Commentary on Isaiah 43:19

Verse: "Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert."

Introduction

This verse from Isaiah stands as a profound proclamation of God's intention to do something unprecedented and transformative. It serves to remind believers of God's sovereignty and His ability to bring about change in the most desolate and challenging circumstances. The commentaries by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke provide rich insights into the context, interpretation, and theological implications of this promise.

Contextual Background

Isaiah 43 is entrenched in a message of hope directed towards the Israelites who faced displacement and despair. This chapter is a part of the larger narrative where God reassures His people of His unwavering love and commitment to their restoration. The backdrop of the Babylonian exile provides a rich context that allows the prophetic words to resonate deeply with themes of redemption and renewal.

Historical Context

• The Israelites were facing oppression and uncertainty due to their exile.
• The prophecy serves to instill hope, emphasizing God’s power to deliver His people.
• The imagery of "wilderness" and "desert" points to places of barrenness contrasted with the forthcoming blessings that God promises.

Theological Insights

The verse encapsulates several key theological themes:

• Divine Initiative: The phrase "I will do a new thing" highlights God's proactive role in history. It reflects that salvation is God's work, not human achievement.
• Transformation: God reveals His capacity to transform desolation into life, as illustrated by "a way in the wilderness" and "rivers in the desert." This speaks to God's ability to provide guidance and sustenance in seemingly hopeless situations.
• Covenant Faithfulness: The assurance of a new thing indicates God’s faithfulness to His covenant people, promising revival and restoration despite their faithlessness.

Commentary Excerpts

Matthew Henry’s Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the certainty and immediacy of God's promise. He suggests that "new things" denote not merely fresh occurrences but divine interventions that surpass previous experiences. His reflections encourage believers to anticipate God's work actively and to remain spiritually alert to perceive the unfolding of His plans.

Key insights from Matthew Henry:

• Behold: An imperative to look carefully – to recognize the extraordinary acts of God.
• New things: These signify God's ability to create hope and wonders in places of despair.

Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes highlights the dual imagery of the wilderness and the desert. His commentary notes that these metaphors serve as symbols of human suffering and spiritual barrenness, which God has the power to transform. Barnes urges Christians to trust in God’s ability to provide pathways and nourishment where there appears to be none.

Core themes from Albert Barnes:

• Way in the wilderness: A navigable path provided by God amid trials.
• Rivers in the desert: Symbolic of God's provision of sustenance, suggesting that He can nourish the soul even in inhospitable places.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary

Adam Clarke elaborates on the spiritual significance of this verse, positing that God's promise of newness applies not just to physical circumstances but also to spiritual renewal. He encourages believers to open their hearts to the divine work that God is orchestrating, calling attention to the pivotal role of faith in recognizing and receiving these new things.

Insights from Adam Clarke:

• Spiritual renewal: The 'new thing' encompasses a transformative experience within the believer’s heart.
• Active faith: Recognition of God’s workings is contingent upon a believer’s spiritual awareness and willingness to embrace change.

Applications for Today

In reflecting on Isaiah 43:19, contemporary readers are called to consider how they perceive God's current work in their lives. The call to "know it" suggests a challenge to cultivate awareness and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. For pastors, students, and theologians, embracing the promise of God’s ongoing creation may foster a deeper reliance on faith and guide the prayerful pursuit of God in personal and communal aspects.

Practical Applications:

• Encouragement in Discouragement: Recognizing God's ability to initiate new beginnings can provide hope in dire circumstances.
• Faith in Transformation: Believers are encouraged to trust God's promise of renewal in their personal lives and communities.
• Active Participation: Engaging in prayer and discernment to become receptive to God’s new work.

Conclusion

Isaiah 43:19 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s transformative power and creative initiative. Through the rich commentary of respected theologians, we glean the importance of recognizing and actualizing God’s promises in our lives, cultivating a posture of expectancy and faith. By embracing this scripture, believers are urged to witness and partake in the 'new things' that God is actively bringing forth.