“THY GOD REIGNETH!”

Isa_52:1-15



It is not God that has become lethargic; but we that have slept and need to awake. Being awakened, we discover that two sets of attire are waiting for us: First, His strength, so that we may not be afraid of ten thousands of people who set themselves round about; and secondly, the beautiful garments of our Lord’s character. See Col_3:9-17.

At last the climax of the long prophetic stairway is reached and the summons for the exodus from Babylon rings out, Isa_52:11. It was God’s return to the desolate city, Isa_52:2; Isa_52:8. The stately procession moves slowly and fearlessly. It is not the escape of a band of fugitive slaves, dreading pursuit and recapture, Isa_52:12. Before it speed the heralds, appearing on the sky line as they ascend the mountains which surround the Holy City, publishing peace and salvation, Isa_52:7. The central body is composed of white robed priests, bearing with reverent care the holy vessels, Isa_52:11, of which Nebuchadnezzar despoiled the Temple, but which Cyrus restored. See Ezr_1:7-11. Thus, also, the Church marches through the world.