Isaiah 48 - Introduction

God, to convince the people of their foreknown obstinacy, revealeth his prophesies: he saveth believers for his own sake: he exhorteth them to obedience, because of his power and providence: he lamenteth their backwardness: he powerfully delivereth his people out of Babylon.

Before Christ 712.

THE fourth discourse of the fourth part of this prophesy, is contained in the present chapter, these may be divided into two sections. The first of these contains, first, a solemn address to the Jews of our prophet's own times, Isaiah 48:1; secondly, a reproof to this people respecting their idolatry, and the true divinity of the God of Israel; wherein is premised a conviction, drawn from the prophesies of the former times, delivered by Isaiah, and undeniably fulfilled; Isaiah 48:3. A new conviction is formed from new prophesies delivered by our prophet, Isaiah 48:6. The faulty disposition of the people towards these prophesies, revealed to them by God, is reproved, Isaiah 48:8. The punishment of the people for their incredulity is denounced, but with some softenings of the divine clemency, Isaiah 48:9. The second section, exhibiting a discourse directed by God to his faithful people in banishment, shortly to be delivered by Cyrus, contains first, an address, with a magnificent preface respecting God, Isaiah 48:12. Secondly, a conviction doctrinal and consolatory; wherein the Almighty claims to himself the foretelling and raising up of Cyrus, Isaiah 48:14 shews that this prediction, as well as many others, was delivered clearly and publicly; Isaiah 48:16 and removes from himself the charge of those evils which happened to the nation, as the people might have enjoyed his favour if they had proceeded otherwise, Isaiah 48:17. Thirdly, it contains the adjuncts of this conviction; first, a command to forsake Babylon, and to declare every where the benefit of this deliverance; Isaiah 48:20. Secondly, the consequence of this benefit; namely, the singular care of the divine providence towards the returning Jews, which is figuratively expressed, Isaiah 48:21 and thirdly, a conclusion, wherein true peace and security are denied to the impious and obstinate sinners, Isaiah 48:22.