The Lord is the one above all who is completely trustworthy, yet the people do not “know” Yahweh in a wholesome, responsive relationship. He compares Israel unfavorably to an ox and a donkey. Israel has not turned “to” the Lord, but has even abandoned, despised, and turned away from Him (1:2-4).
What have they gained from rebellion? They are stricken, sick, faint, and unsound. Their land is unproductive. Their social fabric is degenerating, leaving her like a garden shack. In spite of this hopeless situation, Yahweh will take the initiative to restore faithfulness in Israel (1:5-9).
Her problem centered in worship, but not according to the worthiness of her God. Worship should include how God’s people treat others with justice at all times, but their “worship” trampled on justice. Worship in every form should seek the pleasure of God, but their worship apart from reverence was worthless. Even prayer became a sham (1:10-15).
The corrective is in Isaiah’s handbook for true worship. A true worshipper will take deliberate, intentional action to bring about God’s justice, either by fostering an environment of justice or bringing the unjust to account (1:16-17). True worship combines character and conduct.
God invites everyone to “reason together” with Him in this matter of true worship. If they accept His offer and obey Him, the “best of the land” will be their reward. There is, however, a reward for failure to obey (1:18-20).
Jerusalem once was known as a city where justice prevailed, and where what God believed to be right was considered a “resident” of the city. That changed when the people rebelled against Him. Justice was replaced with bribery, extortion, and personal agendas. Yet, after judgment, the city would regain her reputation as a place of faithfulness (1:21-26).
Since the people failed in faith at the point of justice and righteousness, God chose justice and righteousness to be the instruments of her restoration. The remnant will be restored, but the unrepentant “will come to an end.” He will focus His judgment on their idolatry (1:27-31). Chapter 1 sets the stage for the entire book. A clear line has been drawn between the few who trust in Yahweh and the many who continue in their rebellion.
Dr. David Moore is a Baptist preacher in Pampa and an online instructor in Bible and theology for Taylor University and Nations University. Email: dm5867se@outlook.com
