Commentary on Isaiah 66:5

Verse: Isaiah 66:5 - "Hear the word of the LORD, you who tremble at his word: Your brothers who hate you and exclude you because of my name have said, 'Let the LORD be glorified, that we may see your joy;' yet they will be put to shame."

Introduction

The verse Isaiah 66:5 is a significant call to attention for those who revere and tremble at the word of the Lord. This verse reflects a duality of experience—joy intermingled with persecution, and the assurance of ultimate vindication from God. Such themes resonate deeply within the hearts of believers facing opposition for their faith.

Exegesis

In this passage, God addresses a specific group: those who honor His word amidst adversity. The language used infers a sense of urgency and importance, as God encourages these faithful individuals to listen closely.

Who are the Hearers?

Matthew Henry notes that the term "you who tremble at his word" refers to those who take God’s commandments seriously. This group comprises the faithful remnant who understand the weight of God’s word and its implications for their lives. They live in awe of God’s power and justice, indicating a deep respect and reverence.

The Persecution of Believers

These faithful individuals are contrasted with their brothers who harbor hatred due to their unique devotion to God. Adam Clarke provides insight into the societal dynamics at play, where faithfulness to God elicits disdain and hostility from others. This reflects a broader theme in Scripture, where true followers often face rejection and scorn from those closest to them, especially within their own communities.

The Paradox of Rejection

Those who oppose the faithful claim, 'Let the LORD be glorified, that we may see your joy.' This phrase can be interpreted as mockery—those who deny the faithful their joy insist that they only desire witnessing the consequences of their devotion to God. Albert Barnes elaborates that this reflects a common attitude of the ungodly, who presume that the faithful will not ultimately prevail.

The Blessing of God’s Assurance

Despite the scorn and exclusion faced by those who tremble at God’s word, there is a promise of vindication. God assures that while the arrogant may scoff, they will ultimately be put to shame. This serves as a reminder of the temporal nature of earthly judgment versus the eternal character of divine justice.

Divine Vindication

Matthew Henry asserts that God takes notice of the mistreatment of His faithful followers and will vindicate their cause in due time. This promise encourages believers, reminding them that their faithfulness is not in vain, and although they may suffer in the present, they will be rewarded in God's appointed time.

Joy in God’s Promise

There is an intrinsic joy that comes from being in a right relationship with God, a joy that is contrasted with the false joy of the oppressors. True joy is not circumstantial; it stems from obedience and communion with God. Clarke emphasizes that the joy of the faithful will be ultimately vindicated and revealed, contrasting starkly with the shame that will befall their detractors.

Application

This verse has profound implications for modern believers, particularly in contexts of hostility or secularism. The call to hear God's word amidst persecution parallels many present-day scenarios where faithfulness to God may lead to social or professional ostracism. Herein lie key applications:

• Encouragement for the Faithful: Pastors and leaders can use this verse to bolster the spirits of congregants enduring hardship, affirming that their faithfulness is noted by God.
• Hope in Difficult Times: The promise of future glory serves as a powerful reminder that temporal struggles are not the last word. Believers can hold fast to the assurance of God’s ultimate justice.
• Call to Perseverance: This passage is a call to steadfastness. In bearing witness to the truth of God's word, believers are encouraged to remain resolute against ridicule and persecution.

Conclusion

Isaiah 66:5 serves as a timeless reminder of the dynamics between faith, persecution, and divine assurance. The faithful are urged to remain vigilant, to hear and honor God’s word, and to find solace in His promise of vindication. For pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars, this verse encapsulates the essential duty to proclaim God’s glory, knowing that obedience may invite scorn, but ultimately leads to unfathomable joy in Him.