◄ Isaiah 66 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Heaven Is My Throne 1This is what the LORD says: “Heaven is My throne, and earth is My footstool. What kind of house will you build for Me? Or where will My place of repose be? 2Has not My hand made all these things?a And so they came into being,” declares the LORD. “This is the one I will esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, who trembles at My word. 3Whoever slaughters an ox is like one who slays a man; whoever sacrifices a lamb is like one who breaks a dog’s neck; whoever presents a grain offering is like one who offers pig’s blood; whoever offers frankincense is like one who blesses an idol. Indeed, they have chosen their own ways and delighted in their abominations. 4So I will choose their punishment and I will bring terror upon them, because I called and no one answered, I spoke and no one listened. But they did evil in My sight and chose that in which I did not delight.” 5You who tremble at His word, hear the word of the LORD: “Your brothers who hate you and exclude you because of My name have said, ‘Let the LORD be glorified that we may see your joy!’ But they will be put to shame.” 6Hear the uproar from the city; listen to the voice from the temple! It is the voice of the LORD, repaying His enemies what they deserve! Rejoice with Jerusalem 7“Before she was in labor, she gave birth; before she was in pain, she delivered a boy. 8Who has heard of such as this? Who has seen such things? Can a country be born in a day or a nation be delivered in an instant? Yet as soon as Zion was in labor, she gave birth to her children. 9Shall I bring a baby to the point of birth and not deliver it?” says the LORD. “Or will I who deliver close the womb?” says your God. 10Be glad for Jerusalem and rejoice over her, all who love her. Rejoice greatly with her, all who mourn over her, 11so that you may nurse and be satisfied at her comforting breasts; you may drink deeply and delight yourselves in her glorious abundance. 12For this is what the LORD says: “I will extend peace to her like a river, and the wealth of nations like a flowing stream; you will nurse and be carried on her arm, and bounced upon her knees. 13As a mother comforts her son, so will I comfort you, and you will be consoled over Jerusalem.” 14When you see, you will rejoice, and you will flourish like grass; then the hand of the LORD will be revealed to His servants, but His wrath will be shown to His enemies. Final Judgments against the Wicked 15For behold, the LORD will come with fire— His chariots are like a whirlwind— to execute His anger with fury and His rebuke with flames of fire. 16For by fire and by His sword, the LORD will execute judgment on all flesh, and many will be slain by the LORD. 17“Those who consecrate and purify themselves to enter the groves—to follow one in the center of those who eat the flesh of swine and vermin and rats—will perish together,” declares the LORD. 18“And I, knowing their deeds and thoughts, am comingb to gather all nations and tongues, and they will come and see My glory. 19I will establish a sign among them, and I will send survivors from among them to the nations—to Tarshish, Put, and the archers of Lud; to Tubal, Javan, and the islandsc far away who have not heard of My fame or seen My glory. So they will proclaim My glory among the nations. 20And they will bring all your brothers from all the nations as a gift to the LORD on horses and chariots and wagons, on mules and camels, to My holy mountain Jerusalem,” says the LORD, “just as the Israelites bring an offering in a clean vessel to the house of the LORD.” 21“And I will select some of them as priests and Levites,” says the LORD. 22“For just as the new heavens and the new earth,d which I will make, will endure before Me,” declares the LORD, “so your descendants and your name will endure. 23From one New Moon to another and from one Sabbath to another, all mankind will come to worship before Me,” says the LORD. 24“As they go forth, they will see the corpses of the men who have rebelled against Me; for their worm will never die, their fire will never be quenched,e and they will be a horror to all mankind.” Footnotes: 2 a Cited in Acts 7:49–50 18 b Literally And I, their deeds and their thoughts, am coming 19 c Or coastlands 22 d LXX the new heaven and the new earth; see also Isaiah 65:17 and Revelation 21:1. 