Sin, Separation, and Their Consequences

The Barrier of Iniquity

Isaiah 59 begins with a declaration that the Lord’s hand is not too short to save, nor His ear too dull to hear, but the iniquities of the people have created a separation between them and their God (Isaiah 59:1-2). This chapter outlines the deep corruption and sin within the society, where truth has stumbled in the public squares and honesty cannot enter. Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands far away, for truth has fallen (Isaiah 59:14-15).

Descriptions of Injustice and Wrongdoing

The text paints a grim picture of a society overrun by sin and injustice. It describes people hatching the eggs of vipers and weaving spider’s webs. Whoever eats their eggs will die, and from an egg that is crushed a viper is hatched (Isaiah 59:5). Their deeds are evil, and their acts of violence are in their hands. Their feet run to evil, and they rush to shed innocent blood (Isaiah 59:6-7).

Divine Intervention and Redemption

The Lord’s Disappointment and Response

Seeing that there was no justice and appalled that there was no one to intervene, the Lord Himself steps in because of His own righteousness. He puts on righteousness as His breastplate and the helmet of salvation on His head; He puts on the garments of vengeance and wraps Himself in zeal as in a cloak (Isaiah 59:16-17). This imagery of God as a divine warrior shows His active role in bringing about justice and redemption.

Promise of a Redeemer

Towards the chapter’s end, there is a promise of a Redeemer coming to Zion and to those in Jacob who repent of their sins (Isaiah 59:20). This is followed by a covenant that God’s Spirit and words will not depart from the people or from their descendants forever (Isaiah 59:21).

Theological Significance

Connection to Jesus Christ

Isaiah 59 is seen as prophetic in the context of the New Testament, predicting the coming of a Redeemer—Jesus Christ—who embodies righteousness and brings salvation. Christ’s coming fulfills the divine warrior motif, fighting against sin and bringing salvation to those who repent. The covenant promise of God’s word enduring aligns with Christ’s promise of the Holy Spirit to guide and remain with His followers.

Divine Love and Relationship

The chapter underscores God’s deep love and commitment to His people despite their failings. His readiness to intervene personally in the affairs of humanity demonstrates His unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness.

Contemporary Relevance

Why Isaiah 59 Still Matters Today

Reflection on Social Justice

Isaiah 59 serves as a poignant reminder of the need for justice in societies today. It challenges believers to confront social evils and to be agents of change, ensuring that truth and justice prevail in public life.

Need for Personal and Communal Repentance

This chapter calls individuals and communities to repentance, highlighting the necessity of turning back to God to mend the separation caused by sin. It is a call to examine personal and communal lives critically and to make necessary changes.

Assurance of God’s Justice and Salvation

For those feeling overwhelmed by the prevalence of injustice and evil, Isaiah 59 offers hope that God is both willing and able to intervene, providing justice and salvation. It assures believers of the ultimate victory over sin and evil, encouraging them to maintain their faith and integrity.

Isaiah 59, with its stark depiction of sin and its consequences but also its message of hope through divine intervention, remains a powerful text that speaks to the need for righteousness, justice, and the transformative power of God’s salvation.