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Isaiah 41:14
Verse
Context
God’s Help to Israel
13For I am the LORD your God, who takes hold of your right hand and tells you: Do not fear, I will help you. 14Do not fear, O worm of Jacob, O few men of Israel. I will help you,” declares the LORD. “Your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel. 15Behold, I will make you into a threshing sledge, new and sharp, with many teeth. You will thresh the mountains and crush them, and reduce the hills to chaff.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Fear not, thou worm Jacob - In the rabbinical commentary on the five books of Moses, Yelamedenu, it is asked, Why are the Israelites called a worm? To signify, that as the worm does not smite, that is, gnaw the cedars, but with its mouth, which is very tender, yet it nevertheless destroys the hard wood; so all the strength of the Israelites is in prayer, by which they smite the wicked of this world, though strong like the cedars, to which they are compared, Eze 31:3.
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The consolatory words, "Fear not," are now repeated, for the purpose of once more adding the promise that Israel will not succumb to its foes, but will acquire power over its enemies. "Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and handful Israel: I will help thee, saith Jehovah; and thy Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel. Behold, I have made thee a threshing roller, a sharp new one, with double edges: thou wilt thresh mountains, and pound them; and hills thou wilt make like chaff. Thou wilt winnow them, and wind carries them away, and tempest scatters them: and thou wilt rejoice in Jehovah, and glory in the Holy One of Israel." Israel, which is now helplessly oppressed, is called "worm of Jacob" (gen. appos.) in compassion, i.e., Jacob that is like a worm, probably with some allusion to Psa 22:7; for the image of the Messiah enriches itself in these discourses, inasmuch as Israel itself is looked upon in a Messianic light, so that the second David does not stand by the side of Israel, but appears as Israel's heart, or true and inmost essence. The people are then addressed as the "people of Israel," with some allusion to the phrase מספּר מתי (i.e., few men, easily numbered) in Gen 34:30; Deu 4:27 (lxx ὀλιγοστὸσ ̓Ισραήλ; Luther, Ir armer hauffe Israel, ye poor crowd of Israel). They no longer formed the compact mass of a nation; the band of the commonwealth was broken: they were melted down into a few individuals, scattered about hither and thither. But it would not continue so. "I help thee" (perfect of certainty) is Jehovah's solemn declaration; and the Redeemer (redemtor, Lev 25:48-49) of His now enslaved people is the Holy One of Israel, with His love, which perpetually triumphs over wrath. Not only will He set it free, but He will also endow it with might over its oppressors; samtı̄kh is a perfect of assurance (Ges. 126, 4); mōrag (roller) signifies a threshing-sledge (Arab. naureg, nōreg), which has here the term חרוּץ (Isa 28:27) as a secondary name along with חדשׁ, and is described as furnished on the under part of the two arms of the sledge not only with sharp knives, but with two-edged knives (פּיפיּות a reduplication, like מאסּאה in Isa 27:8, whereas מימי is a double plural). Just like such a threshing machine would Israel thresh and grind to powder from that time forth both mountains and hills. This is evidently a figurative expression for proud and mighty foes, just as wind and tempest denote the irresistible force of Jehovah's aid. The might of the enemy would be broken down to the very last remnant, whereas Israel would be able to rejoice and glory in its God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
worm--in a state of contempt and affliction, whom all loathe and tread on, the very expression which Messiah, on the cross, applies to Himself (Psa 22:6), so completely are the Lord and His people identified and assimilated. God's people are as 'worms' in humble thoughts of themselves, and in their enemies' haughty thoughts of them; worms, but not vipers, or of the serpent's seed." [HENRY]. men--The parallelism requires the word "men" here to have associated with it the idea of fewness or feebleness. LOWTH translates, "Ye mortals of Israel." The Septuagint, "altogether diminutive." MAURER supports English Version, which the Hebrew text best accord with. the Lord--in general. and thy redeemer--in particular; a still stronger reason why He should "help" them.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Fear not, thou worm Jacob,.... Being like a worm, exposed to danger, and liable to be trampled upon and crushed, mean and despicable in their own eyes, and in the esteem of others; and it may be Jacob, or the true Israelites, are so called, because of their impurity in themselves, of which they are sensible; and chiefly because of their weakness and impotence to defend themselves, and resist their enemies. It is an observation of Jarchi, Kimchi, and Ben Melech, that the strength of a worm lies in its mouth, which, though tender, can strike the strongest cedar, and penetrate into it; and the latter observes, that the strength of Israel lies in their prayers, as Jacob's did, when, wrestling with the angel, and making supplication, he had power with God, and prevailed. Now, though the saints are such poor, weak, and contemptible things, yet the Lord bids them not fear any of their enemies, he would take their part, and protect them: and ye men of Israel; the Vulgate Latin version renders it, "ye dead men of Israel" (s); such as were accounted as dead men, and had no more respect shown them than the dead, that are remembered no more; or were exposed to death daily, for the sake of Christ and his Gospel; or that reckoned themselves dead to sin, and did die daily to it, and lived unto righteousness: or, "ye few men of Israel", as others (t) render it; Christ's flock is a little flock, his church is a little city, and few men in it, in comparison of the men of the world: I will help thee, saith, the Lord, and thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; which is repeated for the confirmation of it, and is the more strongly assured by these characters of a Redeemer of his people out of the hands of all their enemies, and the holy and just God, and sanctifier of them, which he here takes to himself, and makes himself known by. (s) "mortales Israeliae", Castalio. (t) , Sept. "viri pauci Israel", Munster, Montanus; "Israel, qui pauco es numero", Tigurine version.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
41:14 In exile, Israel was in a lowly state. • God is the Redeemer. He works mightily to rescue and restore people from sin and its consequences (for Israel, the Exile; for application to Jesus, see Luke 2:38; 21:28; Rom 3:24; 1 Cor 1:30; Gal 4:5; Eph 1:1-14; Titus 2:14; Heb 9:12).
