Isaiah 45:24

KJV

Surely, shall [one] say, in the LORD have I righteousness and strength: [even] to him shall [men] come; and all that are incensed against him shall be ashamed.

KJV (with Strong's)

Surely, shall one say {H559}, in the LORD {H3068} have I righteousness {H6666} and strength {H5797}: even to him shall men come {H935}; and all that are incensed {H2734} against him shall be ashamed {H954}.

Complete Jewish Bible

about me that only in ADONAI are justice and strength." All who rage against him will come to him ashamed,

Berean Standard Bible

Surely they will say of Me, ‘In the LORD alone are righteousness and strength.’” All who rage against Him will come to Him and be put to shame.

American Standard Version

Only in Jehovah, it is said of me, is righteousness and strength; even to him shall men come; and all they that were incensed against him shall be put to shame.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 45:24 stands as a profound declaration of God's exclusive sovereignty and the singular source of true righteousness and strength. It unequivocally proclaims that right standing before God and spiritual vitality are found solely in Yahweh, rendering human effort or reliance on other deities utterly futile. The verse also prophetically anticipates a future, universal acknowledgment of His supreme authority, where all who have defiantly opposed Him will ultimately be put to shame, underscoring the absolute futility of resistance against the Almighty and the certainty of His ultimate triumph.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 45 is nestled within the "Book of Comfort" (Isaiah 40-66), a section primarily designed to offer profound hope and assurance to the Israelite exiles in Babylon regarding their impending return and restoration. Chapters 40-48, in particular, meticulously develop the theme of God's unique sovereignty, His unparalleled ability to foretell and orchestrate history (evidenced by the remarkable naming of Cyrus in [Isaiah 45:1](/isaiah/45-1 "Isaiah 45:1 - God Names Cyrus")), and His absolute incomparability when contrasted with the impotent idols of Babylon. Verse 24 functions as a climactic and definitive statement, following God's sweeping, global invitation in [Isaiah 45:22](/isaiah/45-22 "Isaiah 45:22 - Look to Me and Be Saved"), "Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else." It masterfully encapsulates the appropriate response of faith to this divine call and the ultimate, contrasting outcomes for both those who embrace His truth and those who stubbornly resist, thereby solidifying the overarching theme of God's universal dominion and the indispensable necessity of turning to Him for salvation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophetic ministry of Isaiah spanned a turbulent period for ancient Israel, encompassing the looming threat of Assyrian invasion, the devastating Babylonian exile, and the subsequent promise of restoration. Isaiah 45 specifically addresses a post-exilic context, or at least a divinely revealed vision of it, where the Persian Empire under King Cyrus would serve as God's instrument to facilitate Israel's return to their homeland. In this ancient Near Eastern world, polytheism was pervasive, and nations routinely attributed their successes or failures to the power and favor of their respective deities. Against this deeply entrenched cultural backdrop, Isaiah forcefully and repeatedly asserts the radical monotheistic truth that Yahweh, the God of Israel, is the one true and living God—the sole Creator of all things and the sovereign orchestrator of all world events, including the rise and fall of mighty empires. The prevailing cultural practices of bowing to idols and seeking security and strength from human alliances or military might are directly and powerfully challenged by the unequivocal declaration that genuine righteousness and enduring strength are found exclusively in the LORD.
* **Key Themes:** This verse serves as a powerful theological anchor, contributing significantly to several overarching themes woven throughout the book of Isaiah. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Uniqueness**, emphatically declaring that Yahweh alone is God, utterly distinct and superior to all false gods and lifeless idols ([Isaiah 44:6-8](/isaiah/44-6 "Isaiah 44:6-8 - The Lord is the First and the Last")). It also profoundly highlights **Righteousness as a Divine Gift**, a concept that remarkably anticipates the New Testament understanding of justification by faith, where a right standing with God is imputed rather than achieved ([Romans 3](/romans/3 "Romans 3 - Righteousness Through Faith")). The theme of **Universal Salvation and Judgment** is likewise prominent, as God extends His gracious invitation to "all the ends of the earth" while simultaneously promising inevitable shame and defeat for those who persistently oppose His will ([Isaiah 45:22-23](/isaiah/45-22 "Isaiah 45:22-23 - Universal Invitation and Oath")). Finally, the verse powerfully underscores the **Futility of Opposition to God**, demonstrating with absolute certainty that any resistance to His divine plan and purposes will ultimately culminate in humiliation, disgrace, and utter defeat.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **say (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** H559. This primitive root is used with remarkable latitude in Hebrew, encompassing a broad range of meanings from declaring, commanding, and promising to thinking and uttering speech. In the context of Isaiah 45:24, it signifies a definitive, personal, and public confession or declaration. It implies more than a mere thought; it is an expressed conviction, highlighting the volitional and public nature of acknowledging God as the exclusive source of righteousness and strength. This is a deliberate, articulate affirmation of faith.
