Isaiah 54:16
Behold, I have created the craftsman who fans the coals into flame and forges a weapon fit for its task; and I have created the destroyer to wreak havoc.
Behold
The Hebrew word for "behold" is "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which serves as an imperative to pay attention or to see with spiritual insight. It is a divine call to focus on what God is about to reveal. In the context of Isaiah, it emphasizes the sovereignty and intentionality of God in His creation and actions. This word invites the reader to pause and consider the profound truth that follows, underscoring the importance of God's message.

I have created
The phrase "I have created" comes from the Hebrew "בָּרָא" (bara), which is used in the Bible to denote divine creation. It signifies God's ultimate authority and power as the Creator of all things. This creation is not random but purposeful, reflecting God's sovereign will and plan. In this context, it reassures the faithful that everything, even those who seem to oppose God's people, are under His control.

the craftsman
The term "craftsman" is translated from the Hebrew "חָרָשׁ" (charash), referring to a skilled worker or artisan. This highlights the idea that God equips individuals with specific skills and talents for His purposes. The craftsman here is one who shapes and forms, symbolizing those who create tools or weapons. It serves as a reminder that human abilities and vocations are gifts from God, meant to fulfill His divine purposes.

who fans the coals into flame
This phrase illustrates the process of kindling a fire, a necessary step in metalworking. The imagery of fanning coals into flame suggests the idea of preparation and refinement. Spiritually, it can be seen as a metaphor for the trials and challenges that refine and strengthen faith. Historically, this reflects the ancient practice of blacksmithing, where intense heat is required to shape metal, symbolizing the transformative power of God's work in our lives.

and forges a weapon fit for its task
The act of forging a weapon "fit for its task" speaks to the precision and purposefulness of God's creation. The Hebrew word for "forge" is "יָצַר" (yatsar), meaning to form or fashion. This indicates that God not only creates but also designs with intention. The weapon, in this context, represents the tools or means by which God's will is accomplished. It reassures believers that God equips them with what is necessary to face their challenges.

and I have created the destroyer
The "destroyer" is a figure that God has also created, emphasizing His control over all forces, even those that seem destructive. The Hebrew word "מַשְׁחִית" (mashchit) refers to one who brings ruin or devastation. This serves as a reminder that even those who oppose God's people are ultimately under His authority. It is a call to trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that He can use all things for His purposes.

to wreak havoc
The phrase "to wreak havoc" underscores the potential for destruction, yet it is within the bounds of God's sovereign plan. The Hebrew root "שָׁחַת" (shachat) means to corrupt or destroy. This highlights the reality of evil and chaos in the world, but also the assurance that God is in control. For believers, it is a call to faith, trusting that God can bring good out of even the most challenging circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Craftsman
Represents those who create tools and weapons, symbolizing human skill and ingenuity. In the context of Isaiah, it may refer to those who forge instruments of war or tools for various purposes.

2. The Destroyer
Symbolizes forces or individuals that bring about destruction or chaos. This can be seen as a representation of God's sovereignty over all events, including those that seem destructive.

3. God as Creator
The verse emphasizes God's ultimate control and sovereignty, as He is the one who creates both the craftsman and the destroyer.

4. Israel
The primary audience of Isaiah's prophecy, often facing threats from surrounding nations and needing reassurance of God's protection and sovereignty.

5. The Context of Isaiah
This chapter is part of a larger section where God promises restoration and protection to Israel, assuring them of His control over all circumstances.
Teaching Points
God's Sovereignty
Recognize that God is in control of all aspects of creation, including those that seem harmful or destructive.

Purpose in Creation
Understand that everything and everyone has a purpose in God's plan, even those who seem to bring destruction.

Trust in God's Plan
Trust that God can use even the most challenging circumstances for His glory and our good.

Human Responsibility
Acknowledge our role in using our skills and abilities for God's purposes, aligning with His will.

Reassurance in Trials
Find comfort in knowing that God is aware of and sovereign over all trials and challenges we face.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does understanding God's sovereignty in Isaiah 54:16 affect your perspective on current world events?

2. In what ways can you see God's purpose in situations that initially seem destructive or chaotic in your life?

3. How can the concept of God as the Creator of both the craftsman and the destroyer encourage you in your personal walk with Him?

4. What are some practical ways you can align your skills and abilities with God's purposes, as suggested by this verse?

5. How does the assurance of God's control in Isaiah 54:16 help you trust Him more deeply in times of personal trial or uncertainty?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Genesis 1:1
The concept of God as the Creator of all things, establishing His authority and sovereignty over creation.

