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Isaiah 55:2
Verse
Context
Invitation to the Needy
1“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you without money, come, buy, and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost! 2Why spend money on that which is not bread, and your labor on that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of foods.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherefore do ye spend - Why should ye be so zealously attached to a doctrine from which your souls derive neither comfort nor nourishment?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
not bread-- (Hab 2:13). "Bread of deceit" (Pro 20:17). Contrast this with the "bread of life" (Joh 6:32, Joh 6:35; also Luk 14:16-20). satisfieth not-- (Ecc 1:8; Ecc 4:8). hearken . . . and eat--When two imperatives are joined, the second expresses the consequence of obeying the command in the first (Gen 42:18). By hearkening ye shall eat. So in Isa 55:1, "buy and eat." By buying, and so making it your own, ye shall eat, that is, experimentally enjoy it (Joh 6:53). Compare the invitation (Pro 9:5-6; Mat 22:4). fatness-- (Psa 36:8; Psa 63:5).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread?.... Lavish away time, opportunities, and strength, in reading and hearing false doctrine, which is not bread, but chaff; is not wholesome, does not nourish, but is harmful and destructive; eats as does a canker, instead of feeding and refreshing; such as the vain philosophy of the Gentiles, the traditions of the Jews, and the errors and heresies of false teachers: and your labour for that which satisfieth not? labouring to seek for happiness in worldly things, which is not to be had; or to obtain righteousness by the works of the law, which is not to be attained to in that way; all such labour is in vain, no satisfaction is enjoyed, nor peace and comfort had, nor any solid food; these are husks which swine eat: hearken diligently unto me; not the prophet, but the Lord himself. The Targum renders it, "my Word;'' the essential Word, Christ Jesus, hearken to his doctrine, which is bread, and of a satisfying nature: and eat ye that which is good; not the law, as the Jewish commentators; but the good word of God, the Gospel, which being found and eaten by faith, or mixed with faith by them that hear it, and so digested, is the joy and rejoicing of the heart: and let your soul delight itself in fatness; in the goodness and fatness of the Lord's house, attending on the word and ordinances with spiritual pleasure and delight; and which is the way to become fat and flourishing in spiritual things; see Psa 36:8.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
55:2 Listen to me . . . eat what is good: Responding positively to God satisfies one’s spiritual, social, and physical being (see 1:19; 58:13-14; Prov 4:10).
Isaiah 55:2
Invitation to the Needy
1“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you without money, come, buy, and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost! 2Why spend money on that which is not bread, and your labor on that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of foods.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Come, Buy, and Eat (Compilation)
By Compilations2.1K19:57CompilationISA 55:2MAL 3:3MAT 9:2MAT 25:35LUK 4:18JHN 12:48ROM 12:2GAL 2:20GAL 5:161JN 2:41JN 2:15REV 3:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for believers to forsake their wicked ways and unrighteous thoughts. He urges them not to conform to the ways of the world but to be transformed by renewing their minds through the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. The preacher also highlights the importance of obedience to God's teachings and the free gift of grace that believers have received. He encourages believers to demonstrate their faith through acts of love and service, both physically and spiritually, by feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and ministering to those in prison. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the power of Jesus Christ to deliver and set free those who are oppressed and captive, offering forgiveness and new life.
It's Time to Seek the Lord
By Denny Kenaston1.7K1:11:38Seeking GodPSA 63:1ISA 55:2ISA 55:5HOS 6:1HOS 10:12In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of seeking the Lord in good times. He refers to the story of King Asa in 2 Chronicles 14 as an example of seeking God's blessings. The preacher emphasizes that seeking God should not be limited to times of crisis, but should be a regular practice for believers. The sermon encourages the congregation to set aside a week to seek God and to have a heart that desires to grow closer to Him.
Caleb - a Different Spirit
By Gareth Evans1.4K43:03CalebGEN 2:2NUM 14:1JOS 14:6ISA 55:2MAT 6:33PHP 2:5In this sermon, the speaker recounts a conversation with a young Chinese businessman who had a profound understanding of the concept of a perfect Lamb in Christianity. The speaker then transitions to the story of Moses and the 12 tribes sent to explore the promised land. After their journey, the tribes report back to Moses, describing the land as abundant and fruitful. However, despite God's faithfulness and provision throughout their journey, the tribes lack trust and are unable to enter the promised land, resulting in 40 years of wandering in the wilderness.
