The Lord Calls Israel to Hear His Word
The eternal Creator speaks and sends according to his purpose.
Isaiah 48:12-16 (BSB)
12 Listen to Me, O Jacob, and Israel, whom I have called: I am He; I am the first, and I am the last.
13 Surely My own hand founded the earth, and My right hand spread out the heavens; when I summon them, they stand up together.
14 Come together, all of you, and listen: Which of the idols has foretold these things? The LORD’s chosen ally will carry out His desire against Babylon, and His arm will be against the Chaldeans.
15 I, even I, have spoken; yes, I have called him. I have brought him, and he will succeed in his mission.
16 Come near to Me and listen to this: From the beginning I have not spoken in secret; from the time it happened, I was there.” And now the Lord GOD has sent me, accompanied by His Spirit.
What is the big idea of Isaiah 48:12-16?
The eternal Creator speaks and sends according to his purpose.
How does Isaiah 48:12-16 point to Christ?
Isaiah 48:12-16 reveals the eternal Creator who speaks, sends, and acts through his Spirit. The gospel declares that Christ, sent by the Father and empowered by the Spirit, fulfills God’s saving purpose.
Authorial Intent
To reaffirm the LORD’s eternal identity, creative authority, and active sending in redemptive history.
Historical Context
Addressed to Israel in a time of uncertainty, the passage reassures them of God’s unchanging authority and purposeful action.
Chapter: Isaiah 48
The LORD Refines Stubborn Israel and Calls His People Out of Babylon
The LORD exposes Israel’s stubbornness, proves his sovereign word, refines his people for his glory, and calls them out of Babylon into redeemed obedience.