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Isaiah 60:1
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Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Arise - Call upon God through Christ, for his salvation; and, Shine - אורי ori, be illuminated: for till thou arise and call upon God, thou wilt never receive true light. For thy light is come - כי בא אורך ki ba orech, for thy light cometh. The Messiah is at the door; who, while he is a light to lighten the Gentiles, will be the glory - the effulgence, of his people Israel.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Arise, shine,.... The Targum adds, "O Jerusalem"; and so the Septuagint, Vulgate Latin, and Arabic versions; and no doubt but the church of God is here addressed: and by what follows it seems to be the Jewish church, as distinct from the Gentiles, since they are said to come to it, the Jews, now converted, and brought into a church state; and who are called upon to arise out of their low dejected state and condition, in which they have long lain, and "shine": or to "awake", as some (p) render it, out of that sleep and lethargy they have been so long in, and to shine forth in the exercise of grace and discharge of duty: or to be "enlightened" (q); with the light of Christ and of the Gospel, now come unto them; and to diffuse this light to others, to hold it forth in profession and conversation; see Mat 5:16. for thy light is come: the Targum, "for the time of thy redemption is come;'' meaning from the Babylonish captivity, which that paraphrase refers to: but this is not intended here, but the spiritual prosperity and happiness of the Jews in the latter day, at the time of their conversion; and the sense is, either that Christ, the Light of the world, was come unto them in a spiritual way; or that the glorious light of the Gospel of Christ was come unto them, and shone upon them; or the time was come that the blindness that had been so long upon them should be taken oft, and the veil be taken away they had been so long covered with, and they be turned to the Lord, the fulness of the Gentiles now being about to be brought in; see Rom 11:25, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee; or the glorious Lord; he, whose glory is to be seen, as the glory of the only begotten, who is the brightness of his Father's glory, the sun of righteousness; who shall now, rise upon these, and, leave a glory upon them that shall be visible. (p) "expergiscere", Grotius. (q) "illuminare", Pagninus, Montanus Piscator.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
It is here promised that the gospel temple shall be very lightsome and very large. I. It shall be very lightsome: Thy light has come. When the Jews returned out of captivity they had light and gladness, and joy and honour; they then were made to know the Lord and to rejoice in his great goodness; and upon both accounts their light came. When the Redeemer came to Zion he brought light with him, he himself came to be a light. Now observe, 1. What this light is, and whence it springs: The Lord shall arise upon thee (Isa 60:2), the glory of the Lord (Isa 60:1) shall be seen upon thee. God is the father and fountain of lights, and it is in his light that we shall see light. As far as we have the knowledge of God in us, and the favour of God towards us, our light has come. When God appears to us, and we have the comfort of his favour, then the glory of the Lord rises upon us as the morning light; when he appears for us, and we have the credit of his favour, when he shows us some token for good and proclaims his favour to us, then his glory is seen upon us, as it was upon Israel in the pillar of cloud and fire. When Christ arose as the sun of righteousness, and in him the day-spring from on high visited us, then the glory of the Lord was seen upon us, the glory as of the first-begotten of the Father. 2. What a foil there shall be to this light: Darkness shall cover the earth; but, though it be gross darkness, darkness that might be felt, like that of Egypt, that shall overspread the people, yet the church, like Goshen, shall have light at the same time. When the case of the nations that have not the gospel shall be very melancholy, those dark corners of the earth being full of the habitations of cruelty to poor souls, the state of the church shall be very pleasant. 3. What is the duty which the rising of this light calls for: "Arise, shine; not only receive this light, and" (as the margin reads it) "be enlightened by it, but reflect this light; arise and shine with rays borrowed from it." The children of light ought to shine as lights in the world. If God's glory be seen upon us to our honour, we ought not only with our lips, but in our lives, to return the praise of it to his honour, Mat 5:16; Phi 2:15. II. It shall be very large. When the Jews were settled again in their own land, after their captivity, many of the people of the land joined themselves to them; but it does not appear that there ever was any such numerous accession to them as would answer the fulness of this prophecy; and therefore we must conclude that this looks further, to the bringing of the Gentiles into the gospel church, not their flocking to one particular place, though under that type it is here described. There is no place now that is the centre of the church's unity; but the promise respects their flocking to Christ, and coming by faith, and hope, and holy love, into that society which is incorporated by the charter of his gospel, and of the unity of which he only is the centre - that family which is named from him, Eph 3:15. The gospel church is expressly called Zion and Jerusalem, and under that notion all believers are said to come to it (Heb 12:22. You have come unto Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem), which serves for a key to this prophecy, Eph 2:19. Observe, 1. What shall invite such multitudes to the church: "They shall come to thy light and to the brightness of thy rising, Isa 60:3. They shall be allured to join themselves to thee," (1.) "By the light that shines upon thee," the light of the glorious gospel, which the churches hold forth, in consequence of which they are called golden candlesticks. This light which discovers so much of God and his good will to man, by which life and immortality are brought to light, this shall invite all the serious well-affected part of mankind to come and join themselves to the church, that they may have the benefit of this light to inform them concerning truth and duty. (2.) "By the light with which thou shinest." The purity and love of the primitive Christians, their heavenly-mindedness, contempt of the world, and patient sufferings, were the brightness of the church's rising, which drew many into it. The beauty of holiness was the powerful attractive by which Christ had a willing people brought to him in the day of his power, Psa 110:3. 