Listening, Unburdening & Worshipping - Part 1
By Zac Poonen1.4K09:47PSA 46:10PRO 8:32PRO 19:27ISA 55:2MAT 7:24LUK 10:38JHN 10:27HEB 4:12JAS 1:19This sermon focuses on the story of Mary of Bethany and how Jesus elevated women in society, emphasizing the importance of learning from godly women and embracing equality between men and women in the church. It highlights the significance of sitting at Jesus' feet and listening to His word as the most essential aspect of our Christian walk, contrasting the distractions of busyness and cultural biases. The message urges believers to prioritize listening to God's voice above all else, recognizing that true effectiveness in serving the Lord comes from aligning our thoughts with His.
Dwelling in Ceiled Houses
By David Dalton1.2K35:33Family1KI 6:9ISA 55:2ISA 61:10MAT 5:16MAT 7:24JHN 17:171PE 4:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for individuals and the church as a whole to prioritize glorifying God rather than themselves. He highlights the importance of allowing the truth to prick our consciences and urges listeners to consider their ways. The preacher emphasizes the need for sacrificial giving and a shift towards spiritual thinking rather than being consumed by material possessions. He concludes by quoting Jesus, who instructs his disciples to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow him.
Are You Walking the Walk or Talking the Walk - Part 4
By Will Graham1.2K09:52PRO 15:14ISA 55:2MAT 5:221CO 1:18EPH 5:31TH 4:32TI 4:2JAS 3:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of true biblical faith that goes beyond mere intellectual understanding, highlighting the significance of speaking God's truth boldly even if it goes against popular opinion. It contrasts the mouth of fools, which feeds on foolishness and seeks human approval, with the mouth of the man or woman of God, which speaks forth God's oracles without compromise. The message urges believers to live in holiness, purity, and obedience to God's Word, even when faced with temptations or societal pressures.
The Profit Motive - Part 1
By Joshua Daniel1.0K25:16GEN 25:32ISA 55:2MAT 6:19MAT 10:36MAT 16:26MRK 8:36ROM 8:17PHP 3:8HEB 12:161PE 1:4This sermon delves into the concept of the profit motive and the story of Esau trading his birthright for a bowl of pottage, highlighting the temptation to prioritize immediate gains over eternal blessings. It emphasizes the value of faith heritage and the danger of undervaluing spiritual blessings for temporary satisfaction. The speaker urges against falling into the trap of worldly gains at the expense of losing out on the priceless salvation and empowerment offered by God.
How God Uses People
By Jim Cymbala81738:26Christian LifeISA 55:2MAT 6:33JHN 7:37In this sermon, the preacher laments the fact that the lifestyles of churchgoers in America are not much different from those who do not believe in God. He emphasizes that people often pursue material possessions and worldly desires, thinking that they will bring happiness, but they ultimately leave them feeling empty. The preacher encourages the audience to find joy in God and not in worldly things, as only Jesus can truly satisfy. He concludes by inviting anyone who is thirsty for a deeper spiritual experience to come to Jesus and experience the life-changing power of the gospel.
A Prisoner of Appetite Is Unhealthy Eating a Sin?
By Shane Idleman60944:02PRO 23:2PRO 23:21ISA 55:2ROM 12:11CO 6:121CO 9:271CO 10:31GAL 5:16PHP 3:19This sermon addresses the importance of taking care of our bodies and avoiding unhealthy eating habits, focusing on the struggle to resist temptations and the need to prioritize physical health for spiritual well-being. The speaker shares personal struggles with weight and emphasizes the parallel between physical and spiritual health, highlighting the impact of neglecting the body on overall well-being.
