Isaiah 21:6

For this is what the Lord says to me: "Go, post a lookout and have him report what he sees.

Study Bible

For this is what the Lord has said to me
This phrase establishes the divine authority behind the message. The Hebrew word for "Lord" here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. This introduction underscores the prophetic nature of the message, indicating that it is not merely human speculation but a revelation from God Himself. In the context of Isaiah, a prophet who often conveyed messages of both judgment and hope, this phrase reassures the audience of the authenticity and seriousness of the forthcoming prophecy.

Go
The command "Go" is a directive from God, indicating action and urgency. The Hebrew root "halak" implies movement with purpose. In the prophetic context, it suggests that the message is not just to be received but acted upon. This reflects the active role of prophets as messengers who must faithfully deliver God's word to the people, regardless of the potential consequences or reception.

post a lookout
The instruction to "post a lookout" involves vigilance and readiness. The Hebrew word "tsaphah" means to watch or keep watch. In ancient times, a lookout was crucial for the safety and security of a city, tasked with observing and reporting any approaching danger. Spiritually, this can be seen as a call for believers to be watchful and discerning, aware of the spiritual and moral challenges that may arise.

and have him report what he sees
This phrase emphasizes the importance of accurate and faithful reporting. The lookout is not to interpret or alter the message but to convey exactly what is observed. The Hebrew word "ra'ah" for "sees" implies perception and understanding. In a broader sense, this can be seen as a metaphor for the role of the church and its leaders to faithfully proclaim the truth of God's word, without distortion or omission, to the world. It highlights the responsibility of believers to be truthful witnesses in their testimony of God's work and revelation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
The prophet who received the message from the Lord. He was a major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning the judgment and salvation of Israel and the nations.

2. The Lord
The sovereign God who commands Isaiah to appoint a lookout. This reflects God's authority and His role as the revealer of future events.

3. Lookout
A person appointed to watch and report what he sees. This role is symbolic of vigilance and readiness to receive and communicate God's revelations.

4. Babylon
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of Isaiah 21 is a prophecy concerning the fall of Babylon, a significant event in biblical history.

5. Watchtower
The place where the lookout stands, symbolizing a position of alertness and spiritual insight.

Teaching Points

Vigilance in Spiritual Life
Just as the lookout is tasked with watching and reporting, Christians are called to be vigilant in their spiritual lives, staying alert to God's guidance and the signs of the times.

Responsibility of Spiritual Leaders
Like the lookout, spiritual leaders have a responsibility to discern and communicate God's messages to their communities, guiding them in truth and righteousness.

God's Sovereignty and Revelation
This verse underscores God's sovereignty in revealing future events. Believers can trust in His ultimate control and His willingness to communicate with His people.

Preparedness for God's Work
The lookout's role is a reminder to be prepared for the tasks God assigns, whether in ministry, personal growth, or service to others.

Importance of Prayer and Scripture
To effectively "watch," believers must be grounded in prayer and Scripture, seeking God's wisdom and understanding in all circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the lookout in Isaiah 21:6 relate to our responsibility as Christians to be spiritually vigilant today?

2. In what ways can we, like Isaiah, be attentive to God's voice and ready to act on His instructions?

3. How does the concept of a watchman in Ezekiel 33:7 enhance our understanding of the lookout's role in Isaiah 21:6?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we are prepared and alert for the tasks God has for us, as illustrated by the lookout's duty?

5. How can the themes of vigilance and readiness in Isaiah 21:6 be applied to our anticipation of Christ's return, as mentioned in Matthew 24:42?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Habakkuk 2:1
This verse also speaks of standing at a watchtower to see what God will say, emphasizing the theme of vigilance and expectation in receiving divine messages.

Ezekiel 33:7
God appoints Ezekiel as a watchman for Israel, highlighting the responsibility of spiritual leaders to warn and guide the people based on God's revelations.

Matthew 24:42
Jesus instructs His disciples to keep watch, as they do not know the day or hour of His return, reinforcing the importance of spiritual alertness.