2. What multitudes shall come to the church. Great numbers shall come, Gentiles (or nations) of those that are saved, as it is expressed with allusion to this, Rev 21:24. Nations shall be discipled (Mat 28:19), and even kings, men of figure, power, and influence, shall be added to the church. They come from all parts (Isa 60:4): Lift up thy eyes round about, and see them coming, devout men out of every nation under heaven, Act 2:5. See how white the fields are already to the harvest, Joh 4:35. See them coming in a body, as one man, and with one consent: They gather themselves together, that they may strengthen one another's hands, and encourage one another. Come, and let us go, Isa 2:3. "They come from the remotest parts: They come to thee from far, having heard the report of thee, as the queen of Sheba, or seen thy star in the east, as the wise men, and they will not be discouraged by the length of the journey from coming to thee. There shall come some of both sexes. Sons and daughters shall come in the most dutiful manner, as thy sons and thy daughters, resolved to be of thy family, to submit to the laws of thy family and put themselves under the tuition of it. They shall come to be nursed at thy side, to have their education with thee from their cradle." The church's children must be nursed at her side, not sent out to be nursed among strangers; there, where alone the unadulterated milk of the word is to be had, must the church's new-born babes be nursed, that they may grow thereby, Pe1 2:1, Pe1 2:2. Those that would enjoy the dignities and privileges of Christ's family must submit to the discipline of it. 3. What they shall bring with them and what advantage shall accrue to the church by their accession to it. Those that are brought into the church by the grace of God will be sure to bring all they are worth in with them, which with themselves they will devote to the honour and service of God and do good with in their places. (1.) The merchants shall write holiness to the Lord upon their merchandise and their hire, as Isa 23:18. "The abundance of the sea, either the wealth that is fetched out of the sea (the fish, the pearls) or that which is imported by sea, shall all be converted to thee and to thy use." The wealth of the rich merchants shall be laid out in works of piety and charity. (2.) The mighty men of the nations shall employ their might in the service of the church: "The forces, or troops, of the Gentiles shall come unto thee, to guard thy coasts, strengthen thy interests, and, if occasion be, to fight thy battles." The forces of the Gentiles had often been against the church, but now they shall be for it; for as God, when he pleases, can, and, when we please him, will, make even our enemies to be at peace with us (Pro 16:7), so, when Christ overcomes the strong man armed, he divides his spoils, and makes that to serve his interests which had been used against them, Luk 11:22. (3.) The wealth imported by land-carriage, as well as that by sea, shall be made use of in the service of God and the church (Isa 60:6): The camels and dromedaries that bring gold and incense (gold to make the golden altar of and incense and sweet perfumes to burn upon it), those of Midian and Sheba, shall bring the richest commodities of their country, not to trade with, but to honour God with, and not in small quantities, but camel-loads of them. This was in part fulfilled when the wise men of the east (perhaps some of the countries here mentioned), drawn by the brightness of the star, came to Christ, and presented to him treasures of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, Mat 2:11. (4.) Great numbers of sacrifices shall be brought to God's altar, acceptable sacrifices, and, though brought by Gentiles, they shall find acceptance, Isa 60:7. Kedar was famous for flocks, and probably the fattest rams were those of Nebaioth; these shall come up with acceptance on God's altar. God must be served and honoured with what we have, according as he has blessed us, and with the best we have. This was fulfilled when by the decree of Darius the governors beyond the rivers (perhaps of some of these countries) were ordered to furnish the temple at Jerusalem with bullocks, rams, and lambs, for the burnt-offering of the God of heaven, Ezr 6:9. It had a further accomplishment, and we trust will have, in the bringing in of the fulness of the Gentiles to the church, which is called the sacrificing or offering up of the Gentiles unto God, Rom 15:16. The flocks and rams are precious souls; for they are said to minister to the church, and to come up as living sacrifices, presenting themselves to God by a reasonable service on his altar, Rom 12:1. 4. How God shall be honoured by the increase of the church and the accession of such numbers to it. (1.) They shall intend the honour of God's name in it. When they bring their gold and incense it shall not be to show the riches of their country, nor to gain applause to themselves for piety and devotion, but to show forth the praises of the Lord, Isa 60:6. Our greatest services and gifts to the church are not acceptable further than we have an eye to the glory of God in them. And this must be our business in our attendance on public ordinances, to give unto the Lord the glory due to his name; for therefore, as these here, we are called out of darkness into light, that we should show forth the praises of him that called us, Pe1 2:9. (2.) God will advance the honour of his own name by it; so he has said (Isa 60:7): I will glorify the house of my glory. The church is the house of God's glory, where he manifests his glory to his people and receives that homage by which they do honour to him. And it is for the glory of this house, and of him that keeps house there, both that the Gentiles shall bring their offerings to it and that they shall be accepted therein. 