24 e Cited in Mark 9:48 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Isaiah 66 Summary Heaven Is My Throne Verses 1–2 – Heaven Is My Throne God says that He cannot be contained by any building. His true resting place is with the humble who tremble at His word. Verses 3–4 – Empty Rituals Exposed Sacrifices given with proud or rebellious hearts are repulsive to Him. Since people chose their own ways, He will choose harsh consequences for them. Verses 5–6 – Vindication of the Humble Those who honor the Lord but are mocked by ‘brothers’ will see the Lord appear in power; the sound from the temple announces His judgment. Verses 7–9 – Zion’s Sudden Birth Before labor pains even begin, Zion gives birth to a nation. God guarantees that what He starts He will bring to completion. Verses 10–14 – A Mother’s Comfort Jerusalem will nurse and satisfy her children. Joy, peace, and strength will flow to those who love her, while God’s hand is against His foes. Verses 15–17 – Judgment by Fire The Lord comes with fire and chariots like a whirlwind. All who follow idolatrous practices will be consumed. Verses 18–21 – Nations Gathered God sees all nations. Survivors will proclaim His glory worldwide, bringing people from every land to Jerusalem as an offering. Verses 22–24 – New Heavens and Earth Just as the new creation will last forever, so will God’s people. Yet the fate of the rebels—“their worm will not die”—remains a perpetual warning. Isaiah 66, the final chapter of the Book of Isaiah, is a profound discourse on the nature of true worship and God's ultimate plan for humanity. God's omnipotence is highlighted, underscoring the infiniteness of His dwelling. Contrasting true worship from hypocritical rituals, God emphasizes His desire for humble and contrite hearts. The chapter elucidates divine judgement, the restoration of Israel, and ends with a glimpse of future hope and peace under the new heavens and new earth. Historical Setting Isaiah ministered in Judah during the eighth century BC, a time of political fear and spiritual drift. Assyria loomed large, Jerusalem’s leaders sought alliances, and temple worship often masked injustice (Isaiah 1:10-17). Chapter 66 rounds off the entire prophecy by contrasting shallow religion with heartfelt obedience and by promising both judgment and worldwide blessing. Structure and Flow of Isaiah 66 • God’s greatness and true dwelling (1-2) • Worthless worship and chosen punishment (3-4) • Hope for the remnant; judgment on the mockers (5-6) • Miraculous birth of a new community (7-9) • Comfort and joy for Jerusalem’s lovers (10-14) • Fiery reckoning for idolaters (15-17) • Global mission and priestly inclusion of nations (18-21) • Eternal new creation; lasting warning (22-24) The Temple Question and God’s Throne “‘Heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool’” (66:1). Solomon already admitted that “the highest heaven cannot contain You” (1 Kings 8:27). Stephen quoted Isaiah 66:1-2 to show that God worked outside the temple long before it was built (Acts 7:48-49). The verse does not belittle the temple—built by God’s command—but warns against thinking bricks guarantee His presence. True worship is a matter of contrite hearts. True Worship versus Ritualism (1-4) Isaiah bluntly compares hollow sacrifices to violent crimes: • “He who slaughters an ox is like one who kills a man” (66:3). God’s complaint echoes 1 Samuel 15:22: “To obey is better than sacrifice.” Ritual without obedience insults Him; therefore He “will choose their punishments” (66:4). The same logic appears in Proverbs 1:29-31 where those who hate knowledge “eat the fruit of their own way.” Encouragement for the Remnant (5-6) Faithful believers were mocked by religious insiders—foreshadowing Jesus’ followers being expelled from synagogues (John 16:2). Isaiah assures them that God hears. “A sound of uproar from the city… it is the voice of the LORD” (66:6) suggests judgment beginning at the very temple that had become a den of pride (compare 1 Peter 4:17). Zion’s Miraculous Birth and Global Impact (7-9) Before contractions begin, a child arrives—that is, a nation appears at once. The image points to God’s power to create a redeemed community suddenly. Many connect this with the rapid growth of the church after Pentecost (Acts 2) and with future national revival of Israel (Romans 11:26). Verse 9 assures that the One who opens the womb will not leave the task unfinished; Philippians 1:6 echoes this assurance on a personal level. Comfort Imagery: Jerusalem as a Nursing Mother (10-14) Jerusalem’s comfort language is rich: • “You will nurse and be carried on her hip” (66:12). • “As a mother comforts her son, so will I comfort you” (66:13). The city is both location and symbol of God’s caregiving. Peace (“shalom”) flows like a river, recalling 48:18 and Ezekiel 47:1-12’s life-giving stream. The humble “will flourish like grass.” The Day of the Lord: Fire, Sword, and Separation (15-17) Imagery of fire signals decisive cleansing: “By fire and by His sword the LORD will execute judgment on all flesh” (66:16). Malachi 4:1 and 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9 pick up the