Isaiah 35
BSB1 The wilderness and the land will be glad; the desert will rejoice and blossom like a rose. 2 It will bloom profusely and rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon. They will see the glory of the LORD, the splendor of our God. 3 Strengthen the limp hands and steady the feeble knees! 4 Say to those with anxious hearts: “Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance. With divine retribution He will come to save you." 5 Then the eyes of the blind will be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. 6 Then the lame will leap like a deer and the mute tongue will shout for joy. For waters will gush forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert. 7 The parched ground will become a pool, the thirsty land springs of water. In the haunt where jackals once lay, there will be grass and reeds and papyrus. 8 And there will be a highway called the Way of Holiness. The unclean will not travel it— only those who walk in the Way— and fools will not stray onto it. 9 No lion will be there, and no vicious beast will go up on it. Such will not be found there, but the redeemed will walk upon it. 10 So the redeemed of the LORD will return and enter Zion with singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee.
Study Notes — Isaiah 35
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Isaiah 35
- Themes from Isaiah 35
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Isaiah 35
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Isaiah chapter 35 is a beautiful description of the restoration of Israel and the redemption of God's people. The chapter begins by describing the transformation of the desert into a lush garden, where the blind will see and the deaf will hear (Isaiah 35:1-2, 5-6). The chapter then describes the highway of holiness, where the redeemed will walk, and the ransomed will return to Zion with singing (Isaiah 35:8-10). The chapter concludes with a declaration of the glory of God, who will come to redeem His people (Isaiah 35:4). Throughout the chapter, Isaiah emphasizes the power and glory of God, who will bring about this restoration and redemption.
Context for the Chapter
Isaiah chapter 35 is part of the larger context of Isaiah's prophetic ministry, which emphasized the judgment and restoration of Israel. The chapter is also part of the larger biblical narrative, which describes God's creation, humanity's rebellion, and God's redemption of His people through Jesus Christ. The chapter's themes of restoration and redemption are central to the biblical narrative, and are fulfilled in the person and work of Christ.
Heart Application
The message of Isaiah chapter 35 is one of hope and promise, encouraging us to trust in God's power and redemption. As we read this chapter, we are reminded that God is our Savior, who will come to redeem us and restore us to Himself. We are encouraged to be strong and not fear, because God will come to save us. This message is a call to trust in God, and to walk on the highway of holiness, following the path of righteousness and obedience that He has set before us.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Isaiah chapter 35 is a message of hope and promise, describing the restoration of Israel and the redemption of God's people. The chapter emphasizes the power and glory of God, who will bring about this restoration and redemption. As we read this chapter, we are reminded that God is our Savior, who will come to redeem us and restore us to Himself. We see this in verses like Isaiah 35:1-2, where the desert is transformed into a lush garden, and in Isaiah 35:4, where God promises to come and save His people.
Voices from the Church
“The desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose; and this is a type of the resurrection, when the dry bones shall live, and the whole earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the Lord.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The prophet here describes the wonderful change which God will work in the world, when He shall redeem His people; and this change is not only external, but also internal, for He will give them a new heart and a new spirit.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Transformation of the Desert (Isaiah 35:1-2) — The chapter begins by describing the transformation of the desert into a lush garden, where the blind will see and the deaf will hear.
- The Promise of Redemption (Isaiah 35:4) — The chapter emphasizes the promise of redemption, encouraging those with anxious hearts to be strong and not fear, because God will come to save them.
- The Highway of Holiness (Isaiah 35:8-10) — The chapter describes the highway of holiness, where the redeemed will walk, and the ransomed will return to Zion with singing.
- The Glory of God (Isaiah 35:2, 4) — Throughout the chapter, Isaiah emphasizes the power and glory of God, who will bring about the restoration and redemption of His people.
- The Call to Trust (Isaiah 35:4) — The chapter concludes with a call to trust in God, encouraging those with anxious hearts to be strong and not fear, because God will come to save them.
Core Doctrines
- Redemption
- Isaiah chapter 35 teaches us about the doctrine of redemption, which is the central theme of the chapter. The chapter emphasizes God's power and glory, and His desire to redeem His people.
- Sanctification
- The chapter also teaches us about the doctrine of sanctification, which is the process of being set apart for God's purposes. This is seen in the description of the highway of holiness, where the redeemed will walk.
- Providence
- The chapter emphasizes the doctrine of providence, which is the idea that God is actively involved in the world, bringing about His purposes and plans. This is seen in the transformation of the desert, and the healing of the blind and deaf.