5. How the church shall herself be affected with this increase of her numbers, Isa 60:5. (1.) She shall be in a transport of joy upon this account: "Thou shalt see and flow together" (or flow to and fro), "as in a pleasing agitation about it, surprised at it, but extremely glad of it." (2.) There shall be a mixture of fear with this joy: "Thy heart shall fear, doubting whether it be lawful to go in to the uncircumcised and eat with them." Peter was so impressed with this fear that he needed a vision and voice from heaven to help him over it, Act 10:28. But, (3.) "When this fear is conquered thy heart shall be enlarged in holy love, so enlarged that thou shalt have room in it for all the Gentile converts; thou shalt not have such a narrow soul as thou hast had nor affections so confined within the Jewish pale." When God intends the beauty and prosperity of his church he gives this largeness of heart and an extensive charity. (4.) These converts flocking to the church shall be greatly admired (Isa 60:8): Who are these that fly as a cloud? Observe, [1.] How the conversion of souls is here described. It is flying to Christ and to his church, for thither we are directed; it is flying like a cloud, though in great multitudes, so as to overspread the heavens, yet with great unanimity, all as one cloud. They shall come with speed, as a cloud flying on the wings of the wind, and come openly, and in the view of all, their very enemies beholding them (Rev 11:12), and yet not able to hinder them. They shall fly as doves to their windows, in great flights, many together; they fly on the wings of the harmless dove, which flies low, denoting their innocency and humility. They fly to Christ, to the church, to the word and ordinances, as doves, by instinct, to their own windows, to their own home; thither they fly for refuge and shelter when they are pursued by the birds of prey, and thither they fly for rest when they have been wandering and are weary, as Noah's dove to the ark. [2.] How the conversion of souls is here admired. It is spoken of with wonder and pleasure: Who are these? We have reason to wonder that so many flock to Christ: when we see them all together we shall wonder whence they all came. And we have reason to admire with pleasure and affection those that do flock to him: Who are these? How excellent, how amiable are they! What a pleasant sight is it to see poor souls hastening to Christ, with a full resolution to abide with him!
Tyndale Open Study Notes
60:1-3 God will come to be with his people and will transform Zion’s destiny from the darkness as black as night caused by sin and judgment.
Isaiah 60:1
Future Glory for Zion
1Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. 2For behold, darkness covers the earth, and thick darkness is over the peoples; but the LORD will rise upon you, and His glory will appear over you.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
At the End of Time - Part 1
By Derek Prince16K28:15ISA 60:1MAT 24:7LUK 21:28REV 22:12
This sermon delves into the themes of the end of time, eternity, and the importance of focusing on the eternal realm rather than just temporal matters. It emphasizes the contrast between righteousness and wickedness increasing, the need for biblical prophecy understanding, and the significance of enduring in faith amidst the challenges of the age. The message highlights the promise of God's glory shining in darkness, the coexistence of wheat and tares until the end, and the encouragement to look forward to the return of Jesus amidst global turmoil.
(How to Get Out of a Religious Rut): Awakened Out of Sleep
By A.W. Tozer6.4K25:32Religious RutPSA 3:5PSA 4:8PSA 121:4PSA 127:2ISA 60:1ROM 13:11EPH 5:14In this sermon, the preacher draws a parallel between the Israelites in the Old Testament and the Church and its members in the present day. He emphasizes that both have settled into a contented rut and have become complacent in their spiritual journey. The preacher urges the congregation to break free from this routine and take hold of the promises and blessings that God has for them. He shares testimonies of individuals who were inspired by his previous sermons to let go of material possessions and idols in order to pursue a deeper relationship with God.
Walking in the Power of the New Convenant
By David Wilkerson6.0K58:342SA 23:5PSA 40:12PSA 89:28PSA 89:34ISA 60:11CO 2:4In this sermon, the preacher explores the story of Isaac sending his son Jacob on a journey with nothing, despite being a wealthy man. The preacher questions why a rich father would send his son without any material benefits. The sermon emphasizes the importance of walking in the power of the New Covenant and the provision that God has made for his children to protect them from trials and temptations. The preacher also highlights the need for a deep yearning and craving in one's heart to know Jesus in a greater way and to walk in holiness and righteousness in a dark age. The sermon references examples from the Old Testament, such as David, who found strength and relief in the Covenant despite facing numerous trials and temptations.
Faith Unto Enlargement Through Adversity - Part 7
By T. Austin-Sparks2.7K46:29AdversityISA 60:1MAT 6:33ROM 6:132CO 8:9EPH 3:8PHP 4:19COL 2:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of keeping the light of God's word available for all. He talks about the surprises and revelations that come when we have a hungry and ready heart to receive the truth. The preacher encourages believers not to be put off by physical, religious, or denominational barriers, but to be open to the abundance of God's word. He also highlights the role of the church in being vessels of light, transmitting knowledge and spiritual riches to the world. The sermon references Paul's prayer for the saints to have their hearts enlightened and emphasizes the impact of the church in spreading the light of God's word.
When Darkness Fails to Comprehend the Light
By Carter Conlon2.0K57:17Following JesusISA 60:1JER 6:14MAT 28:19LUK 19:10JHN 19:5ROM 13:12CO 4:7In this sermon, the speaker encourages the listeners to not lose hope in the face of failure and to press on towards God. He references a scripture from Isaiah, urging the audience to arise and shine because the light of the Lord has come upon them. The speaker then transitions to a passage from John chapter 19, where Jesus is crucified. He prays for the church to be freed from the influence of ungodly men and for a resurrection of true conviction. The overall message is a call for the church to be revived and to embrace the power of the Holy Spirit.