(Radical Jesus) 30 Radical Prayer
By Glenn Meldrum34324:41PrayerISA 55:2MIC 6:8MAT 6:33MAT 10:36JHN 13:232PE 1:3REV 3:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a close relationship with God. He compares it to the intimacy between Abraham and God, as well as the Apostle John leaning on Jesus' bosom. The speaker highlights that many Christians lack God's heart for the world because they have not gotten close enough to Him. He emphasizes that knowing and loving God requires investing one's life and being willing to give up everything. The sermon also addresses the need for a genuine relationship with Jesus, as well as the consequences of living a spiritually bankrupt life. The speaker quotes from Isaiah 55, urging listeners to seek God and not waste their efforts on things that do not satisfy. The sermon concludes with a powerful statement from George Whitfield, highlighting the importance of preaching about a real and felt Christ.
One Thing Needful - Luke 10:39
By Bernard Fell0PRO 11:25ISA 55:2LUK 10:39JHN 4:14HEB 4:14Bernard Fell preaches on the story of Martha and Mary, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing time with the Lord over busyness and distractions. He highlights how Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to His Word, showing that true worship involves both service and communion with God. Bernard encourages the congregation to focus on building a relationship with the Lord through regular time in His presence, drawing from the well of His unfathomable love before ministering to others.
The Substantial Excellency of Spiritual Things
By Thomas Watson0PRO 3:21PRO 8:17PRO 8:21ISA 55:2EZK 36:251CO 1:242CO 6:10COL 1:12HEB 10:341PE 1:3REV 3:18Thomas Watson preaches about the substantial excellency of spiritual things, emphasizing the importance of seeking after true substance in Christ and grace. He delves into the qualifications of those who love Christ and the privileges of inheriting substance from God. Watson explains the threefold interpretation of substance as Christ, the grace of the Spirit, and salvation. He urges believers to labor diligently for spiritual substance, highlighting the incomparable worth of grace and the need to trade for it in holy ordinances and seek it from Christ. Watson encourages gratitude for the spiritual substance received and a continual pursuit of more grace to experience increased strength, joy, and glory.
Amos 8:11
By Chuck Smith0Famine for the WordSpiritual HungerPSA 119:105ISA 55:2JER 29:13AMO 8:11MAT 5:6JHN 6:35ROM 10:172TI 4:3HEB 4:121PE 2:2Chuck Smith addresses the alarming famine for the Word of God, emphasizing that while the Bible remains widely available, many fail to hear or understand its message. He explains that this famine arises from humanity's tendency to substitute the Creator with created things, leading to a spiritual void and restlessness, particularly among the youth. Smith warns that idolatry and materialism contribute to this famine, leaving society searching for fulfillment in the wrong places. He calls for a return to God, urging individuals to abandon their idols and seek the Lord earnestly to hear His voice once more.
On Knowledge and Wisdom
By Thomas Reade0JOB 28:28PSA 16:11PRO 3:13ISA 55:2COL 2:3Thomas Reade preaches on the distinction between knowledge and wisdom, emphasizing that true wisdom lies in loving and obeying God, not just in possessing knowledge. He highlights how human knowledge, no matter how refined, cannot transform rebellious affections into love for God or bring spiritual order and peace. Reade points out that true wisdom is found in practicing what is good, such as loving and obeying God, rather than just knowing what is right. He urges listeners to seek true happiness and fulfillment in God, as the Gospel reveals the way to obtain lasting joy, peace, and glory.
Happiness
By J.C. Ryle0True HappinessFaith in ChristGEN 2:15PSA 144:15PRO 14:13ECC 1:14ISA 55:2MAT 11:28JHN 4:13PHP 3:1TIT 2:11REV 3:20J.C. Ryle emphasizes that true happiness is found in a relationship with God, as expressed in Psalm 144:15. He recounts a confrontation between an atheist and an old woman who challenges him to consider his own happiness, highlighting that mere external appearances of joy do not equate to true contentment. Ryle outlines essential elements for genuine happiness, warns against common misconceptions, and ultimately concludes that only a true Christian can experience lasting joy, rooted in faith and a right relationship with Christ. He urges readers to seek happiness through repentance and faith in Jesus, as true fulfillment comes from being aligned with God's will.
Identification
By Derek Melton0ISA 55:2MAT 16:24ROM 8:17HEB 11:241JN 2:15Derek Melton preaches on the story of Moses, emphasizing the crucial decisions he made to forsake his identity as a son of Pharaoh and embrace his identity as a son of God, choosing to suffer affliction with God's people rather than enjoy the temporary pleasures of sin. The sermon challenges listeners to examine their own identification, urging them to experience a holy dissatisfaction with the fleeting pleasures of the world and to consider the eternal destiny that comes with being identified with God's kingdom.
