"A Signal for the Peoples"

In a prophetic way, Jehovah now takes Isaiah to the time when His people will be released  from Babylon.  Will they receive any divine direction?  Jehovah answers:  "Look! I shall raise up my hand even to the nations, and to the peoples I shall life up my signal. And they will bring your sons in the bosom, and upon the shoulder they will carry your own daughters."  (Isaiah 49:22)  In the original fulfillment, Jerusalem, formerly the seat of government and the location of Jehovah's temple, becomes Jehovah's "signal." Even prominent and powerful people of other nations, such as "kings" and  "princesses," assist the Israelites in their journey back there.  (Isaiah 49:23b) Persian kings Cyrus and Artaxerxes Longinmanus and their households prove to be among these helpers.  (Ezra 5:13l 7:11-26)  And Isaiah's words have a further application.

Isaiah 11:10 speaks of "a signal of the peoples."  The apostle Paul applied these words to Christ Jesus.  (Romans 15:8-12)  Hence, in the greater fulfillment, Jesus and his spirit-anointed  corulers are Jehovah's "signal" to which the peoples flock.  (Revelation 14:1)  In due time all the peoples of the earth-even today's ruling classes-will have to bow to the Messiah's rulership.  (Psalm 2:10, 11; Daniel 2:44) The result?  Jehovah says: "You will have to know that I am Jehovah, of whom those hoping in me will not be ashamed." -Isaiah 49:23b.

Next time: "Now Our Salvation Is Nearer"

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind, Volume II, 2001