Romans 8:28
The assurance that God works all things for the good of those who love Him, even events that seem destructive or chaotic.

Proverbs 16:4
The idea that the Lord has made everything for its purpose, including the wicked for the day of trouble, highlighting God's sovereignty.

Jeremiah 18:6
The imagery of the potter and clay, illustrating God's control over nations and individuals.

Ephesians 2:10
The notion of being created for good works, contrasting the creation of destructive forces with the creation of believers for positive purposes.
The Divine Control of Evil ForcesR. Tuck Isaiah 54:16
Isaiah 54W. H. Barlow, B.D.Isaiah 54:1-17
Jerusalem: Barren, Then FruitfulF. Delitzsch, D.D.Isaiah 54:1-17
Sing, O BarrenIsaiah 54:1-17
The Church of the FutureC. Clemance, D.D.Isaiah 54:1-17
The Future of the ChurchE. Johnson Isaiah 54:1-17
The Gentile Church a Joyful MotherR. Glover, M. A.Isaiah 54:1-17
The Relation Between Isaiah 53. and 54Prof. G.A. Smith, D.D., Prof. J. Skinner, D.D.Isaiah 54:1-17
BlueH. Macmillan, LL. D.Isaiah 54:11-17
Fair ColoursS. Cox, D. D.Isaiah 54:11-17
Foundations of SapphiresH. Macmillan, LL. D.Isaiah 54:11-17
God's Promise to the Afflicted ChurchB. Beddome, M. A.Isaiah 54:11-17
I Will Lay Thy Foundations with SapphiresH. Macmillan, LL. D.Isaiah 54:11-17
Sapphire FoundationsH. Macmillan, LL. D.Isaiah 54:11-17
Stones with Fair ColoursH. Macmillan, LL. D.Isaiah 54:11-17
The Adornments of GraceH. Macmillan, LL. D.Isaiah 54:11-17
The Beautifying Power of Divine GraceH. Macmillan, LL. D.Isaiah 54:11-17
The City of GodF. B. Meyer, B. A.Isaiah 54:11-17
The City of GodF. B. Meyer, B. A.Isaiah 54:11-17
The Co-Operation of Providence and GraceH. Macmillan, LL. D.Isaiah 54:11-17
The Decorations of NatureH. Macmillan, LL. D.Isaiah 54:11-17
The SapphireH. Macmillan, LL. D.Isaiah 54:11-17
The World Unfavourable to Beauty of Christian CharacterH. Macmillan, LL. D.Isaiah 54:11-17
Zion's Foundations, Windows, Gates, and BordersJ. C. Philpot.Isaiah 54:11-17
Hope for the Church in the Sovereignty of GodJ. A. Alexander.Isaiah 54:16-17
The Church's Fears SilencedJ. Parker, D. D.Isaiah 54:16-17
People
Isaiah, Noah
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Artizan, Behold, Blacksmith, Bloweth, Blowing, Blows, Bringeth, Bringing, Brings, Burning, Coal, Coals, Created, Destroy, Destroyer, Destruction, Fans, Fire, Fit, Flame, Forges, Forth, Havoc, Instrument, Iron-worker, Making, Myself, Prepared, Produces, Purpose, Ravage, Ravager, Ruin, Smith, War, Waster, Weapon
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Isaiah 54:16

     4318   coal
     5433   occupations

Isaiah 54:1-17

     6659   freedom, acts in OT

Isaiah 54:16-17

     4345   metalworkers
     5292   defence, divine
     5612   weapons

Library
The Passing and the Permanent
'For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but My kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of My peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee.'--ISAIAH liv, 10.-- There is something of music in the very sound of these words. The stately march of the grand English translation lends itself with wonderful beauty to the melody of Isaiah's words. But the thought that lies below them, sweeping as it does through the whole creation, and parting all things
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Saint's Heritage and Watchword
NOTE: This is taken from an early published edition of the original sermon. The version that appears in The Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit, vol. 50, was slightly edited by the publishers. For edition we have restored in most places the text of the earlier published edition, while retaining a few of the editorial refinements of the Met Tab edition. "No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 50: 1904

How to Make Use of Christ as the Life when the Soul is Dead as to Duty.
Sometimes the believer will be under such a distemper, as that he will be as unfit and unable for discharging of any commanded duty, as dead men, or one in a swoon, is to work or go a journey. And it were good to know how Christ should be made use of as the Life, to the end the diseased soul may be delivered from this. For this cause we shall consider those four things: 1. See what are the several steps and degrees of this distemper. 2. Consider whence it cometh, or what are the causes or occasions
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life

