Isaiah 8
BSB1 Then the LORD said to me, “Take a large scroll and write on it with an ordinary stylus: Maher-shalal-hash-baz. 2 And I will appoint for Myself trustworthy witnesses—Uriah the priest and Zechariah son of Jeberekiah." 3 And I had relations with the prophetess, and she conceived and gave birth to a son. The LORD said to me, “Name him Maher-shalal-hash-baz. 4 For before the boy knows how to cry ‘Father’ or ‘Mother,’ the wealth of Damascus and the plunder of Samaria will be carried off by the king of Assyria." 5 And the LORD spoke to me further: 6 “Because this people has rejected the gently flowing waters of Shiloah and rejoiced in Rezin and the son of Remaliah, 7 the Lord will surely bring against them the mighty floodwaters of the Euphrates — the king of Assyria and all his pomp. It will overflow its channels and overrun its banks. 8 It will pour into Judah, swirling and sweeping over it, reaching up to the neck; its spreading streams will cover your entire land, O Immanuel! 9 Huddle together, O peoples, and be shattered; pay attention, all you distant lands; prepare for battle, and be shattered; prepare for battle, and be shattered! 10 Devise a plan, but it will be thwarted; state a proposal, but it will not happen. For God is with us. “ 11 For this is what the LORD has spoken to me with a strong hand, instructing me not to walk in the way of this people: 12 “Do not call conspiracy everything these people regard as conspiracy. Do not fear what they fear; do not live in dread. 13 The LORD of Hosts is the One you shall regard as holy. Only He should be feared; only He should be dreaded. 14 And He will be a sanctuary— but to both houses of Israel a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense, to the dwellers of Jerusalem a trap and a snare. 15 Many will stumble over these; they will fall and be broken; they will be ensnared and captured." 16 Bind up the testimony and seal the law among my disciples. 17 I will wait for the LORD, who is hiding His face from the house of Jacob. I will put my trust in Him. 18 Here am I, and the children the LORD has given me as signs and symbols in Israel from the LORD of Hosts, who dwells on Mount Zion. 19 When men tell you to consult the spirits of the dead and the spiritists who whisper and mutter, shouldn’t a people consult their God instead? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living? 20 To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn. 21 They will roam the land, dejected and hungry. When they are famished, they will become enraged; and looking upward, they will curse their king and their God. 22 Then they will look to the earth and see only distress and darkness and the gloom of anguish. And they will be driven into utter darkness.
Study Notes — Isaiah 8
- 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 8
- Themes from Isaiah 8
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Isaiah 8
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with God instructing Isaiah to write a message on a large scroll, warning of the coming judgment on Judah and Israel. Isaiah is then told to have two sons, Shear-jashub and Maher-shalal-hash-baz, whose names symbolize the judgment and redemption that God will bring. The chapter also warns against seeking guidance from mediums and spiritists, and instead encourages trust in God's Word and promises. The coming Messiah is portrayed as a beacon of hope and light in a time of darkness and despair, as seen in Isaiah 8:14 and Isaiah 8:17.
Context for the Chapter
Isaiah chapter 8 is part of the larger narrative of the book of Isaiah, which emphasizes God's judgment and redemption of His people. The chapter is situated in the context of the Assyrian threat to Judah and Israel, and encourages trust in God's sovereignty and power rather than relying on human strength or foreign alliances. This theme is developed throughout the book of Isaiah, as seen in Isaiah 1-12.
Heart Application
The chapter encourages us to trust in God's Word and promises, rather than relying on human strength or foreign alliances. It highlights the importance of fearing and revering God, and recognizing His sovereignty and power. As we apply these principles to our lives, we can experience God's peace and comfort, even in the midst of uncertainty and chaos, as seen in Isaiah 8:10 and Isaiah 8:17.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Isaiah chapter 8 is a call to trust in God amidst judgment and uncertainty. It emphasizes the importance of seeking God's counsel and not relying on human strength or foreign alliances. The chapter points to Christ as the ultimate source of light and salvation, who will bring redemption to God's people, as seen in Isaiah 8:14 and Isaiah 8:16-17.
