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 Chapter 59 presents a poignant indictment of Israel's spiritual and moral failures, focusing on the chasm created between the people and God due to their iniquities. The chapter opens with a declaration that God’s ability to save is not limited; rather, it is the people's sins that have caused separation from Him. The first few verses vividly describe the corruption and violence rampant among the Israelites, illustrating how their actions—characterized by bloodshed, deceit, and injustice—have led them away from peace and righteousness. In verses 9-11, the people are depicted as groping in darkness, symbolizing their spiritual blindness and desperation for justice and salvation that seems far from reach. As the narrative progresses, the prophet articulates the collective acknowledgment of sin: the nation recognizes its transgressions and the lack of truth and righteousness in society. This acknowledgment leads to a lament of hopelessness, as justice is absent, and the people feel like prey in a corrupted world. The chapter shifts dramatically in verses 15-20, where God’s response to the situation is revealed. The Lord, witnessing the dire state of His people, takes action by bringing salvation through His own righteousness, donning the armor of justice, and preparing to repay evil. The promise of a Redeemer is highlighted as an assurance to those who turn back from their sins, emphasizing God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people. This chapter thus serves as a warning and a hope, illustrating the dire consequences of sin while simultaneously affirming God's power to redeem and restore.