* **righteousness (Hebrew, _tsᵉdâqâh'_):** H6666. Derived from the root meaning "to be right" or "just," this word denotes rightness in various applications: abstractly (rectitude), subjectively (moral uprightness), objectively (justice), morally (virtue), or figuratively (prosperity). Here, it primarily refers to a right standing before God, a state of being declared just or acquitted in His sight. Crucially, in Isaiah, this righteousness is consistently presented not as a human achievement earned through works, but as a divine gift graciously bestowed.
* **incensed (Hebrew, _chârâh'_):** H2734. This primitive root literally means "to glow or grow warm," but figuratively, it describes a blazing up with intense anger, zeal, or jealousy. In this verse, it vividly portrays those who are fiercely antagonistic, burning with profound hostility, indignation, or resentment against God and His divine purposes. Their opposition is not passive or indifferent but active, passionate, and deeply rooted in a rebellious spirit.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Surely, shall [one] say, in the LORD have I righteousness and strength:"** This opening clause presents a confident, emphatic, and personal declaration. The "one" (implied by the singular verb) represents any individual who has come to this profound and transformative realization. The core of this confession is that both "righteousness" (a right standing with God, a state of being declared just and acquitted) and "strength" (power, might, spiritual vitality, and security) are found exclusively and entirely "in the LORD" (Yahweh). This negates any reliance on self-effort, human merit, or external powers, definitively pointing to God as the sole and ultimate source of spiritual well-being and moral rectitude.
* **"even to him shall [men] come;"** This phrase significantly expands the scope from the singular "one" to a universal "men," indicating a future, widespread turning to God. It signifies a global movement of people from all nations and walks of life, drawing near to Yahweh in humble submission, sincere worship, and complete reliance. This "coming" is a direct and necessary response to the truth declared in the first clause, acknowledging His unique authority, His incomparable provision, and His rightful claim to universal allegiance.
* **"and all that are incensed against him shall be ashamed."** This final clause presents a stark contrast and a solemn promise of divine judgment. Those who have harbored intense anger, deep hostility, or defiant opposition against God and His sovereign will are assuredly destined to experience profound shame, public humiliation, and ultimate defeat. Their persistent resistance will prove utterly futile, and their rebellious efforts against the Almighty will culminate in undeniable disgrace, thereby vindicating God's unwavering sovereignty, perfect justice, and ultimate triumph over all opposition.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 45:24 masterfully employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound and multifaceted message. **Emphasis** is powerfully achieved through the opening adverb "Surely," which underscores the absolute certainty, solemnity, and unwavering truth of the declaration that follows. The verse also utilizes striking **Contrast** between two distinct groups: those who humbly find righteousness and strength in the LORD, and "all that are incensed against him." This sharp juxtaposition highlights the binary and inevitable outcome of humanity's response to God's sovereignty: either humble reliance leading to salvation and vindication, or defiant opposition leading to shame and defeat. **Prophecy** is inherently embedded in the future-oriented language, marked by phrases such as "shall [one] say," "shall [men] come," and "shall be ashamed," which collectively foretell a definitive time when God's universal dominion will be fully realized and universally acknowledged. Furthermore, the verse employs **Metonymy**, where "righteousness and strength" stand as representative terms for the entire spiritual, moral, and existential well-being that flows exclusively from God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 45:24 is a pivotal Old Testament text that profoundly anticipates and lays foundational groundwork for New Testament theology, particularly the doctrine of justification by faith. The declaration "in the LORD have I righteousness and strength" prefigures the glorious truth that humanity's right standing before a holy God is not earned through human merit or adherence to law, but is a gracious gift received solely through faith in Christ. This divine provision of righteousness stands in stark contrast to all human attempts at self-justification, aligning perfectly with the New Covenant's emphasis on God's unmerited grace. The universal "coming" to the Lord and the promised shame of His adversaries also powerfully foreshadow the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom and the final, decisive judgment, where every knee will bow and every tongue will confess His supreme Lordship.