Manner of Covenanting.
Previous to an examination of the manner of engaging in the exercise of Covenanting, the consideration of God's procedure towards his people while performing the service seems to claim regard. Of the manner in which the great Supreme as God acts, as well as of Himself, our knowledge is limited. Yet though even of the effects on creatures of His doings we know little, we have reason to rejoice that, in His word He has informed us, and in His providence illustrated by that word, he has given us to
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting

And He had Also this Favour Granted Him. ...
66. And he had also this favour granted him. For as he was sitting alone on the mountain, if ever he was in perplexity in his meditations, this was revealed to him by Providence in prayer. And the happy man, as it is written, was taught of God [1112] . After this, when he once had a discussion with certain men who had come to him concerning the state of the soul and of what nature its place will be after this life, the following night one from above called him, saying, Antony, rise, go out and look.'
Athanasius—Select Works and Letters or Athanasius

Early Battles
Six months of joyous service amongst the Welsh miners was cut short by a telegram announcing to the sisters the serious illness of Mrs. Lee. Taking the news to their Divisional Commander, they were instructed to Headquarters. It was found that the illness was due to shock. The income from investments of the little estate left by Mr. Lee had dwindled; it now had disappeared altogether. Captain Lucy faced the matter with her usual practical decision. 'Mother, darling, there are two ways out. Either
Minnie L. Carpenter—The Angel Adjutant of "Twice Born Men"

The Testimony of the Spirit Necessary to Give Full Authority to Scripture. The Impiety of Pretending that the Credibility of Scripture Depends on the Judgment Of
1. The authority of Scripture derived not from men, but from the Spirit of God. Objection, That Scripture depends on the decision of the Church. Refutation, I. The truth of God would thus be subjected to the will of man. II. It is insulting to the Holy Spirit. III. It establishes a tyranny in the Church. IV. It forms a mass of errors. V. It subverts conscience. VI. It exposes our faith to the scoffs of the profane. 2. Another reply to the objection drawn from the words of the Apostle Paul. Solution
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

How the Poor and the Rich Should be Admonished.
(Admonition 3.) Differently to be admonished are the poor and the rich: for to the former we ought to offer the solace of comfort against tribulation, but in the latter to induce fear as against elation. For to the poor one it is said by the Lord through the prophet, Fear not, for thou shalt not be confounded (Isai. liv. 4). And not long after, soothing her, He says, O thou poor little one, tossed with tempest (Ibid. 11). And again He comforts her, saying, I have chosen thee in the furnace of
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

Infant Baptism.
"Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God."--John iii. 5. None can be saved, unless the blood of Christ, the Immaculate Lamb of God, be imputed to him; and it is His gracious will that it should be imputed to as, one by one, by means of outward and visible signs, or what are called Sacraments. These visible rites represent to us the heavenly truth, and convey what they represent. The baptismal washing betokens the cleansing of the soul from sin;
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VII

The Scriptures Reveal Eternal Life through Jesus Christ
John v. 39--"Search the scriptures, for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they which testify of me." Eph. ii. 20--"And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets." As in darkness there is need of a lantern without and the light of the eyes within--for neither can we see in darkness without some lamp though we have never so good eyes, nor yet see without eyes, though in never so clear a sunshine--so there is absolute need for the guiding of our feet in the dangerous
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

From his Commission to Reside Abroad in 1820 to his Removal to Germany in 1822
In 1822 John Yeardley went to reside in Germany. As his residence abroad constituted one of the most remarkable turns in his life, and exercised a powerful influence on the rest of his career, we shall develop as fully as we are able the motives by which he was induced to leave his native country. By means of his Diary we can trace the early appearance and growth, if not the origin, of the strong Christian sympathy he ever afterwards manifested with seeking souls in the nations on the continent of
John Yeardley—Memoir and Diary of John Yeardley, Minister of the Gospel

How the Impudent and Bashful are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 8). Differently to be admonished are the impudent and the bashful. For those nothing but hard rebuke restrains from the vice of impudence; while these for the most part a modest exhortation disposes to amendment. Those do not know that they are in fault, unless they be rebuked even by many; to these it usually suffices for their conversion that the teacher at least gently reminds them of their evil deeds. For those one best corrects who reprehends them by direct invective; but to
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

Messiah the Son of God
For to which of the angels said He at any time, Thou art My Son, this day have I begotten Thee? T hough every part of a revelation from God must of course be equally true, there may be a considerable difference even among truths proposed by the same authority, with respect to their immediate importance. There are fundamental truths, the knowledge of which are essentially necessary to our peace and holiness: and there are others of a secondary nature, which, though very useful in their proper connection,
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2

