The Ingathering Continues

The full number of that "royal priesthood" is 144,000, and in time the gathering of them was completed.  (Revelation 7:1-8; 14:1)  Was that the end of the ingathering work?  No. Isaiah's prophecy continues:  " 'Just as the new heavens and the new earth that I am making are standing before me,' is the utterance of Jehovah, 'so the offspring of you people and the name of you people will keep standing.' " (Isaiah 66:22)  In the initial fulfillment of those words, Jews who return from Babylonian captivity will begin raising children, thus, the restored Jewish remnant, "the new earth," under the new Jewish administration, "the new heavens,"  will become firmly established.  However, the prophecy has had a most remarkable fulfillment in our day. 

"The offspring" that the nation of spiritual brothers produces are the "great crowd," who have the hope of everlasting life on earth.  They come "out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues," and they stand "before the throne and before the Lamb."  These ones "have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." (Revelation 7:9-14; 22:17) Today the "great crowd" are turning from spiritual darkness to the light that Jehovah provides.  They exercise faith in Jesus Christ, and like their anointed brothers and sisters, they strive to remain spiritually and morally clean.  As a group they continue serving under Christ's direction  and will "keep standing" forever! -Psalm 37:11, 29.

These hard-working men and women with an earthly hope know that while it is vital to remain morally and spiritually clean, more is involved in pleasing Jehovah. The ingathering work is in full swing, and they want to have a share in it.  The book of Revelation prophesies concerning them: "They are before the throne of God; and they are rendering him sacred service day and night in his temple."  (Revelation  7:15)  Those words  remind us of the second-to-last verse in Isaiah's prophecy:  " ' It will certainly occur that from new moon to new moon and from Sabbath to Sabbath all flesh will come in to bow down before me,' Jehovah has said."  (Isaiah 66:23)  This is happening today. "From new moon to new moon and from Sabbath to Sabbath"-that is, regularly, every week of every month-anointed Christians and their companions, the great crowd, come together to worship Jehovah.  they do this, among other things, attending Christian meetings and engaging in the public ministry.  Are you one of those regularly 'come and bow down before Jehovah'?  Jehovah's people find great joy in doing this, and those of the great crowd look forward  to the time when "all flesh"-all living humans-will serve Jehovah "from new moon to new moon and from Sabbath to Sabbath" for all eternity.

Next time:  The Final End of God's Enemies

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

Bringing "a Gift to Jehovah"

After Jerusalem is rebuilt, Jews who are scattered far beyond their homeland will look to the city along with its restored priesthood as the center of pure worship.  Many of them will travel long distances to attend the annual festivals there.  Under inspiration, Isaiah writes:  " 'They will actually bring all your brothers out of all the nations as a gift to Jehovah, on horses and in chariots and in covered wagons and on mules and on swift she-camels, up to my holy mountain, Jerusalem, Jehovah has said, 'just as when the sons of Israel bring the gift in a clean vessel into the house of Jehovah.  And from them also I shall take some for the priests, for the Levites.' " -Isaiah 66:20, 21.

Some of those "brothers out of all the nations" were present on the day of Pentecost when holy spirit was poured out on Jesus' disciples.  The account reads:  "There were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, reverent men, from every nation of those under heaven." (Acts 2:5)  They came to Jerusalem to worship according to Jewish custom, but when they heard the good news about Jesus Christ, many exercised faith in him and were baptized.

Does this prophecy have a modern-day fulfillment?  Yes, indeed.  Following World War I, Jehovah's anointed servants discerned from the Scriptures that God's Kingdom had been set up in heaven in 1914.  Through careful Bible study, they learned that additional Kingdom heirs, or "brothers," were to be gathered. Intrepid ministers traveled to "the most distant part of the earth," using all manner of conveyance, in search of prospective members of the anointed remnant, most of whom came out of Christendom's  churches.  When these were located, they were brought in as a gift to Jehovah. -Acts 1:8. 

The anointed ones who were gathered in the early years did not expect Jehovah to accept them as they were before coming to a knowledge of Bible truth.  They took steps to cleanse themselves of spiritual and moral defilement so that they could be presented as a "gift in a clean vessel," or as stated by the apostle Paul, "a chaste virgin to the Christ."  (2 Corinthians 11:2)  In addition to rejecting doctrinal error, the anointed  ones had to learn how to remain strictly neutral in the political affairs of this world.  In 1031, when his servants had been cleansed to an appropriate  degree, Jehovah graciously granted them the privilege of bearing his name as Jehovah's Witnesses.  (Isaiah 43:10-12)  In what way, though, did Jehovah "take some for the priests"? As a group, these anointed ones became a part of "a royal priesthood, a holy nation," offering sacrifices of praise to God. -1 Peter 2:9; Isaiah 54:1; Hebrews 13:15.

Next time: The Ingathering Continues

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

'They Will Have to See My Glory'

Does Jehovah take notice of Christendom's reprehensible actions and false teachings?  Read the following words of Jehovah, as recorded by Isaiah, and see what you conclude:  "As regards their words and their thoughts, I am coming in order to collect  all the nations and tongues together; and they will  have to come and see my glory."  (Isaiah 66:18) Jehovah is aware of and prepared to judge not only the words but also the thoughts of those who profess to be his servants.  Judah professes to believe in Jehovah, but her idolatrous works and pagan practices belie that claim.  It is to no avail that her citizens "purify" themselves according to pagan rites.  The nation will be cut down, and when that occurs, it will be in full view of her idol worshiping neighbors.  These will 'see Jehovah's glory' in that they will witness the events and be forced to admit that Jehovah's word has come true.  How does all of this apply to Christendom?  When she meets her end, many of her former friends and business partners will be forced to stand by and watch helplessly as Jehovah's word is fulfilled. -Jeremiah 25:31-33; Revelation 17:15-18; 18:9-19.

Does Jerusalem's destruction in 607 B.C.E. means that Jehovah will no longer have witnesses on earth?  No. Outstanding integrity-keepers, such as Daniel and his three companions, will continue to serve Jehovah even as exiles in Babylon.  (Daniel 1:6, 7)  Yes, the chain of faithful witnesses of Jehovah will remain intact, and at the end of 70 years, faithful men and women will leave Babylon and return to Judah to restore pure worship there.  That is what Jehovah alludes to next:  "I will set among them a sign, and I will send some of those who are escaped to the nations, to Tarshish, Pul, and Lud, those drawing the bow, Tubal and Javan, the faraway islands, who have not heard  a report about me or seen my glory; and they will for certain tell about my glory among the nations." -Isaiah 66:19.

The hose of faithful men and women who return to Jerusalem in 537 B.C.E. will serve as an astonishing sign, evidence that Jehovah has delivered his people.  Who would have dreamed that the captive Jews would one day be free to pursue pure worship at Jehovah's temple?  In a comparable way in the first century, the ones serving "as signs and as miracles" were anointed Christians to whom meek ones wanting to serve Jehovah flocked.  (Isaiah 8:18; Hebrews 2:13)  Today anointed Christians, prospering in their restored land, serve as an astonishing sign  in the earth. (Isaiah 66:8) They are living evidence of the power of Jehovah's spirit, attracting meek ones whose hearts impel them to serve Jehovah. 

How, though, after the restoration in 537 B.C.E., will men of the nations who have not heard a report about Jehovah come to know him?  Well, not all faithful Jews will return to Jerusalem at the end of the Babylonian captivity.  Some, like Daniel, will remain in Babylon. Others will scatter to the four corners of the earth. By the fifth century B.C.E., there were Jews living throughout the Persian Empire.  (Esther 1:1; 3:8)  No doubt some of them told the pagan neighbors about Jehovah, for many from whose nations became Jewish proselytes.  Such was evidently the case with  the Ethiopian eunuch, to whom the Christian disciple Philip preached in the first century.  (Acts 8L26-40) All of this took place as an initial fulfillment of the words of the prophet Zechariah:  "It will be in those days that ten men out of all the languages of the nations will take hold, yes, they will actually take hold of the skirt of a man who is a Jew, saying: 'We will go with you people, for we have heard that God is with you people.' " (Zechariah 8:23)  Indeed, Jehovah sent out light to the nations! -Psalm 43:3.

