Introduction: The prophet having largely discoursed of the sufferings of Christ, and of the blessed fruits thereof, and here foreseeing that glorious state of the church, he breaks forth into a song of triumph. And as chapter 53 literally speaks of Christ, so also chapter 54 speaks of the church of Christ. This church, consisting at first of the Jews, and afterwards of the Gentiles, had been barren, ’till the coming of Christ. Israel was considered barren especially when in exile. In the Near East barrenness was considered a disgrace. Israel was abandoned for a brief moment in Babylon but God promised to restore her back with deep compassion. This restoration would be physical and spiritual.
What was the situation and the prophet’s message surrounding Israel at that time?
1. Situation
The exile is assumed to have happened, judgement has fallen and Israel can now reach ahead to a new future.
2. Message
God is great and will save. This session includes some of the greatest proclamations about God’s nature in the whole Testament, looking forward to the coming of the servant of God, the Messiah Jesus Christ. God had made a covenant with Abraham promising him many descendants as can be seen in Genesis
17:15-19. This promise is remembered in Isaiah 54:1 in the joy of the barren woman who now has many children.
In the covenant with the children of Israel God promised them land (54:2-3) and this promise would extend to the nations.
Isaiah speaks of God’s covenant with Noah in which he promised never again to destroy the earth (Genesis 9:8-17). This commitment is now transformed in a promise that God will never again destroy Israel (54:9-10).
In the event that there are so many things happening now, we are called upon to see Christ in everything. We are called upon to hold on God’s word that he will never abandon us. God said to Israel; “With deep compassion I will bring you back” and “with everlasting kindness I will have compassion on you” (Isaiah 54:7-8). This compassion brings about the following consequences.
1. Prosperity: This is symbolized by the precious stones that are used to build Jerusalem (11-12)
2. Serene faithfulness to God (13-14)
3. Absolute security because God will provide his people with defence (15-17)
Rev. Bonface Nyangolo: Centre Senior Pastor