Isaiah 25: Free at Last!
Free at last, free at last!
Great God Almighty,
Free at last!
THIS SONG, WITH eloquent simplicity, expresses the pervasive hope of oppressed, exploited and downtrodden people. Similarly, in this chapter a song of praise arises phoenix like from the shattered world we saw at the end of chapter 24. Here we read of Israel's joy at the downfall of God's enemies, the end of death itself and God's final victory. Derek Kidner entitles this chapter "the great liberation," subtitling the sections: the end of tyranny (vv. 1-5), the end of darkness and death (vv. 6-8) and the end of pride (vv. 9-12). As we read of God's triumph, may it help to strengthen our faith in times of trouble.
Warming Up to God
Describe an experience you have had in driving rain, a snowstorm or some other natural disaster in which you knew that God was present with you.
Read Isaiah 25. »
Discovering the Word
- How is God's character described in verse 1?
- What repeated adjective reveals the main target of God's judgment in verses 2-5?
- With what vivid metaphors does Isaiah describe God's relationship to the poor and needy (vv. 4-5)?
- Look at the scene of God's banquet in verses 6-8. How does this wonderful imagery transform your understanding of death for the believer?
- According to verses 10-12, what is the particular sin which characterized Moab (see also Isa 16:6)?
Applying the Word
- When are you most able to identify with the delighted response of verse 9?
- To what present trial should you make a similar response?
Responding in Prayer
Pray or write your own song of praise to God for the "marvelous things" he has planned (v. 1) for your life.
For Further Study
Hymns II Edited by Paul Beckwith, Hughes M. Huffman & Mark Hunt