Next time: Bringing "a Gift to Jehovah"

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

Jehovah 'Takes Up the Controversy'

In the concluding verses of Isaiah's thrilling prophecy, Jehovah graphically describes events leading up to the day of his anger.  We read: "Jehovah himself comes as a very fire, and his chariots are like the storm wind, in order pay back his anger with sheer rage and his rebuke with flames of fire.  For as fire Jehovah himself will for a fact take up the controversy, yet, with his sword, against all flesh; and the slain of Jehovah will certainly become many." -Isaiah 66:15, 16.

Those words should help Isaiah's' contemporaries realize  the seriousness of their situation.  The time is approaching when the Babylonians, as Jehovah's executioners, will come up against Jerusalem, their chariots stirring up clouds of dust just like storm wind. What a fear-inspiring sight that will be!  Jehovah will use the invader to carry out his won fiery judgments against all unfaithful Jewish "flesh."  It will be as if Jehovah himself were fighting against his people.  His "sheer rage" will not be turned back.  Many Jews will fall as "the slain of Jehovah."  In 607 B.C.E., this prophecy is fulfilled.

Is Jehovah justified in 'taking up the controversy' against his people?  Certainly!  Many times in our discussion of the book of Isaiah, we have seen that  the Jews, though supposedly dedicated to Jehovah have been steeped in false worship-and Jehovah has not been blind to their actions. We see this again in the following words of the prophecy:  " ' Those sanctifying themselves and cleansing themselves for the gardens behind one in the center, eating the flesh of the pig and the loathsome thing, even the jumping rodent, they will all together reach their end, is the utterance of Jehovah." (Isaiah 66:17)  Are those Jews "sanctifying themselves and cleansing themselves" in order to prepare themselves for pure worship!  Clearly not.  Rather, they are engaging in pagan purification rites in special gardens.  Thereafter, they greedily devour the flesh of the pig and of other creatures , considered unclean under the Mosaic Law. -Leviticus 11:7, 21-23.

What a disgusting situation for a nation in a covenant relationship with the only true God!  but consider: A comparably disgusting situation exists today among the religions of Christendom. These similarly claim to serve God, and many of their leaders make a pretense of piety.  Yet, they sully themselves with pagan teachings and traditions, proving themselves to be in spiritual darkness.  How great the darkness is!-Matthew 6:23; John 3:19, 20.

Next time: 'They Will Have to See My Glory'

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

A Light for the Nations, Chapter Twenty-Eight

JEHOVAH is the Source of light, "the Giver of the sun for light by day, the statutes of the moon and the stars for light by night."  (Jeremiah 31:35)  On this basis alone, he should be acknowledged as the Source of life, since light means life. If the earth were not constantly bathed in the warmth and light of the sun, life as we know it would be impossible. Our planet would be uninhabitable.

Hence, it is of utmost concern to us that Jehovah, looking forward to our day, foretold a time of darkness, not light.  Under inspiration, Isaiah wrote:  "Look! darkness itself will cover the earth, and thick gloom the national  
groups." (Isaiah 60:2)  Of course, these words had to do with spiritual, not physical darkness, but their seriousness should not be underestimated.  Life eventually becomes impossible for those without spiritual light, just as it does for those deprived of light from the sun.   

 During these dark times, we cannot afford to ignore the spiritual light that Jehovah makes available to us.  It is essential that we look to God's Word to light up our roadway, reading the Bible daily if possible.  (Psalm 119:105)  Christian meetings provide opportunities for us to encourage one another to remain on  "the paths of the righteous  ones."  (Proverbs 4:18; Hebrews 10:23-25)   The strength that we derive from diligent Bible study and wholesome Christian association helps us to avoid being swallowed up in the darkness of these "last days," which will culminate in the great "day of Jehovah's anger."  (2 Timothy  3:1; Zephaniah 2:3)  That day is coming on apace!  It will come as surely as a similar day came upon the inhabitants of ancient Jerusalem. 

Next time: Jehovah 'Takes Up the Controversy'

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

Conclusion of Jehovah's Tender Care

In this appealing way, Jehovah illustrates the strength and tenderness of his love for his people. Even the strongest maternal love is but a dim reflection of Jehovah deep love for his faithful people.  (Isaiah 49:15)  How vital it is that all Christian reflect this quality of their heavenly Father!  The apostle Paul did, and thus left a fine example for elders in the congregation. (1 Thessalonians 2;7)  Jesus said that brotherly love would be the chief identifying mark of his followers. -John 13:34, 35.

Jehovah expresses his love in action.  Thus, he continues : "You will certainly see, and your heart will be bound to exult, and your very bones will sprout just like tender grass. And the hand of Jehovah will certainly be made known to his servants, but he will actually denounce his enemies."  (Isaiah 66:14)  A Hebrew language grammarian suggests that the expression  "you will certainly see" implies that wherever the returning exiles look in their restored land, "joy now meets their eye."  They will indeed exult, thrilled beyond words that they have been restored to their beloved homeland.  They will feel rejuvenated, as if their bones were growing strong again, invigorated like grass in the springtime.  All will know that this blessed state has come about, not by any human effort, but by "the hand of Jehovah."

Do you recognize the hand of Jehovah at work among his people today?  No human could possibly have brought about the restoration of pure worship.  No human could conceivably have caused the flood of millions of precious people from all nations to join the faithful remnant in their spiritual land.  Only Jehovah God can do such things. These expressions of Jehovah's love give us reason for profound joy.  May we never take his love for granted.  Let us continue to 'tremble at his word.'  Let us resolve to live by Bible principles and to find delight in serving Jehovah. 

Next time: A Light for the Nations, Chapter Twenty-Eight

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

Jehovah's Tender Care

The next four verses paint a touching picture of Jehovah's tender care.  First, Isaiah says: "Rejoice with Jerusalem and be joyful with her, all you lovers of her. Exult greatly with her all you keeping yourselves in mourning over her; for the reason that you will such and certainly get satisfaction from the breast of full consolation by her;  for the reason that  you will sip and experience exquisite delight from the teat of her glory." (Isaiah 66:10, 11) Jehovah here uses the illustration of a woman nursing her infant.  When a baby feels the pangs of hunger, it wails insistently. But when it is drawn close to its mother's  breast for feeding, its grief  turns to happy contentment and satisfaction.  In a similar way, the remnant of faithful Jews in Babylon will rapidly  be brought  from a state of mourning to one of happiness and satisfaction when the time of release   and restoration comes.  They will be joyful.  Jerusalem's glory will be renewed as it is rebuilt and re-inhabited .  In turn, the city's glory will embrace its faithful inhabitants. Once again, they will be nourished spiritually by means of an active priesthood. -Ezekiel 44:15, 23.

Spiritual Israel too was blessed with abundant nourishment after the restoration  in 1919.  Since then the flow of spiritual food dispensed through "the faithful and discreet slave" has been steady.  (Matthew 24:45-47)  This has indeed been a time of consolation and joy for the anointed remnant.  But there have been further blessings.

The prophecy continues:  "This is what Jehovah has said:  'Here I am extending to her peace just like a river and the glory of nations just like a flooding torrent, and you will certainly  suck.  Upon the flank you will be carried, and upon the knees you will be fondled.'  " (Isaiah 66:12) Here the image of nursing is combined with the picture of an abundant flow of blessings-"a river" and "a flooding torrent." Jerusalem will be blessed not only with abundant peace from Jehovah but also with "the glory of nations," which flows to and blesses God's people.  This means that people of the nations will flood to Jehovah's people.  (Haggai 2:7)  In the ancient fulfillment, a number of people from various nations did indeed attach themselves to Israel, becoming Jewish proselytes.  However, a far greater fulfillment has occurred in our won time when "a great crowd . . . out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues"-truly a flooding torrent of humanity-has attached itself to the remnant of spiritual Jews.-Revelation 7:9; Zechariah 8:23.  

