Main Highlights
The chapter highlights the deep-seated sin and corruption within Israel, which has created a separation between them and God. It also speaks of God's eventual intervention and the coming of a redeemer.
Key Verses
-Behold, the hand of Yahweh is not so short that it cannot save, nor is His ear so dull that it cannot hear.- Isaiah 59:1
-But your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you so that He does not hear.- Isaiah 59:2
-And justice is turned back, and righteousness stands far away; for truth has stumbled in the public square, and uprightness cannot enter.- Isaiah 59:14
Related Scripture
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God- Romans 3:23
Scholar Insight
"“Isaiah 59 indicts Israel for her sins, showing that their problem is not that God is powerless to save them but that their sins have separated them from him (59:1-2). This separation has led to a breakdown in justice and truth (59:3-15a). But God will intervene and execute judgment, putting on righteousness as his breastplate and salvation as his helmet (59:15b-20). Ultimately, God will make an everlasting covenant with his people and give them his Spirit and his words (59:21). ( Tremper Longman III, Old Testament Commentary: Isaiah, page 351)"
Theological Analysis
What we learn about God
God is just and holy but also merciful. He sees the sin of His people and will eventually intervene to bring about righteousness.
Christological Connection
The Redeemer who will come to Zion is a clear reference to the Messiah. "And a Redeemer will come to Zion, and to those who turn from transgression in Jacob," declares Yahweh. (Isaiah 59:20)
Systematic Theology
The doctrine of sin and its consequences. Sin separates us from God and brings about injustice and corruption in society.
Law & Grace
The chapter highlights the failure of the law to bring about true righteousness. It is God's grace, through the coming Redeemer, that will ultimately bring salvation. Israel's sin has resulted in "judgment is far from us, and justice does not overtake us." (Isaiah 59:11).
Personal Application
We should examine our own hearts and lives for sin and turn to God in repentance, seeking His grace and forgiveness. "Let the wicked forsake his way and the man of iniquity his thoughts; and let him return to Yahweh, and He will have compassion on him, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon." (Isaiah 55:7)