same theme. God is not soft on idolatry; those who “purify themselves in the gardens” (pagan fertility rites) face the flames. The picture cautions against blending worship of God with cultural idols. Mission to the Nations (18-21) God promises a sign that will send survivors to distant lands—Tarshish (Spain?), Put and Lud (North Africa), Tubal and Javan (Asia Minor/ Greece), “the distant islands.” They will announce God’s glory, and converts will arrive “on horses, in chariots, in litters, on mules, and on camels” (66:20). The multi-vehicle caravan underlines inclusiveness. Verse 21 is startling: “I will also take some of them as priests and Levites.” Peter uses similar language when he calls Gentile believers “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). The New Creation and Everlasting Worship (22-24) The promise parallels Isaiah 65:17-25 but adds a worship element: “All mankind will come to bow down before Me… from one Sabbath to another” (66:23). Revelation 21-22 draws heavily on these verses, applying them to the renewed heaven and earth where God’s people reign forever. Yet the chapter ends soberly: rebels become an everlasting reminder—“their worm will not die” (quoted by Jesus in Mark 9:48). Archaeological and Cultural Notes • Garden cults (v. 17). Excavations south of Jerusalem reveal terraced ritual gardens used by Canaanites for fertility worship; Isaiah’s audience would know the practice. • Chariots and horses (v. 20). The Persian postal system (5th century BC) employed relay horses across the empire, matching Isaiah’s picture of speedy, organized global movement. • Tarshish ships. Stone depictions at Nineveh show large Phoenician-style vessels thought to sail to the western Mediterranean, underlining the text’s global horizon. Connections to the New Testament • Acts 7:48-49 quotes 66:1-2. • Hebrews 12:22-23 compares believers’ approach to the heavenly Jerusalem. • Revelation 21:1, 22:5 fulfills 66:22-23. • Romans 15:20-21 ties Paul’s mission to unreached nations to Isaiah’s vision (see 66:19). • Mark 9:48 cites 66:24 to warn of final judgment. Practical Takeaways 1. God values humility over impressive buildings or programs. 2. Religious mockery may come from insiders; God will defend faithful hearts. 3. Nothing can stop God from finishing what He begins—personally or in history. 4. God’s comfort is as intimate as a mother’s embrace. 5. Judgment is real, and mixing idol practices with worship invites disaster. 6. The global mission is God’s idea; every believer can share in it. 7. Final reality is a renewed creation where worship never ends and rebellion never rises again. Key Words and Phrases • “Tremble at My word” – receptive humility (v. 2) • “Choose their punishments” – divine justice mirrors human choice (v. 4) • “Before she was in labor” – sudden deliverance (v. 7) • “Peace like a river” – steady, life-giving wholeness (v. 12) • “Fire… sword” – tools of righteous judgment (v. 16) • “Sign” – visible act launching worldwide witness (v. 19) • “New heavens and new earth” – lasting, physical renewal (v. 22) In Closing Isaiah 66 calls every generation to genuine awe before God, confident comfort in His care, passionate sharing of His glory, and sober respect for His final judgment. Connections to Additional Scriptures Revelation 21:1-4 This passage parallels Isaiah's vision of a new heaven and earth, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise. Matthew 5:3 Jesus' teaching on the blessedness of the poor in spirit echoes the call to humility found in Isaiah 66. 2 Peter 3:10-13 Peter speaks of the day of the Lord and the coming of a new heaven and earth, reinforcing the themes of judgment and hope. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty and Majesty Isaiah 66:1-2 declares, Heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool. What kind of house will you build for Me? Or where will My place of repose be? Has not My hand made all these things, and so they came into being? This emphasizes God's transcendence and the futility of human attempts to contain Him within physical structures. True Worship and Humility In verse 2, God esteems the one who is humble and contrite in spirit, who trembles at My word. True worship is not about external rituals but a heart posture of humility and reverence for God's Word. Judgment and Vindication Verses 15-16 describe God's coming judgment: For behold, the LORD will come with fire, His chariots are like a whirlwind, to execute His anger with fury and His rebuke with flames of fire. For by fire and by His sword, the LORD will execute judgment on all flesh, and many will be slain by the LORD. This serves as a sobering reminder of God's justice. Promise of a New Creation Verses 22-23 offer hope: For just