Isaiah 66:12 also speaks of expression of maternal love-fondling a child upon the knees and carrying him upon the flank.  In the next verse, a similar thought  is expressed with an interesting shift in perspective.  "Like a man whom his own mother keeps comforting, so I myself shall keep comforting you people,   and in the case of Jerusalem you will be comforted."  (Isaiah 66:13) The child is now "a man," an  adult.  But his mother has not lost her desire to comfort him in a time of distress.

Next time: Conclusion of Jehovah's Tender Care

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

A Swift and Sudden Restoration

Isaiah prophesies:  "There is a sound of uproar  out of the city, a sound out of the temple! It is the sound of Jehovah repaying what is deserved to his enemies." (Isaiah 66:6) In the original fulfillment of these words, "the city" is Jerusalem, where Jehovah's temple is located.  The "sound of uproar" implies the tumult of war, which is heard in the city when the invading Babylonian armies assault it in 607  B.C.E. What, though, about the modern-day fulfillment? 

These words in Isaiah harmonizes with two other prophetic utterances, the one recorded at Ezekiel 43:4, 6-9 and the other at Malachi 3:1-5.  Both Ezekiel and Malachi foretell a time  when Jehovah God comes  to his temple. Malachi's prophecy shows that Jehovah comes to inspect his house of worship and to act as a Refiner, rejecting those who misrepresent him.  Ezekiel's vision depicts Jehovah as entering the temple and demanding that all traces of immorality an idolatry  be removed.. In the modern-day fulfillment of these prophecies, there was an important spiritual development in 1919 in connection with Jehovah's worship.  Jehovah and Jesus evidently made an inspection of all of those claiming to represent pure worship.  That inspection led to the final casting off of corrupt Christendom.  For Christ's anointed followers, the inspection meant a brief period of refinement followed by a swift spiritual restoration in 1919. -1 Peter 4:17.

This restoration is aptly pictured in the following verses of Isaiah: "Before she began to come into labor pains she gave birth.  Before birth pangs could come to her, she even gave deliverance to a male child.  Who has heard of a thing like this?  Who has seen thing like these?  Will a land  be brought forth with labor pains in one day? Or will a nation be born at one time?  For Zion has come into labor pains as well as given birth to her sons."  (Isaiah 66:7, 8)   For the exiled Jews in Babylon,  these words find a thrilling fulfillment.  Zion or Jerusalem,, is again pictured as a woman giving birth, but what an unusual birth!  It is so swift, so sudden that  it happens before birth pangs can begin! This is an apt picture . The rebirth of God's people as a distinct nation in 537 B.C.E. is so swift and sudden that it seems miraculous. Why, from the time that Cyrus frees the Jews from captivity to the time that a faithful remnant are back in their homeland is merely a matter of months!   What a contrast  to the events leading  up to the original birth of the nation of Israel!  In 537 B.C.E., there is no need to petition a resistant monarch for freedom, no need to flee from a hostile army, no need to sojourn for 40 years to the wilderness. 

In the modern-day fulfillment, Zion represents Jehovah's heavenly "woman," rejoiced to see the birth of her anointed sons on earth as an organized people, "a nation."  That rebirth was swift and sudden.  In just a matter of months, the anointed as a group went from a state of death-like inactivity to one of vibrant, active life in their "land, their God-given realm of spiritual activity.  (Revelation 11:8-12)  By the autumn of 1919, they even announced the publication of a new journal to complement the Watch Tower.  Called The Golden Age  (now Awake!), that new publication was evidence that God's people were revitalized and once again organized for service.

No force in the universe could prevent this spiritual rebirth.  The next verse vividly says as much.  "As for me, shall I  cause the breaking through  and not cause the giving birth?'   Says Jehovah.  "Or am I causing a giving birth and do I actually cause a shutting up?" Your God has said." ( Isaiah 66:9)  Just as the process of birth is inevitable once it has begun, so the rebirth   of spiritual Israel, once begun, was unstoppable.  True, there was opposition, an there will likely be more opposition in the future.  But only Jehovah can put a stop to what he begins, and he never does that!  How does Jehovah treat his revitalized people?

Next time: Jehovah's Tender Care

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

Conclusion of Jehovah Hates Hypocritical Worship

Modern-day Christendom has similarly practiced things in which Jehovah takes no delight. Idolatry flourishes in her churches, unscriptural philosophies and traditions are exalted from her pulpits, and the quest for political power has led her ever deeper into a spiritually adulterous relationship with the nations of the world.  (Mark 7:13; Revelation 18:4, 5, 9) As was the case with ancient Jerusalem, Christendom's just retribution -a  "frightful" thing-is coming inexorably upon her. Among the reasons for her certain punishment is the way she has treated God's people.

Isaiah continues:  "Hear the word of Jehovah, you men who are trembling at his word: 'Your brothers that are hating you, that are excluding you by reason of my name, said, 'May  Jehovah be glorified!"  He must also appear with rejoicing on your part, and they are the ones that will be put to shame.' " (Isaiah 66:5)  Isaiah's  "brothers," his own countrymen, bear the God-given responsibility of representing Jehovah God and submitting to his sovereignty.  Their sin in failing to do so is grave indeed.  But what adds  to their sin is that they  hate men who are faithful and humble, such as Isaiah. These apostates hate and exclude the faithful because these represent Jehovah God truthfully.  In that sense the exclusion  is made 'by reason of God's name.'  At the same time, these false servants of Jehovah claim to represent  him, piously using such religious-sounding phrases as "May Jehovah be glorified!"

The hatred that false religion has for adherents of pure worship is nothing new. It is a further fulfillment of the prophecy at Genesis 3:15, which foretold long-standing enmity between Satan's seed and the Seed of God's woman.  Jesus told his anointed  followers in the first century that they too would suffer at the hands of their fellow countrymen-exclusion from the synagogues and persecution even to the point of death.  (John 16:2)  And what of modern times?  At the beginning of "the last days,"  God's people saw that similar persecution lay ahead.  (2 Timothy 3:1)  Back in 10914, The Watch Tower quoted Isaiah 66:5, noting: "Nearly all the persecutions  that have come to God's people have come from professed Christians."  The same article also said:  "We do not know but that they may go to the extreme in our day -to kill socially, to kill ecclesiastically, perhaps  to kill physically."  How true those words turned out to be!  Not long after they were published, clergy-instigated persecution reached a fever pitch during World War I.  But Christendom  was put to shame, just as foretold. How?

Next time: A Swift and Sudden Restoration

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

Jehovah Hates Hypocritcal Worship

As Isaiah contemplates his contemporaries, he is well aware that few have the disposition that Jehovah seeks in his worshipers.  For this reason, apostate Jerusalem deserves her impending judgment.  Note how Jehovah views worship taking place in her:   "the one slaughtering the bull is as one striking down a man.  The one sacrificing the sheep is as one breaking the neck of a dog.  The one offering up a gift-the blood of a pig!  The one presenting a memorial of frankincense is as one saying a blessing with uncanny words. They are also the ones that  have chosen their own ways, and in their, and their disgusting things their very soul has taken a delight." -Isaiah 66:3.

These words remind us of Jehovah's words recorded in the first chapter of Isaiah.  Jehovah there told his wayward people that their formal cats of worship not only failed to please  him but actually caused his righteous anger to intensify because the  worshipers were hypocritical. (Isaiah 1:11-17) Similarly, Jehovah now likens their offerings to heinous crimes. Their sacrificing a costly bull would no more appease Jehovah than would their murdering a human!  Other sacrifices are likened to the offering up of a dog or a pig, animals that are unclean under the Mosaic Law and certainly unfit for sacrifice.  (Leviticus 11:7, 27)  Does Jehovah allow such religious hypocrisy to go unpunished?

Jehovah now says:  "I myself, in turn, shall choose ways of ill-treating them; and the things frightful to them I shall bring upon them; for the reason that I called but here was no one answering; I spoke, but there were none that listened; and they kept on doing what was bad in my eyes, and the thing in which I took no delight they chose." (Isaiah 66:4)  Isaiah  is no doubt able to utter these words with heartfelt conviction.  For many years he has been Jehovah's instrument, 'calling' and 'speaking' to His people.  The prophet knows all too well that, by and large, no one has been listening. Because they have kept on doing bad, retribution is inevitable.  Jehovah will indeed choose their punishment and bring frightful events upon his apostate people.