Death to Self
By Major Ian Thomas2.0K1:25:55Self-LifeDEU 6:7JOS 1:2ISA 60:1PHP 2:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of remembering and reminding ourselves of the truth that sets us free. He encourages everyone to take copies of the sermon transcript and the annual general report to constantly remind themselves. The speaker also highlights the significance of God's covenant and glory displayed through the rainbow, symbolizing that all God needs is a few raindrops to showcase His splendor. He further emphasizes the power of the Holy Spirit within believers, who will flow like rivers of living water from their innermost being. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God cares for His people and that they can experience divine consistency and productivity every moment of every day.
Studies in Isaiah - Part 6
By Harry Ironside1.7K46:32ExpositoryPRO 16:7ISA 15:9ISA 40:3ISA 48:22ISA 49:6ISA 58:1ISA 60:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of having a clear understanding of the outline of the Bible. He mentions that the book of Isaiah can be divided into three parts: chapters 40-48 focus on God's controversy with Israel regarding idolatry, chapters 49-57 address Israel's attitude towards the Messiah, and the rest of the book (chapters 58 to the end) emphasizes the ministry designed to exercise the conscience in view of the coming glory. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of studying and memorizing the outline of each chapter in order to have a comprehensive understanding of the book. He shares a personal practice of going over a book repeatedly until he can recall the leading theme of each chapter with ease.
The Alarm
By C.H. Spurgeon1.7K50:27PSA 57:8ISA 60:1MAT 24:44JHN 3:16ROM 13:112CO 5:19EPH 5:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of wakefulness in the spiritual life. He starts by discussing the power of praise and how even birds sing with all their might, encouraging believers to praise God wholeheartedly. The preacher then highlights the need for wakefulness in the church, stating that it is lacking in the present time. He urges believers to wake up their souls and continue praising God, even in difficult circumstances. The sermon concludes with a warning about the consequences of spiritual slumber, using the analogy of a sleeping man in a canoe heading towards a dangerous waterfall.
The Arm of the Lord - Part 5
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K47:54God's WorkISA 52:13ISA 53:1ISA 54:1ISA 60:1ROM 3:191CO 3:10In this sermon, the speaker discusses the new prospect and hope that comes with the foundation laid by the cross. The Lord is focused on recovering, restoring, and rebuilding His people. The speaker highlights the bright and hopeful notes struck in the later chapters of Isaiah, but also acknowledges the presence of dark clouds that bring uncertainty. The sermon emphasizes the importance of putting only what is suitable and according to the cross of the Lord Jesus on God's foundation, as there are many things to which God says no.
The Majesty of Our God
By Leonard Ravenhill1.7K51:28Character Of GodEXO 15:1EXO 15:11ISA 40:18ISA 49:16ISA 60:1HEB 11:11HEB 11:18In this sermon, Dave Wilkerson and his wife discuss the power of experiencing God's presence firsthand rather than just watching it in films or hearing about it in class. They announce their plan to hold a weekly Bible study for sixty minutes, focusing on the eleventh chapter of Hebrews on faith. They emphasize the importance of studying the Word of God and encourage listeners to tape the sessions. The sermon also highlights the incomparable nature of God and the inability to compare Him to anything or anyone else.
K-532 Israel and the Apocalypse (1 of 3)
By Art Katz1.5K39:37ApocalypseISA 2:2ISA 60:1HAG 2:7MAT 6:33JHN 17:21ROM 8:17EPH 2:6In this sermon, the speaker reflects on various topics related to the preaching of the word of God. They discuss the cry and need for God, the redemption offered through Him, and the importance of knowing Him. The speaker also touches on the history of Israel and their sacrificial practices, referencing Isaiah 53. They express a deep pessimism about mankind's ability to solve the problems of the 20th century and emphasize that the only hope for humanity lies in recognizing God. The sermon concludes with a mention of the invisible cloud of witnesses and the inseparable community of Israel and the Christian church.
The Anatomy of a Christ Awakening
By David Bryant1.4K24:47Spiritual AwakeningISA 60:1MAT 6:33EPH 5:14COL 1:18REV 3:1In this video, David Bryant shares his experience of speaking at a national denominational conference on the theme of a national Christ awakening. He delivered three messages titled "The Anatomy of a Christ Awakening," "The Crisis that Demands a Christ Awakening," and "How to Prepare the Way for a Christ Awakening." The response to his messages was overwhelming, with 1500 copies of his book selling out within an hour. Bryant emphasizes the importance of living in silence before the supremacy of God's Son and believes that if believers make it a lifestyle, every dream and vision God has for the church can be easily fulfilled.
The Alarum
By C.H. Spurgeon1.2K50:27PSA 57:8ISA 60:1MAT 24:44JHN 3:16ROM 13:112CO 5:19EPH 5:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of wakefulness in the spiritual life. He starts by discussing the power of praise and how even birds sing with all their might, encouraging believers to praise God wholeheartedly. The preacher then highlights the need for wakefulness in the church, stating that it is lacking in the present time. He urges believers to wake up their souls and continue praising God, even in difficult circumstances. The sermon concludes with a warning about the consequences of spiritual slumber, using the analogy of a sleeping man in a canoe heading towards a dangerous waterfall.