as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, will endure before Me, declares the LORD, so your descendants and your name will endure. God's promise of a new creation assures us of His eternal plan for His people. Practical Applications Cultivate Humility Reflect on areas in your life where pride may have taken root. Seek to cultivate a humble and contrite spirit before God. Revere God's Word Make a commitment to tremble at God's Word by prioritizing regular Bible study and allowing Scripture to shape your life. Prepare for Christ's Return Live with an eternal perspective, knowing that God's judgment is certain. Share the gospel with others, urging them to be reconciled to God. Hope in God's Promises In times of uncertainty, anchor your hope in the promise of a new creation where righteousness dwells. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The central figure in Isaiah 66, the LORD speaks with authority and power, declaring His sovereignty over heaven and earth. He is depicted as the Creator and Judge, emphasizing His holiness and the reverence due to Him. The Hebrew name used is יהוה (YHWH), which is often rendered as "LORD" in English translations. 2. The Humble and Contrite These are the individuals who are described as having a humble and contrite spirit, and who tremble at the word of the LORD (Isaiah 66:2). They are favored by God for their humility and reverence. 3. The Rebellious and Hypocritical This group includes those who perform religious rituals without sincerity, such as offering sacrifices while living in disobedience (Isaiah 66:3-4). They are contrasted with the humble and are subject to God's judgment. 4. The Faithful Remnant These are the faithful believers who endure persecution and mockery from their own people but remain steadfast in their faith (Isaiah 66:5). They are promised vindication and joy. 5. Zion (Jerusalem) Personified as a mother who gives birth to a nation, Zion represents the people of God and the place of His dwelling (Isaiah 66:7-8). The imagery of birth signifies the sudden and miraculous restoration and growth of God's people. 6. The Nations and Their Kings These are the Gentile nations and their leaders who will witness God's glory and bring offerings to Jerusalem (Isaiah 66:18-20). They represent the inclusion of the Gentiles in God's plan of salvation. 7. The Priests and Levites God promises to select some from among the nations to serve as priests and Levites, indicating a broadening of the priestly role beyond ethnic Israel (Isaiah 66:21). 8. The Wicked Those who rebel against God and persist in their wickedness are destined for destruction (Isaiah 66:24). They are depicted as those who will face eternal judgment. Places 1. Heaven Described as God's throne, indicating His supreme authority and sovereignty. The Hebrew word used here is "שָׁמַיִם" (shamayim), which often denotes the sky or the abode of God. 2. Earth Referred to as God's footstool, symbolizing His dominion over the world. The Hebrew term "אֶרֶץ" (eretz) is used, commonly meaning land or earth. 3. Jerusalem Mentioned as a place of future joy and prosperity, where God will extend peace like a river. The Hebrew name "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim) is used, which is central to Jewish identity and eschatological hope. 4. Zion Symbolic of God's people and His holy mountain, often representing the spiritual center of God's kingdom. The Hebrew "צִיּוֹן" (Tziyon) is used, which is a term rich with theological significance. 5. Nations Refers to the Gentiles or peoples outside of Israel who will witness God's glory. The Hebrew word "גּוֹיִם" (goyim) is used, indicating the broader world beyond Israel. 6. Tarshish A distant place, often associated with maritime trade, representing the far reaches of the known world. The Hebrew "תַּרְשִׁישׁ" (Tarshish) is used, which is sometimes linked to regions like Spain or the western Mediterranean. 7. Pul and Lud Regions or peoples known for their archery, possibly located in Africa or the Near East. The Hebrew "פּוּל" (Pul) and "לוּד" (Lud) are used, indicating specific ethnic groups or territories. 8. Tubal and Javan Peoples or regions associated with the distant lands, possibly in Asia Minor or Greece. The Hebrew "תּוּבַל" (Tubal) and "יָוָן" (Yavan) are used, representing areas known for their distinct cultures. 9. Coastlands Refers to distant lands across the seas, emphasizing the global reach of God's message. The Hebrew "אִי" (i) is used, often translated as islands or coastlands. Events 1. God's Sovereignty and the Temple (Isaiah 66:1-2) God declares His sovereignty over heaven and earth, emphasizing that He does not dwell in temples made by human hands. The Hebrew word for "heaven" (שָׁמַיִם, shamayim) and "earth" (אֶרֶץ, eretz) underscores His dominion over all creation. 