Voices from the Church
“The judgments of God are always tempered with mercy, and His mercy is always tempered with judgment.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, and the foundation of all true piety.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- God's Warning of Judgment (Isaiah 8:1-8) — The chapter begins with God instructing Isaiah to write a message on a large scroll, warning of the coming judgment on Judah and Israel. This section emphasizes the consequences of sin and rebellion, as seen in Isaiah 8:1-4.
- The Symbolic Names of Isaiah's Sons (Isaiah 8:1-4) — The chapter uses symbolic names, such as Shear-jashub and Maher-shalal-hash-baz, to convey God's message of judgment and redemption. This section highlights the importance of paying attention to the details of Scripture.
- The Warning Against Idolatry (Isaiah 8:19-20) — The chapter warns against seeking guidance from mediums and spiritists, and instead encourages trust in God's Word and promises. This section emphasizes the importance of avoiding idolatry and trusting in God alone.
- The Emphasis on God's Sovereignty (Isaiah 8:13-14) — The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and power, highlighting His control over all things. This section encourages trust in His providence and care.
- The Coming Messiah (Isaiah 8:14-17) — The chapter points to Christ as the ultimate source of light and salvation, who will bring redemption to God's people. This section highlights the importance of trusting in Christ and seeking His guidance and comfort.
Core Doctrines
- The Sovereignty of God
- The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and power, highlighting His control over all things. This doctrine encourages trust in His providence and care, as seen in Isaiah 8:13-14.
- The Importance of Trusting in God
- The chapter encourages trust in God's Word and promises, rather than relying on human strength or foreign alliances. This doctrine highlights the importance of fearing and revering God, and recognizing His sovereignty and power.
- The Warning Against Idolatry
- The chapter warns against seeking guidance from mediums and spiritists, and instead encourages trust in God's Word and promises. This doctrine emphasizes the importance of avoiding idolatry and trusting in God alone, as seen in Isaiah 8:19-20.
- The Coming Messiah
- The chapter points to Christ as the ultimate source of light and salvation, who will bring redemption to God's people. This doctrine highlights the importance of trusting in Christ and seeking His guidance and comfort, as seen in Isaiah 8:14-17.
Lessons from Isaiah 8
- The Importance of Trusting in God — The chapter encourages trust in God's Word and promises, rather than relying on human strength or foreign alliances. This lesson highlights the importance of fearing and revering God, and recognizing His sovereignty and power.
- The Warning Against Idolatry — The chapter warns against seeking guidance from mediums and spiritists, and instead encourages trust in God's Word and promises. This lesson emphasizes the importance of avoiding idolatry and trusting in God alone.
- The Coming Messiah — The chapter points to Christ as the ultimate source of light and salvation, who will bring redemption to God's people. This lesson highlights the importance of trusting in Christ and seeking His guidance and comfort.
- The Emphasis on God's Sovereignty — The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and power, highlighting His control over all things. This lesson encourages trust in His providence and care.
- The Importance of Fearing and Revering God — The chapter emphasizes the importance of fearing and revering God, and recognizing His sovereignty and power. This lesson highlights the importance of cultivating a deeper fear and reverence for God.
Themes from Isaiah 8
- God's Judgment and Redemption — The chapter emphasizes God's judgment on Judah and Israel, highlighting the consequences of sin and rebellion. However, it also points to God's redemption and salvation, which will be brought about through the coming Messiah.
- The Importance of Trusting in God — The chapter encourages trust in God's Word and promises, rather than relying on human strength or foreign alliances. This theme highlights the importance of fearing and revering God, and recognizing His sovereignty and power.
- The Warning Against Idolatry — The chapter warns against seeking guidance from mediums and spiritists, and instead encourages trust in God's Word and promises. This theme emphasizes the importance of avoiding idolatry and trusting in God alone.
