1 The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.

2 Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the Lord hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me.

3 The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master's crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider.

4 Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the Lord, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward.

5 Why should ye be stricken any more? ye will revolt more and more: the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint.

6 From the sole of the foot even unto the head there is no soundness in it; but wounds, and bruises, and putrifying sores: they have not been closed, neither bound up, neither mollified with ointment.

7 Your country is desolate, your cities are burned with fire: your land, strangers devour it in your presence, and it is desolate, as overthrown by strangers.

8 And the daughter of Zion is left as a cottage in a vineyard, as a lodge in a garden of cucumbers, as a besieged city.

9 Except the Lord of hosts had left unto us a very small remnant, we should have been as Sodom, and we should have been like unto Gomorrah.

10 Hear the word of the Lord, ye rulers of Sodom; give ear unto the law of our God, ye people of Gomorrah.

11 To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices unto me? saith the Lord: I am full of the burnt offerings of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I delight not in the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of he goats.

12 When ye come to appear before me, who hath required this at your hand, to tread my courts?

13 Bring no more vain oblations; incense is an abomination unto me; the new moons and sabbaths, the calling of assemblies, I cannot away with; it is iniquity, even the solemn meeting.

14 Your new moons and your appointed feasts my soul hateth: they are a trouble unto me; I am weary to bear them.

15 And when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide mine eyes from you: yea, when ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of blood.

16 Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil;

17 Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.

18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:

20 But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.

21 How is the faithful city become an harlot! it was full of judgment; righteousness lodged in it; but now murderers.

22 Thy silver is become dross, thy wine mixed with water:

23 Thy princes are rebellious, and companions of thieves: every one loveth gifts, and followeth after rewards: they judge not the fatherless, neither doth the cause of the widow come unto them.

24 Therefore saith the Lord, the Lord of hosts, the mighty One of Israel, Ah, I will ease me of mine adversaries, and avenge me of mine enemies:

25 And I will turn my hand upon thee, and purely purge away thy dross, and take away all thy tin:

26 And I will restore thy judges as at the first, and thy counsellors as at the beginning: afterward thou shalt be called, The city of righteousness, the faithful city.

27 Zion shall be redeemed with judgment, and her converts with righteousness.

28 And the destruction of the transgressors and of the sinners shall be together, and they that forsake the Lord shall be consumed.

29 For they shall be ashamed of the oaks which ye have desired, and ye shall be confounded for the gardens that ye have chosen.

30 For ye shall be as an oak whose leaf fadeth, and as a garden that hath no water.

31 And the strong shall be as tow, and the maker of it as a spark, and they shall both burn together, and none shall quench them.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The corruptions prevailing among the Jews.
Isaiah signifies, "The salvation of the Lord;" a very suitable name for this prophet, who prophesies so much of Jesus the Saviour, and his salvation. God's professing people did not know or consider that they owed their lives and comforts to God's fatherly care and kindness. How many are very careless in the affairs of their souls! Not considering what we do know in religion, does us as much harm, as ignorance of what we should know. The wickedness was universal. Here is a comparison taken from a sick and diseased body. The distemper threatens to be mortal. From the sole of the foot even to the head; from the meanest peasant to the greatest peer, there is no soundness, no good principle, no religion, for that is the health of the soul. Nothing but guilt and corruption; the sad effects of Adam's fall. This passage declares the total depravity of human nature. While sin remains unrepented, nothing is done toward healing these wounds, and preventing fatal effects. Jerusalem was exposed and unprotected, like the huts or sheds built up to guard ripening fruits. These are still to be seen in the East, where fruits form a large part of the summer food of the people. But the Lord had a small remnant of pious servants at Jerusalem. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed. The evil nature is in every one of us; only Jesus and his sanctifying Spirit can restore us to spiritual health.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
(Hebrews 11:37). Isaiah Was Sawn Asunder
—Isaiah, who was permitted by the Lord to see wonderful things, was sawn asunder, because he faithfully reproved the sins of the Jewish nation. The prophets who came to look after the Lord's vineyard, were indeed beaten and killed. “They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword; they wandered about in sheepskins and goat-skins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented”—men of whom the world was not worthy. They were cruelly treated, and banished from the world (The Signs of the Times, February 17, 1898).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Vision - Or, the visions; the word being here collectively used: the sense is, this is the book of the visions or prophecies. As prophets were called Seers, (1 Samuel 9:9) , so prophecies are called visions, because they were as clearly and certainly represented to the prophets minds, as bodily objects are to mens eyes. Saw - Foresaw and foretold. But he speaks, after the manner of the prophets, of things to come, as if they were either past or present. Judah - Principally, but not exclusively. For he prophecies also concerning Egypt and Babylon, and divers other countries; yet with respect to Judah. The days - ln the time of their reign. Whence it may be gathered, that Isaiah exercised his prophetical office above fifty years altogether.
McArther Bible Commentary
See Introduction: Title; Author and Date.
Bible Cross References
2 Kings 15:1 2 Kings 15:13 2 Kings 15:32 2 Kings 19:2 2 Chronicles 26:1 2 Chronicles 26:22 2 Chronicles 27:1 2 Chronicles 28:1 2 Chronicles 29:33 Isaiah 2:1 Isaiah 6:1 Isaiah 7:1 Isaiah 13:1 Isaiah 20:2 Isaiah 37:2 Isaiah 38:1 Isaiah 40:9 Ezekiel 1:1 Hosea 1:1 Amos 1:1

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The corruptions prevailing among the Jews.
Isaiah signifies, "The salvation of the Lord;" a very suitable name for this prophet, who prophesies so much of Jesus the Saviour, and his salvation. God's professing people did not know or consider that they owed their lives and comforts to God's fatherly care and kindness. How many are very careless in the affairs of their souls! Not considering what we do know in religion, does us as much harm, as ignorance of what we should know. The wickedness was universal. Here is a comparison taken from a sick and diseased body. The distemper threatens to be mortal. From the sole of the foot even to the head; from the meanest peasant to the greatest peer, there is no soundness, no good principle, no religion, for that is the health of the soul. Nothing but guilt and corruption; the sad effects of Adam's fall. This passage declares the total depravity of human nature. While sin remains unrepented, nothing is done toward healing these wounds, and preventing fatal effects. Jerusalem was exposed and unprotected, like the huts or sheds built up to guard ripening fruits. These are still to be seen in the East, where fruits form a large part of the summer food of the people. But the Lord had a small remnant of pious servants at Jerusalem. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed. The evil nature is in every one of us; only Jesus and his sanctifying Spirit can restore us to spiritual health.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
A People Professedly Serving God
—[Isaiah 1:2, 3 quoted.] The course pursued by Israel toward God called forth these words. It was a proof of the people's perversity that they manifested less gratitude, less attachment, less acknowledgment of ownership, toward God than the animals of the field manifest toward their masters....The first chapter of Isaiah is a description of a people professedly serving God, but walking in forbidden paths (Manuscript 29, 1911).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Hear - He directs his speech to those senseless creatures, that he might awaken the Israelites, whom he hereby proclaims to be so dull and stupid that they were past hearing, and therefore calls in the whole creation of God to bear witness against them. The Lord - This is his plea against them, of the equity whereof he is willing that all the creatures should be judges.
McArther Bible Commentary
This is a courtroom scene in which the Lord is the plaintiff and the nation of Israel is the defendant. Instead of responding to God's ultimate care and provision for them, these people have failed to give Him the loving obedience that is His due.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 4:26 Deuteronomy 32:1 Psalm 49:1 Psalm 50:4 Isaiah 30:1 Isaiah 30:9 Isaiah 31:6 Isaiah 34:1 Isaiah 63:16 Isaiah 65:2 Jeremiah 2:12 Jeremiah 3:22 Jeremiah 6:19 Ezekiel 24:3 Micah 1:2 Malachi 1:6

