And it will be said, “Build up, build up, prepare the way, Remove every obstacle out of the way of My people.”
Isaiah 57:14 NASB
Remove every stumbling block! If this phrase sounds familiar it’s because it was referenced earlier on in Isaiah. In Chapter 8, we read of the stumbling block, but in a different context.
“Then He shall become a sanctuary; But to both the houses of Israel, a stone to strike and a rock to stumble over, And a snare and a trap for the inhabitants of Jerusalem.
Isaiah 8:14 NASB
In Chapter 8, the stumbling block is God Himself. Isaiah, in this context, is commanded to leave the people to their own will and allow them to be subjected to God’s righteous judgment. In Chapter 57, we see a much different tone. In fact, God is removing ALL stumbling blocks for the people. Similar to a highway which is paved over with fresh asphalt, the road to God is being removed of all cracks and potholes. Nothing will hold back the people from access to God.
So, the question is, what is the difference between to the two passages? In Chapter 8, we have not yet been introduced to The Servant – Jesus Christ. The Messiah is the One who prepares the way. He is the One who removes the stumbling block of sin. The people can now stop hiding and begin healing. The path is clear.
We can’t tell this story enough. God’s righteous anger has been satisfied through His Son Jesus, and now He had prepared a way for His love. Those who humble themselves will find the smooth road to the Father through repentance but those who oppose will indeed find the stumbling block from Chapter 8.