Isaiah 66:5

ACCEPTABLE WORSHIP

Isaiah 66:5. Hear the Word of the Lord, ye that tremble, &c.

In all ages, true and false professors of religion have been found within the precincts of the Church. So in Isaiah’s time, &c. The hypocritical party, instead of being humbled, &c., grew bolder in sin, and presumed upon their outward relationship to God. But the prophet reminds them that the worship of God must be suited to His nature—spiritual, &c.
I. The distinguishing character of acceptable worshippers. This fear arises from—

1. Their tender love and reverence for the Author of the Word.
2. A settled delight in the holiness of that Word.
3. Produced alike by the terror of the threatenings and the sweetness of the promises.

II. The special regard which God pays to them.

1. He looks upon them.
2. He dwells with them.
3. He vindicates their cause from the rebuke of enemies.
4. He brings them for ever to dwell with Him.—S. Thodey.