Next time: Conclusion of Jehovah Hates Hypocritical Worship

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

The Key to Pure Worship

To begin with, the prophecy emphasizes Jehovah's grandeur: "This is what Jehovah has said: "The heavens are my throne, and the earth is my footstool.  Where, then, is the house that you people can build for me, and where, then, is the place as a resting-place for me?"  (Isaiah 66:1) Some believe that the prophet is discouraging the Jews from rebuilding the temple to Jehovah when the nation is restored to its homeland.  Not so; Jehovah himself will command that the temple be rebuilt.  (Ezra 1:1-6; Isaiah 60:13; Haggai 1:7, 8) What, then, does this passage mean?

First, we might consider why the earth is described as Jehovah's "footstool."  This is not a derogatory term.  Among all the billions of celestial bodies in the universe, the earth alone is given this special designation. Our planet will           stand forever as unique,  for it is here that Jehovah's only-begotten  Son paid the ransom, and it is here that Jehovah will vindicate his sovereignty by means of the Messianic Kingdom.  How fitting that the earth be called  Jehovah's  footstool! A king might use such a footstool!  A king might use  such a footstool for ascending to his lofty throne and thereafter as a resting-place for his feet.

Of course, a king would not reside upon his footstool, nor does Jehovah reside upon this earth. Why, even the vast physical heavens cannot contain him!  ( 1 Kings 8:27) Jehovah's throne and his resting -place are located in the spirit realm, which is the sense of the expression "the heavens" as used at Isaiah 66:1. the next verse drives the point home: "Now all these things my own hand has made, so that all these came to be,' is the utterance of Jehovah."  (Isaiah 66:2a)  Picture Jehovah making a sweeping gesture as he points out "all these things "-everything in heaven and on earth.  (Isaiah 40:26; Revelation 10:6)  As the Grand Creator of all the universe, he deserves to have more than a mere building devoted to him.  He deserves more than merely an outward form of worship.

What kind of worship is fitting for the Universal Sovereign?  He himself tells us:  "To this one, then, I shall look, to the one afflicted and contrite in spirit and trembling at my word." (Isaiah 66:2b)  Yes, essential to pure worship is a right heart attitude on the part of the worshiper.  (Revelation 4:11)  The worshiper of Jehovah must be "afflicted and contrite in spirit." Does this mean that Jehovah wants us to be unhappy? No, he is "the happy God," and he wants his worshipers to be joyful as well.  (1 Timothy 1:11; Philippians 4:4)  However, all of us sin frequently, and we must not take our sins lightly.  We ought to be "afflicted" by them, saddened that we miss the mark of Jehovah's righteous standards.  (Psalm 51:17)  We need to show that we are "contrite in spirit" by repenting, fighting against our sinful tendencies and praying to Jehovah for forgiveness. -Luke 11:4; 1 John 1L8-10.

In addition, Jehovah looks to those 'trembling at his word.' Does this mean that  he wants us to quake  with fear whenever we read his pronouncements?  No, rather, he wants us to view what he says with awe and reverence. We sincerely seek his counsel, using for guidance in all the affairs of life.  (Psalm 119:105) We may 'tremble,' too, in the sense that we fear the very though of disobeying God, of polluting his truth with human traditions or of treating it lightly. Such a humble attitude is essential to pure worship-but sadly, it is a rarity in today's world. 

Next time: Jehovah Hates Hypocritical Worship

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

Jehovah Blesses Pure Worship, Chapter Twenty-Seven

IN THE final chapter of Isaiah, some of the major themes of this prophetic book are brought to a resounding climax, and a number of important questions are answered.  Among the themes that are highlighted are Jehovah's loftiness, his hatred for hypocrisy, his determination to punish the wicked, and his love and concern for the faithful.  Moreover, the following questions are answered:  What distinguishes true worship from false?  How can we be sure that Jehovah will bring retribution upon hypocrites who pretend to be holy while oppressing God's people? And how will Jehovah bless those who remain faithful to him?

Next time: The Key to Pure Worship

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

Conclusion of The Promise of a Secure Future

How far-reaching will the promised peace and security be?  Jehovah concludes this portion of the prophecy:  " 'The wolf and the lamb themselves will feed as one, and the lion will eat straw just like the bull; and as for the serpent, his food will be dust. They will do no harm nor cause any ruin in all my holy mountain,' Jehovah has said." (Isaiah 65:25)  When the faithful Jewish remnant return to their homeland, they will be under Jehovah's care.  A lion will, in effect,, eat straw like a bull, for the lion will do no harm to the Jews or their domestic animals.  This promise is sure, for it concludes with the words, "Jehovah has said."  and his word always comes true! -Isaiah 55:10, 11.

Jehovah's words are finding a thrilling fulfillment among true worshipers today.  Since 1919, God has blessed the spiritual land of his people, transforming it into a spiritual paradise. Those coming into this spiritual paradise make remarkable changes in their lives.  (Ephesians 4:22-24)  With the help of God's spirit, individuals who at one time had beastlike personalities-who perhaps exploited or otherwise victimized their fellowman-make  progress in taming undesirable traits. As a result, they enjoy peace and unity of worship with fellow believers.  The blessings no enjoyed by Jehovah's people in their spiritual paradise will extend into the physical Paradise, where the peace prevailing among humans will be matched by peace with the animals.  We can be sure that in God's due time, his original commission to mankind will be properly carried out:  "Subdue [the earth], and have in subjection the fish of the sea and the flying creatures of the heavens and every living creature that is moving upon the earth." -Genesis 1:28.

How grateful we are for Jehovah's promise to create "new heavens and a new earth"!  That promise had a fulfillment in 537 B.C.E. and is having further fulfillment today.  These two fulfillments point the way to a glorious future for obedient mankind.  Jehovah has kindly given us, through Isaiah's prophecy, a glimpse of what he has  in store for those who love him.  Truly, we have every reason to heed Jehovah's words: "Be joyful forever in what I am creating"! -Isaiah 65:18.

Next time: Jehovah Blesses Pure Worship, Chapter Twenty-Seven

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

Continue with The Promise of a Secure Future

In our day, there has been a fulfillment of this prophecy. Jehovah's people came forth from spiritual exile in 1919 and began restoring their "land," or realm of activity and worship.  They built congregations and cultivated spiritual  fruitfulness. As a result, even now Jehovah's people enjoy a spiritual paradise and God-given peace.  We can be sure that such peace will continue into the physical Paradise. We cannot even begin to imagine what Jehovah will accomplish with the willing hearts and hands of his worshipers in the new world.  What a joy it will be to build your own home and then to live in it!  Under Kingdom rule, there will be no shortage of satisfying work.  How rewarding it will be always to "see good" for the fruits of your own labors!  (Ecclesiastes 3:13)  Will we have ample time to enjoy to the full the work of our hands?  Yes, indeed!   the unending lives of faithful humans will be "lie the days of a tree"-thousands of years, and more!

Jehovah describes more blessings that await the returning exiles:  "They will not toil for nothing, nor will they bring to birth for disturbance, because they are the offspring made up of the blessed ones of Jehovah, and their descendants with them." (Isaiah 65:23) Those restored Jews will be blessed by Jehovah, so  will not labor in vain.  Parents will not bring forth children merely for those to suffer an early death.  The former exiles will not be alone in enjoying the blessings of the restoration; their offspring will with them.  So eager is God to fulfill his people's needs that he promise:  "It will actually occur that before they call out I myself shall answer, while they are yet speaking, I myself shall hear." -Isaiah 65:24.

How will Jehovah fulfill these promise in the coming new world?  We will have to wait and see.  Jehovah has not provided all the details, but we can be sure that faithful humans will never again "toil for nothing."  The great crowd of Armageddon survivors and any children who may be born to them will have the prospect of a very long and satisfying life-everlasting life!  Those who come back in the resurrection and who choose to live in harmony with God's standards will also find joy in the new world.  Jehovah  will hear and respond to their needs, even anticipating them. Indeed, Jehovah will open his hand and satisfy the proper "desire of every living thing." -Psalm 145:16.

