Isaiah 48:6

You have heard these things; look at them all. Will you not acknowledge them? From now on I will tell you of new things, hidden things unknown to you.

Study Bible

You have heard these things; look at them all. Will you not acknowledge it?
You have heard these things
This phrase emphasizes the importance of listening and remembering the words and prophecies that have been spoken. In the Hebrew context, the word for "heard" (שָׁמַע, shama) implies not just the act of hearing but also understanding and obeying. Historically, the Israelites were often reminded of the importance of listening to God's commands and prophecies. This call to hear is a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where hearing is linked to obedience and faithfulness.

look at them all
The command to "look" (רָאָה, ra'ah) suggests a deeper level of perception and understanding. It is not merely a physical act but an invitation to consider and reflect upon the fulfillment of God's words. In the historical context of Isaiah, this would mean recognizing the evidence of God's work and prophecies coming to pass. The phrase "look at them all" encourages a comprehensive view, urging the audience to see the entirety of God's actions and words, reinforcing the idea that God's plans are unfolding as promised.

Will you not acknowledge it?
The word "acknowledge" (יָדַע, yada) in Hebrew carries the connotation of knowing intimately and recognizing with certainty. This rhetorical question challenges the audience to admit and confess the truth of what they have seen and heard. In the conservative Christian perspective, this is a call to faith and recognition of God's sovereignty and faithfulness. Historically, the Israelites often struggled with acknowledging God's hand in their lives, and this verse serves as a reminder to give God the glory and recognition He deserves for His fulfilled promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book bearing his name. He served as a prophet in Judah and delivered messages from God concerning judgment and redemption.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Isaiah primarily ministered. The people of Judah were often the recipients of Isaiah's prophecies, which included calls to repentance and promises of future restoration.

3. God's Revelation
The event of God revealing His plans and purposes to His people. In this context, God is reminding the people of Judah of His past revelations and introducing new ones.

Teaching Points

Acknowledging God's Sovereignty
Recognize that God is in control and has a plan that He reveals in His timing. Trust in His wisdom and timing for revealing new things in your life.

Openness to New Revelations
Be open to the new things God wants to show you. This requires a heart willing to listen and a mind ready to understand His ways.

Reflecting on Past Revelations
Consider how God has already worked in your life. Reflect on past experiences and lessons as a foundation for understanding new insights.

Admitting God's Work
Humbly admit and acknowledge the work God has done and is doing. This involves confessing His hand in both the seen and unseen aspects of life.

Seeking God's Guidance
Actively seek God's guidance through prayer and study of His Word, trusting that He will reveal what you need to know in His perfect timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does recognizing God's past revelations in your life help you trust Him for future guidance?

2. In what ways can you cultivate an openness to the new things God wants to reveal to you?

3. How can you practically acknowledge and admit God's work in your daily life?

4. What steps can you take to ensure you are actively seeking God's guidance and revelation?

5. How do the themes of new revelations in Isaiah 48:6 connect with the promises found in Jeremiah 33:3 and 1 Corinthians 2:9-10?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 42:9
This verse speaks of former things coming to pass and new things being declared, emphasizing God's sovereignty and foreknowledge.

Jeremiah 33:3
God invites His people to call upon Him, promising to reveal great and unsearchable things they do not know, similar to the new revelations mentioned in Isaiah 48:6.

1 Corinthians 2:9-10
Paul speaks of God revealing things prepared for those who love Him, which were previously hidden, aligning with the theme of new revelations.