Isaiah 61 - Introduction

The office of Christ. The zeal and blessings of the faithful.

Before Christ 698.

THE fourth discourse, contained in this and the next chapter, according to Vitringa, explains more distinctly some parts of the foregoing prophesy in the last discourse. It is observable, that from this chapter to the end of the book, the same things and phrases which occur in the former discourse, are often repeated, and illustrated by new figures. This discourse is divided into two sections; the former contained in this, the latter in the next chapter. In this section we have, I. A speech of the Messiah, supposed to be in the flesh, and present with his people, explaining to them the true cause of his unction and mission into the world; namely, to preach the Gospel, and actually to confer upon them the good things therein promised; Isaiah 61:1. II. A speech of the prophetic company; explaining, first, the works of the followers of the Messiah in subjecting to him the inheritance of the Gentiles; Isaiah 61:4. Secondly, the remarkable privileges every where accompanying them; absolutely explained, Isaiah 61:5 comparatively, with respect to the preceding state and time, Isaiah 61:7. III. A speech of the church, first, glorying in the Lord, and exciting herself to joy; with the reason thereof, Isaiah 61:10. Secondly, unfolding at large the reason of that exultation and joy, Isaiah 61:11.