Epistle 58
By George Fox0Inner TruthFaithfulness in LovePSA 24:1PRO 17:24ECC 12:3ISA 55:2JER 9:3MIC 3:11MAT 5:37JHN 8:441CO 8:1COL 3:22JAS 1:26JAS 4:41JN 3:13George Fox emphasizes the importance of focusing inwardly rather than being distracted by the world, warning against lightness and superficiality. He encourages believers to be steadfast in truth, to control their speech, and to avoid the puffing up of knowledge that leads away from genuine faith. Fox calls for a reliance on the inner teacher, the Holy Spirit, rather than external influences, and stresses that true holiness cannot be found in worldly practices. He urges Christians to act in love and sincerity, using all things for God's glory, while remaining faithful amidst worldly opposition. Ultimately, he reminds believers to love one another and to dwell in the light, as the world is at enmity with God.
I Am the Living Bread
By Edward Taylor0PSA 34:8ISA 55:2MAT 4:4JHN 6:35JHN 6:51Edward Taylor preaches about the heavenly provision of the Bread of Life, symbolizing the spiritual nourishment that God offers to souls in need. He describes the struggle of the soul, like a bird in a cage, searching for sustenance in a world that cannot satisfy its deepest hunger. Despite the emptiness of earthly offerings, God's grace provides the ultimate sustenance through His Son, Jesus Christ, who is the Bread of Life sent from heaven to nourish and sustain souls for eternity.
Standing in Slippery Places
By Paris Reidhead0Compassion for the LostJudgmentDEU 32:35JOB 13:15PSA 73:18PSA 119:165ECC 2:11ECC 12:1ISA 55:2JER 23:12EZK 18:4MRK 6:31Paris Reidhead's sermon 'Standing in Slippery Places' emphasizes the precarious state of the wicked who seem to prosper while the righteous suffer. He draws from Psalm 73, illustrating how the apparent success of the ungodly can lead believers to envy and doubt God's justice. Reidhead warns that the wicked are in a dangerous position, standing on slippery ground, and that their judgment is imminent. He urges Christians to recognize the urgency of reaching out to the lost, as they are already condemned and in need of salvation. The sermon calls for a deep compassion for the unsaved and a commitment to evangelism.
Isaiah Chapter 24 the Right and Wrong Way of Living
By A.B. Simpson0True SatisfactionPurpose in LifeECC 1:2ISA 55:2MAT 6:19A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of living a life directed towards God, rather than wasting efforts on superficial pursuits that ultimately lead to emptiness. He illustrates this through the metaphor of a steward who builds a wall around a demolished castle, symbolizing how many invest in the outward forms of life while neglecting true value. Simpson urges listeners to find their true purpose in God, discover their own worth, and engage in meaningful work that contributes to the greater good. He highlights that true satisfaction comes from a relationship with God, which fills the void that worldly pursuits cannot. The sermon calls for a return to God, self-discovery, and a commitment to impactful living.
Spending All That We Have and Getting Worse
By Derek Melton0ISA 55:2MAT 6:19MRK 5:26LUK 14:13Derek Melton delivers a powerful sermon reflecting on the story of the woman with the issue of blood, emphasizing the need for the modern church to reevaluate its priorities and spiritual condition. He highlights the danger of excessive focus on outward gains and material possessions, leading to a decline in spiritual depth and effectiveness. The sermon challenges believers to redirect their focus towards true Kingdom-building efforts and selfless service, rather than indulging in lavish expenditures that do not align with God's heart.
The Right and Wrong Way of Living
By A.B. Simpson0Purpose in LifeTrue FulfillmentECC 1:2ISA 55:2MAT 6:19A.B. Simpson emphasizes the futility of living for superficial gains, urging listeners to seek true fulfillment in God rather than in empty pursuits. He illustrates this through stories of misdirected efforts, such as a steward who destroyed a valuable castle to build a wall around nothing, and a girl who bought a purse without money to fill it. Simpson calls for a return to God as the center of life, encouraging individuals to discover their true selves and purpose. He stresses that true happiness and fulfillment come from a relationship with God, leading to a life of meaningful work and legacy. Ultimately, he challenges the congregation to leave behind a lasting impact through their lives and actions.
