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Isaiah 66 Commentary
by Brad Boyles
As the book of Isaiah comes to a close, I am drawn to the writings of F.F. Bruce.
“As the book has stated again and again in a variety of places and ways, however, although the promises of God are universal in scope, they are not universal in depth. No one dare ever think that because hope is always God’s intended last word, one may sin with impunity.”
The closing words of this chapter remind us that those who continue in rebellion will not experience the hope of God. God displays His amazing love to us by showing that hope can indeed come from judgment. However, that hope is balanced with an understanding that there is a response from us. To somehow casually accept the cross and continue down our same path in life is simply not an option. In fact, one could really explore the question of how that is even possible.
God rationally communicates His plan for our lives and how He has made a way for us to get there. We must respond, not out of compulsion or compliance, but because our hearts are overwhelmed with grace. Those who are spiritually blind and continue in their rebellion against God do not see their need to change or understand how severely God feels about sin.
We cannot ignore the thoughts of God. They are brutally honest. The wicked will not triumph over God. Instead, they will be utterly humiliated.
“As they leave, they will see the dead bodies of those who have rebelled against me. The worms that eat them will never die, and the fire that burns them will never be put out. The sight of them will be disgusting to all people.”
Isaiah 66:24 GNB
If this seems intensely grotesque to you, then consider the cost that was paid by Jesus to prevent such a fate from happening. God has made a way for us but we must respond! It’s not a one-time act, but a continual journey. Take that journey forward today, one step at a time.