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The corruptions prevailing among the Jews.
Isaiah signifies, "The salvation of the Lord;" a very suitable name for this prophet, who prophesies so much of Jesus the Saviour, and his salvation. God's professing people did not know or consider that they owed their lives and comforts to God's fatherly care and kindness. How many are very careless in the affairs of their souls! Not considering what we do know in religion, does us as much harm, as ignorance of what we should know. The wickedness was universal. Here is a comparison taken from a sick and diseased body. The distemper threatens to be mortal. From the sole of the foot even to the head; from the meanest peasant to the greatest peer, there is no soundness, no good principle, no religion, for that is the health of the soul. Nothing but guilt and corruption; the sad effects of Adam's fall. This passage declares the total depravity of human nature. While sin remains unrepented, nothing is done toward healing these wounds, and preventing fatal effects. Jerusalem was exposed and unprotected, like the huts or sheds built up to guard ripening fruits. These are still to be seen in the East, where fruits form a large part of the summer food of the people. But the Lord had a small remnant of pious servants at Jerusalem. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed. The evil nature is in every one of us; only Jesus and his sanctifying Spirit can restore us to spiritual health.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
A People Professedly Serving God
—[Isaiah 1:2, 3 quoted.] The course pursued by Israel toward God called forth these words. It was a proof of the people's perversity that they manifested less gratitude, less attachment, less acknowledgment of ownership, toward God than the animals of the field manifest toward their masters....The first chapter of Isaiah is a description of a people professedly serving God, but walking in forbidden paths (Manuscript 29, 1911).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Know - Me their owner and master. Knowing is here taken practically, as it is usually in scripture, and includes reverence and obedience.
McArther Bible Commentary
ox … donkey. Animals appear to have more powers of reason than God's people who break fellowship with Him.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 5:13 Isaiah 27:11 Isaiah 44:18 Isaiah 56:11 Jeremiah 8:7 Jeremiah 9:3 Jeremiah 9:6 Ezekiel 16:30 Daniel 9:11 Hosea 2:8

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The corruptions prevailing among the Jews.
Isaiah signifies, "The salvation of the Lord;" a very suitable name for this prophet, who prophesies so much of Jesus the Saviour, and his salvation. God's professing people did not know or consider that they owed their lives and comforts to God's fatherly care and kindness. How many are very careless in the affairs of their souls! Not considering what we do know in religion, does us as much harm, as ignorance of what we should know. The wickedness was universal. Here is a comparison taken from a sick and diseased body. The distemper threatens to be mortal. From the sole of the foot even to the head; from the meanest peasant to the greatest peer, there is no soundness, no good principle, no religion, for that is the health of the soul. Nothing but guilt and corruption; the sad effects of Adam's fall. This passage declares the total depravity of human nature. While sin remains unrepented, nothing is done toward healing these wounds, and preventing fatal effects. Jerusalem was exposed and unprotected, like the huts or sheds built up to guard ripening fruits. These are still to be seen in the East, where fruits form a large part of the summer food of the people. But the Lord had a small remnant of pious servants at Jerusalem. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed. The evil nature is in every one of us; only Jesus and his sanctifying Spirit can restore us to spiritual health.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Separation Led to Presumptuous, Foolhardy Madness
—The professed people of God had separated from God, and had lost their wisdom and perverted their understanding. They could not see afar off; for they had forgotten that they had been purged from their old sins. They moved restlessly and uncertainly under darkness, seeking to obliterate from their minds the memory of the freedom, assurance, and happiness of their former estate. They plunged into all kinds of presumptuous, foolhardy madness, placed themselves in opposition to the providences of God, and deepened the guilt that was already upon them. They listened to the charges of Satan against the divine character, and represented God as devoid of mercy and forgiveness. The prophet writes of them, saying:“Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evil-doers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the Lord, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward” (The Review and Herald, August 6, 1895).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A seed - The children of wicked parents, whose guilt they inherit, and whose evil example they follow. Corrupters - Heb. that corrupt themselves, or others by their counsel and example. Backward - Instead of proceeding forward and growing in grace.
McArther Bible Commentary
The Holy One of Israel. This is Isaiah's special title for God, found twenty-five times in this book (Isa 1:4; Isa 5:19, Isa 5:24; Isa 10:17, Isa 10:20; Isa 12:6; Isa 17:7; Isa 29:19; Isa 30:11-12, Isa 30:15; Isa 31:1; Isa 37:23; Isa 41:14, Isa 41:16, Isa 41:20; Isa 43:3, Isa 43:14; Isa 45:11; Isa 47:4; Isa 48:17; Isa 49:7; Isa 54:5; Isa 55:5; Isa 60:9, Isa 60:14), but only six times in the rest of the OT (2Ki 19:22; Psa 71:22; Psa 78:41; Psa 89:18; Jer 50:29; Isa 51:5). Isaiah also uses Holy One as a title four times (Isa 10:17; Isa 40:25; Isa 43:15; Isa 49:7) and Holy One of Jacob once (Isa 29:23). In many contexts, the name contrasts the holiness of God with the sinfulness of Israel.
Bible Cross References
Nehemiah 1:7 Psalm 71:22 Isaiah 1:28 Isaiah 5:24 Isaiah 9:17 Isaiah 14:20 Isaiah 31:2 Isaiah 57:3 Isaiah 57:17 Isaiah 58:2 Isaiah 65:11 Jeremiah 15:6 Jeremiah 32:32 Ezekiel 14:5 Ezekiel 16:45 Daniel 9:11 Zephaniah 1:6