Isaiah 41:14
God’s Help to Israel
13For I am the LORD your God, who takes hold of your right hand and tells you: Do not fear, I will help you. 14Do not fear, O worm of Jacob, O few men of Israel. I will help you,” declares the LORD. “Your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel. 15Behold, I will make you into a threshing sledge, new and sharp, with many teeth. You will thresh the mountains and crush them, and reduce the hills to chaff.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Worst Thing to Happen to a Preacher - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill2.0K09:31ISA 41:14JHN 11:35EPH 2:8This sermon emphasizes the danger of becoming civilized and losing the fervor for evangelism, highlighting the arrogance and lack of correction in prominent preachers. It calls for a rediscovery of the value of the human soul, repentance, and the true process of becoming a Christian, contrasting quick conversions with the depth of transformation needed. The speaker urges a return to a deep, prostrate prayer life like that of historical figures who passionately interceded for their nations and souls.
Cd Gv446 Gcowe 1997
By George Verwer59000:00JOS 1:2ISA 41:14MAT 16:24JHN 3:16JHN 12:24ACT 13:1REV 21:5In this sermon, the speaker addresses four questions related to facilitating a mission's movement among students, training them, taking them on short-term outreaches, and applying them in community compassion outreaches. The speaker emphasizes the need for a new generation and highlights the diverse backgrounds of the attendees from all over the world. The sermon emphasizes the importance of spreading the gospel to every person and planting churches among every people. The speaker concludes with a call to target the 579 people groups that have not yet been reached with the gospel before the year 2000.
Leaving Its Mark
By John Henry Jowett0PRO 3:5ISA 41:14ROM 8:282CO 12:9PHP 4:13John Henry Jowett preaches on the transformative power of God, using the analogy of a worm being turned into a threshing instrument with teeth. He emphasizes how God can take our weaknesses and vulnerabilities and empower us with His Spirit to leave a lasting impact on the world. Jowett encourages his listeners to take heart, knowing that God can make them stronger than their circumstances, enabling them to overcome challenges and extract grace even from disappointments. By surrendering to God's will and relying on His strength, we can navigate through difficulties with unwavering determination, as God fulfills His promises to transform us.
His Dealings
By George Warnock0ISA 41:14ROM 12:22CO 3:18EPH 2:10PHP 1:6COL 3:101PE 2:91JN 3:2REV 15:4George Warnock preaches about God's individual and specific dealings with His people, emphasizing the importance of not criticizing others on their personal walk with the Lord. He highlights the drastic changes believers will experience as they are led from one degree of glory to another, with God prioritizing our knowledge of Him over our good works. Warnock encourages embracing the cocoon moments in life as tokens of walking in God's ways and being transformed into what He desires. He stresses the significance of God's timing and seasons in preparing His people for His purposes, urging believers to seek after God's grace and glory in the midst of evil and corruption.
The God of Jacob
By A.B. Simpson0God's GraceTransformationGEN 32:28ISA 41:14ISA 49:26ROM 5:201CO 1:272CO 12:9PHP 3:10HEB 11:21JAS 1:21PE 1:7A.B. Simpson emphasizes the contrast between Jacob, described as a 'worm,' and the 'Mighty One of Jacob,' illustrating how God chooses the weak and unworthy to demonstrate His grace and sufficiency. He highlights Jacob's life as a testament to God's ability to transform and use flawed individuals for His purposes, showing that even the most discouraged can find hope in God's love. Simpson encourages believers to recognize that God sees the potential for good within them, regardless of their past, and that through trials and surrender, they can experience a deeper relationship with Him. Ultimately, the sermon reveals that God's grace is available to all, and He desires to use those who have been transformed by His love.
