Commentary on Isaiah 64:5

Isaiah 64:5 (KJV): "Thou meetest him that rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, those that remember thee in thy ways: behold, thou art wroth; for we have sinned: in those is continuance, and we shall be saved."

Introduction

This profound verse from the Book of Isaiah encapsulates the themes of divine grace, human accountability, and the yearning for salvation. Within this single verse, the prophet Isaiah addresses God directly, acknowledging both the joyous relationship between God and those who pursue righteousness and the weight of sin that has severed this communion.

Contextual Background

The context of Isaiah 64 is set against the backdrop of Israel's exile and suffering. The chapter opens with a heartfelt cry for God to intervene in human affairs. Isaiah recognized that the people of Israel had strayed from God’s ways, yet he emphasizes that those who seek to live righteously still find favor with Him. This dichotomy sets the stage for a rich theological understanding of salvation and sin.

Theological Insights

• Divine Engagement: The assertion that God "meetest" those who rejoice and work righteousness signifies an active divine presence. Matthew Henry notes that "God graciously condescends to meet and communicate with those who are in right standing with Him." The relationship is reciprocal; God's attentiveness encourages worship and obedience.
• Joy in Righteousness: The phrase "rejoiceth and worketh righteousness" points to an intrinsic link between righteousness and joy. Albert Barnes provides insight that true joy is found not in earthly pursuits but in living according to divine principles, highlighting that a righteous life is a source of deep spiritual satisfaction.
• Memory of God's Ways: The emphasis on remembering God’s ways is vital. Clarke underscores the importance of remembrance in the spiritual journey, suggesting that a continual reflection on God's character and His decrees sustains faith amid adversity.
• Confrontation of Sin: The latter portion of the verse acknowledges human unrighteousness: "behold, thou art wroth; for we have sinned." This line is a confession of guilt and reflects the weight of sin that separates humanity from God. The language here serves as a poignant reminder of the serious nature of sin before a holy God.

Our Condition and Hope

Isaiah’s declaration raises the critical theological theme of sin and its repercussions. However, he doesn’t conclude with despair. Instead, he pivotally states, "in those is continuance, and we shall be saved." Here, the "those" refers to the righteous who remember God, suggesting that the faithful community has hope for restoration. This hope is rooted in a promise of salvation that connects back to the covenant God made with Israel.

Practical Applications

• Encouragement for Believers: For pastors and church leaders, this verse serves as an encouragement to foster righteousness within the church community. Reflecting on Isaiah 64:5, they can inspire their congregations to remember God's ways, cultivating a joy that stems from living in accordance with His will.
• A Call to Repentance: This verse should beckon believers toward repentance. Just as Isaiah implores Israel to acknowledge their sins, ministers are tasked with guiding their congregations toward genuine confession and renewal. The remembrance of God should invoke a humility that leads to repentance.
• Preparation for God's Presence: The notion of God meeting those who rejoice and work righteousness serves as a call to cultivate spiritual disciplines that invite God’s presence. Believers are encouraged to deepen their relationship with God through prayer, worship, and the meditation of His Word.

Conclusion

Isaiah 64:5 offers a layered understanding of God's grace amidst human sinfulness. From an academic perspective, it invites theological reflection on the interplay between divine sovereignty and human agency. For clergy, it encourages pastoral care that involves both the invitation to joy in righteousness and the sober acknowledgment of sin. Ultimately, it presents a divine promise of salvation that transcends the dysfunction of human life, offering hope to all who earnestly seek God’s face.