Isaiah 5:18

Woe to those who draw iniquity with cords of deceit and pull sin along with cart ropes,

Study Bible

Woe to those
The word "woe" in Hebrew is "הוֹי" (hoy), a term often used by the prophets to express lamentation or impending judgment. It serves as a divine warning, indicating that the actions of the people have reached a point where God's patience is wearing thin. This phrase sets the tone for the verse, highlighting the seriousness of the behavior being addressed. In a conservative Christian perspective, it is a call to self-examination and repentance, urging believers to heed God's warnings and turn from sinful ways.

who draw iniquity
The Hebrew word for "iniquity" is "עָוֹן" (avon), which refers to moral perversity or sinfulness. The imagery of "drawing" suggests an intentional and active engagement in sin. It is not merely a passive falling into sin but a deliberate choice to embrace and perpetuate it. This phrase challenges believers to consider the ways in which they might be complicit in sin, whether through actions, thoughts, or societal systems, and to seek God's strength to resist and overcome such tendencies.

with cords of deceit
"Cords of deceit" implies that the iniquity is intertwined with falsehood and deception. The Hebrew word for "deceit" is "שֶׁקֶר" (sheker), which denotes falsehood or lies. This suggests that sin is often masked by lies, both to oneself and to others, making it more insidious and difficult to recognize. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, this serves as a reminder of the importance of truth and integrity in the life of a believer, as well as the need for discernment to see through the deceptions of sin.

and pull sin along
The act of "pulling" sin indicates a willful effort to carry or transport sin, suggesting a burden that one chooses to bear. The Hebrew word for "sin" here is "חַטָּאָה" (chatta'ah), which refers to an offense or a missing of the mark. This phrase emphasizes the active role individuals play in perpetuating sin in their lives. It calls believers to reflect on the burdens of sin they may be carrying and to seek liberation through Christ, who offers freedom from the weight of sin.

with cart ropes
The imagery of "cart ropes" suggests a heavy, burdensome load, indicating that the sin being carried is substantial and significant. The Hebrew word for "ropes" is "עֲבֹת" (avoth), which can also mean thick cords or bands. This conveys the idea that sin, when not addressed, becomes a heavy and entangling burden. In a conservative Christian context, this serves as a powerful illustration of the ensnaring nature of sin and the urgent need for repentance and reliance on God's grace to break free from its hold.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book bearing his name. He prophesied to the Kingdom of Judah during a time of moral and spiritual decline.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which Isaiah primarily addressed. The people of Judah were often rebuked for their idolatry and injustice.

3. Iniquity and Sin
These terms refer to moral wrongdoing and rebellion against God's laws. In this context, they symbolize the people's persistent and deliberate sinfulness.

4. Cords of Deceit
A metaphor for the deceptive practices and lies that entangle people in sin.

5. Cart Ropes
Symbolizes the heavy burden and deliberate effort to continue in sin, suggesting that the people are not only sinning but are doing so with great determination.

Teaching Points

The Deceptive Nature of Sin
Sin often begins subtly, with small deceptions that grow into larger entanglements. Believers must be vigilant against the initial cords of deceit.

The Burden of Persistent Sin
Continuing in sin is like pulling a heavy load. It requires effort and leads to spiritual exhaustion. Christians are called to lay aside every weight and sin that entangles.

The Danger of Willful Rebellion
Deliberately choosing sin is a serious offense against God. Repentance and turning back to God are crucial to breaking free from the ropes of sin.

The Call to Holiness
God calls His people to live holy lives, free from the bondage of sin. This requires daily surrender and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

The Consequences of Sin
Persistent sin leads to spiritual death and separation from God. Understanding the gravity of sin should motivate believers to seek God's forgiveness and grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "cords of deceit" that can entangle believers, and how can we recognize them?

2. How does the imagery of "pulling sin along with cart ropes" challenge us to examine our own lives for areas of willful rebellion against God?

3. In what ways can we apply the teaching of James 1:14-15 to avoid the progression of sin in our lives?

4. How can the church community support individuals who are struggling with persistent sin, in light of the teachings of Isaiah 5:18?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the burden of sin. How did you find freedom, and what role did repentance play in that process?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 5:22
This verse speaks about the wicked being ensnared by their own sins, similar to the imagery of being bound by cords of deceit.

Romans 1:24-32
Paul describes how God gives people over to their sinful desires when they persist in rejecting Him, paralleling the idea of pulling sin along with cart ropes.

James 1:14-15
James explains how desire leads to sin, and sin, when full-grown, leads to death, echoing the progression of sin depicted in Isaiah 5:18.