- The Coming Messiah — The chapter points to Christ as the ultimate source of light and salvation, who will bring redemption to God's people. This theme highlights the importance of trusting in Christ and seeking His guidance and comfort.
- The Emphasis on God's Sovereignty — The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and power, highlighting His control over all things. This theme encourages trust in His providence and care.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some ways in which I can trust in God's sovereignty and power, rather than relying on human strength or foreign alliances?
- How can I avoid idolatry and instead trust in God's Word and promises?
- What are some ways in which I can apply the principles of Isaiah 8:13-14 to my life, and experience God's peace and comfort?
- How can I point others to Christ as the ultimate source of light and salvation, and encourage them to trust in Him?
- What are some ways in which I can cultivate a deeper fear and reverence for God, and recognize His sovereignty and power?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. God's Warning of Judgment (Isaiah 8:1-8)
| Isaiah 8:1 | God instructs Isaiah to write a message on a large scroll, warning of the coming judgment on Judah and Israel. |
| Isaiah 8:2 | Isaiah is told to have two sons, Shear-jashub and Maher-shalal-hash-baz, whose names symbolize the judgment and redemption that God will bring. |
2. The Symbolic Names of Isaiah's Sons (Isaiah 8:1-4)
| Isaiah 8:3 | Isaiah's wife, the prophetess, bears a son named Maher-shalal-hash-baz, whose name symbolizes the judgment that God will bring. |
| Isaiah 8:4 | The child will be a sign to the people of the coming judgment, which will be swift and decisive. |
3. The Warning Against Idolatry (Isaiah 8:19-20)
| Isaiah 8:19 | The chapter warns against seeking guidance from mediums and spiritists, and instead encourages trust in God's Word and promises. |
| Isaiah 8:20 | Those who seek guidance from mediums and spiritists will be led astray and will not find the light of God's truth. |
4. The Emphasis on God's Sovereignty (Isaiah 8:13-14)
| Isaiah 8:13 | The Lord Almighty is the one who is to be regarded as holy, feared, and dreaded. |
| Isaiah 8:14 | Christ will be a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense, but also a sanctuary and a refuge for those who trust in Him. |
5. The Coming Messiah (Isaiah 8:14-17)
| Isaiah 8:14 | Christ will be a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense, but also a sanctuary and a refuge for those who trust in Him. |
| Isaiah 8:15 | Many will stumble and fall, but those who trust in Christ will be saved and will find refuge in Him. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Isaiah chapter 8?
The main theme of Isaiah chapter 8 is God's judgment and redemption, highlighting the consequences of sin and rebellion, as seen in Isaiah 8:1-8. However, it also points to God's redemption and salvation, which will be brought about through the coming Messiah, as seen in Isaiah 8:14-17.
What is the significance of the symbolic names of Isaiah's sons?
The symbolic names of Isaiah's sons, Shear-jashub and Maher-shalal-hash-baz, convey God's message of judgment and redemption, as seen in Isaiah 8:1-4. They highlight the importance of paying attention to the details of Scripture and trusting in God's Word and promises.
What is the warning against idolatry in Isaiah chapter 8?
