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Isaiah 40:4
Verse
Context
Prepare the Way for the LORD
3A voice of one calling: “Prepare the way for the LORD in the wilderness; make a straight highway for our God in the desert. 4Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill made low; the uneven ground will become smooth, and the rugged land a plain. 5And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all humanity together will see it. For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.”
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Crooked - The word עקב akob is very generally rendered crooked: but this sense of the word seems not to be supported by any good authority. Ludolphus, Comment. ad Hist. Aethiop. p. 206, says "that in the Ethiopia language it signifies clivus, locus editus:" and so the Syriac Version renders it in this place, ערמא arama: Hebrew, ערמה aramah, tumulus, acervus. Thus the parallelism would be more perfect:" the hilly country shall be made level, and the precipices a smooth plain."
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The summons proceeds in a commanding tone. "Let every valley be exalted, and every mountain and hill made low; and let the rugged be made a plain, and the ledges of rocks a valley." והיה, which takes its tone from the two jussive verbs, is also itself equivalent to ויהי. Instead of גּיא (from גּיא), the pointing in Zac 14:4, we have here (according to Kimchi) the vowel-pointing גּיא; at the same time, the editions of Brescia, Pesaro, Venice 1678, have גּיא (with tzere), and this is also the reading of a codex of Luzzatto without Masoretic notes. The command, according to its spiritual interpretation, points to the encouragement of those that are cast down, the humiliation of the self-righteous and self-secure, the changing of dishonesty into simplicity, and of unapproachable haughtiness into submission (for ‛âqōbh, hilly, rugged, (Note: In this ethical sense Essex applied the word to Queen Elizabeth. See Hefele, Ximenes, p. 90 (ed. 2).) compare Jer 17:9 together with Hab 2:4). In general, the meaning is that Israel is to take care, that the God who is coming to deliver it shall find it in such an inward and outwards state as befits His exaltation and His purpose.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Eastern monarchs send heralds before them in a journey to clear away obstacles, make causeways over valleys, and level hills. So John's duty was to bring back the people to obedience to the law and to remove all self-confidence, pride in national privileges, hypocrisy, and irreligion, so that they should be ready for His coming (Mal 4:6; Luk 1:17). crooked--declivities.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low,.... Which is not to be understood literally, but, as Kimchi says, parabolically and mystically: the meaning is, that in consequence of John's ministry, and our Lord's coming, such who were depressed and bowed down with the guilt of sin, and were low and humble in their own eyes, should be raised up and comforted; and that such who were elated with themselves, and their own righteousness, should be humbled; their pride and haughtiness should be brought down, and they treated with neglect and contempt, while great notice was taken of lowly minded ones; see Luk 14:11 and Luk 18:14, and the crooked shall be straight and the rough places plain; what before was dark and intricate in prophecy should now become clear; and such doctrines as were not so well understood should now become plain and easy.
Isaiah 40:4
Prepare the Way for the LORD
3A voice of one calling: “Prepare the way for the LORD in the wilderness; make a straight highway for our God in the desert. 4Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill made low; the uneven ground will become smooth, and the rugged land a plain. 5And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all humanity together will see it. For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Washed With Fire
By Leonard Ravenhill12K1:18:02Baptism Of The Holy SpiritISA 40:4MAT 3:11LUK 3:16JHN 3:161CO 3:13HEB 12:29REV 3:15In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a woman who worked in Africa and lived in a humble bamboo house. Despite facing potential dangers in the jungle, she had faith and trusted in God's protection. The preacher also talks about attending a meeting where people were sleeping and the preacher couldn't continue. However, a little woman with her legs swinging kept the energy alive. The sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance and highlights the unique qualities of John the Baptist, who was a powerful and influential figure in spreading the message of repentance.
God's Kindness and Severity
By Erlo Stegen1.1K1:09:54God's KindnessISA 40:4MAT 6:33MAT 7:21LUK 13:3ACT 5:1ROM 11:22REV 2:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of the kindness and severity of God. He shares a personal story about an American preacher who asked whether people emphasize the love of God or His wrath. The preacher explains that both aspects exist and cites a biblical reference in Matthew 24 about an evil servant. He then reveals that the American preacher died a terrible death after it was discovered that he had been involved in immoral activities and had criticized other servants of God. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of understanding the compassion and severity of God.
(Youth Bible School 2007) the Wayside Hearer
By Mose Stoltzfus7811:24:21PRO 29:1ISA 40:4MAT 6:33MAT 13:3MAT 13:18LUK 3:3HEB 4:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the parable of the sower from Matthew chapter 13. He explains that the different conditions of the soil in the parable represent the different conditions of human hearts. The speaker emphasizes the importance of responding to the gospel and teachings of the Bible with a receptive heart. He warns against having a hardened heart that resists God's message and urges listeners to bring forth fruit of repentance. The sermon emphasizes the need for a genuine commitment to God and the danger of allowing distractions and worldly desires to choke out the word of God.