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The corruptions prevailing among the Jews.
Isaiah signifies, "The salvation of the Lord;" a very suitable name for this prophet, who prophesies so much of Jesus the Saviour, and his salvation. God's professing people did not know or consider that they owed their lives and comforts to God's fatherly care and kindness. How many are very careless in the affairs of their souls! Not considering what we do know in religion, does us as much harm, as ignorance of what we should know. The wickedness was universal. Here is a comparison taken from a sick and diseased body. The distemper threatens to be mortal. From the sole of the foot even to the head; from the meanest peasant to the greatest peer, there is no soundness, no good principle, no religion, for that is the health of the soul. Nothing but guilt and corruption; the sad effects of Adam's fall. This passage declares the total depravity of human nature. While sin remains unrepented, nothing is done toward healing these wounds, and preventing fatal effects. Jerusalem was exposed and unprotected, like the huts or sheds built up to guard ripening fruits. These are still to be seen in the East, where fruits form a large part of the summer food of the people. But the Lord had a small remnant of pious servants at Jerusalem. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed. The evil nature is in every one of us; only Jesus and his sanctifying Spirit can restore us to spiritual health.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Head - The very head and heart of the body politick, from whence the plague is derived to all the other members.
McArther Bible Commentary
Why … stricken again? Already in ruins because of rebellion against God (Isa 1:7-8), the nation behaved irrationally by continuing their rebellion.
Bible Cross References
2 Kings 1:13 2 Chronicles 28:22 Isaiah 31:6 Isaiah 33:24 Jeremiah 2:30 Jeremiah 5:3 Jeremiah 13:23 Jeremiah 17:9 Jeremiah 44:15 Lamentations 5:17 Ezekiel 34:4 Ezekiel 34:16

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The corruptions prevailing among the Jews.
Isaiah signifies, "The salvation of the Lord;" a very suitable name for this prophet, who prophesies so much of Jesus the Saviour, and his salvation. God's professing people did not know or consider that they owed their lives and comforts to God's fatherly care and kindness. How many are very careless in the affairs of their souls! Not considering what we do know in religion, does us as much harm, as ignorance of what we should know. The wickedness was universal. Here is a comparison taken from a sick and diseased body. The distemper threatens to be mortal. From the sole of the foot even to the head; from the meanest peasant to the greatest peer, there is no soundness, no good principle, no religion, for that is the health of the soul. Nothing but guilt and corruption; the sad effects of Adam's fall. This passage declares the total depravity of human nature. While sin remains unrepented, nothing is done toward healing these wounds, and preventing fatal effects. Jerusalem was exposed and unprotected, like the huts or sheds built up to guard ripening fruits. These are still to be seen in the East, where fruits form a large part of the summer food of the people. But the Lord had a small remnant of pious servants at Jerusalem. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed. The evil nature is in every one of us; only Jesus and his sanctifying Spirit can restore us to spiritual health.
Bible Cross References
2 Samuel 14:25 Job 2:7 Psalm 38:3 Isaiah 30:26 Jeremiah 8:22 Jeremiah 17:9

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The corruptions prevailing among the Jews.
Isaiah signifies, "The salvation of the Lord;" a very suitable name for this prophet, who prophesies so much of Jesus the Saviour, and his salvation. God's professing people did not know or consider that they owed their lives and comforts to God's fatherly care and kindness. How many are very careless in the affairs of their souls! Not considering what we do know in religion, does us as much harm, as ignorance of what we should know. The wickedness was universal. Here is a comparison taken from a sick and diseased body. The distemper threatens to be mortal. From the sole of the foot even to the head; from the meanest peasant to the greatest peer, there is no soundness, no good principle, no religion, for that is the health of the soul. Nothing but guilt and corruption; the sad effects of Adam's fall. This passage declares the total depravity of human nature. While sin remains unrepented, nothing is done toward healing these wounds, and preventing fatal effects. Jerusalem was exposed and unprotected, like the huts or sheds built up to guard ripening fruits. These are still to be seen in the East, where fruits form a large part of the summer food of the people. But the Lord had a small remnant of pious servants at Jerusalem. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed. The evil nature is in every one of us; only Jesus and his sanctifying Spirit can restore us to spiritual health.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
In your presence - Which your eye shall see to torment you, when there is no power in your hands to deliver you. As - Heb. as the overthrow of strangers, that is, which strangers bring upon a land which is not likely to continue in their hands, and therefore they spare no persons, and spoil and destroy all things, which is not usually done in wars between persons of the same, or of a neighbouring nation.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 26:33 Deuteronomy 29:23 Psalm 109:11 Isaiah 1:8 Isaiah 3:8 Isaiah 6:11 Isaiah 9:18 Isaiah 49:19 Isaiah 60:15 Isaiah 62:8 Isaiah 64:10 Jeremiah 4:7 Jeremiah 7:34 Jeremiah 44:6 Lamentations 5:2 Ezekiel 25:4 Hosea 7:9 Micah 5:11 Micah 6:13

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The corruptions prevailing among the Jews.
Isaiah signifies, "The salvation of the Lord;" a very suitable name for this prophet, who prophesies so much of Jesus the Saviour, and his salvation. God's professing people did not know or consider that they owed their lives and comforts to God's fatherly care and kindness. How many are very careless in the affairs of their souls! Not considering what we do know in religion, does us as much harm, as ignorance of what we should know. The wickedness was universal. Here is a comparison taken from a sick and diseased body. The distemper threatens to be mortal. From the sole of the foot even to the head; from the meanest peasant to the greatest peer, there is no soundness, no good principle, no religion, for that is the health of the soul. Nothing but guilt and corruption; the sad effects of Adam's fall. This passage declares the total depravity of human nature. While sin remains unrepented, nothing is done toward healing these wounds, and preventing fatal effects. Jerusalem was exposed and unprotected, like the huts or sheds built up to guard ripening fruits. These are still to be seen in the East, where fruits form a large part of the summer food of the people. But the Lord had a small remnant of pious servants at Jerusalem. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed. The evil nature is in every one of us; only Jesus and his sanctifying Spirit can restore us to spiritual health.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Is left - Is left solitary, all the neighbouring villages and country round about it being laid waste.
McArther Bible Commentary
daughter of Zion. The phrase occurs twenty-eight times in the OT, six of which are in Isaiah (Isa 1:8; Isa 10:32; Isa 16:1; Isa 37:22; Isa 52:2; Isa 62:11). It is a personification of Jerusalem, standing here for all of Judah.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 1:7 Isaiah 1:9 Isaiah 10:32 Isaiah 49:21 Jeremiah 6:2

