Salvation of the Righteous

Isaiah 33:13–24
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When the Jews in Jerusalem saw 185,000 Assyrian soldiers slain by God in one night, they realized that the God of Israel was “a consuming fire” (Isa. 10:17). This miracle deliverance of Jerusalem not only brought glory to God among the Gentiles but it also brought fear and conviction to the Jews (vv 13-16). Isaiah hoped that this would bring his people to a place of true devotion to the Lord. God called on people everywhere to acknowledge His righteous actions and His power (v. 13). The people asked who can endure God’s great judgment and the prophet responded that those who walk righteously and speak what is right (v. 15). In fact, these people will enjoy God’s blessings (v. 16).

The prophet shifts his thoughts to the end times and envisions Jerusalem ruled by King Messiah (vv. 17-24). In contrast to what happened during the Assyrian invasion the Jews during the millennium will experience no terror, see no arrogant military officers and hear no foreign speech (vv 17-19). It will be a time when righteousness and peace will flourish in the land. Never again will Jerusalem be destroyed (v. 20). It will be protected by a moat (v. 21). He will rescue Israel (v. 22! In a footnote on verse 22 of the New Scofield Reference Bible  it says, “All the functions of government–judicial, legislative, and executive–will be centered in the Messianic King.” No wonder the people say, “He will save us” (v. 22). Jerusalem was like a ship that almost sank, but the Lord brought it through the storm (v. 23). The nation will be whole physically and spiritually because they are forgiven (v. 24).

Application

I am like a ship that almost sank, but the Lord brought me through the storm. I will one day be whole physically and spiritually because I am forgiven.