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Isaiah 54:2
Verse
Context
Future Blessings for Zion
1“Shout for joy, O barren woman, who bears no children; break forth in song and cry aloud, you who have never travailed; because more are the children of the desolate woman than of her who has a husband,” says the LORD. 2“Enlarge the site of your tent, stretch out the curtains of your dwellings, do not hold back. Lengthen your ropes and drive your stakes in deep. 3For you will spread out to the right and left; your descendants will dispossess the nations and inhabit the desolate cities.
Sermons
J. Oswald Sanders
Compilations
Wesley DuewelMichael Haykin
Peter Hammond
F.B. MeyerPeter HammondSummary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
With this prospect before her, even her dwelling-place would need enlarging. "Enlarge the space of thy tent, and let them stretch out the curtains of thy habitations; forbid not! lengthen thy cords, and fasten thy plugs." She is to widen out the space inside her tent, and they (יטּוּ has no definite subject, which is often the case where some subordinate servant is to be thought of) are to spread out far and wide the coverings of the framework of her dwelling, which is called mishkenōth (in the plural) on account of its roominess and magnificence: she is not to forbid it, thinking in her weakness of faith, "It is good enough as it is; it would be too large." The cords which hold up the walls, she is to lengthen; and the plugs, to which the cords are fastened, she is to ram fast into the earth: the former because the tent (i.e., the holy city, Jer 31:38-40, and the dwelling-place of the church generally, Isa 26:15) has to receive a large number of inhabitants; the latter because it will not be broken up so soon again (Isa 33:20).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Isa 49:19-20; Jer 31:31-36, Jer 31:38-39). Thy children shall be so many that thy borders must be extended to contain them. curtains--the cloth forming the covering of the tent. spare not--give abundantly the means for the enlargement of the Church (Co2 9:5-7). cords . . . stakes--The more the tent is enlarged by lengthening the cords by which the cloth covering is fastened to the ground, the more the stakes supporting the tent need to be strengthened; the Church is not merely to seek new converts, but to strengthen those she has in the faith. The image is appropriate, as the tabernacle was the symbol of the old Israelitish Church (see on Isa 33:20).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Enlarge the place of thy tent,.... To which the church is compared, because of its uncertain and movable condition, being sometimes in one place, and sometimes in another; and because of its outward meanness and weakness, as well as its small extent; but now it is signified that it should be enlarged, and room be made for an accession of in habitants to it; or, in other words, that the Gospel church state should not be confined to Jerusalem, but should take place in other parts of Judea, and in Galilee, and in Samaria; hence we read of churches in those places, Act 9:31, and let them stretch forth the curtains of thine habitation; alluding to the curtains of which tents or tabernacles were made, which used to be stretched out on poles or stakes, in order to make more room, and hold more people. This may respect the spreading of the Gospel by the apostles, who may be here meant, and the success of it, especially among the Gentiles; who may be said to stretch out the curtains of the tent, the church, when, according to their commission, they went and preached the Gospel to every creature. First they travelled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching to the Jews only; but when they wholly rejected the Gospel, they turned to the Gentiles, and went everywhere preaching the word, Act 11:19, and their ministry was blessed to the conversion of multitudes, and Gospel churches were set up in all parts of the world. The Apostle Paul was an eminent instrument of stretching these curtains, who went from Jerusalem, round about to Illyricum, fully preaching the Gospel of Christ, Rom 15:19, spare not: any cost or pains, to spread the Gospel, enlarge the interest of Christ, and increase his church and people; as did not the apostles of Christ, who may be supposed to be the persons here addressed: lengthen thy cords, and strengthen thy stakes; the curtains being stretched out, it was necessary the cords, to which they were fastened, should be lengthened, that they might reach further, and take in a greater compass; and the wider the tent is made by such means, the stronger should be the staves, and the more surely should they be drove and fixed in the earth, to hold the cords with the curtains bound unto them; all which express the enlargement of the church in the Gentile world, by means of the Gospel ministry and discipline. The Targum is, "multiply the people of thy camp, and strengthen the governors.''
Isaiah 54:2
Future Blessings for Zion
1“Shout for joy, O barren woman, who bears no children; break forth in song and cry aloud, you who have never travailed; because more are the children of the desolate woman than of her who has a husband,” says the LORD. 2“Enlarge the site of your tent, stretch out the curtains of your dwellings, do not hold back. Lengthen your ropes and drive your stakes in deep. 3For you will spread out to the right and left; your descendants will dispossess the nations and inhabit the desolate cities.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Finishing the Course Well
By J. Oswald Sanders6.3K1:04:36Finishing WellISA 54:2JHN 1:14JHN 1:50ACT 2:41CO 9:24EPH 3:201TI 4:72TI 4:6HEB 12:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being active participants in our faith rather than passive observers. He compares our tendency to be "TV athletes" who watch sports without actually participating, to how many of us approach our spiritual lives. The speaker encourages us to have a single-minded focus on our relationship with God and to pour all of our energy and effort into it. He gives examples of individuals who achieved great things by dedicating themselves to a specific goal, and challenges us to have the same ambition in our Christian walk.
