The Prophecy of Isaiah: An Introduction & Commentary by Motyer J. Alec

Author:Motyer, J. Alec
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: InterVarsity Press
Published: 2015-12-10T16:00:00+00:00

c. The incomparable God of Israel: the world ruler (41:1–7)

This section (cf. p. 298) is presented as a court scene (‘let us meet together at the place of judgment’; cf. 1:18, ‘let us reason together’) yet the implication of the presentation is more invitation than confrontation. ‘Islands’ and ‘nations’ – the whole Gentile world – are invited to share in the blessings of Israel’s God, but they flee rather to the security of idolatry.

A1​Invitation: the nations called to the God of Israel to settle an issue (1)

B​The issue to be settled (2–4)

B1​Who controls world history? (2–3)

in its initiation and objectives (2a-d)

in its process (2e–3)

B2​The Lord’s claim (4)

in this instance

in general

A2​Response: flight to idolatry (5–7)

The poem consists of six stanzas of four lines each, except the five-line fifth stanza (5–6). A1 and A2 are linked by ‘islands’ and ‘meet together’ (1) and ‘approach’ (5) (both from √qārēḇ). B1 and B2 have their initial interrogative form in common and ‘calling’ (√qārā’). It is important to note that no names are named even though specific events are clearly in mind (2–3). In other words (as in chapters 28–29) Isaiah is discussing principles, in this case, the principle of initiation and direction in world history. The essential intention is still the comfort of the Lord’s people. His promises (40:1–11) are secure because it is he who rules and runs the world.

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