01 the Forerunner Message in Isaiah 2
By Mike Bickle331:16:00End TimesJerusalem as the EpicenterISA 2:2ISA 2:10ISA 40:4ISA 60:1ISA 62:1ZEC 14:4MAT 5:14EPH 1:10REV 20:6REV 21:2Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of Isaiah 2 as a foundational text for understanding the end times, highlighting that Isaiah was entrusted with more revelation about the end times than any other prophet. He explains that the forerunner message reveals God's plan to establish Jerusalem as the epicenter of His reign, filled with love and glory, and that the nations will be drawn to it. Bickle encourages critical thinking and interaction among believers to grasp the fullness of God's message, asserting that the end times are not a doom and gloom narrative but a glorious love story. He stresses the importance of understanding the connection between the earthly and heavenly Jerusalems and the role of believers in this divine plan.
Jesus' Leadership in the Millennium (Isa. 2)
By Mike Bickle201:11:17The Millennial KingdomJesus' LeadershipISA 2:2ISA 4:2ISA 9:6ISA 11:1ISA 40:4JER 3:17EZK 40:2ZEC 14:10ROM 15:13REV 3:12Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of Jesus' leadership during the Millennium as depicted in Isaiah 2, highlighting the glory of Jerusalem as the capital city of the great King. He explains that this city will be a mountain house, exalted above all nations, where Jesus will teach and judge, leading to a time of peace where nations will no longer engage in war. Bickle connects various passages in Isaiah to paint a comprehensive picture of the beauty and authority of the Messiah, who will govern with wisdom and compassion, ultimately transforming the world. He encourages believers to anchor their hope in the prophetic vision of the future, reminding them that this is their story and destiny.
Israel: Refined and Transformed (Zech. 13:7-14:21)
By Mike Bickle181:02:22TransformationRefinementISA 24:23ISA 40:4EZK 47:1ZEC 13:7MAL 3:2MAT 26:31JHN 7:37ROM 14:11REV 19:11Mike Bickle discusses the profound themes of refinement and transformation in Israel as depicted in Zechariah 13:7-14:21. He emphasizes the duality of Israel's suffering and eventual victory, highlighting how Jesus will lead the nation through trials to establish Jerusalem as His global capital. Bickle explains the significance of the remnant being refined through fire, the miraculous changes in the land, and the ultimate reign of Jesus as King over all the earth. He underscores the importance of understanding these prophecies literally, as they reveal God's zeal for His people and the establishment of a holy nation. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize the transformative power of God in the midst of suffering.
Letter 20
By James Bourne0PSA 34:18PSA 119:105ISA 40:4ZEC 4:6MAT 25:1JHN 16:13James Bourne emphasizes the power of God to overcome obstacles and transform lives, urging his cousin to seek God earnestly through prayer and the Word. He acknowledges the struggles of despair and the need for hope and encouragement found in prayer. Bourne reflects on the spiritual journey of facing sin and finding strength and consolation in God's presence. He highlights the importance of being prepared, like the virgins in the parable, through the fear of the Lord and experiencing both trouble because of sin and joy because of mercy as part of the Christian life.
Epistle 252
By George Fox0Unity in ChristHumilityPSA 129:6ISA 40:4ISA 42:6JER 3:9ROM 10:8ROM 13:121CO 1:241CO 9:172CO 5:19EPH 6:12COL 4:61TH 2:191TI 4:12HEB 12:231JN 5:9REV 17:14George Fox emphasizes the importance of humility, meekness, and purity for those who minister the gospel. He urges ministers to be examples in their conduct and to avoid ungracious speech, remaining faithful to God's calling. Fox warns against division and encourages unity among believers, highlighting the need to demonstrate the new life in Christ to those still in darkness. He calls for ministers to be valiant for the truth and to preach the light of Christ to all nations, equipping themselves with the armor of God to stand against unrighteousness. Ultimately, he reminds them that the Lamb will have the victory, and they should be each other's joy in the Lord.
Epistle 235
By George Fox0ISA 40:4George Fox preaches about finding safety and guidance in Christ amidst life's storms and challenges, emphasizing the importance of staying rooted in faith and spiritual truth. He encourages believers to focus on the eternal blessings and promises of God, rather than being consumed by temporary hardships and trials. Fox reminds the congregation of the distinction between a carnal mind and a spiritual mind, urging them to seek fellowship in the power of God and unity with one another. He reassures them of God's constant presence, sovereignty, and unwavering love, urging them to remain faithful and steadfast in their faith.
