Faithful on Fridays Blog

Part Twelve

As this big picture of Isaiah’s prophecies closes God reminds us of the beginning and repeats some promises. Yes, there’s punishment for their sin, but there’s forgiveness for those who repent (ch. 1). That’s always the key with God. In chapter 2 Isaiah looked into that prophetic telescope and saw a glimpse of the ‘latter days’ when nations will be coming to Jerusalem where He’ll appear in majestic splendor to judge the nations. There’s one day (2:12), that day (2:11 and 20) when Jesus returns. Picking it up in chapter 65:17-25 that specific day ushers in a new heaven, new earth, and new Jerusalem for believers in Jesus Christ. There will be no memory of past hurts, but only joy and gladness as God’s people, both Jew and Gentile, new creations, enter into His presence for eternity (ch. 4).

The picture that’s painted for us in chapter 66 is Jesus sitting on the throne beside His Father with earth below where His people temporarily reside. His Spirit dwells in the hearts of those who are humble enough to repent, however, not so for unbelievers (vs. 3-5). Reading Revelation gives you a solemn warning for the pride and rebellion of those who refuse Him, but this chapter in Isaiah tells us there’s a new sound coming for us. It’ll come fast, signaling His return and Judgment Day (vs. 6-14). That supernatural sound is like a trumpet blast (Jer. 10:13), a war cry (Josh. 6:10), and Victory Day.

Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever.”

Revelation 11:15 

Isaiah’s last words help us imagine the Day of the Lord when He returns on chariots with fiery passion for His Church and fiery judgment for the rebellious. However, there’s a sign, an end-time harvest coming as well (vs. 18-20), a global harvest of souls, world evangelism reaching the nations before the final gathering.

And another angel came out of the temple, calling with a loud voice to Him who sat on the cloud, “Put in your sickle, and reap, for the hour to reap has come, for the harvest of the earth is fully ripe.” Revelation 14:15 

These promises are for you, dear reader, and for your families (vs. 22) so don’t give up hope if they’re not all saved yet … keep praying! Let the gospel be heard without words, the way you handle yourself, but also with words and deeds that are evidence of your faith. They’ll see it and hear it and God will move in their hearts. 

And they sang a new song, saying, “Worthy are You to take the scroll and to open its seals, for You were slain, and by Your blood You ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, Revelation 5:9.