Your Calling (Compilation)
By Compilations1.7K07:47CompilationISA 54:2ACT 2:38In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the significance of a person's life is not determined by material wealth, talent, or appearance. Rather, it is about having a heart that is willing to be used by God for His glory. The speaker highlights the humble beginnings of the early church, composed of ordinary individuals like fishermen, tax collectors, and prostitutes, who were despised by the religious elite. Despite their societal status, they experienced the power of God and boldly proclaimed the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The speaker encourages believers to recognize their calling and the authority they have through Christ, emphasizing that they have the power to impact their communities and bring people to salvation.
The Triology of Intercession
By Wesley Duewel1.5K1:12:32IntercessionGEN 28:12PSA 47:8ISA 54:2JHN 1:12ACT 9:151CO 11:23EPH 2:10In this sermon, Bob begins by recounting the story of Jacob's dream of a ladder reaching to heaven. He emphasizes that being a child of God is not simply about being a member of a church or participating in religious rituals. Bob passionately calls for believers to exercise their kingdom authority and make a difference in society. He highlights the importance of prayer and the role of the Holy Spirit in deepening our understanding of sin and the need for revival. The sermon concludes with a reference to Isaiah 54:2, encouraging believers to enlarge their spiritual influence and strengthen their faith.
William Carey
By Michael Haykin7881:43:41ISA 54:2MAT 28:191PE 3:15The video is a summary of a sermon on the importance of missions and the involvement of the church in spreading the gospel. The speaker, Kerry, emphasizes the vastness of the world and the number of nations that have no access to the gospel. He addresses practical concerns raised by his contemporaries, such as the distance to these countries, and argues that if people can travel for financial gain, Christians should be willing to go for the sake of souls. Kerry also highlights the value of souls and the need for fervent prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit in missionary work.
What Inspired the Greatest Century of Missions?
By Peter Hammond0PSA 22:27ISA 54:2DAN 2:34MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 1:8ROM 10:141CO 15:57REV 7:9Peter Hammond preaches about the transformative power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, highlighting the significant impact of the 19th Century missionary movement led by pioneers like William Carey and Adoniram Judson. Despite facing immense challenges, including legal restrictions, personal tragedies, and harsh opposition, these missionaries persevered with unwavering faith and dedication, resulting in the spread of Christianity to nations and the establishment of lasting legacies. Their sacrificial service, comprehensive approach to ministry, and optimistic eschatology of victory inspired a generation to fulfill the Great Commission and change the world.
And the Oil Stayed.
By F.B. Meyer0FaithExpectation of God's Blessings2KI 4:6ISA 54:2MAT 7:7MRK 11:24LUK 6:38JHN 15:72CO 9:8EPH 3:20PHP 4:19JAS 4:2F.B. Meyer reflects on the story of the widow and the oil in 2 Kings 4:6, emphasizing that the oil ceased to flow not because of a lack of God's power, but due to the limited number of vessels brought forth. He points out that many believers experience unfulfilled promises and diminished blessings because they have stopped bringing their needs to God, believing that He can no longer work through them as He once did. Meyer encourages the congregation to continue seeking God's provision and to expect His blessings to flow abundantly by bringing more vessels of need. He warns against complacency and urges believers to remain active in their faith and outreach, ensuring they are always ready to receive from God.
Reformation and Revival
By Peter Hammond0PSA 22:27PSA 72:9ISA 54:2DAN 2:34MAT 28:19Peter Hammond preaches on the transformative power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the need for it to change lives and nations. He highlights the commitment of Frontline Fellowship to fulfilling the Great Commission by making disciples of all nations and applying the Lordship of Christ in every aspect of life. The sermon delves into the challenges faced by missionaries like William Carey and the sacrifices made by prominent missionaries of the 19th century, showcasing their perseverance and dedication to spreading the Gospel amidst trials and hardships.
The Wider Life
By J.R. Miller0Personal GrowthChristian LivingISA 54:2MAT 5:16JHN 10:10ROM 12:21CO 9:24GAL 6:9EPH 4:13PHP 4:8COL 3:232PE 1:5J.R. Miller emphasizes the call to 'enlarge the place of your tent' from Isaiah 54:2, urging believers to reject a narrow life and strive for fullness in all aspects of existence. He argues that Christianity does not limit personal growth or intellectual pursuits but rather encourages the development of every capacity, excluding only what is sinful. Miller illustrates that true enrichment comes from within, as he shares stories of individuals who overcame their circumstances by expanding their hearts and minds. He encourages Christians to serve others, as this act of love can lead to personal transformation and a broader life experience. Ultimately, he asserts that life should continually expand, even into old age, as we strive to reach God's highest ideals for us.