If There Were an Ant at the Door of Your Granary
By C.H. Spurgeon0God's ProvisionTrust in God's HelpPSA 34:10PSA 46:1ISA 41:14MAT 6:26JHN 14:13ROM 5:8EPH 1:4PHP 4:19HEB 13:51PE 5:7C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the assurance of God's help, reminding us that the Lord, our Redeemer, has already made great sacrifices for us, including His death and choosing us before the foundation of the world. He illustrates that just as it would be a small act to help an ant in need, so too is it a small thing for God to assist us in our troubles. Spurgeon encourages believers to bring their needs to God, who is more than capable of providing for them, as His resources are limitless. The message reassures us that we are never too insignificant for God's attention and support. Ultimately, the sermon calls us to trust in God's abundant provision and care.
Thresh the Mountains
By Charles E. Cowman0ISA 41:14MAT 15:28MRK 11:22PHP 4:6HEB 11:30Charles E. Cowman preaches about the power of faith, using the example of the woman with great faith in Matthew 15:28 and the story of the walls of Jericho falling down by faith. He challenges believers to walk by faith daily, believing in the promises of God even when they seem unlikely. Cowman emphasizes the importance of truly believing in the Bible and being willing to surrender our powerlessness and insignificance to God, trusting that with faith, we can move mountains and overcome obstacles.
Emblems From Jacob's Pilgrimage
By A.B. Simpson0Faith and GraceSpiritual InheritanceGEN 25:26GEN 27:36GEN 28:12ISA 41:14A.B. Simpson emphasizes Jacob's relatable journey through human frailty, suffering, and the transformative grace of God. He illustrates how Jacob's birth, birthright, vision at Bethel, and struggles at Penuel reflect our own spiritual journeys, highlighting the importance of faith, earnest prayer, and the need to rely on God's strength rather than our own. Simpson encourages believers to claim their spiritual inheritance and to remain steadfast in their covenant with God, warning against the dangers of returning to old ways after experiencing divine blessings. Ultimately, he reassures that despite our imperfections, God's faithfulness and grace can lead us to victory and eternal hope.
Fear Not, You Worm Jacob!
By John Piper0JOB 25:6PSA 22:6ISA 41:14ROM 3:23HEB 10:27John Piper preaches on Isaiah 41:14, emphasizing that God's people should not be fearful but have contrite courageous confidence in Him. The text reveals that God's people are in the condition of a worm, emphasizing their unworthiness and need for God's help. The sermon highlights the dangers of the gospel of self-esteem, which diminishes the awe of God's grace and promotes self-worth over humility before God. Piper urges believers to acknowledge their sinfulness, trust in God's grace, and be fearless in proclaiming His love and mercy.
Earth's Broken Things
By Charles E. Cowman0ISA 41:14ROM 8:282CO 12:9EPH 2:10PHP 4:13Charles E. Cowman preaches on the transformative power of God, using the analogy of a worm being turned into a threshing instrument with teeth. He emphasizes how God can take our weaknesses and failures, infuse them with His strength, and use them for His glory. Through God's strength, we can overcome our circumstances, turning disappointments into opportunities for grace and allowing our wills to cut through difficulties like iron. Cowman encourages followers to allow God to mold and shape them into vessels of His mercy, love, and godliness.
- Adam Clarke
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Fear not, thou worm Jacob - In the rabbinical commentary on the five books of Moses, Yelamedenu, it is asked, Why are the Israelites called a worm? To signify, that as the worm does not smite, that is, gnaw the cedars, but with its mouth, which is very tender, yet it nevertheless destroys the hard wood; so all the strength of the Israelites is in prayer, by which they smite the wicked of this world, though strong like the cedars, to which they are compared, Eze 31:3.