* [Romans 3:21-22](/romans/3-21 "Romans 3:21-22 - Righteousness from God Through Faith")
* [Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")
* [Romans 10:3-4](/romans/10-3 "Romans 10:3-4 - Christ is the End of the Law")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 45:24 offers timeless and profoundly relevant truths that resonate deeply with the human condition and provide essential spiritual guidance for believers today. In a world that relentlessly pressures us to find our worth, security, and power in ourselves, our fleeting achievements, or external circumstances, this verse serves as a powerful and unwavering anchor. It reminds us with divine clarity that true righteousness, enduring strength, and ultimate peace are found exclusively and eternally in the LORD. This truth calls us to humbly abandon self-reliance, to cease the futile striving for acceptance before God through our own efforts, and to embrace instead His gracious and complete provision. This means acknowledging our inherent spiritual bankruptcy apart from Him and placing our complete, unreserved trust in His perfect character, His unwavering faithfulness, and His redemptive work on our behalf. Furthermore, the promise of universal acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and the certain shame of His adversaries provides immense comfort and unshakeable confidence. It assures us that despite present injustices, widespread opposition, or the apparent triumph of evil, God's ultimate plan will prevail, His glory will be universally recognized, and all who stubbornly resist Him will ultimately be exposed, defeated, and brought to disgrace. This profound truth empowers us to live with courage, hope, and unwavering conviction, knowing that our ultimate vindication, our eternal hope, and our secure future rest entirely in the sovereign and loving hands of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life are you currently tempted to seek righteousness, validation, or strength apart from the LORD?**
* **How does the liberating truth that "in the LORD have I righteousness and strength" practically impact your daily walk, your understanding of salvation, and your approach to spiritual growth?**
* **What profound confidence and peace does the promise of God's ultimate triumph and the certain shame of His adversaries give you in the face of present challenges, personal struggles, or societal opposition?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "one" or "men" referred to in Isaiah 45:24, and does this apply to everyone?**

Answer: The "one" (implied by the singular verb in the Hebrew) refers to any individual who comes to the profound realization and personal confession that true righteousness and enduring strength are found solely and exclusively in the LORD. The subsequent phrase, "even to him shall [men] come," significantly broadens this scope to a universal dimension, indicating that people from all nations, tribes, and backgrounds will eventually turn to God. While the immediate literary context of Isaiah often focuses on the covenant relationship with Israel, the expansive language of "all the ends of the earth" found in [Isaiah 45:22](/isaiah/45-22 "Isaiah 45:22 - Universal Invitation") and the universal scope of this verse clearly extend God's redemptive invitation and judicial reach to all humanity. Therefore, it applies to everyone in the sense that God's gracious invitation to find righteousness and strength in Him is open to all, and ultimately, all will either willingly come to Him in faith and submission or be compelled to acknowledge His supreme Lordship, leading to either salvation or ultimate shame.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 45:24 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The declaration "in the LORD have I righteousness and strength" resonates deeply with the New Testament revelation that Christ Himself is our righteousness. As [2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Our Sin") powerfully proclaims, "For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." Our right standing before a holy God is not achieved through human merit, religious performance, or adherence to the law, but is a divine gift freely imputed to us through faith in Christ's perfect life, atoning death, and victorious resurrection ([Romans 3:21-22](/romans/3-21 "Romans 3:21-22 - Righteousness from God Through Faith")). Furthermore, the strength mentioned in the verse is perfectly embodied in Christ, who is revealed as the very power of God ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power of God")). He not only imputes righteousness but also empowers believers to live righteously, to overcome sin, and to triumph over the world's challenges ([Philippians 4:13](/philippians/4-13 "Philippians 4:13 - I Can Do All Things Through Christ")). The prophecy that "to him shall [men] come" is gloriously fulfilled in the global expansion of the Gospel, as people from every tribe, tongue, and nation are irresistibly drawn to Christ through the Holy Spirit ([John 12:32](/john/12-32 "John 12:32 - Jesus Will Draw All People to Himself")). Finally, the solemn promise that "all that are incensed against him shall be ashamed" points to the ultimate triumph of Christ's eternal kingdom and His final, righteous judgment, where every knee will bow and every tongue will confess His Lordship, whether willingly in worship or in forced submission at the culmination of history ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")). Jesus is the incarnate LORD in whom all righteousness and strength perfectly reside, and to whom all humanity must ultimately come.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 41:11

Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; and they that strive with thee shall perish.

Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Isaiah 54:17

No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue [that] shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This [is] the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness [is] of me, saith the LORD.

2 Timothy 4:17

Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and [that] all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.

2 Timothy 4:18

And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve [me] unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Ephesians 6:10

¶ Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

John 12:32

And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all [men] unto me.