Next time: Conclusion of The Promise of a Secure Future

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

The Promise of a Secure Future

In the first fulfillment, what is life to be like for returning Jews under the new heavens?  Jehovah says: "No more will there come to be a suckling a few days old from that place, neither an old man that does not fulfill his days; for one will die as a mere boy, although a hundred years of age; and as for the sinner, although a hundred years of age he will have evil called down upon him."  (Isaiah 65:20) What a beautiful picture of the security that the returning exiles will enjoy in their restored homeland!  Untimely death will  not claim a newborn, who is but a few days old. Neither will such a death take and older man who has not yet lived out a full life span.  How reassuring Isaiah's words are to the Jews who will return to Judah!  Safe in their land, they need no worry that enemies will carry off their babes or slaughter their men.

What do Jehovah's words tell us about life in the new world?  Under God's Kingdom, every child will have the prospect  of a secure future.  Never will death claim a God-fearing man in his prime.  On the contrary, obedient mankind will be safe, secure, able to enjoy life. What of any who choose  to rebel against God?  Such ones  will lose the privilege of life. Even if the rebellious sinner is "a hundred years of age," he will die.  In such a case, he will be "a mere boy" compared to what he could have become-a man with endless life.

Jehovah continues his description of the conditions that will prevail in the restored land of Judah:  "They will certainly build houses and have occupancy; and they will certainly plant vineyards and eat their fruitage.  They will not build and someone else have occupancy; they will not plant and someone else  do the eating. For like the days of a tree will the days of my people be; and the work of their own hands my chosen ones will use to the full." (Isaiah 65:21, 22)  After returning to the desolate and no bout houseless and vineless land of Judah, God's obedient people will have the joy of living in their own homes and of eating the fruitage of their own vineyards. God will bless their work, and they will have long lives-like the days of a tree-in which to enjoy the fruits of their labors.

Next time: Continue with The Promise of a Secure Future

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

Conclusion of "I Am Creating New Heavens and a New Earth"

Isaiah's prophecy continues:  "Exult, you people, and be joyful forever in what I am creating.  For here I am creating Jerusalem a cause for joyfulness and her people a  cause for exultation. And I will be joyful in Jerusalem and exult in my people; and no more will there be heard  in her the sound of weeping or the sound of a plaintive cry." (Isaiah 65:18, 19) Not only will the Jews rejoice over being restored to their homeland but God himself will rejoice, for he will make Jerusalem beautiful-once again the center of true worship in the earth. The sound of weeping over calamity, which was heard in the streets of that city decades earlier, will be heard no more. 

Today, too, Jehovah makes Jerusalem "a cause for joyfulness."  How? As we have already  seen, the new heavens that came into existence in 1914 will eventually include 144,000 co-rulers, who have a share in the heavenly government.  These are prophetically described as "New Jerusalem."  (Revelation 21:2) It is with regard to New Jerusalem that God says:  "Here I am  creating Jerusalem a cause for joyfulness and her people a cause for exultation."  New Jerusalem will be used by God to shower untold blessings on obedient mankind.  No more will be heard the sound of weeping or a plaintive cry, for Jehovah wills satisfy "the requests of [our] heart." -Psalm 37:3, 4.

Truly, there is every reason for us today to exult!  Soon Jehovah will sanctify his illustrious name by destroying all opposers.  (Psalm 83:17, 18)  Then the new heavens will be in complete control. What wonderful reasons these are to exult and be joyful forever in what God is creating! 

Next time: The Promise of a Secure Future

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

"I Am Creating New Heavens and a New Earth"

Jehovah now expands on his promise to restore a repentant remnant after their return from exile in Babylon.  Through Isaiah, Jehovah says:  "Here I am creating new heavens and a new earth; and the former things will not be called to mind, neither will they come up into the heart." (Isaiah 65:17)  Jehovah's promise of restoration is certain to be fulfilled, so he speaks of that future restoration as if it were already taking place.  This prophecy was initially fulfilled in 537 B.C.E. when the Jewish remnant was restored to Jerusalem.  What constituted the "new heavens" at that time?  The governorship of Zerubbabel supported by the High Priest Joshua and centered at Jerusalem .  The restored Jewish remnant made up " a new earth,"  a cleansed society that submitted  to such rulership  and helped to reestablish pure worship in the land.  (Ezra 5:1, 2) The joy of that restoration eclipsed all previous suffering; the former distresses were not even called to mind. -Psalm 126:1, 2. 

Recall, however, that Peter echoed Isaiah's prophecy and showed that it had a future fulfillment.  The apostle wrote:  "There are new heavens and a new earth that we are awaiting according to his  promise, and in these righteousness is to dwell."  (2 Peter 3:13)  In 1914 the long awaited  new heavens  came into existence.  The Messianic Kingdom born in that year rules from heaven itself, and Jehovah has given it authority over all the earth.  (Psalm 2:6-8)  This Kingdom government, under Christ and his 144,000 co-rulers, is the new heavens. -Revelation 14:1

What of the new earth? Following the pattern of the ancient fulfillment, the new earth will be made up of people who gladly submit to the rulership of the new heavenly government.  Even now, millions of rightly disposed individuals subject themselves to this government and strive to follow its laws as found in the Bible. These one come from all nationalities, languages, and races, and they work together to serve the reigning King Jesus Christ.  (Micah 4:1-4) After the passing of the present wicked system  of things, this group will form the nucleus of a new earth that will eventually be a globe-encircling society of God-fearing humans who inherit the earthly realm of God's  Kingdom.-Matthew 25:34.

The book of Revelation describes a vision the apostle John saw of the coming day of Jehovah, when this system  of things will be removed. After that, Satan will be abyssed.  (Revelation 19:11;20:3) Following that description, John echoes the prophetic words of Isaiah, writing: "I saw a new heaven and a new earth."  The subsequent verses of this account of this glorious vision tell of the time when Jehovah God will radically change conditions of this earth for the better.  (Revelation 21:1-3-5) Clearly, Isaiah's promise of "new heavens and a new earth" will have a wonderful fulfillment in God's new world!  Under the new governmental heavens, a  new earthly society will enjoy a paradise  that is both spiritual  and physical.  Comforting   indeed Is the promise  that "the former things [sicknesses, suffering, and the many other woes humans face] will not be called to mind, neither will they come up into the heart."  Whatever we may remember at that time will not cause us the deep hurt, or pain, that now burdens the hearts of many.

Next time: Conclusion of "I Am Creating New Heavens and a New Earth"

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

"Look! My Own Servants Will Rejoice"

In reproving those who have abandoned Jehovah, the prophecy describes the contrasting portions awaiting those who sincerely worship God and those who do so hypocritically:  "This is what the Sovereign Lord Jehovah has said:  Look! My own servants will eat, but you yourselves  will go hungry. Look!  My own servants will drink, but you yourselves will go thirsty.  Look! My own servants will rejoice, but you yourselves will suffer shame.  Look! My own servants will cry out joyfully because of the good condition of the heart, but you yourselves will make outcries because of the pain of heart and you will howl because of sheer breakdown of spirit.' " (Isaiah 64:13, 14)  Jehovah will bless his faithful servants. With hearts overflowing with joy, they will break out in shouting. Eating, drinking, and rejoicing are terms signifying that Jehovah will abundantly satisfy the needs of his worshipers.  In contrast, those who have chosen to forsake  Jehovah will hunger and thirst spiritually.  Their needs will not be satisfied.  They will cry out and howl because of the anguish and distress that will come upon them.

Jehovah's words well describe the spiritual condition today of those who merely claim to serve God.  While Christendom's millions suffer breakdown of spirit, however, Jehovah's worshipers cry out joyfully. And they have good reason to rejoice. They are well fed spiritually.  Jehovah provides them with an abundant supply  of spiritual food through Bible-based publications and Christian gatherings.  Truly, the upbuilding truths and the comforting promises of God's Word give us a "good condition of the heart!"