Win Your Loved Ones
By John R. Rice95558:38Lost SoulsISA 60:1MAT 5:14LUK 19:10JHN 8:12ROM 13:12EPH 5:81JN 1:5In this sermon, the preacher encourages the congregation to fill up the empty seats in the church. He emphasizes the importance of singing with passion and intensity, with the chords standing out on their necks and their eyes bugging out. The preacher also emphasizes the need to share the message of Christ's love and salvation with others. He reminds the congregation that Jesus is the light of the world and that they have the responsibility to be a light for the lost to see. The sermon concludes with a call to worship and praise God, acknowledging His glory and the eternal life that believers have in Him.
01 - the Hope for Revival in North Korea
By Ben Torrey90409:34North Korea2CH 7:14PSA 51:10ISA 60:1MAT 6:33ACT 1:8ROM 12:2EPH 4:22In this video, Ben Torre shares his personal experience of coming to Korea with his parents in 1957 and starting Jesus Abbey in 1965. He reflects on the initial fervor and passion of the Church in Korea, where the Holy Spirit came down and transformed people's lives. However, over time, the Church turned inward and sought emotional support rather than confronting sin and the world. Torre emphasizes the need for true revival and calls for believers to search their hearts, repent, and pray for a transformation that lasts for generations. He also highlights the darkness in North Korea, both spiritually and physically, and urges viewers to consider why a land once filled with the light of the gospel became so dark.
The Glory of God
By Emanuel Esh8641:24:30Glory Of GodISA 35:1ISA 60:1LUK 2:19JHN 1:29EPH 4:16In this sermon, the preacher talks about the slim chances and expectations placed on Jesus in his earthly life. Despite this, people in darkness saw hope and freedom in him. The preacher emphasizes that all the power of heaven and earth was invested in Jesus, who willingly died on the cross and descended to hell to take the keys from the devil. The sermon also mentions a moment in hell where Satan trembles upon hearing Jesus' voice and tries to prevent him from ascending to his throne. The preacher shares a personal experience of initially being hesitant about attending a sing-along about the Messiah but eventually being inspired by the Word of God. The sermon concludes with a call to arise and shine, as the glory of the Lord has come.
Anointed to Proclaim the Gospel of Glory (Isa. 60-62)
By Mike Bickle241:37:35God's Delight in UsThe Adventure of FaithISA 60:1Mike Bickle shares his journey from a non-Christian upbringing to discovering a vibrant relationship with Jesus, emphasizing the importance of community and the adventure of faith. He reflects on how God delights in us and the significance of sharing our testimonies, especially in a world filled with darkness. Bickle encourages young people to engage in on-fire youth groups, invest in others, and embrace the journey of growing in love and prayer. He highlights that the only thing we take into eternity is love, urging listeners to focus on their relationship with God and the impact they can have in their communities. Ultimately, he reassures that despite increasing darkness, God's glory and anointing will rise in this generation.
The Battle Cry of Isaiah - Awake & Arise!
By Shane Idleman101:12:00RepentanceAwakeningISA 57:15ISA 58:1ISA 59:1ISA 60:1Shane Idleman passionately preaches about the urgent need for the church to awaken and arise, drawing parallels between the prophetic messages of Isaiah and the current state of America. He emphasizes the importance of addressing idolatry, pride, and spiritual apathy, urging believers to engage in heartfelt repentance and to boldly proclaim the truth of God's Word. Idleman calls for a battle cry against the darkness, encouraging Christians to rise up with humility and brokenness, allowing the Holy Spirit to empower them to make a difference in a world filled with sin and confusion. He stresses that true change begins with a heart cry that leads to a battle cry, and that God desires to dwell with those who are contrite and humble. Ultimately, he challenges the church to be a light in the darkness, to repair the breaches in society, and to live out their faith with courage and conviction.
The Ascended Life
By Brian Guerin41:11:08Ascended LifeIntimacy With GodPSA 23:5ISA 60:1Brian Guerin emphasizes the significance of living an ascended life in Christ, where believers are called to focus on the presence of God, symbolized as the bread and wine that satisfies all needs. He encourages the congregation to see themselves seated at God's table, even in the presence of their enemies, and to embrace the joy and healing that comes from being filled with the Holy Spirit. Guerin highlights the importance of being filled with God's glory, which shines brightly in a world filled with darkness, and calls for a return to first love and intimacy with God.
Never Despair
By C.H. Spurgeon0Hope in ChristOvercoming DespairPSA 30:5ISA 60:1MAL 4:2JHN 8:12ROM 5:1C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the hope found in the promise of the Sun of Righteousness, who brings healing and light even in the darkest times. He reassures believers that despite the deepening darkness, despair is unnecessary as the dawn of Christ's righteousness is near. Spurgeon highlights that Jesus embodies both justice and mercy, ensuring that our deliverance is safe and righteous. He encourages the faithful to maintain reverence for God, assuring them that the night of sorrow will be brief and followed by joy and healing. Ultimately, he calls for patience and trust in the Lord's timing, as the Sun will surely rise.
