Isaiah 56:1

“This is what the Lord says: ‘Be just and fair to all. Do what is right and good, for I am coming soon to rescue you and to display my righteousness among you.’” – Isaiah 56:1 New Living Translation

                  Today we’re taking a look at the 1st verse of chapter 56 as transcribed by the prophet Isaiah. The setting is right after the Jews were released from captivity to go home and rebuild their Temple. Their exile was brought about by God as a punishment for their idolatry and general disobedience.  Vv. 6-8 reveal that God is not only blessing the chosen ones of Israel, but also foreigners who commit themselves to the Lord. Gentiles, we know, are grafted into God’s family because the Apostle Paul mentions it in Romans 11:11-24. 

                  It mattered not to God who sought salvation, for forgiveness was for all, however, God laid out a stipulation: you must “be just and fair to all”. Dealing fairly with others is considered being just or exhibiting justice. Salvation is not simply to have one’s sins washed away, it is designed to lead us to righteous living, for the world is watching with a jaundiced eye towards believers even now. God’s righteousness identifies with putting things right, not simply condemning them as wrong. That is an amazing thing about God. He’s all about instructing with compassion. He knows ‘we are but dust and to dust we shall return’ [Ecclesiastes 3:20]. 

                  Isaiah’s prophecies were to alert Israel & Judah regarding their responsibilities toward the coming kingdom, while expressing with certainty its arrival. We must pay close attention to their instructions, for we are part of the family as well and have equally important obligations to serve and obey our Lord. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources – New Bible Commentary; The Reformation Study Bible; MacArthur Study Bible & NIV Biblical Theology Study Bible