Jehovah continues to address those who have forsaken him: "You men will certainly  lay up your name for an oath by my chosen ones, and the Sovereign Lord Jehovah will actually put you individually to death but his own servants he will call by another name; so that anyone blessing himself in the earth will bless himself by the God of faith, and anyone  making a sworn statement in the earth will swear by the God of faith; because the former distresses will actually be forgotten and because they will actually be concealed from my eyes." (Isaiah 65:15, 16)  All that will remain of those who have forsaken Jehovah is their name, which will be used only in an oath, or a curse.  This may mean that those  who wish to bind themselves in a solemn manner by an oath will, in effect, say: 'If I do not fulfill this promise, let me experience the punishment that those apostates received.'  It may even mean that their name will be used illustratively, like Sodom and Gomorrah, as a symbol of God's punishment of the wicked. 

How different the lot of God's own servants will be!  They will be called by another name. That signifies the blessed condition and honor they will enjoy back in their homeland. The will not seek a blessing from any false god or swear  by any lifeless idol. Instead, when they bless themselves or swear an oath, they will do so by the God of faithfulness.  (Isaiah 65:16)  The inhabitants of the land will have reason for complete confidence in God, for he will have proved   himself to be true to his promises.  Safe in their homeland, the Jews will soon forget the former distresses. 

Next time: "I Am Creating New Heavens and a New Earth"

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

Trusting in "the God of Good Luck"

Isaiah's prophecy now turns back to those who have left Jehovah and have persisted in idolatry.  It says:  "You men are those leaving Jehovah, those forgetting my holy mountain, those setting in order a table for the god of Good Luck and those filling up mixed wine for the god of Destiny." (Isaiah 65:11) By setting a table of food and drink before "the god of Good Luck" and "the god of Destiny," these backsliding Jews have fallen into the idolatrous practices of the heathen nations."  What will become of any who naively trust in these gods?

Jehovah forthrightly warns them:  "I will destine you men to the sword, and you will all of you bow down to being slaughtered; for the reason that I called, but you did not answer; I spoke, but you did not listen; and you kept doing what was bad in my eyes, and the thing in which I took no delight you chose." (Isaiah 65:12) With a pun on the name of the god of Destiny in the original Hebrew, Jehovah says that those who are worshiping this false deity will be 'destined  to the sword,' that is, to destruction.  Jehovah has repeatedly called these men to repentance by means of his prophets, but they have ignored him and have stubbornly chosen to do what they know is bad in his eyes.  What contempt they show for God!  In fulfillment of God's warning, the nation will suffer a great catastrophe in 607 B.C.E. when Jehovah allows the Babylonians to destroy Jerusalem and her temple. At that time "the god of Good Luck" will fail to protect its devotees in Judah and Jerusalem. -2 Chronicles 36:17.

Today true Christians heed the warning found at Isaiah 65:11, 12.  They do  not believe in "Good Luck," as if it were some kind of supernatural force able to bestow favors.  Refusing to squander their material possessions in try to appease "the god of Good Luck,"  They avoid all forms of gambling. They are convinced  that those devoting themselves to this god will eventually lose everything, for to such ones Jehovah says:  "I will destine you men to the sword."

Next time: "Look! My Own Servants Will Rejoice"

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

"For the Sake of My Servants"

Will Jehovah show mercy to faithful ones among his people?  Isaiah explains:  "This is what Jehovah has said: 'In the same way that the new wine is found in the cluster and someone has to say, "Do not ruin it, because there is a blessing in it," so I shall do for the sake of my servants in order  not to bring everybody to ruin. And I will bring forth out of Jacob an offspring and out of Judah the hereditary possessor of my mountain; and my chosen ones  must take possession of it, and my own servants will reside there.' "  (Isaiah 65:8, 9) In comparing his people to a cluster of grapes, Jehovah uses an illustration that they can readily understand. Grapes are abundant in the land, and wine made from grapes is a blessing for mankind. (Psalm 104:15)  The image presented may be that of a cluster on which some, but not all, of the grapes are good.  Or the idea may be that one cluster is good, while other clusters are unripe or rotten.  In either case, the vinedresser will not destroy good grapes.  Jehovah thus reassures his people that he will not utterly  destroy the nation but will spare a faithful  remnant.  He states that this favored remnant will possess his "mountains," that is, Jerusalem  and the land of Judah, the hilly country that Jehovah claimed as his own.

What blessings await this faithful remnant?  Jehovah explains:  "Sharon must become a pasture ground for sheep and the low plain of Achor a resting-place for cattle, for my people who will have looked for me." (Isaiah 65:10)  Flocks play an important role in the lives of many Jews, and abundant grazing land helps to create prosperity during times of peace. Jehovah refers to  two extremities  of the land in order to paint a picture of peace and prosperity.  To the west the Plain of Sharon noted for its beauty and fertility, stretches along the Mediterranean Coast.  The Valley of Achor forms part of the northeastern boundary of the land.  (Joshua 15:7)  During the coming exile, these areas will lie waste, along with the rest of the land. Jehovah promises, however, that after the exile they will become beautiful pasture grounds for the returning remnant. -Isaiah 35:2; Hosea 2:15.

Next time: Trusting in "the God of Good Luck"

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

Conclusion of Jehovah Reaches Out to "a Stubborn People"

The stubborn Jews have repeatedly provoked Jehovah by their disgraceful conduct.  Jehovah describes their offensive actions:  "The people made up of those offending me right to my face constantly, sacrificing in the gardens and making sacrificial smoke upon the bricks, seating themselves among the burial places, who also pass the night  even in the watch huts, eating the flesh of the pig, even the broth of foul things being in their vessels; those who saying 'Keep close to yourself.  Do not approach me, for I shall certainly convey holiness to you.'  These are a smoke in my nostrils, a fire burning all day long." (Isaiah 65:3, 5) These seemingly pious ones are offending Jehovah 'right to his face'-an expression that may imply audacity and disrespect.  They make no effort to conceal their abominations.  is it not especially reprehensible to commit sins in the very presence of the One who ought to be honored and obeyed?

These self-righteous sinners are, in effect, saying to other Jews: 'Keep your distance, for I am holier than you.'  What hypocrisy! Those "pious" ones are offering sacrifices and burning incense to false deities, which God's Law condemns. (Exodus 20:2-6)  They are sitting among the burial places, which makes them unclean according to the Law.  (Numbers 19:14-16)  They are eating the flesh of the pig, an unclean food.  (Leviticus 11:7)  Yet, their religious activities make them feel holier than other Jews, and they want other people to keep away so that these will not become sanctified, as it were, or clean, by mere association.  Nevertheless, that is not at all how the God who exacts "exclusive devotion" views matters! -Deuteronomy 4:24.

Rather than considering these self-righteous ones to be holy, Jehovah says: "These are a smoke in my nostrils."  The Hebrew word for "nose" or "nostril" is often used figuratively for anger. Smoke too is associated with Jehovah's burning anger.  (Deuteronomy 29:20)  The disgusting idolatry into which his people have fallen has provoked Jehovah's burning anger. 

In his justice, Jehovah cannot let these willful sinners go unpunished.  Isaiah writes:  " 'Look!  It is written before me.  I shall not keep still, but I will render a reward; I will even render the reward into their own bosom, for their own errors, and for the errors of their forefathers at the same time,'  Jehovah has said. 'Because they have made sacrificial smoke upon the mountains, and upon the hills they have reproached me, I will also measure out their wages first of all into their own bosom.' " (Isaiah 65:6,7) By engaging in false worship, these Jews have reproached Jehovah.  They have made worship of the true God appear to be no better than that of the nations around them.  "For their own errors," including idolatry and spiritism, Jehovah will recompense them "into their own bosom." The expression "bosom" evidently refers to a gathered fold of the upper garment that formed a pouch where vendors might pour a measured amount of produce.  (Luke 6:38)  For apostate Jews, the meaning is clear-Jehovah will measure out their "reward.," or punishment.  The God of justice will exact retribution.  (Psalm 79:12; Jeremiah 32:18)  Since Jehovah does not change, we can be confident that in his due time, he will measure out punishment in a similar way on this wicked system of things. -Malachi 3:6.