The School of Prayer - Part 4
By Walter Beuttler0ISA 55:2MAT 6:9MAT 6:33PHP 4:6COL 3:13Walter Beuttler emphasizes the importance of reverent worship and acknowledging God's sovereignty in prayer, starting with recognizing the oneness of God's family and approaching Him with reverence. He delves into the significance of seeking God's kingdom and will in our lives daily, making restitution and forgiving others as part of effective prayer. Beuttler highlights the need for worship to precede petition in prayer, illustrating how worship opens the heart of God and enhances the effectiveness of our prayers.
John 2:1-10. Jesus Turns Water Into Wine.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0PSA 16:11PRO 19:21ECC 3:11ISA 55:2JHN 2:1Favell Lee Mortimer preaches on the miracle of Jesus turning water into wine at a wedding feast, showcasing Christ's compassion for our comfort and his divine glory as the Son of God. Despite his mother's expectations, Jesus demonstrates that his heavenly Father's business is paramount, teaching us not to dictate to Jesus but to trust in his perfect timing. This miracle reveals Christ's ability to bring joy and eternal blessings to those who believe in him, contrasting with the fleeting pleasures offered by the world.
John 6:30-34. They Ask Him to Give Them Bread.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0ISA 55:2ISA 55:8JHN 4:15JHN 6:32JHN 6:34JHN 6:36JHN 6:49ROM 5:8Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about Jesus using everyday circumstances to teach spiritual truths, such as directing attention to the bread that came down from heaven while speaking to people anxious for bread. Despite the unbelief and ignorance displayed by the Jews, Jesus showed them that the true bread from heaven was the Son of God, capable of giving life to the dead and preserving life forever. Just like the woman of Samaria who ignorantly asked for living water and received the Holy Spirit, those who seek heavenly bread in ignorance may be satisfied beyond their expectations, as God graciously responds to sinners in their state of ignorance and enmity.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherefore do ye spend - Why should ye be so zealously attached to a doctrine from which your souls derive neither comfort nor nourishment?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
not bread-- (Hab 2:13). "Bread of deceit" (Pro 20:17). Contrast this with the "bread of life" (Joh 6:32, Joh 6:35; also Luk 14:16-20). satisfieth not-- (Ecc 1:8; Ecc 4:8). hearken . . . and eat--When two imperatives are joined, the second expresses the consequence of obeying the command in the first (Gen 42:18). By hearkening ye shall eat. So in Isa 55:1, "buy and eat." By buying, and so making it your own, ye shall eat, that is, experimentally enjoy it (Joh 6:53). Compare the invitation (Pro 9:5-6; Mat 22:4). fatness-- (Psa 36:8; Psa 63:5).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread?.... Lavish away time, opportunities, and strength, in reading and hearing false doctrine, which is not bread, but chaff; is not wholesome, does not nourish, but is harmful and destructive; eats as does a canker, instead of feeding and refreshing; such as the vain philosophy of the Gentiles, the traditions of the Jews, and the errors and heresies of false teachers: and your labour for that which satisfieth not? labouring to seek for happiness in worldly things, which is not to be had; or to obtain righteousness by the works of the law, which is not to be attained to in that way; all such labour is in vain, no satisfaction is enjoyed, nor peace and comfort had, nor any solid food; these are husks which swine eat: hearken diligently unto me; not the prophet, but the Lord himself. The Targum renders it, "my Word;'' the essential Word, Christ Jesus, hearken to his doctrine, which is bread, and of a satisfying nature: and eat ye that which is good; not the law, as the Jewish commentators; but the good word of God, the Gospel, which being found and eaten by faith, or mixed with faith by them that hear it, and so digested, is the joy and rejoicing of the heart: and let your soul delight itself in fatness; in the goodness and fatness of the Lord's house, attending on the word and ordinances with spiritual pleasure and delight; and which is the way to become fat and flourishing in spiritual things; see Psa 36:8.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
55:2 Listen to me . . . eat what is good: Responding positively to God satisfies one’s spiritual, social, and physical being (see 1:19; 58:13-14; Prov 4:10).