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The corruptions prevailing among the Jews.
Isaiah signifies, "The salvation of the Lord;" a very suitable name for this prophet, who prophesies so much of Jesus the Saviour, and his salvation. God's professing people did not know or consider that they owed their lives and comforts to God's fatherly care and kindness. How many are very careless in the affairs of their souls! Not considering what we do know in religion, does us as much harm, as ignorance of what we should know. The wickedness was universal. Here is a comparison taken from a sick and diseased body. The distemper threatens to be mortal. From the sole of the foot even to the head; from the meanest peasant to the greatest peer, there is no soundness, no good principle, no religion, for that is the health of the soul. Nothing but guilt and corruption; the sad effects of Adam's fall. This passage declares the total depravity of human nature. While sin remains unrepented, nothing is done toward healing these wounds, and preventing fatal effects. Jerusalem was exposed and unprotected, like the huts or sheds built up to guard ripening fruits. These are still to be seen in the East, where fruits form a large part of the summer food of the people. But the Lord had a small remnant of pious servants at Jerusalem. It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed. The evil nature is in every one of us; only Jesus and his sanctifying Spirit can restore us to spiritual health.
McArther Bible Commentary
Lord of hosts. Isaiah used this title or the similar LordGod of hosts sixty times. It pictured God as a mighty warrior, a leader of armies, capable of conquering all of Israel's enemies and providing for her survival. remnant. Sometimes rendered survivors, this term designated the faithful among the Israelites. Paul cited this verse to prove the ongoing existence of faithful Israelites, even in his day (Rom 9:29). Such a remnant will constitute the nucleus of returning Israelites in the nation's regathering when the Messiah returns to earth. See Isa 10:20, Isa 10:22; Hos 1:10-11. Sodom … Gomorrah. In destroying them, God rained brimstone and fire on these two Canaanite cities because of their aggravated sinfulness (Gen 18:20; Isa 19:24-25, Isa 19:28). The two cities, thereby, became a proverbial expression for the ultimate in God's temporal judgment against any people (e.g., Isa 13:19; Deu 29:23; Jer 23:14; Jer 49:18; Jer 50:40; Amo 4:11; Zep 2:9; Mat 10:15; 2Pe 2:6; Jud 1:7). Had God's grace not intervened, He would have judged Israel in the same way.
Bible Cross References
Romans 9:29 2 Peter 2:6 Revelation 11:8 Genesis 19:24 2 Kings 19:4 Isaiah 1:8 Isaiah 10:20 Isaiah 11:11 Isaiah 11:16 Isaiah 37:4 Isaiah 37:31 Isaiah 46:3 Isaiah 65:8 Jeremiah 23:14 Jeremiah 42:2 Jeremiah 50:20

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Severe censures.
Judea was desolate, and their cities burned. This awakened them to bring sacrifices and offerings, as if they would bribe God to remove the punishment, and give them leave to go on in their sin. Many who will readily part with their sacrifices, will not be persuaded to part with their sins. They relied on the mere form as a service deserving a reward. The most costly devotions of wicked people, without thorough reformation of heart and life, cannot be acceptable to God. He not only did not accept them, but he abhorred them. All this shows that sin is very hateful to God. If we allow ourselves in secret sin, or forbidden indulgences; if we reject the salvation of Christ, our very prayers will become abomination.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Of Sodom - So called for their resemblance of them in wickedness. The law - The message which I am now to deliver to you from God, your great lawgiver.
McArther Bible Commentary
The prophet applied the names of the sinful cities, Sodom and Gomorrah, to Judah and Jerusalem in decrying their empty formalism in worship. God found their activities repulsive when they engaged in the rituals prescribed by Moses, because when doing so they persisted in iniquity.
Bible Cross References
Romans 9:29 Revelation 11:8 Isaiah 3:9 Isaiah 8:20 Isaiah 28:14 Isaiah 30:9 Isaiah 33:22 Jeremiah 23:14 Ezekiel 13:2 Ezekiel 16:49 Micah 3:1

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Severe censures.
Judea was desolate, and their cities burned. This awakened them to bring sacrifices and offerings, as if they would bribe God to remove the punishment, and give them leave to go on in their sin. Many who will readily part with their sacrifices, will not be persuaded to part with their sins. They relied on the mere form as a service deserving a reward. The most costly devotions of wicked people, without thorough reformation of heart and life, cannot be acceptable to God. He not only did not accept them, but he abhorred them. All this shows that sin is very hateful to God. If we allow ourselves in secret sin, or forbidden indulgences; if we reject the salvation of Christ, our very prayers will become abomination.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
To me - Who am a spirit, and therefore cannot be satisfied with such carnal oblations, but expect to have your hearts and lives, as well as your bodies and sacrifices, presented unto me. Blood - He mentions the fat and blood, because these were in a peculiar manner reserved for God, to intimate that even the best of their sacrifices were rejected by him.
McArther Bible Commentary
I have had enough … I do not delight. Cf. 1Sa 15:22-23. God found all sacrifices meaningless and even abhorrent if the offerer failed in obedience to His laws. Rebellion is equated to the sin of witchcraft and stubbornness to iniquity and idolatry.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 22:4 Numbers 7:45 1 Samuel 15:22 Psalm 40:6 Psalm 50:8 Proverbs 15:8 Proverbs 21:3 Isaiah 58:2 Jeremiah 6:20 Jeremiah 7:21 Hosea 6:6 Amos 5:21 Amos 5:22 Haggai 2:14 Zechariah 7:5 Malachi 1:10

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Severe censures.
Judea was desolate, and their cities burned. This awakened them to bring sacrifices and offerings, as if they would bribe God to remove the punishment, and give them leave to go on in their sin. Many who will readily part with their sacrifices, will not be persuaded to part with their sins. They relied on the mere form as a service deserving a reward. The most costly devotions of wicked people, without thorough reformation of heart and life, cannot be acceptable to God. He not only did not accept them, but he abhorred them. All this shows that sin is very hateful to God. If we allow ourselves in secret sin, or forbidden indulgences; if we reject the salvation of Christ, our very prayers will become abomination.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
To appear - Upon the three solemn feasts, or upon other occasions. Who required - The thing I commanded, was not only, nor chiefly, that you should offer external sacrifices, but that you should do it with true repentance, with faith in my promises, and sincere resolutions of devoting yourselves to my service.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 23:17 Ecclesiastes 5:1 Zechariah 7:5