 Next time: "For the Sake of My Servants"

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

Jehovah Reaches Out to "a Stubborn People"

Recall that Isaiah 63:15-64:12 contains Isaiah's prophetic prayer on behalf of the Jewish exiles in Babylon. As Isaiah's words make clear, many Jews are not worshiping Jehovah whole-souled, but some have repented and turned to him.  Will Jehovah now restore the nation for the sake of that contrite remnant?  We find the answer in Isaiah chapter 65.  But before  uttering a promise of deliverance for the few who are faithful, Jehovah describes the judgment awaiting the many who are without faith.

Jehovah has put up with persistent rebelliousness on the part of his people.  The time will come, however, when he will abandon them to their enemies and kindly welcome others into his favor.  Through Isaiah, Jehovah says: "I have let myself be searched for by those who had not asked for me.  I have let myself be found by those who had not looked for me I have said, 'Here I am, here I am!' to a nation that was not calling upon my name." (Isaiah 65:1)  It is a sad commentary on Jehovah's covenant people that those of the nations will come to Jehovah but stubborn Judah as a whole will refuse to do so.  Isaiah is not the only prophet to foretell that God will ultimately choose a people not previously recognized. (Hosea 1:10; 2:23)  The apostle Paul quoted Isaiah 65:1, 2 from the Septuagint to prove that people of the nations would obtain  "the righteousness that results from faith" even though natural-born Jews  refused to do so.-Romans 9:30; 10:20, 21.

Jehovah explains why he will allow his own people to suffer calamity:  "I have spread out my hands all day long to a stubborn people, those who are walking in the way that is not good, after their thoughts." (Isaiah 65:2) To spread out one's hands denotes an invitation or an entreaty.  Jehovah has spread out his hands, not just briefly, but all day long.  His heartfelt desire is that Judah return to him.  Yet, this stubborn people has failed to respond.

What a heartwarming lesson we learn from Jehovah's words!   He wants us to draw close to him because he is an approachable God.  (James 4:8)  These words also show us that Jehovah is humble. (Psalm 113:5, 6) After all, he continues figuratively to spread out his hands, entreating his people to return despite the fact that their stubbornness had made him "feel hurt." (Psalm 78:40, 41)  Only after appealing to them for centuries does he finally abandon them to their enemies. Even then, he does not close the door on humble individuals among them.

Next time: Conclusion of Jehovah Reaches Out to "a Stubborn People"

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

"Be Joyful Forever in What I Am Creating", Chapter Twenty-Six

WILL we ever see an end to injustices and suffering?  Over 1,900 years ago, the apostle Peter penned these reassuring words:  "There are new heavens and a new earth that we are awaiting according to [God's] promise, and in these righteousness is to dwell."  (2 Peter 3:13)  Peter, along with many other faithful servants of God throughout the centuries, looked forward to the grand day when lawlessness, oppression, and violence would cease and righteousness would prevail. Can we be sure that this promise will be fulfilled?

 Yes, we can!  When Peter spoke of "new heavens and a new earth,"  he was not introducing a new idea.  About 800 years earlier, Jehovah through the prophet Isaiah uttered similar words.  That earlier promise had a small-scale fulfillment in 537 B.C.E.  When the Jews were released  from Babylonish captivity, enabling them to return to their homeland.  But Isaiah's prophecy is having a grand fulfillment in God's coming new world.  Indeed, the heartwarming prophecy given through Isaiah provides a glimpse of the blessings that God has in store for those who love him.

Next time: Jehovah Reaches Out to "a Stubborn People"

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

Jehovah, the "Hearer of Prayer"

Important lessons can be learned from what happened to Israel. We see that Jehovah is "good and ready to forgive." (Psalm 86:5)  As imperfect creatures, we depend on his mercy and forgiveness to receive salvation.  No works of ours can help us to earn these blessings.  However, Jehovah does not extend forgiveness indiscriminately. Only those who repent of their sins and turn around  are in line for divine pardon. -Acts 3:19.

We also learn that Jehovah is keenly interested in our thoughts and feelings when we express them in prayer to him.  He is the "Hearer of prayer."  (Psalm 65:2, 3) The apostle Peter assures us:  "The eyes of Jehovah are upon the righteous ones, and his ears are toward their supplication."  (1 Peter 3:12)  Further, we learn that a prayer of repentance must include a humble confession of sins.  (Proverbs 28:13)  This does not mean, though, that we can presume of God's mercy.  The Bible warns Christians "not to accept the undeserved kindness of God and miss its purpose." - 2 Corinthians 6:1.

Finally, we learn the purpose of God's patience toward his sinful people.  The apostle Peter explained that Jehovah is patient "because he does not desire any to be destroyed but desires to attain to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)  Nevertheless, those who persistently abuse God's patience will eventually be punished.  Concerning this we read:  "[Jehovah] will render each one to his works: everlasting life to those who are seeking glory and honor and incorruptibleness by endurance in work that is good; however, for those who are contentious and who disobey the truth but obey unrighteousness there will be wrath and anger." -Romans 2:6-8.

This is the way God dealt with ancient Israel. Our relationship with Jehovah today is governed by the same principle because he does not change.  While not holding back undeserved punishment, he will always be "Jehovah, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness and truth, preserving loving-kindness for thousands, pardoning error and transgression and sin." -Exodus 34:6, 7.

Next time: "Be Joyful Forever in What I Am Creating", Chapter Twenty-Six

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

"To Obey Is Better Than a Sacrifice"

Repentant Jews are willing to change. Representing them, Isaiah prays to Jehovah:  "Now, O Jehovah, you are our Father.  We are the clay, and you are our Potter; and all of us are the work of your hand."  (Isaiah 64:8)  These words once again acknowledge Jehovah's authority as Father, or Life-Giver.  (Job 10:9) Jew who repent are compared to malleable clay. Those  who respond  to Jehovah's discipline  can in a figurative way be shaped, or formed in harmony with God's standards.  But this can be accomplished only if Jehovah, the Potter, extends forgiveness.  Hence, Isaiah twice appeals to him to remember that the Jews are his people:  "Do not be indignant , O Jehovah, to the extreme, and do not forever remember our error.  Look, now, please we are all your people." -Isaiah 64:9.

During the exile, the Jews endure much more than mere captivity in a  pagan land.  The desolate condition of Jerusalem and her temple brings reproach upon them and their God.  Isaiah's prayer of repentance recounts some of the things that cause this reproach:  "Your own holy cities have become a wilderness. Zion itself has become a  sheer wilderness, Jerusalem a desolate waste. Our house of holiness and beauty, in which  our forefathers praise you, has itself become something for burning in the fire; and every one of our desirable things has become a devastation." Isaiah 64:10, 11.

Of course, Jehovah is well aware of the state of affairs in the ancestral land of the Jews. About 420 years before the destruction of Jerusalem, he warned his people that if they turned away from his commandments and served other gods, he would "cut [them] off from upon the surface of the ground.,"  and the beautiful temple would "become heaps of ruins."  (1 Kings 9:6-9)  True, Jehovah found delight in the land he had given to his people, the magnificent temple built in his honor, and the sacrifices made to him. But loyalty and obedience are more important than material things, even sacrifices.  The prophet Samuel aptly said to King Saul:  "Does Jehovah have as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of Jehovah?  Look!  To obey is better than a sacrifice, to pay attention that the fat of the reams." -1 Samuel 15:22.

Nevertheless, can the God of Israel look upon the calamity of his repentant people and fail to be moved to pity?  Such is the question with which Isaiah ends his prophetic prayer.  On behalf of the exiled Jews, he pleads:  "In the face of these things, will you continue keeping yourself in check, O Jehovah?  Will you stay still and let us be afflicted to the extreme?" (Isaiah 64:12)  As the situation turns out, Jehovah does indeed forgive his people, and in 537 B.C.E., he brings them back to their land so that they can resume pure worship there.  (Joel 2:13)  Centuries later, however, Jerusalem and her temple were once again destroyed, and God's covenant nations was finally rejected by him? Why? Because Jehovah's people had drifted away from his commandments and had rejected the Messiah.  (John 1:11;  3:19, 20)  When that happened, Jehovah replaced Israel with a new nation, a spiritual nation, namely, "the Israel of God." -Galatians 6:16; 1 Peter 2:9.

