During Isaiah's lifetime, there had been more than one resurgence of pagan idolatry. In some cases it might be seen as little more than a political reaction to royal reforms, but it has always been hard to separate politics and religion in that part of the world. Clearly, in God's eyes it made a difference, for typical political maneuvering was seldom condemned for its own sake, but straying from His Law was never acceptable. Having a political motive was no excuse.
The Mediterranean coastlands represent all Gentile pagan nations, but those far away in particular. In this case, they are a proxy for the various deities claimed in those lands. God calls on them to meet Him in court, where He sits as Judge. While scholars insist Isaiah refers here to Cyrus of Persia as rising from the north and east, just about every ancient empire (except Egypt) came from east of Palestine, typically attacking from the north, following the Euphrates up where it comes near the Syrian coast. Further, the Lord had accurately prophesied of Assyria and Babylon coming to dominate Palestine in turn, so Persia is just one more. No pagan deities managed to prophesy these things before they happened. Did they take notice? Of course not, but the Gentiles encouraged each other to invest more heavily in new images of their various gods.
Judah had no excuse for joining this madness. God chose them Himself, Creator of all things. Theirs was the only real God, and His divine favor was very real. When other nations dared to rise without God's calling, they were crushed and forgotten. It mattered not a whit how great and powerful they were, especially compared to little Israel. It was not Israel's greatness, but the greatness of the God of Israel, who could make them able to face any empire.
God pays close attention to the most needy of earth. If they call on Him, nothing they need is too hard for Him. Rivers in the desert, enough water to grow a massive forest, anything is possible with God. Indeed, His people would be like a massive forest growing along the banks of ancient rivers of His revelation.
So let these proud nations bring their deities to court. Let them prove they are real gods by a record of prophesies, such as the rise of Assyria and Babylon, let them compare with His direct promise there will be a Persian Empire. Or let them even fully explain Creation. No, they cannot, but are simply chunks of human artwork.
So let's get specific. There will be an empire arise far to the east (Persia) which will, indeed, call upon the God of Israel. The conquering ruler will treat mighty kings like piles of wet sand and clay. No other deity predicts this. Let's see if it happens. Indeed, it did, for Cyrus of Persia was aware of Israel's God, and gave Him credit by name. He was promised to set Israel free from the Babylonian captivity. So why is it no one in Jerusalem will now embrace this message by faith? Why do they cling to other messages from false gods, and ignore the message of their own? All these imported gods are a waste of decorative materials in Zion.
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By Ed Hurst
08 April 2009
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