Commentary on Isaiah 47:6

Verse: "I was wroth with my people, I have polluted mine inheritance, and given them into thine hand: thou didst show them no mercy; upon the ancient hast thou very heavily laid thy yoke."

Introduction

The verse encapsulates a significant moment wherein God addresses the consequences of Israel's sin and the role of Babylon as an instrument of divine judgment. In examining this passage, we draw insights from the public domain commentaries of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, who elucidate the theological implications and historical contexts of God's dealings with His people through both judgment and mercy.

Context and Significance

The broader context of Isaiah 47:6 involves the prophetic denunciation of Babylon's pride and cruelty. God's anger against Israel is both a reflection of their unfaithfulness and a means through which He would purge His people. Smith’s works help us understand that this verse serves as a solemn reminder of the consequences of divine displeasure, while also pointing to the eventual redemption that follows judgment.

Insights from Commentators

• Matthew Henry's Commentary

  Henry focuses on the sorrow of God regarding His people. He remarks that God's wrath is not an unprovoked emotion but a just response to Israel's transgressions. This verse highlights the nature of God's governance over nations, illustrating that He uses powerful empires, like Babylon, as tools for His purposes.

  "God was angry with His people because they had shown themselves unfaithful, leading Him to relinquish them into the hands of their enemies," Henry writes, noting the lack of mercy displayed by Babylon.

• Albert Barnes' Notes

  Barnes emphasizes the aspect of divine sovereignty intertwined with human agency. He elucidates how God's plan involves both punishment and restoration. Babylon's oppression lacked compassion, and their heavy yoke signifies the depth of suffering inflicted upon God's people.

  Barnes poignantly remarks that this verse serves as a warning of how nations can overstep bounds in their dealings with those whom God has chosen. He stresses that the heavy yoke laid upon the people is representative of God's displeasure with Babylon's harsh treatment.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary

  Clarke presents a thorough interpretation of the text with attention to historical context. He notes that God's 'inheritance' refers to Israel, emphasizing the sacrilege of polluting what is sacred. Clarke underscores that the 'yoke' on the ancient indicates a severe oppression, particularly towards the elders and leaders, demonstrating the utter disregard for the social and spiritual stability of Israel.

  He expounds on the moral implications of the term "no mercy", which highlights how Babylon's actions stand contrary to the compassionate character of God, making a stark contrast between divine justice and human cruelty.

Theological Considerations

This passage prompts reflection on the broader themes of divine justice and mercy. As commentators suggest, God's actions reflect a commitment to holiness and righteousness. Israel's idolatry and disobedience necessitated a robust response for the sake of communal integrity and divine honor.

Key Themes

• The Wrath of God:

  The intensity of God's anger is noteworthy. This is not a capricious anger but one that arises from holiness and the desire for repentance.

• Divine Sovereignty:

  God's control over nations underscores the sovereignty with which He orchestrates history. Babylon’s rise is providentially aligned with His redemptive plan.

• Consequences of Sin:

  Israel served as a case study for the consequences of sin, where straying from the covenant led to divine punishment through a powerful adversary.

Conclusion

Isaiah 47:6 serves as a powerful intersection of despair and hope. While God's people face the realities of judgment, the undercurrents of God's ultimate purpose for their restoration become evident. As we reflect upon the constitutional and moral lessons presented in this verse, we are reminded of the precarious balance between divine wrath and mercy, urging us to seek a deeper understanding of our own faithfulness towards God.

This commentary has drawn from esteemed public domain sources, providing a multi-faceted understanding aimed at pastors, theologians, and students of the Word, encouraging an exploration of God's character as both judge and redeemer.