Isaiah 66:21 – “And I will select some of them also to be priests and Levites,” says the Lord.

Isaiah 66:21 is a profound verse that shows God’s plan to expand His kingdom and call people from all nations into His service. It speaks of a future where worship and ministry are not confined to a specific group but open to those who respond to God’s call.

Extended Explanation of the Verse

In this verse, God declares that He will choose priests and Levites from the nations that come to worship Him. Under the Old Covenant, the roles of priests and Levites were limited to the tribe of Levi within Israel. They were set apart to lead worship, care for the temple, and serve as intermediaries between God and the people.

Here, however, God expands that calling beyond Israel. This signifies a dramatic shift, pointing to a time when people from all nations would have the privilege of serving Him. It’s a vision of inclusion and the breaking down of barriers, where all who are faithful can be part of God’s mission.

Historical Context

Isaiah was written during a time when the Israelites took great pride in their status as God’s chosen people. The priesthood and temple rituals were central to their identity. However, Israel often failed to live up to its calling to be a light to the nations.

This verse comes in the context of God’s promise to restore Jerusalem and expand His glory to the ends of the earth. It foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles into God’s kingdom, breaking the exclusivity of the Old Covenant priesthood and paving the way for the New Covenant.

Theological Implications

1. A Universal Priesthood: This verse anticipates the idea that all believers, regardless of nationality or background, are called to serve God in worship and ministry.
2. God’s Sovereignty in Choosing: God alone selects those who will serve Him. His call is based on His purposes, not human criteria.
3. Unity in Worship: The inclusion of people from all nations as priests and Levites underscores God’s desire for unity in His kingdom, where all serve together in His presence.

Literary Analysis

The verse is concise but packed with meaning. The use of the words “some of them” emphasizes the inclusivity of God’s plan, pointing to His choice of individuals from diverse nations. The phrase “priests and Levites” ties this new reality to the Old Testament framework, while also highlighting the transformative nature of God’s work.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

1. Exodus 19:6 – “You will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.” This reflects God’s original intent for His people to serve Him as priests.
2. 1 Peter 2:9 – “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession.” This shows the fulfillment of Isaiah 66:21 in the New Testament, where all believers are part of God’s priesthood.
3. Revelation 5:10 – “You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.” This connects the universal priesthood to God’s eternal plan.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians, Isaiah 66:21 is a reminder of the privilege and responsibility of serving God. It highlights that ministry is not limited to a select group but is a calling for all believers.

This verse also encourages inclusivity in the Church, reminding Christians that God’s kingdom is for people of all backgrounds. It challenges believers to embrace diversity and to see others as partners in God’s mission.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love by showing His desire to include people from all nations in His service. It reveals a God who breaks down barriers and calls people into a relationship with Him, not based on their background but on His grace.

God’s willingness to expand the priesthood to all nations demonstrates His love for humanity and His intention to bring people together in worship and service.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the ultimate High Priest who makes it possible for all believers to come to God and serve Him. Through His sacrifice, the barriers between God and humanity are removed, fulfilling the vision of Isaiah 66:21.

1. Hebrews 4:14-16 – Jesus, as the great High Priest, opens the way for all to approach God with confidence.
2. Matthew 28:19 – Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations, reflecting the global priesthood described in this verse.
3. Ephesians 2:13-14 – Through Jesus, Gentiles are brought near to God, breaking down the dividing wall between Jews and Gentiles.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does this verse challenge you to see your role in God’s kingdom as part of His priesthood?
2. In what ways can you serve God in worship and ministry in your daily life?
3. How does this verse encourage you to embrace people from diverse backgrounds in the Church?
4. What does it mean to you that Jesus has made it possible for all believers to serve as priests?
5. How can you encourage others to step into their calling as part of God’s priesthood?

Isaiah 66:21 is a powerful reminder of God’s plan to include people from all nations in His kingdom, calling them to serve and worship Him. Through Jesus Christ, this vision is fulfilled, inviting all believers to embrace their role in God’s mission and to live as His holy servants.