2. The Value of Humility and Contrition (Isaiah 66:2) God esteems those who are humble and contrite in spirit and who tremble at His word. The Hebrew term for "humble" (עָנִי, ani) and "contrite" (נְכֵה, nakeh) highlights the importance of a repentant heart. 3. Condemnation of Hypocritical Worship (Isaiah 66:3-4) God condemns those who engage in ritualistic worship without sincerity, comparing their sacrifices to abominations. The Hebrew word for "abomination" (תּוֹעֵבָה, to'evah) indicates practices detestable to God. 4. Judgment and Vindication (Isaiah 66:5-6) God promises judgment on those who mock His faithful servants, with a voice of uproar from the city and temple signifying His retribution. 5. The Birth of a Nation (Isaiah 66:7-9) A metaphorical description of Zion giving birth to a nation suddenly and without labor pains, symbolizing the rapid restoration and blessing of Israel. 6. Rejoicing in Jerusalem's Restoration (Isaiah 66:10-14) An invitation to rejoice with Jerusalem as God extends peace and comfort to her, using imagery of a mother nursing her child. 7. God's Coming Judgment (Isaiah 66:15-16) A vivid depiction of God's coming in fire and chariots to execute judgment on all flesh, emphasizing His power and righteousness. 8. The Gathering of the Nations (Isaiah 66:18-21) God declares His intention to gather all nations and tongues to witness His glory, with some being sent as messengers to distant lands. 9. The New Heavens and New Earth (Isaiah 66:22-23) A promise of the enduring nature of the new heavens and new earth, where all flesh will come to worship before God regularly. 10. The Final Judgment (Isaiah 66:24) A graphic portrayal of the fate of the wicked, whose corpses will be a perpetual reminder of God's judgment, using the Hebrew word for "worm" (תּוֹלֵעָה, tole'ah) to signify decay and disgrace. Lessons from Isaiah 66 1. The Majesty of God’s Creation Isaiah 66 opens with a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty: "Heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool" (Isaiah 66:1). This verse invites us to marvel at the grandeur of God's creation and recognize His ultimate authority over all things. In our daily lives, this perspective encourages us to approach each day with humility and gratitude, acknowledging that we are part of a much larger divine plan. 2. The Value of a Humble Heart God esteems those who are humble and contrite in spirit, as Isaiah 66:2 tells us: "But to this one I will look, to him who is humble and contrite in spirit, who trembles at My word." This lesson teaches us the importance of humility and reverence for God's Word. By cultivating a humble heart, we open ourselves to God's guidance and wisdom, allowing His Word to shape our actions and decisions. 3. The Futility of Empty Rituals Isaiah warns against empty religious rituals that lack genuine devotion: "He who sacrifices a bull is like one who kills a man" (Isaiah 66:3). This stark imagery reminds us that God desires sincere worship and obedience, not mere outward displays. In our spiritual journey, we should focus on cultivating a genuine relationship with God, rather than simply going through the motions. 4. The Promise of Divine Justice God assures His people that He will bring justice: "For behold, the LORD will come with fire, and His chariots are like a whirlwind" (Isaiah 66:15). This promise of divine justice offers hope and reassurance that God will ultimately right all wrongs. As we navigate life's challenges, we can find peace in knowing that God is in control and will bring about justice in His perfect timing. 5. The Joy of New Beginnings Isaiah 66:8 speaks of a nation being born in a day, symbolizing the miraculous and swift work of God: "Can a country be born in a day or a nation be delivered in an instant?" This imagery encourages us to embrace the new beginnings that God offers, trusting in His power to transform our lives and circumstances. With God, change is not only possible but can happen in an instant. 6. The Comfort of God’s Presence God promises comfort to His people, likening His care to that of a mother: "As a mother comforts her son, so will I comfort you" (Isaiah 66:13). This tender assurance reminds us of God's constant presence and care in our lives. In moments of distress or uncertainty, we can find solace in the knowledge that God is with us, offering comfort and peace. 