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Severe censures.
Judea was desolate, and their cities burned. This awakened them to bring sacrifices and offerings, as if they would bribe God to remove the punishment, and give them leave to go on in their sin. Many who will readily part with their sacrifices, will not be persuaded to part with their sins. They relied on the mere form as a service deserving a reward. The most costly devotions of wicked people, without thorough reformation of heart and life, cannot be acceptable to God. He not only did not accept them, but he abhorred them. All this shows that sin is very hateful to God. If we allow ourselves in secret sin, or forbidden indulgences; if we reject the salvation of Christ, our very prayers will become abomination.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The solemn meeting - The most solemn day of each of the three feasts, which was the last day.
McArther Bible Commentary
The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the calling of assemblies … appointed feasts. These were all occasions prescribed by the law of Moses (cf. Exo 12:16; LeIsa 1:23; Num 10:10; Num. 28:11-29:40; Deu 16:1-17).
Bible Cross References
Exodus 12:16 Numbers 10:2 1 Chronicles 23:31 Isaiah 66:3 Isaiah 66:23 Jeremiah 7:9 Jeremiah 7:10 Ezekiel 20:39 Hosea 2:11 Malachi 1:10

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Severe censures.
Judea was desolate, and their cities burned. This awakened them to bring sacrifices and offerings, as if they would bribe God to remove the punishment, and give them leave to go on in their sin. Many who will readily part with their sacrifices, will not be persuaded to part with their sins. They relied on the mere form as a service deserving a reward. The most costly devotions of wicked people, without thorough reformation of heart and life, cannot be acceptable to God. He not only did not accept them, but he abhorred them. All this shows that sin is very hateful to God. If we allow ourselves in secret sin, or forbidden indulgences; if we reject the salvation of Christ, our very prayers will become abomination.
McArther Bible Commentary
My soul hates. It is impossible to doubt the Lord's total aversion toward hypocritical religion. Other practices God hates include robbery for burnt offering (Isa 61:8), serving other gods (Jer 44:4), harboring evil against a neighbor and love for a false oath (Zec 8:16), divorce (Mal 2:16), and the person who loves violence (Psa 11:5).
Bible Cross References
1 Chronicles 23:31 Isaiah 7:13 Isaiah 29:1 Isaiah 29:2 Isaiah 43:24 Isaiah 66:23 Hosea 2:11 Hosea 5:7 Amos 2:13

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Severe censures.
Judea was desolate, and their cities burned. This awakened them to bring sacrifices and offerings, as if they would bribe God to remove the punishment, and give them leave to go on in their sin. Many who will readily part with their sacrifices, will not be persuaded to part with their sins. They relied on the mere form as a service deserving a reward. The most costly devotions of wicked people, without thorough reformation of heart and life, cannot be acceptable to God. He not only did not accept them, but he abhorred them. All this shows that sin is very hateful to God. If we allow ourselves in secret sin, or forbidden indulgences; if we reject the salvation of Christ, our very prayers will become abomination.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Blood - You are guilty of murder, and oppression.
Bible Cross References
John 9:31 Exodus 9:29 1 Kings 8:22 Job 27:9 Job 35:13 Isaiah 4:4 Isaiah 8:17 Isaiah 45:15 Isaiah 58:4 Isaiah 59:2 Isaiah 59:3 Isaiah 64:7 Jeremiah 4:31 Jeremiah 11:11 Jeremiah 14:12 Ezekiel 8:18 Ezekiel 11:6 Ezekiel 14:3 Ezekiel 39:23 Hosea 5:6

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to repentance.
Not only feel sorrow for the sin committed, but break off the practice. We must be doing, not stand idle. We must be doing the good the Lord our God requires. It is plain that the sacrifices of the law could not atone, even for outward national crimes. But, blessed be God, there is a Fountain opened, in which sinners of every age and rank may be cleansed. Though our sins have been as scarlet and crimson, a deep dye, a double dye, first in the wool of original corruption, and afterwards in the many threads of actual transgression; though we have often dipped into sin, by many backslidings; yet pardoning mercy will take out the stain, (Psalm 51:7). They should have all the happiness and comfort they could desire. Life and death, good and evil, are set before us. O Lord, incline all of us to live to thy glory.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Wash - Cleanse your hearts and hands.
McArther Bible Commentary
Put away the evil … Seek justice. The outward evidence of the emptiness of Jerusalem's ritualism was the presence of evil works and the absence of good works.
Bible Cross References
James 4:8 Psalm 26:6 Psalm 34:14 Psalm 51:2 Proverbs 4:27 Proverbs 21:3 Isaiah 52:11 Isaiah 55:7 Jeremiah 18:11 Jeremiah 25:5 Jeremiah 26:3 Jeremiah 35:15 Ezekiel 18:31 Jonah 3:8 Zechariah 1:4 Zechariah 7:7 Zechariah 13:1

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to repentance.
Not only feel sorrow for the sin committed, but break off the practice. We must be doing, not stand idle. We must be doing the good the Lord our God requires. It is plain that the sacrifices of the law could not atone, even for outward national crimes. But, blessed be God, there is a Fountain opened, in which sinners of every age and rank may be cleansed. Though our sins have been as scarlet and crimson, a deep dye, a double dye, first in the wool of original corruption, and afterwards in the many threads of actual transgression; though we have often dipped into sin, by many backslidings; yet pardoning mercy will take out the stain, (Psalm 51:7). They should have all the happiness and comfort they could desire. Life and death, good and evil, are set before us. O Lord, incline all of us to live to thy glory.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Learn - Begin to live soberly, righteously, and godly. Judgment - Shew your religion to God, by practising justice to men. Judge - Defend and deliver them.
McArther Bible Commentary
the fatherless … the widow. Illustrative of good works are deeds done on behalf of those in need (Isa 1:23; Deu 10:17-18; Deu 14:29; Deu 24:17, Deu 24:19-20, Deu 24:21; Deu 26:12-13; Deu 27:19; Jas 1:27).
Bible Cross References
James 1:27 Deuteronomy 14:29 Psalm 34:14 Psalm 82:3 Proverbs 31:9 Isaiah 56:1 Isaiah 58:6 Jeremiah 21:12 Jeremiah 22:3 Jeremiah 35:15 Ezekiel 18:31 Zephaniah 2:3

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to repentance.
Not only feel sorrow for the sin committed, but break off the practice. We must be doing, not stand idle. We must be doing the good the Lord our God requires. It is plain that the sacrifices of the law could not atone, even for outward national crimes. But, blessed be God, there is a Fountain opened, in which sinners of every age and rank may be cleansed. Though our sins have been as scarlet and crimson, a deep dye, a double dye, first in the wool of original corruption, and afterwards in the many threads of actual transgression; though we have often dipped into sin, by many backslidings; yet pardoning mercy will take out the stain, (Psalm 51:7). They should have all the happiness and comfort they could desire. Life and death, good and evil, are set before us. O Lord, incline all of us to live to thy glory.
McArther Bible Commentary
In developing His call for cleanliness in verse Isa 1:16, the Lord pardoned the guilty who desire forgiveness and obedience. This section previews the last twenty-seven chapters of Isaiah, which focus more on grace and forgiveness than on judgment.
Bible Cross References
Revelation 7:14 Job 9:33 Psalm 51:7 Isaiah 41:1 Isaiah 41:21 Isaiah 43:25 Isaiah 43:26 Isaiah 44:22 Isaiah 50:8 Isaiah 55:7 Ezekiel 18:27 Ezekiel 33:16 Micah 6:2

