Praise For The Preservation of Israel

Isaiah 27:1–13
» View this passage in NIV (Bible Gateway)

It seems that the nations around Israel have many myths about sea monsters. “Leviathan” was a seven-headed monster and enemy of God’s created order (vv. 1-2). To slay “leviathan” was a great achievement and the Lord promised to do it (Ps 74:14). When the battle is over at the end of the tribulation and the Lord has conquered evil, Israel can enter her glorious kingdom without fear. In the song of the vineyard, Israel is probably the predominant one. The vine also refers to Christ and His Church (John 15), and the godless Gentile society, “the vine of the earth” (Rev. 14:18). The vineyard will succeed because “I the Lord do keep it” (v. 3). God promises to water and protect this vineyard from the “briars and thorns” (which some suggest) refers to the enemies of Israel (vv. 4-6).

In order for Israel to bear fruit, God had to discipline the disobedient nation (vv. 7-13). God will use suffering to purge His people and prepare them for their kingdom (v. 9). God’s purpose in judging the earth is not vengeance but He wants to correct us and bring us back to Him. He did not punish Israel just to make them suffer, but He wanted to cure them of their idolatry.

The defended city (v. 10) is in reference to the fact that during the millennial kingdom these cities, which were considered impregnable shall need no walls. This will be a time when all the world shall worship the Lord and such cities shall be emptied. The people will have no need of them.

Application

God will never punish me for my sin just to get even or to make me suffer. He only does it because He loves me and wants to make me better equipped to serve Him.