Isaiah 60:10

Isaiah 60:10 stands as a powerful prophetic declaration within a chapter rich with imagery of future glory for Jerusalem. This verse highlights a remarkable turnaround for God's people, promising divine restoration and the unexpected aid of former adversaries.

Context

Chapter 60 of Isaiah is often referred to as the "New Jerusalem" chapter, painting a vivid picture of Jerusalem's future splendor and central role among the nations. Following periods of darkness and judgment (like the Babylonian exile), this prophecy looks forward to a time when God's light shines upon His people, attracting nations and their wealth. Verse 10 specifically addresses the transition from divine discipline to overflowing grace. The "wrath" refers to the period when God allowed foreign powers to conquer and scatter Israel due to their disobedience, such as the destruction of Jerusalem and its temple. The subsequent "favour" marks the beginning of a new era of restoration and blessing.

Key Themes

• Divine Sovereignty Over Judgment and Mercy: The verse explicitly states that both the past suffering ("in my wrath I smote thee") and the future blessing ("in my favour have I had mercy on thee") are directly from God's hand. This underscores His ultimate control over history and His compassionate nature.
• Restoration of Jerusalem and Israel: A central promise is the rebuilding and strengthening of Jerusalem. The phrase "build up thy walls" signifies not just physical reconstruction but also renewed security, prosperity, and national honor for God's chosen city. This theme is prevalent throughout Isaiah's later chapters, promising a triumphant return for the exiled people.
• Gentile Participation and Service: Perhaps one of the most striking elements is that "the sons of strangers" (Gentiles, non-Israelites) and "their kings" will be instrumental in this restoration, serving and ministering to Jerusalem. This foreshadows a future where nations recognize and contribute to God's work, rather than opposing it, demonstrating God's universal plan for salvation and blessing, as seen in Isaiah 2:2.

Linguistic Insights

• The Hebrew word for "wrath" here is 'ap (אַף), often referring to the nose or nostrils, and by extension, anger or hot displeasure, indicating a strong, righteous indignation from God.
• "Smote" (nakah - נָכָה) implies a decisive and impactful blow, emphasizing the severity of the divine judgment Israel experienced.
• Conversely, "favour" is ratson (רָצוֹן), signifying goodwill, delight, or pleasure. It speaks to God's benevolent disposition and His willingness to show grace.
• "Mercy" (racham - רַחַם) is a deep, tender compassion, often associated with a mother's love for her child, highlighting God's profound pity and lovingkindness towards His people even after discipline. This profound mercy is a hallmark of God's character, as declared in Lamentations 3:32.

Practical Application

Isaiah 60:10 offers profound hope and lessons for believers today:

• God's Faithfulness Through Discipline: It reminds us that even when we experience hardship or discipline (often a consequence of straying from God's path), it is not the end. God's ultimate plan is for restoration and blessing. His "wrath" is a means to bring us back to Himself, leading to "favour" and mercy.
• Hope in God's Ultimate Plan: This verse provides assurance that God's purposes for His people will prevail, regardless of current circumstances. Just as Jerusalem was promised restoration, believers can trust in God's unwavering commitment to His covenant promises.
• The Inclusive Nature of God's Kingdom: The involvement of "strangers" and "kings" in building and ministering points to the broad, inclusive nature of God's work. It suggests that people from all backgrounds can be drawn to God's light and contribute to His kingdom, fulfilling the vision of a multitude from every nation, kindred, and tongue.