leftover grapes after harvesting their vineyards.  The remnants of the harvest are to be left for the poor-"for the alien resident, for the fatherless boy and for the widow"-to glean. (Deuteronomy 24:19-21) Drawing on these well-known laws, Isaiah illustrates the comforting fact that there will be survivors of Jehovah's coming judgment:  "Thus, it will become in the midst of the land, in among the peoples, like the beating off of the olive tree, like the gleaning when the grape gathering has come to an end.  They themselves will raise their voice, they will cry out joyfully.  In the superiority of Jehovah they will certainly cry out shrilly  from the sea.  that is why in the region of light they must glorify Jehovah, in  the islands of the sea the name of Jehovah, the God of Israel.  From the extremity of the land there are melodies that we have heard:  'Decoration to the Righteous One!" -Isaiah 24:13-16a. 

Just as some fruit remains on the tree or vine after harvesting, so there will be some who are left over after Jehovah's execution of judgment-"the gleaning when the grape gathering has come to an end."  As recorded  in verse 6, the prophet has already spoken of these, saying that "very few mortal men have remained over."  Still, few as they are, there are to be survivors of the destruction  of Jerusalem and Judah, and later a remnant will return from captivity to repopulate the land.  (Isaiah 4:2, 3; 14:1-5) Though righthearted ones will experience dark seasons of trial, they can be sure that there will be deliverance and joy ahead.  The survivors will see Jehovah's prophetic word unfold  and will realize  that Isaiah has  been a true prophet of God.  They will be filled with joy as they witness the fulfillment of the restoration prophecies.  From wherever they have been scattered-be it the islands of the Mediterranean in the West, Babylon in "the region of light" (the sunrise, or the East), or any other distant place-they will praise God because they have been preserved, and they will sing "Decoration to the Righteous One!"

Next time: No Escape From Jehovah's Judgment

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

Rejoicing Leaves the Land

The nation of Israel is an agricultural society.  From the time  that the Israelites entered the Promised Land, they have settled down to a life of cultivating crops and herding livestock. Thus, agriculture occupies an important place in the legislation given to Israel. A compulsory Sabbath rest is commanded for the  land every seventh year to allow fertility to be restored  to the soil.  (Exodus 23:10, 11; Leviticus 25:3-7)  The three annual festivals that the nation is commanded to celebrate are time to coincidence with agricultural seasons. -Exodus 23:14-16.

Vineyards are common throughout the land.  The Scriptures list wine, a product of the vine, as a gift from God that "makes the heart of mortal man rejoice."  (Psalm 104:15)  Each one 'sitting under his own vine and fig tree,' denotes prosperity, peace, and security under God's righteous rule.  (1 Kings 4:25; Micah 4:4)  A successful vintage season is considered a blessing and is a cause for singing and rejoicing.  (Judges 9:27; Jeremiah 25:30) The opposite is also true.  When the vines wither or produce no grapes and the vineyards become desolate wastes of thorns, it is evidence that Jehovah has withdrawn his blessing-a time of great sorrow.

Appropriately, then, Isaiah uses vineyards and their products to illustrate the conditions resulting from Jehovah's withdrawing his blessing from the land:  "The new wine has gone  to mourning, the vine has withered, all those glad at heart have gone to sighing.  The exultation of the tambourines has ceased, the noise of the highly elated ones has discontinued, the exultation of the harp has ceased.  It is with no song that they drink wine; the intoxicating liquor becomes bitter to those drinking it.  The deserted town has been broken down; every house has been shut up from entering.  There is an outcry in the streets for want of wine.  All rejoicing has passed away; the exultation of the land has departed.  In the city an astonishing condition has been left behind; the gate has been crushed to a mere rubble heap." -Isaiah 24:7-12.

The tambourine and the harp are pleasant instruments used to praise Jehovah and express joy.  (2 Chronicles 29:25; Psalm 81:2) Their music will not be heard at this time of divine punishment.  There will be no joyful grape harvests.  There will  be no happy sounds in the desolated ruins of Jerusalem, with its gate "crushed to a mere rubble heap" and its houses "shut up," so that no one can enter.  What grim prospects for inhabitants of a land that by nature has been so fertile!

Next time: A Remnant "Cry Out Joyfully"

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

Conclusion of Jehovah Foretells the Desolation of Judah

In order that there be no misunderstanding, Isaiah describes the completeness of this coming disaster and explains the reason for it:  "The land has gone to mourning, has faded away.  The productive land has withered, has faded away.  The high ones of the people of the land have withered. And the very land has been polluted under its inhabitants, for they have bypassed the laws, changed the regulation, broken the indefinitely lasting covenant.  That is why the curse itself has eaten up the land, and those inhabiting it are held guilty.  That is why the inhabitants of the land have decreased in number, and very few mortal men have remained over."  (Isaiah 24:4=6) When the Israelites were given the land of Canaan, they found it to be "a land flowing with milk and honey."  (Deuteronomy 27:3)  Still, they faithfully kept his statutes and commandments, the land would "give its yield," but if they  bypassed  his laws and commandments their efforts to cultivate the land would be "expended for nothing"  and the earth would  "not give its yield."  (Leviticus 26:3-5, 14, 15, 20)  Jehovah's curse would 'eat up the land.'  (Deuteronomy 28:15-20, 38-42, 62, 62)  Judah must now expect to experience that curse.

Some 800 years before Isaiah's day, the Israelites willingly entered into covenant relationship with Jehovah and agreed to abide by it.  (Exodus 24:3-8)  The terms of that Law covenant stipulated that if they obeyed Jehovah's commandments, they would experience  his rich blessing but if they violated  the covenant, they would lose his blessing and be taken captive by their enemies.  (Exodus 19:5, 6; Deuteronomy 28:1-68) This law covenant, given through Moses, was to remain in force for an indefinite unspecified time.  it would safeguard the Israelites until the appearance of the Messiah. - Galatians 3:19, 24.

But  the people have "broken the indefinitely lasting covenant." They have bypassed the divinely given laws, ignoring them.  They have "changed the regulation," following legal practices different from those  that Jehovah gave.  (Exodus 22:25; Ezekiel 22:12)  Hence, the people will be removed from the land.   No mercy will be shown in the coming judgment.  Among the first  to 'wither' because of Jehovah's withdrawing his protection and favor will be "the high ones," the nobility.  In fulfillment of this, as the destruction of Jerusalem approaches, first the Egyptians and then the Babylonians make Judean kings their vassals.  Subsequently, King Jehoiachin and other members of the royal family are among the first ones taken into Babylon captivity. - 2 Chronicles 36:4, 9, 10.

Next time: Rejoicing Leaves the land

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