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to repentance.
Not only feel sorrow for the sin committed, but break off the practice. We must be doing, not stand idle. We must be doing the good the Lord our God requires. It is plain that the sacrifices of the law could not atone, even for outward national crimes. But, blessed be God, there is a Fountain opened, in which sinners of every age and rank may be cleansed. Though our sins have been as scarlet and crimson, a deep dye, a double dye, first in the wool of original corruption, and afterwards in the many threads of actual transgression; though we have often dipped into sin, by many backslidings; yet pardoning mercy will take out the stain, (Psalm 51:7). They should have all the happiness and comfort they could desire. Life and death, good and evil, are set before us. O Lord, incline all of us to live to thy glory.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Obedience Leads to Perfection
—We cannot overestimate the value of simple faith and unquestioning obedience. It is by following in the path of obedience in simple faith that the character obtains perfection (Letter 119, 1895).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
If - If you are fully resolved to obey all my commands. Shall eat - Together with pardon, you shall receive temporal and worldly blessings.
McArther Bible Commentary
willing and obedient … refuse and rebel. The prophet offered his readers the same choice God gave Moses in Deuteronomy 28, i.e., a choice between a blessing and a curse. They may choose repentance and obedience in order to reap the benefits of the land or refuse to do so and become victims of foreign oppressors. eat … be devoured. To accentuate the opposite outcomes, the Lord used the same Hebrew word to depict both destinies. On one hand, they may eat the fruit of the land; on the other, they may be eaten by conquering powers.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 28:1 Deuteronomy 30:15 Deuteronomy 30:16 Isaiah 25:6 Isaiah 55:2 Isaiah 55:7 Isaiah 65:13 Jeremiah 7:5 Jeremiah 21:8 Haggai 1:12

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to repentance.
Not only feel sorrow for the sin committed, but break off the practice. We must be doing, not stand idle. We must be doing the good the Lord our God requires. It is plain that the sacrifices of the law could not atone, even for outward national crimes. But, blessed be God, there is a Fountain opened, in which sinners of every age and rank may be cleansed. Though our sins have been as scarlet and crimson, a deep dye, a double dye, first in the wool of original corruption, and afterwards in the many threads of actual transgression; though we have often dipped into sin, by many backslidings; yet pardoning mercy will take out the stain, (Psalm 51:7). They should have all the happiness and comfort they could desire. Life and death, good and evil, are set before us. O Lord, incline all of us to live to thy glory.
Bible Cross References
Titus 1:2 1 Samuel 12:15 1 Samuel 12:25 Isaiah 3:25 Isaiah 8:6 Isaiah 34:16 Isaiah 40:5 Isaiah 58:14 Isaiah 65:12 Jeremiah 4:17 Jeremiah 17:27 Jeremiah 21:8 Jeremiah 26:4 Jeremiah 46:14 Micah 4:4

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The state of Judah is lamented; with gracious promises of the gospel times.
Neither holy cities nor royal ones are faithful to their trust, if religion does not dwell in them. Dross may shine like silver, and the wine that is mixed with water may still have the colour of wine. Those have a great deal to answer for, who do not help the oppressed, but oppress them. Men may do much by outward restraints; but only God works effectually by the influences of his Spirit, as a Spirit of Judgment. Sin is the worst captivity, the worst slavery. The redemption of the spiritual Zion, by the righteousness and death of Christ, and by his powerful grace, most fully accord with what is here meant. Utter ruin is threatened. The Jews should become as a tree when blasted by heat; as a garden without water, which in those hot countries would soon be burned up. Thus shall they be that trust in idols, or in an arm of flesh. Even the strong man shall be as tow; not only soon broken, and pulled to pieces, but easily catching fire. When the sinner has made himself as tow and stubble, and God makes himself as a consuming fire, what can prevent the utter ruin of the sinner?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The city - Jerusalem, which in the reign of former kings was faithful to God. An harlot - Is filled with idolatry. Murderers - Under that one gross kind, he comprehends all sorts of unrighteous men and practices.
McArther Bible Commentary
Verses Isa 1:21-23 recount Jerusalem's current disobedience, with an account of God's actions to purge her in verses Isa 1:24-31.
Bible Cross References
Revelation 17:1 Isaiah 1:22 Isaiah 57:3 Isaiah 59:3 Isaiah 59:14 Isaiah 59:15 Jeremiah 2:20 Hosea 2:5 Habakkuk 1:4

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The state of Judah is lamented; with gracious promises of the gospel times.
Neither holy cities nor royal ones are faithful to their trust, if religion does not dwell in them. Dross may shine like silver, and the wine that is mixed with water may still have the colour of wine. Those have a great deal to answer for, who do not help the oppressed, but oppress them. Men may do much by outward restraints; but only God works effectually by the influences of his Spirit, as a Spirit of Judgment. Sin is the worst captivity, the worst slavery. The redemption of the spiritual Zion, by the righteousness and death of Christ, and by his powerful grace, most fully accord with what is here meant. Utter ruin is threatened. The Jews should become as a tree when blasted by heat; as a garden without water, which in those hot countries would soon be burned up. Thus shall they be that trust in idols, or in an arm of flesh. Even the strong man shall be as tow; not only soon broken, and pulled to pieces, but easily catching fire. When the sinner has made himself as tow and stubble, and God makes himself as a consuming fire, what can prevent the utter ruin of the sinner?
Bible Cross References
Psalm 119:119 Isaiah 1:21 Isaiah 1:23 Jeremiah 6:30 Ezekiel 22:18

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The state of Judah is lamented; with gracious promises of the gospel times.
Neither holy cities nor royal ones are faithful to their trust, if religion does not dwell in them. Dross may shine like silver, and the wine that is mixed with water may still have the colour of wine. Those have a great deal to answer for, who do not help the oppressed, but oppress them. Men may do much by outward restraints; but only God works effectually by the influences of his Spirit, as a Spirit of Judgment. Sin is the worst captivity, the worst slavery. The redemption of the spiritual Zion, by the righteousness and death of Christ, and by his powerful grace, most fully accord with what is here meant. Utter ruin is threatened. The Jews should become as a tree when blasted by heat; as a garden without water, which in those hot countries would soon be burned up. Thus shall they be that trust in idols, or in an arm of flesh. Even the strong man shall be as tow; not only soon broken, and pulled to pieces, but easily catching fire. When the sinner has made himself as tow and stubble, and God makes himself as a consuming fire, what can prevent the utter ruin of the sinner?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Rebellious - Against me their sovereign Lord. Companions of thieves - Partly by giving them connivance and countenance, and partly by practising the same violence, and cruelty, and injustice that thieves used to do. Gifts - That is, bribes given to pervert justice.
Bible Cross References
Luke 24:27 James 1:27 Exodus 23:8 Isaiah 1:22 Isaiah 5:23 Isaiah 10:2 Isaiah 30:1 Isaiah 65:2 Jeremiah 4:17 Jeremiah 5:28 Jeremiah 32:32 Ezekiel 12:2 Ezekiel 22:6 Ezekiel 22:7 Hosea 5:10 Hosea 9:15 Amos 5:12 Micah 3:9 Micah 3:11 Micah 6:12

