Isaiah 11:11

On that day the Lord will extend His hand a second time to recover the remnant of His people from Assyria, from Egypt, from Pathros, from Cush, from Elam, from Shinar, from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea.

Study Bible

In that day
This phrase often signals a prophetic vision of the future, a time when God will act decisively in history. In the context of Isaiah, "that day" refers to a future period of restoration and redemption. The Hebrew word for "day" (יוֹם, yom) can mean a literal 24-hour period or an indefinite time. Here, it signifies a divinely appointed time when God's promises will be fulfilled.

the Lord
The term "Lord" in Hebrew is יהוה (YHWH), the sacred name of God, often rendered as Yahweh. This name emphasizes God's eternal, self-existent nature and His covenant relationship with Israel. It is a reminder of God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His promises.

will again
The word "again" suggests a repetition or renewal of action. It implies that God has acted in the past and will do so once more. This reflects the cyclical nature of God's redemptive work throughout history, as seen in the Exodus and other deliverances.

extend His hand
The imagery of God extending His hand is a powerful symbol of divine intervention and authority. In the ancient Near East, the hand was a symbol of power and action. God's hand signifies His ability to save, protect, and guide His people.

a second time
This phrase indicates a new phase of deliverance, distinct from the first. Historically, the first deliverance was the Exodus from Egypt. The "second time" points to a future act of salvation, possibly the return from Babylonian exile or an eschatological gathering of God's people.

to recover the remnant
The "remnant" refers to the faithful few who remain true to God amidst widespread apostasy. In Hebrew, the word שְׁאָר (she'ar) denotes those who survive a calamity. This concept is central to Isaiah's message, emphasizing hope and continuity for God's people.

of His people
This phrase underscores the personal relationship between God and Israel. "His people" are those chosen by God, bound to Him by covenant. It highlights God's commitment to His promises and His desire to restore His people.

from Assyria, from Egypt, from Pathros, from Cush, from Elam, from Shinar, from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea
These locations represent the known world of Isaiah's time, symbolizing the widespread dispersion of the Israelites. Assyria and Egypt were major powers, while Pathros, Cush, Elam, Shinar, and Hamath were regions with significant Jewish populations. The "islands of the sea" suggest distant lands, indicating a global regathering. This list reflects God's universal reach and His ability to gather His people from all corners of the earth, fulfilling His promise of restoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Lord
Refers to Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel, who is actively involved in the redemption and restoration of His people.

2. The Remnant
A group of Israelites who survive the judgment and are preserved by God for His purposes.

3. Assyria
A major ancient empire known for its conquests, representing one of the places from which God will gather His people.

4. Egypt
A historical place of bondage for Israel, symbolizing a place of past oppression.

5. Pathros, Cush, Elam, Shinar, Hamath, and the Islands of the Sea
Various regions representing the widespread dispersion of the Israelites and the global scope of God's regathering.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
God is committed to His promises and will fulfill them, even if it requires miraculous intervention.

The Global Scope of Redemption
God's plan of salvation is not limited to one nation but extends to all corners of the earth.

Hope for the Dispersed
No matter how far God's people are scattered, He will bring them back to Himself.

The Role of the Remnant
The remnant serves as a testimony to God's grace and faithfulness, reminding us that God always preserves a people for Himself.

Messianic Fulfillment
The ultimate gathering of God's people is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who unites all believers into one body.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a "remnant" in Isaiah 11:11 encourage believers today who feel isolated in their faith?

2. In what ways does the global gathering of God's people in Isaiah 11:11 foreshadow the Great Commission given by Jesus in the New Testament?

3. How can understanding God's faithfulness in regathering His people from various nations strengthen our trust in His promises?

4. What are some modern-day "Assyrias" or "Egypts" from which God might be calling His people to return spiritually?

5. How does the vision of a united people from diverse backgrounds in Revelation 7:9 inspire us to embrace diversity within the church today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 11:1-10
This passage speaks of the coming Messiah, the "shoot from the stump of Jesse," who will bring justice and peace. The regathering in verse 11 is part of the Messianic hope.

Jeremiah 23:3
This verse also speaks of God gathering the remnant of His flock from all the countries where they have been scattered.

Zechariah 10:10
Similar to Isaiah 11:11, this verse describes God bringing His people back from Egypt and Assyria.

Romans 11:5
Paul speaks of a remnant chosen by grace, connecting the idea of a faithful remnant to the New Testament church.

Revelation 7:9
This vision of a great multitude from every nation can be seen as a fulfillment of the gathering of God's people from all over the world.