Isaiah 57:15-21 For thus said the high and lofty One that inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place… (with Isaiah 66:1, 2): — I. THE DIVINE MAJESTY. Consider — 1. The grandeur of His state. "Heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool," a throne being an emblem of authority and power. 2. HIS attributes. II. THE DIVINE CONDESCENSION. 1. THE OBJECTS OF HIS regard. The qualities which attract His attention belong to the mind and heart. (1) God dwells not with the wise because of their wisdom — not with the great because of their greatness — not with the rich because of their riches — not with the poor because of their poverty, but with all — whether wise or great, rich or poor-who possess a contrite spirit. (2) Again- those with whom God dwells are the humble. God's grace is at war with pride. (3) Those with whom God dwells cherish a spirit of reverence for His Word. "To that man will I look that trembleth at My Word." There is little doubt that we should tremble at God's word if it were addressed to us by an audible voice. Viewed in whatever light, still the Bible is a wonderful book. But what reverence is due to it as the oracle of truth, as the rule of life, as the lamp which God has kindled to be a light to our path! We reverence this Word when we receive all Scripture as given by inspiration of God, and "thus saith the Lord" settles with us every religious controversy. 2. The expressions of the Divine regard. (1) "To this man will I look," figurative language denoting the interest which God takes in contrite and humble souls, and the complacency with which He regards them. (2) It is added, "With him will I dwell." First of all the question is proposed, "Where is the house that ye will build Me?" My temple is the universe, I inhabit eternity,, I dwell in the high and holy place. "Where is the house that ye will build Me? What a mystery is here, God dwelling by His Spirit in the heart, restoring the reign of holiness, setting up His law, establishing His authority, shedding abroad His gracious influences, filling it with light and peace and love! (3) But He is said to dwell there for a special purpose, "to revive the heart of the contrite ones.' There are many things in life to depress and discourage us — some are cast down by adversities, some are harassed by spiritual doubts, some are suffering from a consciousness of sin; and with all such the High and Lofty One dwells. (H. J. Gamble.) Parallel Verses KJV: For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. |
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