Memoirs: 6. the Latter Days of His Ministry 160
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne0Faithfulness in MinistryThe Urgency of HolinessPSA 126:6ISA 60:1MAT 11:28JHN 4:34JHN 7:38ROM 6:141CO 15:582CO 2:14PHP 4:6HEB 7:25Robert Murray M'Cheyne reflects on the latter days of his ministry, emphasizing his commitment to doing God's will despite personal trials and temptations. He shares his struggles with illness and the deep spiritual warfare he faced, yet finds solace in the presence of Christ and the support of fellow ministers. M'Cheyne's evangelistic efforts in England reveal his passion for souls, culminating in powerful sermons that left lasting impressions on his listeners. He expresses a longing for holiness and a desire to be a faithful servant, ultimately recognizing the urgency of his mission as he nears the end of his life. His final days are marked by a profound awareness of his mortality and a deep yearning for the eternal presence of Christ.
The Nature and Unity of the Church
By John Nelson Darby0Unity of the ChurchThe Nature of FaithISA 60:1LUK 12:36JHN 17:21ROM 12:11CO 10:162CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 1:10PHP 3:141PE 2:9John Nelson Darby emphasizes the nature and unity of the Church, urging believers to recognize the moral inconsistencies that lead to division and sectarianism. He highlights that true unity is found in the Spirit of God and the shared faith in Christ's death and resurrection, which should bind believers together rather than their differences. Darby calls for a return to the foundational truths of the gospel, encouraging believers to seek the glory of God and the coming of Christ as the ultimate goal of their faith. He warns against the dangers of worldly interests infiltrating the Church and stresses the importance of living in accordance with the teachings of Christ to manifest true unity. Ultimately, he believes that the Church's witness to the world hinges on its ability to reflect the unity and glory of Christ.
Who Is Your God
By Charles S. Price0EXO 20:3JOS 24:15ISA 60:1MAT 6:33JHN 8:12JHN 14:6EPH 5:13COL 3:3Charles S. Price preaches on the importance of choosing whom to serve, emphasizing the need for complete surrender to God's will. He highlights how many Christians live with a pagan concept of God, seeking rewards and practicing self-denial rather than seeking God's kingdom first. Price urges believers to become 'Love Slaves of the Lord Jesus,' putting aside selfish desires and fully embracing God's plan. He stresses the necessity of surrendering our Adamic nature and serving only one master, ultimately calling for a perfect consecration and absolute surrender to God.
Moody Chasing His Shadow
By D.L. Moody0God's ForgivenessPursuing the LightPSA 34:5PSA 103:12ISA 60:1MAL 4:2LUK 15:20JHN 8:12ROM 5:8EPH 5:8JAS 4:81JN 1:7D.L. Moody shares a personal childhood experience of chasing his shadow, illustrating how pursuing the light of God brings peace and joy, while turning away leads to darkness. He emphasizes that just as his shadow followed him when he faced the sun, the Son of Righteousness will accompany those who seek Him. Moody encourages listeners not to doubt God's forgiveness, asserting that it is their own will that prevents them from receiving it. The sermon calls for a turn towards God's light to experience His love and grace.
Pierce the Hearts of the Heathen
By George Fox0PRO 16:7ISA 60:1EPH 5:2COL 4:51PE 3:15George Fox preaches about the importance of spreading the Name and Truth of the Lord, being diligent in His service, and valiant for His Truth on Earth. He emphasizes the need to pierce the hearts of unbelievers, overturn their customs, and bring the Truth over the heads of the heathen. Fox encourages living in peace and love, confounding deceit, and being a blessing in the generation by walking in the Power and Wisdom of the Lord.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Arise - Call upon God through Christ, for his salvation; and, Shine - אורי ori, be illuminated: for till thou arise and call upon God, thou wilt never receive true light. For thy light is come - כי בא אורך ki ba orech, for thy light cometh. The Messiah is at the door; who, while he is a light to lighten the Gentiles, will be the glory - the effulgence, of his people Israel.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Arise, shine,.... The Targum adds, "O Jerusalem"; and so the Septuagint, Vulgate Latin, and Arabic versions; and no doubt but the church of God is here addressed: and by what follows it seems to be the Jewish church, as distinct from the Gentiles, since they are said to come to it, the Jews, now converted, and brought into a church state; and who are called upon to arise out of their low dejected state and condition, in which they have long lain, and "shine": or to "awake", as some (p) render it, out of that sleep and lethargy they have been so long in, and to shine forth in the exercise of grace and discharge of duty: or to be "enlightened" (q); with the light of Christ and of the Gospel, now come unto them; and to diffuse this light to others, to hold it forth in profession and conversation; see Mat 5:16. for thy light is come: the Targum, "for the time of thy redemption is come;'' meaning from the Babylonish captivity, which that paraphrase refers to: but this is not intended here, but the spiritual prosperity and happiness of the Jews in the latter day, at the time of their conversion; and the sense is, either that Christ, the Light of the world, was come unto them in a spiritual way; or that the glorious light of the Gospel of Christ was come unto them, and shone upon them; or the time was come that the blindness that had been so long upon them should be taken oft, and the veil be taken away they had been so long covered with, and they be turned to the Lord, the fulness of the Gentiles now being about to be brought in; see Rom 11:25, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee; or the glorious Lord; he, whose glory is to be seen, as the glory of the only begotten, who is the brightness of his Father's glory, the sun of righteousness; who shall now, rise upon these, and, leave a glory upon them that shall be visible. (p) "expergiscere", Grotius. (q) "illuminare", Pagninus, Montanus Piscator.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