The Power of Christ
By James Smith0ISA 40:4ZEC 4:6ROM 8:372CO 10:42CO 12:9EPH 3:20PHP 3:20HEB 4:16JAS 5:161JN 4:4James Smith preaches on the all-subduing power of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the need for divine power in all aspects of life. He encourages believers to trust in Jesus' ability to subdue all things, whether in the world, families, Sunday schools, ministries, or personal hearts. Smith reminds listeners that Jesus can transform human nature, sanctify families, empower teachers, and bring unity and holiness to churches. He urges everyone to fervently pray and rely on Jesus' omnipotent strength to overcome challenges and achieve God's purposes.
Epistle 181
By George Fox0JOB 28:28ISA 40:4MAT 10:1JHN 6:351CO 1:24EPH 3:9JAS 3:17George Fox preaches about living in the unchangeable power of God to maintain righteousness, truth, love, unity, and dominion over spiritual obstacles and challenges. He emphasizes the importance of patiently waiting in God's power, staying low in love and unity, and serving the Lord diligently in order to overcome earthly distractions and limitations. Fox encourages believers to focus on the wisdom of God, departing from sin, and allowing the seed of God to reign within them, leading to a life of purity, holiness, and spiritual growth in Christ.
The Valley Exalted, and the Mountain Laid Low
By J.C. Philpot0PSA 40:2PSA 88:4ISA 40:4MAT 3:1JHN 16:9ACT 17:31ROM 1:42CO 4:6PHP 1:22REV 20:12J.C. Philpot preaches on the prophecy from Isaiah 40:4-5, emphasizing the figurative language of obstacles being removed for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. He delves into the spiritual and experiential exalting of valleys, making low mountains, straightening crooked paths, and smoothing rough places to reveal the glory of the Lord. Philpot highlights the need for a revelation of Christ to the soul to bring comfort, peace, and solid ground for faith. He assures that all obstacles will be overcome, all flesh will see the glory of the Lord, and God's promises will surely come to pass.
Wait on God's Time
By Charles E. Cowman0GEN 18:14GEN 21:2PSA 33:11ISA 40:4JHN 16:20Charles E. Cowman preaches about the importance of waiting on God's set times, using the story of Abraham and Sarah as an example of God fulfilling His promises at the appointed moment. He encourages believers to trust in God's timing, even when the wait seems long and challenging, reminding them that God's counsel stands forever. Cowman emphasizes the joy and fulfillment that come when God's promises are finally realized, turning sorrow into joy and making rough paths straight.
- Adam Clarke
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Crooked - The word עקב akob is very generally rendered crooked: but this sense of the word seems not to be supported by any good authority. Ludolphus, Comment. ad Hist. Aethiop. p. 206, says "that in the Ethiopia language it signifies clivus, locus editus:" and so the Syriac Version renders it in this place, ערמא arama: Hebrew, ערמה aramah, tumulus, acervus. Thus the parallelism would be more perfect:" the hilly country shall be made level, and the precipices a smooth plain."
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The summons proceeds in a commanding tone. "Let every valley be exalted, and every mountain and hill made low; and let the rugged be made a plain, and the ledges of rocks a valley." והיה, which takes its tone from the two jussive verbs, is also itself equivalent to ויהי. Instead of גּיא (from גּיא), the pointing in Zac 14:4, we have here (according to Kimchi) the vowel-pointing גּיא; at the same time, the editions of Brescia, Pesaro, Venice 1678, have גּיא (with tzere), and this is also the reading of a codex of Luzzatto without Masoretic notes. The command, according to its spiritual interpretation, points to the encouragement of those that are cast down, the humiliation of the self-righteous and self-secure, the changing of dishonesty into simplicity, and of unapproachable haughtiness into submission (for ‛âqōbh, hilly, rugged, (Note: In this ethical sense Essex applied the word to Queen Elizabeth. See Hefele, Ximenes, p. 90 (ed. 2).) compare Jer 17:9 together with Hab 2:4). In general, the meaning is that Israel is to take care, that the God who is coming to deliver it shall find it in such an inward and outwards state as befits His exaltation and His purpose.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Eastern monarchs send heralds before them in a journey to clear away obstacles, make causeways over valleys, and level hills. So John's duty was to bring back the people to obedience to the law and to remove all self-confidence, pride in national privileges, hypocrisy, and irreligion, so that they should be ready for His coming (Mal 4:6; Luk 1:17). crooked--declivities.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low,.... Which is not to be understood literally, but, as Kimchi says, parabolically and mystically: the meaning is, that in consequence of John's ministry, and our Lord's coming, such who were depressed and bowed down with the guilt of sin, and were low and humble in their own eyes, should be raised up and comforted; and that such who were elated with themselves, and their own righteousness, should be humbled; their pride and haughtiness should be brought down, and they treated with neglect and contempt, while great notice was taken of lowly minded ones; see Luk 14:11 and Luk 18:14, and the crooked shall be straight and the rough places plain; what before was dark and intricate in prophecy should now become clear; and such doctrines as were not so well understood should now become plain and easy.