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The state of Judah is lamented; with gracious promises of the gospel times.
Neither holy cities nor royal ones are faithful to their trust, if religion does not dwell in them. Dross may shine like silver, and the wine that is mixed with water may still have the colour of wine. Those have a great deal to answer for, who do not help the oppressed, but oppress them. Men may do much by outward restraints; but only God works effectually by the influences of his Spirit, as a Spirit of Judgment. Sin is the worst captivity, the worst slavery. The redemption of the spiritual Zion, by the righteousness and death of Christ, and by his powerful grace, most fully accord with what is here meant. Utter ruin is threatened. The Jews should become as a tree when blasted by heat; as a garden without water, which in those hot countries would soon be burned up. Thus shall they be that trust in idols, or in an arm of flesh. Even the strong man shall be as tow; not only soon broken, and pulled to pieces, but easily catching fire. When the sinner has made himself as tow and stubble, and God makes himself as a consuming fire, what can prevent the utter ruin of the sinner?
McArther Bible Commentary
the Lord … the Lord of hosts, the Mighty One of Israel. The threefold title of God emphasized His role as the rightful Judge of His sinful people. The Mighty One of Israel occurs only here in the Bible, though the Mighty One of Jacob appears five times (Isa 49:26; Isa 60:16; Gen 49:24; Psa 132:2, Psa 132:5).
Bible Cross References
Genesis 49:24 Deuteronomy 28:63 Deuteronomy 32:43 Psalm 132:2 Isaiah 12:6 Isaiah 35:4 Isaiah 49:26 Isaiah 59:18 Isaiah 60:16 Isaiah 61:2 Isaiah 63:4 Jeremiah 9:9 Ezekiel 5:13 Micah 5:15

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The state of Judah is lamented; with gracious promises of the gospel times.
Neither holy cities nor royal ones are faithful to their trust, if religion does not dwell in them. Dross may shine like silver, and the wine that is mixed with water may still have the colour of wine. Those have a great deal to answer for, who do not help the oppressed, but oppress them. Men may do much by outward restraints; but only God works effectually by the influences of his Spirit, as a Spirit of Judgment. Sin is the worst captivity, the worst slavery. The redemption of the spiritual Zion, by the righteousness and death of Christ, and by his powerful grace, most fully accord with what is here meant. Utter ruin is threatened. The Jews should become as a tree when blasted by heat; as a garden without water, which in those hot countries would soon be burned up. Thus shall they be that trust in idols, or in an arm of flesh. Even the strong man shall be as tow; not only soon broken, and pulled to pieces, but easily catching fire. When the sinner has made himself as tow and stubble, and God makes himself as a consuming fire, what can prevent the utter ruin of the sinner?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And purge - I will purge out of thee, those wicked men that are incorrigible, and for those of you that are curable, I will by my word, and by the furnace of affliction, purge out all that corruption that yet remains in you.
McArther Bible Commentary
I will … thoroughly purge … I will restore. God's judgment of His people has future restoration as its goal. They were subsequently restored from the Babylonian captivity (Jer 29:10), but this promise has in view a greater and more lasting restoration. It anticipates a complete and permanent restoration, which will make Jerusalem supreme among the nations (Jer 3:17; Eze 5:5; Mic 4:2; Zec 8:22; Zec 14:16). The only such purging and restoration in Scripture is that spoken of in conjunction with the yet-future "time of Jacob's trouble" (Jer 30:6-7; i.e., Daniel's seventieth week, cf. Dan 9:24-27) followed by the second advent of the Messiah (Zec 14:4).
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 32:43 Psalm 119:119 Isaiah 27:9 Jeremiah 9:7 Ezekiel 22:19 Ezekiel 22:20 Zechariah 13:7 Malachi 3:3

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The state of Judah is lamented; with gracious promises of the gospel times.
Neither holy cities nor royal ones are faithful to their trust, if religion does not dwell in them. Dross may shine like silver, and the wine that is mixed with water may still have the colour of wine. Those have a great deal to answer for, who do not help the oppressed, but oppress them. Men may do much by outward restraints; but only God works effectually by the influences of his Spirit, as a Spirit of Judgment. Sin is the worst captivity, the worst slavery. The redemption of the spiritual Zion, by the righteousness and death of Christ, and by his powerful grace, most fully accord with what is here meant. Utter ruin is threatened. The Jews should become as a tree when blasted by heat; as a garden without water, which in those hot countries would soon be burned up. Thus shall they be that trust in idols, or in an arm of flesh. Even the strong man shall be as tow; not only soon broken, and pulled to pieces, but easily catching fire. When the sinner has made himself as tow and stubble, and God makes himself as a consuming fire, what can prevent the utter ruin of the sinner?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Thy counsellors - Thy princes shall hearken to wise and faithful counsellors. Called faithful - Thou shalt be such.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 33:5 Isaiah 54:14 Isaiah 60:14 Isaiah 60:17 Isaiah 62:1 Isaiah 62:2 Jeremiah 31:23 Jeremiah 33:7 Micah 4:8 Zechariah 8:3