The warning against idolatry in Isaiah chapter 8 is a call to avoid seeking guidance from mediums and spiritists, and instead to trust in God's Word and promises, as seen in Isaiah 8:19-20. This emphasizes the importance of avoiding idolatry and trusting in God alone.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Isaiah 8:1 → Deuteronomy 31:24-26 | The instruction to write a message on a large scroll is similar to the instruction given to Moses in Deuteronomy 31:24-26. |
| 2 | Isaiah 8:14 → John 1:1 | The reference to Christ as a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense is similar to the reference in John 1:1, which highlights Christ's divinity and sovereignty. |
| 3 | Isaiah 8:17 → Hebrews 2:13 | The reference to waiting for God and trusting in Him is similar to the reference in Hebrews 2:13, which encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and power. |
| 4 | Isaiah 8:20 → Matthew 4:4 | The reference to seeking guidance from God's Word is similar to the reference in Matthew 4:4, which highlights the importance of trusting in God's Word and promises. |
| 5 | Isaiah 8:13 → Psalm 111:9 | The reference to the Lord Almighty as the one who is to be regarded as holy, feared, and dreaded is similar to the reference in Psalm 111:9, which highlights God's sovereignty and power. |
| 6 | Isaiah 8:14 → Romans 9:33 | The reference to Christ as a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense is similar to the reference in Romans 9:33, which highlights Christ's sovereignty and power. |
| 7 | Isaiah 8:17 → Isaiah 40:31 | The reference to waiting for God and trusting in Him is similar to the reference in Isaiah 40:31, which encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and power. |
| 8 | Isaiah 8:20 → 2 Timothy 3:16-17 | The reference to seeking guidance from God's Word is similar to the reference in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, which highlights the importance of trusting in God's Word and promises. |
| 9 | Isaiah 8:13 → Revelation 15:4 | The reference to the Lord Almighty as the one who is to be regarded as holy, feared, and dreaded is similar to the reference in Revelation 15:4, which highlights God's sovereignty and power. |
| 10 | Isaiah 8:14 → 1 Peter 2:8 | The reference to Christ as a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense is similar to the reference in 1 Peter 2:8, which highlights Christ's sovereignty and power. |
Sermons on Isaiah 8
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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One Strange Stone by Jim Cymbala | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept that some good things can have a negative impact on people. He gives examples of how ambulances, which save lives, can also bring |
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The Word by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance and power of the Holy Scriptures. He compares trying to celebrate the Scriptures in a short amount of time to summarizing a to |
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Election by C.H. Spurgeon | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of turning Scripture into practical discourse under the influence of God's Spirit. He encourages the audience to set aside th |
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(Prophecy) Clarifications About Prophecy by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of prophecy in warning God's people ahead of time. He encourages the audience to seek the gift of prophecy from God, so they ca |
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Six Verses That Describe Our Vision by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of giving everything to God. He encourages the audience to present their bodies, eyes, and hands to God, and to surrender thei |
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(Genesis) - Part 5 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of chaos in the Bible, specifically in Genesis 1. He emphasizes that despite the chaos, God can make something excellent out of i |
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Love Never Faileth by George Warnock | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of truth and wisdom in our inner being. He quotes from Psalm 51, where David asks God to purify him and make him clean. The sp |
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Isaiah Chapter 6 by Stephen Kaung | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a vision of the Lord in order to find strength and hope in discouraging times. The vision of the Lord is described |
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To the Elect Lady by Bob Bruton | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not just talking about our faith, but also living it out in our actions. He refers to the commandment to walk in truth, whi |
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(Matthew) ch.27:32-28:20 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the depth and meaning of the commission mentioned in Mark 16:15-16. While the emphasis is often placed on eva |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Isaiah 8
Matthew Henry's commentary on Isaiah 8 highlights the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and power, rather than relying on human strength or foreign alliances. He emphasizes the significance of the symbolic names of Isaiah's sons, which convey God's message of judgment and redemption. Henry also warns against idolatry, encouraging believers to seek guidance from God's Word and promises, rather than from mediums and spiritists. He highlights the reference to Christ as a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense, but also as a sanctuary and a refuge for those who trust in Him. Overall, Henry's commentary encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and power, and to seek guidance from His Word and promises, as seen in Isaiah 8:13-14 and Isaiah 8:17. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Use of Symbolic Names
The chapter uses symbolic names, such as Shear-jashub and Maher-shalal-hash-baz, to convey God's message of judgment and redemption. This highlights the importance of paying attention to the details of Scripture, as seen in Isaiah 8:1-4.
The Warning Against Idolatry
The chapter warns against seeking guidance from mediums and spiritists, and instead encourages trust in God's Word and promises. This emphasizes the importance of avoiding idolatry and trusting in God alone, as seen in Isaiah 8:19-20.
The Emphasis on God's Sovereignty
The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and power, highlighting His control over all things. This encourages trust in His providence and care, as seen in Isaiah 8:13-14.