- Eschatology
- The chapter also teaches us about the doctrine of eschatology, which is the study of the end times. The chapter describes the ultimate redemption that will come through Jesus Christ, and the restoration of all things.
Lessons from Isaiah 35
- The Power of God — The chapter teaches us about the power and glory of God, who will bring about the restoration and redemption of His people.
- The Promise of Redemption — The chapter emphasizes the promise of redemption, encouraging us to trust in God and to walk on the highway of holiness.
- The Importance of Trust — The chapter teaches us about the importance of trusting in God, and not fearing, because He will come to save us.
- The Glory of God — The chapter emphasizes the glory of God, who will bring about the restoration and redemption of His people.
- The Call to Obedience — The chapter concludes with a call to obedience, encouraging us to walk on the highway of holiness, and to follow the path of righteousness and obedience.
Themes from Isaiah 35
- Restoration — The chapter teaches us about the theme of restoration, which is the idea that God will bring about the redemption and restoration of His people.
- Redemption — The chapter emphasizes the theme of redemption, which is the central theme of the chapter.
- Sanctification — The chapter teaches us about the theme of sanctification, which is the process of being set apart for God's purposes.
- Providence — The chapter emphasizes the theme of providence, which is the idea that God is actively involved in the world, bringing about His purposes and plans.
- Eschatology — The chapter teaches us about the theme of eschatology, which is the study of the end times.
Questions for Meditation
- What does the transformation of the desert in Isaiah 35:1-2 teach us about God's power and glory?
- How does the promise of redemption in Isaiah 35:4 encourage us to trust in God?
- What does the description of the highway of holiness in Isaiah 35:8-10 teach us about the path of righteousness and obedience?
- How does the emphasis on God's glory in Isaiah 35:2, 4 help us to understand the significance of the chapter's message?
- What does the call to trust in God in Isaiah 35:4 mean for our lives, and how can we apply this message in practical ways?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Transformation of the Desert (Isaiah 35:1-2)
| 35:1 | The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose. |
| 35:2 | It shall blossom abundantly and rejoice even with joy and singing; the glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the excellence of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the Lord, the excellence of our God. |
2. The Promise of Redemption (Isaiah 35:3-4)
| 35:3 | Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. |
| 35:4 | Say to those with anxious hearts, 'Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, He will come with vengeance, with divine retribution He will come to save you.' |
3. The Healing of the Blind and Deaf (Isaiah 35:5-6)
| 35:5 | Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. |
| 35:6 | Then the lame shall leap like a deer, and the tongue of the dumb sing. For waters shall burst forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert. |
4. The Highway of Holiness (Isaiah 35:8-10)
| 35:8 | And a highway shall be there, and a way; and it shall be called the Way of Holiness. The unclean shall not pass over it, but it shall be for the redeemed; the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err in it. |
| 35:9 | No lion shall be there, nor shall any ravenous beast go up on it; it shall not be found there. But the redeemed shall walk there. |
| 35:10 | And the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing, with everlasting joy on their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Isaiah chapter 35?
The main theme of Isaiah chapter 35 is the restoration and redemption of God's people, which is fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. As seen in Isaiah 35:1-2, the desert is transformed into a lush garden, and in Isaiah 35:4, God promises to come and save His people.
What does the transformation of the desert in Isaiah 35:1-2 teach us about God's power and glory?
The transformation of the desert teaches us about God's power and glory, which is able to bring about the restoration and redemption of His people. This is seen in the description of the desert blossoming abundantly and rejoicing with joy and singing, as well as the glory of Lebanon being given to it.
How does the promise of redemption in Isaiah 35:4 encourage us to trust in God?
