Purpose

To call Judah to repentance and reveal God's plan of salvation through the coming Messiah.

Author

Isaiah, son of Amoz, was a prophet to the southern kingdom of Judah for over 60 years. He was highly educated, had access to the royal court, and is considered the greatest of the Old Testament prophets.

Historical Context

Written: 740-680 BC. Prophecies during the reigns of four kings of Judah, including the Assyrian crisis.

Significance

Contains more prophecies about Jesus than any other Old Testament book and is quoted most in the New Testament.

Key Themes

God's Holiness, Messiah, Salvation, Judgment, Restoration

Interesting Facts

• Isaiah is quoted in the New Testament more than any other Old Testament book (over 65 times)
• Contains the clearest prophecy of Jesus' virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14)
• Isaiah 53 describes Jesus' crucifixion 700 years before it happened

Prophecies

• The virgin birth of Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14) Fulfilled: Jesus born of the virgin Mary (Matthew 1:23) (700 years later)
• The suffering servant who would die for our sins (Isaiah 53) Fulfilled: Jesus' crucifixion and atonement (700 years later)

Isaiah 57 presents a poignant contrast between the fate of the righteous and the unrighteous, capturing God's deep concern for His people amidst their waywardness. The chapter opens by lamenting the untimely death of the righteous, who are often taken away from calamity, indicating their peace in death compared to the turmoil of the living. This sets the stage for a scathing indictment of the people of Judah, who are characterized as rebellious and sinful, drawn into idolatry and immoral practices. Isaiah addresses them directly, calling them 'sons of the sorceress' and 'offspring of the adulterer,' highlighting their spiritual infidelity and reliance on false gods. The imagery of lust and idolatry is vivid as it describes their worship practices under trees and on high mountains, suggesting a perverse intimacy with their idols rather than fidelity to God. God's challenge to the people is stark: He questions their fear of other powers, their neglect of Him, and the futility of their idol worship. The text declares that true refuge is found only in God, and it calls for the removal of obstacles that hinder His people from returning to Him. The chapter emphasizes God's compassion and readiness to heal those who are contrite and humble, promising to restore comfort to the mourners among His people. Ultimately, the chapter concludes with a sobering reminder that the wicked will not find peace, likening them to a churning sea that cannot settle. This imagery encapsulates the instability and turmoil that accompanies a life lived in rebellion against God. The overall message is one of hope for the humble, alongside a stern warning for the unrepentant, urging them to consider their ways and return to the Lord, who offers healing and restoration.