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The state of Judah is lamented; with gracious promises of the gospel times.
Neither holy cities nor royal ones are faithful to their trust, if religion does not dwell in them. Dross may shine like silver, and the wine that is mixed with water may still have the colour of wine. Those have a great deal to answer for, who do not help the oppressed, but oppress them. Men may do much by outward restraints; but only God works effectually by the influences of his Spirit, as a Spirit of Judgment. Sin is the worst captivity, the worst slavery. The redemption of the spiritual Zion, by the righteousness and death of Christ, and by his powerful grace, most fully accord with what is here meant. Utter ruin is threatened. The Jews should become as a tree when blasted by heat; as a garden without water, which in those hot countries would soon be burned up. Thus shall they be that trust in idols, or in an arm of flesh. Even the strong man shall be as tow; not only soon broken, and pulled to pieces, but easily catching fire. When the sinner has made himself as tow and stubble, and God makes himself as a consuming fire, what can prevent the utter ruin of the sinner?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Redeemed - Shall be delivered from all their enemies and calamities. With - Or, by judgment, that is, by God's righteous judgment, purging out those wicked and incorrigible Jews, and destroying their unmerciful enemies. Converts - Heb. her returners, those of them who shall come out of captivity into their own land. Righteousness - Or, by righteousness, either by my faithfulness, in keeping my promise, or by my goodness.
McArther Bible Commentary
Zion. Originally a designation for the hill Ophel, this name became a synonym for the entire city of Jerusalem. Isaiah always uses it that way. be redeemed … penitents. That remnant of the city who repented of their sins would find redemption in conjunction with God's future restoration of Israel's prosperity (cf. Isa 59:20).
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 35:9 Isaiah 35:10 Isaiah 51:4 Isaiah 52:3 Isaiah 54:14 Isaiah 62:12 Isaiah 63:4 Hosea 2:19 Micah 6:5

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The state of Judah is lamented; with gracious promises of the gospel times.
Neither holy cities nor royal ones are faithful to their trust, if religion does not dwell in them. Dross may shine like silver, and the wine that is mixed with water may still have the colour of wine. Those have a great deal to answer for, who do not help the oppressed, but oppress them. Men may do much by outward restraints; but only God works effectually by the influences of his Spirit, as a Spirit of Judgment. Sin is the worst captivity, the worst slavery. The redemption of the spiritual Zion, by the righteousness and death of Christ, and by his powerful grace, most fully accord with what is here meant. Utter ruin is threatened. The Jews should become as a tree when blasted by heat; as a garden without water, which in those hot countries would soon be burned up. Thus shall they be that trust in idols, or in an arm of flesh. Even the strong man shall be as tow; not only soon broken, and pulled to pieces, but easily catching fire. When the sinner has made himself as tow and stubble, and God makes himself as a consuming fire, what can prevent the utter ruin of the sinner?
McArther Bible Commentary
transgressors … sinners … those who forsake. Concurrent with the future blessing of the faithful remnant, the Lord will relegate the unrepentant to destruction. This is the only way Zion can become pure.
Bible Cross References
2 Thessalonians 1:8 2 Thessalonians 1:9 Psalm 9:5 Isaiah 1:4 Isaiah 24:20 Isaiah 33:14 Isaiah 50:1 Isaiah 58:2 Isaiah 65:11 Isaiah 66:17 Isaiah 66:24 Jeremiah 17:13 Jeremiah 44:12 Hosea 14:9

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The state of Judah is lamented; with gracious promises of the gospel times.
Neither holy cities nor royal ones are faithful to their trust, if religion does not dwell in them. Dross may shine like silver, and the wine that is mixed with water may still have the colour of wine. Those have a great deal to answer for, who do not help the oppressed, but oppress them. Men may do much by outward restraints; but only God works effectually by the influences of his Spirit, as a Spirit of Judgment. Sin is the worst captivity, the worst slavery. The redemption of the spiritual Zion, by the righteousness and death of Christ, and by his powerful grace, most fully accord with what is here meant. Utter ruin is threatened. The Jews should become as a tree when blasted by heat; as a garden without water, which in those hot countries would soon be burned up. Thus shall they be that trust in idols, or in an arm of flesh. Even the strong man shall be as tow; not only soon broken, and pulled to pieces, but easily catching fire. When the sinner has made himself as tow and stubble, and God makes himself as a consuming fire, what can prevent the utter ruin of the sinner?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The oaks - Which, after the manner of the Heathen, you have consecrated to idolatrous uses. Gardens - In which, as well is in the groves, they committed idolatry.
McArther Bible Commentary
terebinth trees … gardens. These were settings where Israel practiced idolatrous worship. It is ironic that the Lord had chosen Israel while some citizens of Jerusalem have chosen the gardens. When God calls them to account for their rebellious choice, they will be ashamed and embarrassed.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 42:17 Isaiah 57:5 Isaiah 65:3 Isaiah 66:17 Hosea 4:13

Verse 30

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The state of Judah is lamented; with gracious promises of the gospel times.
Neither holy cities nor royal ones are faithful to their trust, if religion does not dwell in them. Dross may shine like silver, and the wine that is mixed with water may still have the colour of wine. Those have a great deal to answer for, who do not help the oppressed, but oppress them. Men may do much by outward restraints; but only God works effectually by the influences of his Spirit, as a Spirit of Judgment. Sin is the worst captivity, the worst slavery. The redemption of the spiritual Zion, by the righteousness and death of Christ, and by his powerful grace, most fully accord with what is here meant. Utter ruin is threatened. The Jews should become as a tree when blasted by heat; as a garden without water, which in those hot countries would soon be burned up. Thus shall they be that trust in idols, or in an arm of flesh. Even the strong man shall be as tow; not only soon broken, and pulled to pieces, but easily catching fire. When the sinner has made himself as tow and stubble, and God makes himself as a consuming fire, what can prevent the utter ruin of the sinner?
Bible Cross References
Genesis 12:6 Isaiah 64:6

Verse 31

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The state of Judah is lamented; with gracious promises of the gospel times.
Neither holy cities nor royal ones are faithful to their trust, if religion does not dwell in them. Dross may shine like silver, and the wine that is mixed with water may still have the colour of wine. Those have a great deal to answer for, who do not help the oppressed, but oppress them. Men may do much by outward restraints; but only God works effectually by the influences of his Spirit, as a Spirit of Judgment. Sin is the worst captivity, the worst slavery. The redemption of the spiritual Zion, by the righteousness and death of Christ, and by his powerful grace, most fully accord with what is here meant. Utter ruin is threatened. The Jews should become as a tree when blasted by heat; as a garden without water, which in those hot countries would soon be burned up. Thus shall they be that trust in idols, or in an arm of flesh. Even the strong man shall be as tow; not only soon broken, and pulled to pieces, but easily catching fire. When the sinner has made himself as tow and stubble, and God makes himself as a consuming fire, what can prevent the utter ruin of the sinner?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The strong - Your idols, which you think to be strong and able to defend you. As tow - Shall be as suddenly and easily, consumed by my judgments, as tow is by fire. The maker - Of the idol, who can neither save himself nor his workmanship.
McArther Bible Commentary
will burn … no one shall quench. Both the rebel and his works will perish. This is final judgment, not merely another captivity.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 3:12 Mark 9:43 Isaiah 4:4 Isaiah 5:24 Isaiah 9:19 Isaiah 24:6 Isaiah 26:11 Isaiah 33:11 Isaiah 34:10 Isaiah 43:17 Isaiah 66:17 Isaiah 66:24 Jeremiah 21:12