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The consolatory words, "Fear not," are now repeated, for the purpose of once more adding the promise that Israel will not succumb to its foes, but will acquire power over its enemies. "Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and handful Israel: I will help thee, saith Jehovah; and thy Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel. Behold, I have made thee a threshing roller, a sharp new one, with double edges: thou wilt thresh mountains, and pound them; and hills thou wilt make like chaff. Thou wilt winnow them, and wind carries them away, and tempest scatters them: and thou wilt rejoice in Jehovah, and glory in the Holy One of Israel." Israel, which is now helplessly oppressed, is called "worm of Jacob" (gen. appos.) in compassion, i.e., Jacob that is like a worm, probably with some allusion to Psa 22:7; for the image of the Messiah enriches itself in these discourses, inasmuch as Israel itself is looked upon in a Messianic light, so that the second David does not stand by the side of Israel, but appears as Israel's heart, or true and inmost essence. The people are then addressed as the "people of Israel," with some allusion to the phrase מספּר מתי (i.e., few men, easily numbered) in Gen 34:30; Deu 4:27 (lxx ὀλιγοστὸσ ̓Ισραήλ; Luther, Ir armer hauffe Israel, ye poor crowd of Israel). They no longer formed the compact mass of a nation; the band of the commonwealth was broken: they were melted down into a few individuals, scattered about hither and thither. But it would not continue so. "I help thee" (perfect of certainty) is Jehovah's solemn declaration; and the Redeemer (redemtor, Lev 25:48-49) of His now enslaved people is the Holy One of Israel, with His love, which perpetually triumphs over wrath. Not only will He set it free, but He will also endow it with might over its oppressors; samtı̄kh is a perfect of assurance (Ges. 126, 4); mōrag (roller) signifies a threshing-sledge (Arab. naureg, nōreg), which has here the term חרוּץ (Isa 28:27) as a secondary name along with חדשׁ, and is described as furnished on the under part of the two arms of the sledge not only with sharp knives, but with two-edged knives (פּיפיּות a reduplication, like מאסּאה in Isa 27:8, whereas מימי is a double plural). Just like such a threshing machine would Israel thresh and grind to powder from that time forth both mountains and hills. This is evidently a figurative expression for proud and mighty foes, just as wind and tempest denote the irresistible force of Jehovah's aid. The might of the enemy would be broken down to the very last remnant, whereas Israel would be able to rejoice and glory in its God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
worm--in a state of contempt and affliction, whom all loathe and tread on, the very expression which Messiah, on the cross, applies to Himself (Psa 22:6), so completely are the Lord and His people identified and assimilated. God's people are as 'worms' in humble thoughts of themselves, and in their enemies' haughty thoughts of them; worms, but not vipers, or of the serpent's seed." [HENRY]. men--The parallelism requires the word "men" here to have associated with it the idea of fewness or feebleness. LOWTH translates, "Ye mortals of Israel." The Septuagint, "altogether diminutive." MAURER supports English Version, which the Hebrew text best accord with. the Lord--in general. and thy redeemer--in particular; a still stronger reason why He should "help" them.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Fear not, thou worm Jacob,.... Being like a worm, exposed to danger, and liable to be trampled upon and crushed, mean and despicable in their own eyes, and in the esteem of others; and it may be Jacob, or the true Israelites, are so called, because of their impurity in themselves, of which they are sensible; and chiefly because of their weakness and impotence to defend themselves, and resist their enemies. It is an observation of Jarchi, Kimchi, and Ben Melech, that the strength of a worm lies in its mouth, which, though tender, can strike the strongest cedar, and penetrate into it; and the latter observes, that the strength of Israel lies in their prayers, as Jacob's did, when, wrestling with the angel, and making supplication, he had power with God, and prevailed. Now, though the saints are such poor, weak, and contemptible things, yet the Lord bids them not fear any of their enemies, he would take their part, and protect them: and ye men of Israel; the Vulgate Latin version renders it, "ye dead men of Israel" (s); such as were accounted as dead men, and had no more respect shown them than the dead, that are remembered no more; or were exposed to death daily, for the sake of Christ and his Gospel; or that reckoned themselves dead to sin, and did die daily to it, and lived unto righteousness: or, "ye few men of Israel", as others (t) render it; Christ's flock is a little flock, his church is a little city, and few men in it, in comparison of the men of the world: I will help thee, saith, the Lord, and thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; which is repeated for the confirmation of it, and is the more strongly assured by these characters of a Redeemer of his people out of the hands of all their enemies, and the holy and just God, and sanctifier of them, which he here takes to himself, and makes himself known by. (s) "mortales Israeliae", Castalio. (t) , Sept. "viri pauci Israel", Munster, Montanus; "Israel, qui pauco es numero", Tigurine version.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
41:14 In exile, Israel was in a lowly state. • God is the Redeemer. He works mightily to rescue and restore people from sin and its consequences (for Israel, the Exile; for application to Jesus, see Luke 2:38; 21:28; Rom 3:24; 1 Cor 1:30; Gal 4:5; Eph 1:1-14; Titus 2:14; Heb 9:12).