It is here promised that the gospel temple shall be very lightsome and very large. I. It shall be very lightsome: Thy light has come. When the Jews returned out of captivity they had light and gladness, and joy and honour; they then were made to know the Lord and to rejoice in his great goodness; and upon both accounts their light came. When the Redeemer came to Zion he brought light with him, he himself came to be a light. Now observe, 1. What this light is, and whence it springs: The Lord shall arise upon thee (Isa 60:2), the glory of the Lord (Isa 60:1) shall be seen upon thee. God is the father and fountain of lights, and it is in his light that we shall see light. As far as we have the knowledge of God in us, and the favour of God towards us, our light has come. When God appears to us, and we have the comfort of his favour, then the glory of the Lord rises upon us as the morning light; when he appears for us, and we have the credit of his favour, when he shows us some token for good and proclaims his favour to us, then his glory is seen upon us, as it was upon Israel in the pillar of cloud and fire. When Christ arose as the sun of righteousness, and in him the day-spring from on high visited us, then the glory of the Lord was seen upon us, the glory as of the first-begotten of the Father. 2. What a foil there shall be to this light: Darkness shall cover the earth; but, though it be gross darkness, darkness that might be felt, like that of Egypt, that shall overspread the people, yet the church, like Goshen, shall have light at the same time. When the case of the nations that have not the gospel shall be very melancholy, those dark corners of the earth being full of the habitations of cruelty to poor souls, the state of the church shall be very pleasant. 3. What is the duty which the rising of this light calls for: "Arise, shine; not only receive this light, and" (as the margin reads it) "be enlightened by it, but reflect this light; arise and shine with rays borrowed from it." The children of light ought to shine as lights in the world. If God's glory be seen upon us to our honour, we ought not only with our lips, but in our lives, to return the praise of it to his honour, Mat 5:16; Phi 2:15. II. It shall be very large. When the Jews were settled again in their own land, after their captivity, many of the people of the land joined themselves to them; but it does not appear that there ever was any such numerous accession to them as would answer the fulness of this prophecy; and therefore we must conclude that this looks further, to the bringing of the Gentiles into the gospel church, not their flocking to one particular place, though under that type it is here described. There is no place now that is the centre of the church's unity; but the promise respects their flocking to Christ, and coming by faith, and hope, and holy love, into that society which is incorporated by the charter of his gospel, and of the unity of which he only is the centre - that family which is named from him, Eph 3:15. The gospel church is expressly called Zion and Jerusalem, and under that notion all believers are said to come to it (Heb 12:22. You have come unto Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem), which serves for a key to this prophecy, Eph 2:19. Observe, 1. What shall invite such multitudes to the church: "They shall come to thy light and to the brightness of thy rising, Isa 60:3. They shall be allured to join themselves to thee," (1.) "By the light that shines upon thee," the light of the glorious gospel, which the churches hold forth, in consequence of which they are called golden candlesticks. This light which discovers so much of God and his good will to man, by which life and immortality are brought to light, this shall invite all the serious well-affected part of mankind to come and join themselves to the church, that they may have the benefit of this light to inform them concerning truth and duty. (2.) "By the light with which thou shinest." The purity and love of the primitive Christians, their heavenly-mindedness, contempt of the world, and patient sufferings, were the brightness of the church's rising, which drew many into it. The beauty of holiness was the powerful attractive by which Christ had a willing people brought to him in the day of his power, Psa 110:3. 2. What multitudes shall come to the church. Great numbers shall come, Gentiles (or nations) of those that are saved, as it is expressed with allusion to this, Rev 21:24. Nations shall be discipled (Mat 28:19), and even kings, men of figure, power, and influence, shall be added to the church. They come from all parts (Isa 60:4): Lift up thy eyes round about, and see them coming, devout men out of every nation under heaven, Act 2:5. See how white the fields are already to the harvest, Joh 4:35. See them coming in a body, as one man, and with one consent: They gather themselves together, that they may strengthen one another's hands, and encourage one another. Come, and let us go, Isa 2:3. "They come from the remotest parts: They come to thee from far, having heard the report of thee, as the queen of Sheba, or seen thy star in the east, as the wise men, and they will not be discouraged by the length of the journey from coming to thee. There shall come some of both sexes. Sons and daughters shall come in the most dutiful manner, as thy sons and thy daughters, resolved to be of thy family, to submit to the laws of thy family and put themselves under the tuition of it. They shall come to be nursed at thy side, to have their education with thee from their cradle." The church's children must be nursed at her side, not sent out to be nursed among strangers; there, where alone the unadulterated milk of the word is to be had, must the church's new-born babes be nursed, that they may grow thereby, Pe1 2:1, Pe1 2:2. Those that would enjoy the dignities and privileges of Christ's family must submit to the discipline of it. 3. What they shall bring with them and what advantage shall accrue to the church by their accession to it. Those that are brought into the church by the grace of God will be sure to bring all they are worth in with them, which with themselves they will devote to the honour and service of God and do good with in their places. (1.) The merchants shall write holiness to the Lord upon their merchandise and their hire, as Isa 23:18. "The abundance of the sea, either the