God's Word & the Nations
Isaiah 56 portrays the irresponsible religious leaders of
Israel as men who were concerned only with their own personal pleasures
(vv.10-12). They were said to be blind, without knowledge, loving to slumber,
and having a “mighty appetite.” They had all turned to their own way, v. 11,
words that are reminiscent of 53:6, hinting that it is not only the leaders who
are guilty of this selfish comfort zone concern for their comfort zone.
This chapter promises us hope for the nations that they will turn to God. I find encouragement
and exhortation here to continue in this work leading them to do so. God
Himself has spoken it. This is not an empty hope or our own idea; this is the
command of God and it is accompanied by His promise. He will receive and save
ALL who turn to Him in repentance.
Let us also repent and return if we find ourselves among
those who are only concerned with our own bellies, bank accounts, buildings,
budgets, and baptisms. Let’s remember that in the temptation of Jesus, the
devil took a legitimate longing (hunger after 40 days of fasting) and exploited
it, as he still does. He tempted Him three times—with food, power, and
possessions. Let us also must resist
the temptation to serve self, repent
where we have done so, and return to
the purpose of the Bible, which is that we may know God and make Him known. A
world waits to hear the good news of the Gospel.
- read Dr. David Sill's entire post here.