The promise of redemption encourages us to trust in God, because it reminds us that He will come to save us and redeem us. As seen in Isaiah 35:4, God promises to come with vengeance and divine retribution to save us, and this promise is fulfilled in the person and work of Christ.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Isaiah 35:1 → Psalm 107:35 | The transformation of the desert in Isaiah 35:1 is similar to the transformation of the desert in Psalm 107:35, where God turns the desert into a pool of water and the dry land into springs of water. |
| 2 | Isaiah 35:4 → Matthew 11:5 | The promise of redemption in Isaiah 35:4 is fulfilled in the person and work of Christ, who came to save and redeem His people. As seen in Matthew 11:5, the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. |
| 3 | Isaiah 35:5 → John 9:1-7 | The healing of the blind in Isaiah 35:5 is similar to the healing of the blind man in John 9:1-7, where Jesus gives sight to the blind man. |
| 4 | Isaiah 35:8 → Matthew 7:13-14 | The highway of holiness in Isaiah 35:8 is similar to the narrow gate in Matthew 7:13-14, which leads to life and salvation. |
| 5 | Isaiah 35:10 → Revelation 21:4 | The return of the ransomed to Zion with singing in Isaiah 35:10 is similar to the return of the redeemed to the new heaven and the new earth in Revelation 21:4, where God will wipe away every tear and there will be no more sorrow or sighing. |
| 6 | Isaiah 35:1 → Isaiah 51:3 | The transformation of the desert in Isaiah 35:1 is similar to the transformation of the desert in Isaiah 51:3, where God will make the wilderness like Eden and the desert like the garden of the Lord. |
| 7 | Isaiah 35:4 → Psalm 27:1 | The promise of redemption in Isaiah 35:4 is similar to the promise of redemption in Psalm 27:1, where God is our light and our salvation, and we will not fear. |
| 8 | Isaiah 35:5 → Mark 7:31-37 | The healing of the deaf in Isaiah 35:5 is similar to the healing of the deaf man in Mark 7:31-37, where Jesus gives hearing to the deaf man. |
| 9 | Isaiah 35:8 → Hebrews 12:14 | The highway of holiness in Isaiah 35:8 is similar to the pursuit of holiness in Hebrews 12:14, without which no one will see the Lord. |
| 10 | Isaiah 35:10 → 1 Peter 1:3-5 | The return of the ransomed to Zion with singing in Isaiah 35:10 is similar to the return of the redeemed to the heavenly inheritance in 1 Peter 1:3-5, where we have been born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. |
Sermons on Isaiah 35
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Antichrist Armageddon Mark of the Beast by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the coming economic collapse and how it will lead to a time when Christians can no longer afford internet or other frivolous things. He empha |
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Short Excerpt by William Booth | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of salvation and its ability to deliver and purify the soul. The sermon encourages the listener to find joy in the salvation offer |
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The Way of Holiness (Reading) by Jonathan Edwards | The sermon transcript discusses the strength, courage, reward, salvation, light, understanding, comforts, and joys that are found in the preaching of the word of God. It emphasizes |
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Inexhaustible Resources in Christ by Alan Redpath | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on their personal journey of faith and acknowledges their own stubbornness. They believe that we are living in the end times and that Satan is |
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Dvd 11 - the Set Time to Favor Zion by Art Katz | This sermon delves into the deep spiritual journey of surrendering all to God, even the best virtues and spirituality that we hold dear, in order to attain a union with God that tr |
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The Glory of the Last Days by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher discusses a biblical story where the Israelites were trapped at the Red Sea with the enemy army behind them. He compares this situation to the challeng |
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Returning to God in Enemy Territory by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher invites the congregation to come forward and receive freedom and forgiveness through Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that anyone who wants to be free from |
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The Secret to Prayer by Jon Courson | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of praising God and parading to His will. He references a story from the Bible where King Jehoshaphat and his people faced a g |
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Isaiah 35 by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a personal experience of feeling melancholy and alone while carrying the burden of understanding the mystery of Israel. He emphasizes the im |
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K-069 the Wilderness Call by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of delivering a message on Elijah in Jerusalem. Despite misinterpreting a note and speaking for longer than intended, the s |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Isaiah 35
Matthew Henry's commentary on Isaiah 35 emphasizes the beauty and glory of God's redemption, which is the central theme of the chapter. Henry notes that the transformation of the desert is a symbol of the spiritual transformation that takes place in the hearts of God's people, and that the promise of redemption is a call to trust in God's power and glory. Henry also emphasizes the importance of the highway of holiness, which is the path of righteousness and obedience that God's people must follow. Throughout the commentary, Henry highlights the significance of the chapter's message for the people of God, encouraging them to trust in God's redemption and to walk on the highway of holiness. As Henry notes, 'the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together' (Isaiah 35:2), and 'the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing, with everlasting joy on their heads' (Isaiah 35:10). Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Power of God
Throughout the chapter, Isaiah emphasizes the power and glory of God, who will bring about the restoration and redemption of His people. This is seen in the transformation of the desert, the healing of the blind and deaf, and the creation of the highway of holiness.
The Promise of Redemption
The chapter is filled with promises of redemption and restoration, emphasizing God's commitment to His people and His desire to save them. This is seen in the declaration that God will come to save His people, and that the ransomed will return to Zion with singing.
The Call to Trust
The chapter also emphasizes the call to trust in God, encouraging those with anxious hearts to be strong and not fear. This is seen in the verse, 'Say to those with anxious hearts, 'Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, He will come with vengeance, with divine retribution He will come to save you'' (Isaiah 35:4).