wealth that is fetched out of the sea (the fish, the pearls) or that which is imported by sea, shall all be converted to thee and to thy use." The wealth of the rich merchants shall be laid out in works of piety and charity. (2.) The mighty men of the nations shall employ their might in the service of the church: "The forces, or troops, of the Gentiles shall come unto thee, to guard thy coasts, strengthen thy interests, and, if occasion be, to fight thy battles." The forces of the Gentiles had often been against the church, but now they shall be for it; for as God, when he pleases, can, and, when we please him, will, make even our enemies to be at peace with us (Pro 16:7), so, when Christ overcomes the strong man armed, he divides his spoils, and makes that to serve his interests which had been used against them, Luk 11:22. (3.) The wealth imported by land-carriage, as well as that by sea, shall be made use of in the service of God and the church (Isa 60:6): The camels and dromedaries that bring gold and incense (gold to make the golden altar of and incense and sweet perfumes to burn upon it), those of Midian and Sheba, shall bring the richest commodities of their country, not to trade with, but to honour God with, and not in small quantities, but camel-loads of them. This was in part fulfilled when the wise men of the east (perhaps some of the countries here mentioned), drawn by the brightness of the star, came to Christ, and presented to him treasures of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, Mat 2:11. (4.) Great numbers of sacrifices shall be brought to God's altar, acceptable sacrifices, and, though brought by Gentiles, they shall find acceptance, Isa 60:7. Kedar was famous for flocks, and probably the fattest rams were those of Nebaioth; these shall come up with acceptance on God's altar. God must be served and honoured with what we have, according as he has blessed us, and with the best we have. This was fulfilled when by the decree of Darius the governors beyond the rivers (perhaps of some of these countries) were ordered to furnish the temple at Jerusalem with bullocks, rams, and lambs, for the burnt-offering of the God of heaven, Ezr 6:9. It had a further accomplishment, and we trust will have, in the bringing in of the fulness of the Gentiles to the church, which is called the sacrificing or offering up of the Gentiles unto God, Rom 15:16. The flocks and rams are precious souls; for they are said to minister to the church, and to come up as living sacrifices, presenting themselves to God by a reasonable service on his altar, Rom 12:1. 4. How God shall be honoured by the increase of the church and the accession of such numbers to it. (1.) They shall intend the honour of God's name in it. When they bring their gold and incense it shall not be to show the riches of their country, nor to gain applause to themselves for piety and devotion, but to show forth the praises of the Lord, Isa 60:6. Our greatest services and gifts to the church are not acceptable further than we have an eye to the glory of God in them. And this must be our business in our attendance on public ordinances, to give unto the Lord the glory due to his name; for therefore, as these here, we are called out of darkness into light, that we should show forth the praises of him that called us, Pe1 2:9. (2.) God will advance the honour of his own name by it; so he has said (Isa 60:7): I will glorify the house of my glory. The church is the house of God's glory, where he manifests his glory to his people and receives that homage by which they do honour to him. And it is for the glory of this house, and of him that keeps house there, both that the Gentiles shall bring their offerings to it and that they shall be accepted therein. 5. How the church shall herself be affected with this increase of her numbers, Isa 60:5. (1.) She shall be in a transport of joy upon this account: "Thou shalt see and flow together" (or flow to and fro), "as in a pleasing agitation about it, surprised at it, but extremely glad of it." (2.) There shall be a mixture of fear with this joy: "Thy heart shall fear, doubting whether it be lawful to go in to the uncircumcised and eat with them." Peter was so impressed with this fear that he needed a vision and voice from heaven to help him over it, Act 10:28. But, (3.) "When this fear is conquered thy heart shall be enlarged in holy love, so enlarged that thou shalt have room in it for all the Gentile converts; thou shalt not have such a narrow soul as thou hast had nor affections so confined within the Jewish pale." When God intends the beauty and prosperity of his church he gives this largeness of heart and an extensive charity. (4.) These converts flocking to the church shall be greatly admired (Isa 60:8): Who are these that fly as a cloud? Observe, [1.] How the conversion of souls is here described. It is flying to Christ and to his church, for thither we are directed; it is flying like a cloud, though in great multitudes, so as to overspread the heavens, yet with great unanimity, all as one cloud. They shall come with speed, as a cloud flying on the wings of the wind, and come openly, and in the view of all, their very enemies beholding them (Rev 11:12), and yet not able to hinder them. They shall fly as doves to their windows, in great flights, many together; they fly on the wings of the harmless dove, which flies low, denoting their innocency and humility. They fly to Christ, to the church, to the word and ordinances, as doves, by instinct, to their own windows, to their own home; thither they fly for refuge and shelter when they are pursued by the birds of prey, and thither they fly for rest when they have been wandering and are weary, as Noah's dove to the ark. [2.] How the conversion of souls is here admired. It is spoken of with wonder and pleasure: Who are these? We have reason to wonder that so many flock to Christ: when we see them all together we shall wonder whence they all came. And we have reason to admire with pleasure and affection those that do flock to him: Who are these? How excellent, how amiable are they! What a pleasant sight is it to see poor souls hastening to Christ, with a full resolution to abide with him!
Tyndale Open Study Notes
60:1-3 God will come to be with his people and will transform Zion’s destiny from the darkness as black as night caused by sin and judgment.