Isaiah 21
-The oracles (burdens) of the
three areas are covered quickly in this section. Babylon (the “wilderness by
the sea”), Edom, and Arabia are prophesied over by the Word of the LORD for
difficult times and overtaking by their enemies. These are harsh visions for
“the treacherous one still deals treacherously and the destroyer still destroys
(Isaiah 21:2).” Elam and Media are predicted to come up against Babylon and
make an end to all the torment that she had caused. There would be anguish,
pain like child birth labor, bewilderment, and terror. It makes the prophet’s
mind reel and horror overwhelms him. His hope is dashed and he trembles at the
scene. He, in prophetic language, is made a watchman and reporter paying very
close attention to what will be coming. For “Fallen, fallen is Babylon; and all
the images of her gods are shattered on the ground. God has made it known
(Isaiah 21:1-10). I believe this is the prophecy of what happened in 539 B.C.
as the Medes and the Persians invaded and can be cross referenced with Daniel
5. Babylon was a great and powerful city that fell because of her idolatry,
witchcraft, and sexual immorality. They defied the Living God and opposed Him
in their cultural practices. This is the reason for their destruction and
judgment. There was no help for them because they would not realize the truth
of the LORD’s way, even though He had sent them men like Daniel to help them
turn. *Application* Do you allow the people in your life who are called by God
to correct you a voice or not? Listen to prophetic warnings and turn your heart
to God.
-Edom is denounced for not coming
back to the LORD as well. God’s grace wants them to inquire and repent, but
sadly they resist (Isaiah 21:11-12). The prophet Obadiah also foretells of this
people’s destruction in far greater detail.
-Arabia is portrayed as a
fleeing-frightened fugitive. Her might and splendor has vanished and will be
terminated. Arabia’s militant and mighty remainder will be few in number, for
the LORD God of Israel has spoken (Isaiah 21:13-17). *Application* Those who do
not fear the LORD initially will eventually run scared from their enemies.
Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 21:9
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