7. The Call to Rejoice Isaiah 66:10 encourages us to rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad for her: "Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad for her, all you who love her." This call to rejoice highlights the importance of celebrating God's blessings and the joy that comes from being part of His community. By focusing on gratitude and celebration, we can cultivate a positive and joyful outlook on life. 8. The Inclusivity of God’s Kingdom God’s plan includes all nations and peoples: "I will gather all nations and tongues, and they will come and see My glory" (Isaiah 66:18). This lesson underscores the inclusivity of God's kingdom and His desire for all to know Him. As followers of Christ, we are called to share the message of salvation with everyone, embracing diversity and unity in the body of Christ. 9. The Assurance of God’s Faithfulness Isaiah 66:22 promises the enduring nature of God's creation and His people: "As the new heavens and the new earth that I make will endure before Me, declares the LORD, so will your descendants and your name endure." This assurance of God's faithfulness encourages us to trust in His promises and remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that He is unchanging and true. 10. The Ultimate Triumph of God’s Glory The chapter concludes with a vision of God's ultimate triumph: "And they will go out and look on the dead bodies of those who rebelled against Me" (Isaiah 66:24). This sobering image serves as a reminder of the final victory of God's glory and justice. As believers, we can live with confidence and hope, knowing that God's glory will ultimately prevail and His kingdom will be established forever. Topics 1. Heaven is My Throne (Isaiah 66:1-2) God declares His sovereignty and majesty, emphasizing that heaven is His throne and the earth His footstool. This underscores His transcendence and the futility of human attempts to contain Him in man-made structures. The Hebrew word for "throne" (כִּסֵּא, kisse) signifies authority and kingship. 2. The Humble and Contrite (Isaiah 66:2) God looks favorably upon those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at His word. This highlights the importance of humility and reverence before God. The Hebrew term for "contrite" (נְכֵה, nakeh) conveys a sense of being crushed or broken in spirit. 3. False Worship and Judgment (Isaiah 66:3-4) The passage contrasts true worship with hypocritical rituals, warning of judgment for those who choose their own ways over God's. The Hebrew root for "choose" (בָּחַר, bachar) indicates a deliberate selection, emphasizing the willful disobedience of the people. 4. The Birth of a Nation (Isaiah 66:7-9) A prophetic vision of the sudden and miraculous birth of a nation, often interpreted as the restoration of Israel. The imagery of childbirth is used to convey the swift and divine nature of this event. The Hebrew word for "nation" (גוֹי, goy) refers to a people or ethnic group. 5. Rejoicing in Jerusalem (Isaiah 66:10-14) An invitation to rejoice with Jerusalem, as God extends peace and comfort to her. This section speaks of restoration and divine blessing. The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses completeness, welfare, and harmony. 6. God’s Final Judgment (Isaiah 66:15-17) A vivid depiction of God's final judgment, where He comes with fire and chariots to execute His wrath. The Hebrew word for "fire" (אֵשׁ, esh) symbolizes purification and divine presence. 7. Gathering of the Nations (Isaiah 66:18-21) God promises to gather all nations and tongues to witness His glory, and some will be sent as messengers to distant lands. This reflects the universal scope of God's plan. The Hebrew term for "glory" (כָּבוֹד, kavod) denotes weightiness and honor. 8. New Heavens and New Earth (Isaiah 66:22-23) A promise of a new creation where all flesh will worship God continually. This eschatological vision points to the ultimate renewal and restoration. The Hebrew word for "new" (חָדָשׁ, chadash) implies freshness and renewal. 9. The Fate of the Wicked (Isaiah 66:24) The chapter concludes with a stark image of the fate of the wicked, whose corpses will be a perpetual reminder of God's judgment. The Hebrew word for "worm" (תוֹלֵעָה, tole'ah) suggests decay and corruption. Themes 1. Divine Sovereignty and Majesty Isaiah 66 opens with a declaration of God's sovereignty: "Heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool" (Isaiah 66:1). This theme emphasizes God's supreme authority and majesty, highlighting His transcendence over creation. The Hebrew word for "throne" (כִּסֵּא, kisse) underscores His royal authority. 2. True Worship vs. Hypocrisy The chapter contrasts genuine worship with hypocritical practices: "But to this one I will look, to him who is humble and contrite in spirit, who trembles at My word" (Isaiah 66:2). The Hebrew term for "humble" (עָנִי, ani) conveys a sense of humility and lowliness, which God values over mere ritual. 3. Judgment and Retribution God's judgment against those who reject Him is a prominent theme: "For behold, the LORD will come with fire, and His chariots are like a whirlwind, to execute His anger with fury" (Isaiah 66:15). The imagery of fire and whirlwind signifies divine retribution and purification. 