A Larger Outlook (Isaiah Liv. 2)
By Seth Rees0PSA 139:23PRO 11:24ISA 54:2PHP 3:132TI 1:7Seth Rees preaches on the importance of enlarging our spiritual tent, using the analogy of stretching forth the curtains of our habitation from Isaiah 54:2. He warns against the dangers of being too literal or too spiritual in interpreting Scriptures, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach. Rees highlights the symmetrical enlargement of the Christian life, urging believers to break forth and grow in faith, love, and expression of God's work in their lives. He encourages continuous growth, progression, and full surrender to God, rejecting stagnation and decay in the spiritual journey.
Enlarged Work
By A.B. Simpson0Missionary WorkFaith and ExpansionISA 54:2MAT 28:19A.B. Simpson emphasizes the call to 'Enlarge the place of thy tent,' urging believers to attempt and expect great things from God. He reflects on the humble beginnings of the missionary movement and the need for expansion in faith, love, and service to reach the lost. Simpson highlights the importance of strengthening the core of the church through God's Word, personal holiness, and a spirit of self-sacrifice. He reminds the congregation that God, as our Maker and Husband, provides infinite resources for this mission. The sermon serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing call to evangelize and serve in humility and faith.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
With this prospect before her, even her dwelling-place would need enlarging. "Enlarge the space of thy tent, and let them stretch out the curtains of thy habitations; forbid not! lengthen thy cords, and fasten thy plugs." She is to widen out the space inside her tent, and they (יטּוּ has no definite subject, which is often the case where some subordinate servant is to be thought of) are to spread out far and wide the coverings of the framework of her dwelling, which is called mishkenōth (in the plural) on account of its roominess and magnificence: she is not to forbid it, thinking in her weakness of faith, "It is good enough as it is; it would be too large." The cords which hold up the walls, she is to lengthen; and the plugs, to which the cords are fastened, she is to ram fast into the earth: the former because the tent (i.e., the holy city, Jer 31:38-40, and the dwelling-place of the church generally, Isa 26:15) has to receive a large number of inhabitants; the latter because it will not be broken up so soon again (Isa 33:20).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Isa 49:19-20; Jer 31:31-36, Jer 31:38-39). Thy children shall be so many that thy borders must be extended to contain them. curtains--the cloth forming the covering of the tent. spare not--give abundantly the means for the enlargement of the Church (Co2 9:5-7). cords . . . stakes--The more the tent is enlarged by lengthening the cords by which the cloth covering is fastened to the ground, the more the stakes supporting the tent need to be strengthened; the Church is not merely to seek new converts, but to strengthen those she has in the faith. The image is appropriate, as the tabernacle was the symbol of the old Israelitish Church (see on Isa 33:20).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Enlarge the place of thy tent,.... To which the church is compared, because of its uncertain and movable condition, being sometimes in one place, and sometimes in another; and because of its outward meanness and weakness, as well as its small extent; but now it is signified that it should be enlarged, and room be made for an accession of in habitants to it; or, in other words, that the Gospel church state should not be confined to Jerusalem, but should take place in other parts of Judea, and in Galilee, and in Samaria; hence we read of churches in those places, Act 9:31, and let them stretch forth the curtains of thine habitation; alluding to the curtains of which tents or tabernacles were made, which used to be stretched out on poles or stakes, in order to make more room, and hold more people. This may respect the spreading of the Gospel by the apostles, who may be here meant, and the success of it, especially among the Gentiles; who may be said to stretch out the curtains of the tent, the church, when, according to their commission, they went and preached the Gospel to every creature. First they travelled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching to the Jews only; but when they wholly rejected the Gospel, they turned to the Gentiles, and went everywhere preaching the word, Act 11:19, and their ministry was blessed to the conversion of multitudes, and Gospel churches were set up in all parts of the world. The Apostle Paul was an eminent instrument of stretching these curtains, who went from Jerusalem, round about to Illyricum, fully preaching the Gospel of Christ, Rom 15:19, spare not: any cost or pains, to spread the Gospel, enlarge the interest of Christ, and increase his church and people; as did not the apostles of Christ, who may be supposed to be the persons here addressed: lengthen thy cords, and strengthen thy stakes; the curtains being stretched out, it was necessary the cords, to which they were fastened, should be lengthened, that they might reach further, and take in a greater compass; and the wider the tent is made by such means, the stronger should be the staves, and the more surely should they be drove and fixed in the earth, to hold the cords with the curtains bound unto them; all which express the enlargement of the church in the Gentile world, by means of the Gospel ministry and discipline. The Targum is, "multiply the people of thy camp, and strengthen the governors.''