Isaiah 40:5

Commentary on Isaiah 40:5 (KJV)

Isaiah 40:5 is a powerful declaration of God's ultimate revelation and the certainty of His word. This verse stands as a cornerstone in the "Book of Comfort" (Isaiah 40-66), offering hope and assurance to a people who had experienced exile and hardship.

Context

This verse is part of the opening passage of Isaiah Chapter 40, which marks a significant shift in the prophet's message from judgment to comfort and restoration. Following prophecies of Judah's impending exile, Isaiah 40 begins with a tender call for comfort for His people (Isaiah 40:1). The preceding verses describe the preparation of a highway in the wilderness for the return of the Lord, symbolizing a new exodus and a glorious manifestation of God's presence. Verse 5 culminates this introductory promise, assuring that the divine glory will not only be present but universally seen.

Key Themes

• The Revelation of God's Glory: "The glory of the LORD shall be revealed" speaks to a future, unmistakable display of God's majestic presence, power, and holiness. This revelation is not merely a spiritual understanding but a manifest, undeniable demonstration that will impact all creation. It points to a profound moment in salvation history when God's character and sovereignty will be fully unveiled.
• Universal Witness: The phrase "and all flesh shall see it together" emphasizes the comprehensive and undeniable nature of this revelation. It signifies that every human being, regardless of their background or belief, will witness this divine display. This theme of universal recognition of God's sovereignty is echoed throughout scripture, anticipating a time when every knee shall bow and every tongue confess His Lordship.
• Divine Assurance and Faithfulness: "For the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it" serves as the bedrock of this prophecy's certainty. It highlights the absolute reliability and immutability of God's word. What God declares, He will unfailingly bring to pass. This provides ultimate assurance that His promises are not dependent on human effort or circumstances, but solely on His divine will and power.

Linguistic Insights

• The Hebrew word for "glory," kabod (כָּבוֹד), often conveys the idea of weight, substance, honor, or splendor. When applied to the LORD, it signifies His inherent greatness and the manifest display of His divine attributes.
• "All flesh" translates the Hebrew phrase kol-basar (כָּל־בָּשָׂר), which is a comprehensive term for all humanity, emphasizing the global and universal scope of the promised revelation.

Practical Application

Isaiah 40:5 offers enduring hope and a strong foundation for faith in every generation. It reminds us that even in times of difficulty, uncertainty, or when God's presence seems hidden, His ultimate plan for revelation and restoration is certain. This verse encourages believers to:

• Trust in God's Unfailing Word: We can rest assured that what God has promised, He will perform. His word is not idle but has the power to accomplish its purpose, as further highlighted in Isaiah 55:11.
• Live with Hope and Anticipation: The prophecy points to a future where God's glory will be undeniably evident to all. This gives us a divine perspective, knowing that all things are moving towards the ultimate revelation of His truth and righteousness.
• Share the Certainty of God's Promises: The universal nature of this revelation implies a responsibility to share the good news of God's coming glory and the comfort He offers through His Son, Jesus Christ.