4. Restoration and Comfort for the Faithful The chapter promises comfort and restoration for God's people: "As a mother comforts her son, so will I comfort you; and you will be consoled over Jerusalem" (Isaiah 66:13). The Hebrew root for "comfort" (נָחַם, nacham) suggests a deep, compassionate consolation. 5. Inclusion of the Nations Isaiah 66 envisions the inclusion of Gentiles in God's plan: "I will gather all nations and tongues, and they will come and see My glory" (Isaiah 66:18). This theme reflects the universal scope of God's salvation, transcending ethnic and cultural boundaries. 6. New Heavens and New Earth The promise of a new creation is a key theme: "For just as the new heavens and the new earth which I will make will endure before Me," declares the LORD (Isaiah 66:22). The Hebrew word for "new" (חָדָשׁ, chadash) indicates a renewal and transformation of creation. 7. Eternal Worship and Remembrance The chapter concludes with a vision of perpetual worship: "From one New Moon to another and from one Sabbath to another, all mankind will come to worship before Me," says the LORD (Isaiah 66:23). This theme underscores the eternal nature of worship and remembrance of God. Prayer Points Pray for Humility Ask God to reveal areas of pride in your life and to cultivate a humble heart that trembles at His Word. Pray for Readiness Seek God's guidance in living a life that is prepared for Christ's return, sharing His love and truth with others. Pray for Hope Thank God for His promises and ask for strength to hold onto hope in the midst of life's challenges. Pray for Transformation Invite the Holy Spirit to transform your heart and mind, aligning your life with God's eternal purposes. Answering Tough Questions 1. Isaiah 66:1: How can an omnipresent God emphasize a specific earthly “resting place,” and does this contradict the notion that God is everywhere? 2. Isaiah 66:8: The sudden birth of a nation in one day—how can this be historically or politically plausible? 3. Isaiah 66:15–16: How can a loving deity be reconciled with the depiction of fiery vengeance and widespread destruction? 4. Isaiah 66:22: How does the promise of a permanent “new heavens and new earth” align with modern scientific understanding of cosmic decay or entropy? 5. Isaiah 66:24: Are the unending worms and fire literal phenomena, and if so, what evidence or rationale supports their existence? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Isaiah 66 teach us about God's perception of religious rituals and sincere worship? 2. How does God's description of His dwelling place in verses 1-2 challenge your understanding of God's omnipresence? 3. In what ways can you apply the principle of having a "contrite and humble" heart in your everyday life? 4. Discuss the significance of the metaphor of a woman giving birth in verses 7-9. How does it illustrate God's promise for Israel? 5. How does the contrast between the fate of the righteous and the wicked in this chapter influence your personal spiritual decisions? 6. How should the promise of the new heavens and the new earth impact your current lifestyle as a Christian? 7. What does the prophecy of the gathering of all nations signify in today's global context? 8. In light of Isaiah 66, how would you address religious hypocrisy in the modern church? 9. How can we, as modern readers, find comfort in the promised restoration of Jerusalem? 10. How can the warnings in Isaiah 66 be a guiding light for personal repentance and spiritual renewal? 11. How does Isaiah 66 emphasize the significance of inner transformation rather than outer religious practices? 12. How can you apply the promise of God's comfort as depicted in verses 10-14 during times of personal hardship? 13. How do verses 15-17 shape your understanding of divine justice and retribution? 14. In what ways does the vision of the future given in Isaiah 66 inspire you in your walk of faith? 15. How does this chapter equip you to handle societal pressures that may lead to insincere or hypocritical worship? 16. How can Isaiah 66's focus on sincere worship help us improve our relationship with God and our fellow believers? 17. How does the future glory of Jerusalem relate to the idea of Christian hope? 18. How can the overarching themes of judgement and mercy in Isaiah 66 help us understand the character of God? 19. Based on the teachings of this chapter, how can you encourage others in their faith journey? 20. How does the final verse of Isaiah 66 serve as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of our life choices and spiritual commitments? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions