Chapter 49
The unbelief and rejection of the Jews. (Is. 49:1-6) Gracious promise to the Gentiles. (Is. 49:7-12)
God's love to the church. (Is. 49:13-17) Its increase. (Is. 49:18-23) And deliverance. (Is. 49:24-26)
Is. 49:1-6 The great Author of redemption shows the authority for his work. The sword of his
word slays the lusts of his people, and all at enmity with them. His sharp arrows wound the
conscience; but all these wounds will be healed, when the sinner prays to him for mercy. But even
the Redeemer, who spake as never man spake in his personal ministry, often seemed to labour in
vain. And if Jacob will not be brought back to God, and Israel will not be gathered, still Christ will
be glorious. This promise is in part fulfilled in the calling of the Gentiles. Men perish in darkness.
But Christ enlightens men, and so makes them holy and happy.
Is. 49:7-12 The Father is the Lord, the Redeemer, and Holy One of Israel, as sending the Son
to be the Redeemer. Man, whom he came to save, put contempt upon him. To this he submitted
for our salvation. He is a pledge for all the blessings of the covenant; in him God was reconciling
the world to himself. Pardoning mercy is a release from the curse of the law; renewing grace is a
release from the dominion of sin: both are from Christ. He saith to those in darkness, Show
yourselves. Not only see, but be seen, to the glory of God, and your own comforts. Though there
are difficulties in the way to heaven, yet the grace of God will carry us over them, and make even
the mountains a way. This denotes the free invitations and the encouraging promises of the gospel,
and the outpouring of the Spirit.
Is. 49:13-17 Let there be universal joy, for God will have mercy upon the afflicted, because of
his compassion; upon his afflicted, because of his covenant. We have no more reason to question
his promise and grace, than we have to question his providence and justice. Be assured that God
has a tender affection for his church and people; he would not have them to be discouraged. Some
mothers do neglect their children; but God's compassions to his people, infinitely exceed those of
the tenderest parents toward their children. His setting them as a mark on his hand, or a seal upon
his arm, denotes his being ever mindful of them. As far as we have scriptural evidence that we
belong to his ransomed flock, we may be sure that he will never forsake us. Let us then give diligence
to make our calling and election sure, and rejoice in the hope and glory of God.
Is. 49:18-23 Zion is addressed as an afflicted widow, bereaved of her children. Numbers flock
to her, and she is assured that they come to be a comfort to her. There are times when the church
is desolate and few in number; yet its desolations shall not last for ever, and God will repair them.
God can raise up friends for returning Israelites, even among Gentiles. They shall bring their
children, and make them thy children. Let all deal tenderly and carefully with young converts and
beginners in religion. Princes shall protect the church. It shall appear that God is the sovereign Lord
of all. And those who in the exercise of faith, hope, and patience, wait on God for the fulfilment
of his promises, shall never be confounded.