Next time:  Jehovah, the "Hearer of Prayer"

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

Only Jehovah Can Save

False gods perform no powerful acts of salvation for their worshipers. Isaiah writes: "From time long ago none have heard, nor have given ear, or has an eye itself seen a God, except you, that acts for the one that keeps in expectation of him. You have met up  with the one exulting and doing righteousness, those who keep remembering you in your own ways." ( Isaiah 64:4, 5a)  Jehovah alone is "the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him." (Hebrews 11:6) He acts to protect those doing righteousness and those remembering him.  (Isaiah  30:18)  Have the Jews acted in this way?  No. Isaiah says to Jehovah:  "Look! You yourself became indignant, while we kept sinning -- in them a long time, and should we be saved?" (Isaiah 64:5b) Because God's people have a long record of persistent sinfulness, there is no basis for Jehovah to hold back his indignation and act for their salvation.

The Jews cannot undo the past, but if they repent and return to pure worship, they can hope for forgiveness and future blessings. Jehovah will reward repentant ones in his due time by releasing them from Babylonian captivity.  Still, they need to be patient. Despite their repentance, Jehovah will not change his timetable.  If they keep alert and are responsive to Jehovah's will, however, they are assured of eventual liberation.  Similarly, Christians today patiently keep in expectation of Jehovah.  ( 2 Peter 3:11, 12) We take to heart the words of the apostle Paul, who said: "Let us not give up in doing what is fine, for in due season we shall reap if we do not tire out." -Galatians 6:9.

Isaiah's prophetic prayer is more than a formal confession of sin. It expresses  sincere recognition of the nation's inability to save itself.  The prophet says: "We become like someone unclean, all of us, and all our acts of righteousness are like a garment for periods of menstruation; and we shall fade away like the leafage, all of us, and our errors themselves will carry us away just like a wind."  (Isaiah 64:6)  By the end of the exile, repentant Jews  may have ceased practicing apostasy. They may have turned to Jehovah with acts of righteousness.  But they are still imperfect.  Their good deeds, while praise-worthy, are no better than soiled garments when it comes to atonement for sins. Jehovah's forgiveness is an undeserved gift motivated by his mercy.  It is not something that can be earned.-Romans 3:23, 24.

As Isaiah looks ahead, what does he see?  The prophet prays:  "There is no one calling upon your name, no one rousing himself to lay hold on you; for you have concealed  your face from us, and you cause us to melt by the power of our error."  (Isaiah 64:7)  The spiritual condition of the nation is abysmal.  The people have not been calling upon God's name in prayer. While no longer guilty of the gross sin of idolatry, they are evidently negligent in their worship, and there is "no one rousing himself to lay hold" on Jehovah.  They clearly do not enjoy a healthy relationship with the Creator.  Perhaps some feel unworthy to address Jehovah in prayer. Others may go about their daily routine without taking him into account.  Of course, there are such individuals as Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, Azariah, and Ezekiel among the exiles, and these are fine examples of faith.  (Hebrews 11:33, 34)  As the 70-year period  of captivity draws to a close, such men as Haggai, Zechariah, Zerubbabel, and High Priest Joshua stand ready to take an excellent lead in calling upon the name of Jehovah.  Still, Isaiah's prophetic prayer seems to describe the condition of the majority of the exiles. 

Next time: "To Obey Is Better Than a Sacrifice"

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

A Compassionate Father

Isaiah prays to Jehovah: "Look from heaven and see out of your lofty abode of holiness and beauty."  The prophet is speaking of the spiritual heavens, where Jehovah and his invisible spirit creatures dwell. Expressing the thoughts of the Jews in exile, Isaiah continues:  "Where are your zeal and your full might, the commotion of your inward  parts, and your mercies?  Toward me they have restrained themselves." (Isaiah 63:15) Jehovah has held back his power and controlled his deep feelings-"the commotion of [his] inward parts, and [his] mercies"-toward his people.  Yet, Jehovah is the "Father" of the Jewish nation. Abraham and Israel  (Jacob) were their natural forefathers, but if these were restored to life, they might be inclined to reject their apostate offspring.  Jehovah has greater compassion.  (Psalm 27:10) Isaiah gratefully says:  "You, O Jehovah, are our Father. Our Repurchaser of long ago is your name." -Isaiah 63:16.

  Isaiah  continues with a heartfelt expression:  "Why do you, O Jehovah, keep making us wander from your ways? Why, do you make our heart hard against the fear of you? Come back for the sake of your servants, the tribes of your hereditary possession."  (Isaiah 63:17) Yes, Isaiah prays that Jehovah will again turn his attention  to his servants.  In what sense, though, does Jehovah make the Jews wander from his ways?  Is Jehovah responsible for the hardness of their hearts that leads them to have no fear of him?  No, but he does allow it, and in their despair the Jews lament that Jehovah gave them such freedom.  (Exodus 4:21; Nehemiah 9:16) They wish that Jehovah had stepped in to prevent them from doing wrong.

Of course, God does not deal with humans in that way. We are free moral agents, and Jehovah allows us to decide for ourselves whether to obey him or not.  (Deuteronomy 30:15-19)  Jehovah wants worship that stems from hearts and minds that are motivated  by genuine love.  Hence, he has allowed the Jews to exercise their free will, even though this has permitted them to rebel against him.  It is in this way that he has made their hearts hard. -2 Chronicles 36:14-21.

What is the result? Isaiah prophetically says:  "For a little while your holy people had possession. Our own adversaries have stamped down your sanctuary. We have for a long time become as those over who you did not rule, as those upon whom your name had not been called."  (Isaiah 63:18, 19)  Jehovah's people had possession of his sanctuary for a while.  then Jehovah allowed it to be destroyed and his nation to be taken into exile. When that happened, it was as if there has been no covenant between him and the offspring of Abraham and as if his name had not been called upon them. Now captive in Babylon, the Jews cry out in their hopelessness:  "O if only you had ripped the heavens apart, that you had come down, that on account of you the very mountains had quaked, as when a fire ignites the brushwood, and the fire makes the very water boil up, in order to make your name known to your adversaries, that on account of you the nations might be agitated!:  (Isaiah 64:1, 2) Jehovah does indeed have the power to save. He certainly could have come down and fought for his people, ripping apart heaven like governmental systems and made his name known  by showing his fiery zeal in behalf of his people.

Jehovah had done such things in the past. Isaiah recounts:  "When you did fear-inspiring things for which we could not hope, you came down. On account of you the mountains themselves quaked."  (Isaiah 64:3)  Such great acts demonstrated Jehovah's power and Godship.  However, the unfaithful Jews of Isaiah's time have no right to expect Jehovah to act in such a way for their benefit.

Next time: Only Jehovah Can Save

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

A Prayer of Repentance

THE destruction of Jerusalem and her temple in 607 B.C.E. was discipline from Jehovah, an expression of his extreme disapproval.  The disobedient nation of Judah deserved the severe punishment.  Yet, Jehovah did not intend that the Jews be exterminated.  The apostle Paul alluded to the purpose of Jehovah's discipline when he said:  "True, no discipline seems for the present to be joyous, but grievous; yet afterward to those who have been trained by it yields peaceable fruit, namely, righteousness." -Hebrews 12:11.

How will the Jews react to the hard experience?  Will they hate Jehovah's discipline?  (Psalm 5-0:16, 17) Or will they accept it as training? Will they repent and be healed?  (Isaiah 57:18; Ezekiel 18:23)  The prophecy of Isaiah suggests that at least some of the former inhabitants of Judah will respond well to the discipline. Beginning in the last verses of chapter 63 and continuing through chapter 64, the nation of Judah is represented  as a contrite people who approach Jehovah in heartfelt supplication. The prophet Isaiah, on behalf of his countrymen in their future exile, utters a prayer of repentance. While doing so, he speaks of coming events as if they were taking place before his eyes. 

Next time: A Compassionate Father

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