The Promises of the Christian Home.
"The promise is unto you, and to your children." ACTS II., 39. "Parent who plantedst in the joy of love, Yet hast not gather'd fruit,--save rankling thorns, Or Sodom's bitter apples,--hast thou read Heaven's promise to the seeker? Thou may'st bring Those o'er whose cradle thou didst watch with pride, And lay them at thy Savior's feet, for lo! His shadow falling on the wayward soul, May give it holy health. And when thou kneel'st Low at the pavement of sweet Mercy's gate, Beseeching for thine erring
Samuel Philips—The Christian Home

Perseverance of the Saints Proved.
The following considerations, taken together, seem to me to establish the truth of the doctrine in question beyond reasonable doubt. 1. God has from eternity resolved upon the salvation of all the elect. This we have seen. No one of this number will ever be lost. These are given to Christ from eternity, as a seed to serve him. The conversion, perseverance, and final salvation of the elect, we have seen to be secured. Their conversion, perseverance, and salvation, are secured by means of the grace
Charles Grandison Finney—Systematic Theology

The Ascension of Messiah to Glory
Lift up your head, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. T he institutions of the Levitical law were a "shadow" or "sketch" of good things to come. They exhibited a faint and general outline
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2

The Great Crisis in Popular Feeling - the Last Discourses in the Synagogue of Capernaum - Christ the Bread of Life - Will Ye Also Go
THE narrative now returns to those who, on the previous evening, had, after the miraculous meal, been sent away' to their homes. We remember, that this had been after an abortive attempt on their part to take Jesus by force and make Him their Messiah-King. We can understand that the effectual resistance of Jesus to their purpose not only weakened, but in great measure neutralised, the effect of the miracle which they had witnessed. In fact, we look upon this check as the first turning of the tide
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

The Person Sanctified.
"The putting off of the body of the sins of the flesh."--Col. ii. 11. Sanctification embraces the whole man, body and soul, with all the parts, members, and functions that belong to each respectively. It embraces his person and, all of his person. This is why sanctification progresses from the hour of regeneration all through life, and can be completed only in and through death. St. Paul prays for the church of Thessalonica: "The God of peace sanctify you wholly, and may your whole spirit and soul
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

The Prophecy of Obadiah.
We need not enter into details regarding the question as to the time when the prophet wrote. By a thorough argumentation, Caspari has proved, that he occupies his right position in the Canon, and hence belongs to the earliest age of written prophecy, i.e., to the time of Jeroboam II. and Uzziah. As bearing conclusively against those who would assign to him a far later date, viz., the time of the exile, there is not only the indirect testimony borne by the place which this prophecy occupies in
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament

Why all Things Work for Good
1. The grand reason why all things work for good, is the near and dear interest which God has in His people. The Lord has made a covenant with them. "They shall be my people, and I will be their God" (Jer. xxxii. 38). By virtue of this compact, all things do, and must work, for good to them. "I am God, even thy God" (Psalm l. 7). This word, Thy God,' is the sweetest word in the Bible, it implies the best relations; and it is impossible there should be these relations between God and His people, and
Thomas Watson—A Divine Cordial

Sin Charged Upon the Surety
All we like sheep have gone astray: we have turned every one to his own way, and the LORD hath laid upon Him the iniquity of us all. C omparisons, in the Scripture, are frequently to be understood with great limitation: perhaps, out of many circumstances, only one is justly applicable to the case. Thus, when our Lord says, Behold, I come as a thief (Revelation 16:15) , --common sense will fix the resemblance to a single point, that He will come suddenly, and unexpectedly. So when wandering sinners
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1

Discourse on Spiritual Food and True Discipleship. Peter's Confession.
(at the Synagogue in Capernaum.) ^D John VI. 22-71. ^d 22 On the morrow [the morrow after Jesus fed the five thousand] the multitude that stood on the other side of the sea [on the east side, opposite Capernaum] saw that there was no other boat there, save one, and that Jesus went not with his disciples into the boat, but that his disciples went away alone 23 (howbeit there came boats from Tiberias nigh unto the place where they ate the bread after that the Lord had given thanks): 24 when the multitude
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Covenanting Enforced by the Grant of Covenant Signs and Seals.
To declare emphatically that the people of God are a covenant people, various signs were in sovereignty vouchsafed. The lights in the firmament of heaven were appointed to be for signs, affording direction to the mariner, the husbandman, and others. Miracles wrought on memorable occasions, were constituted signs or tokens of God's universal government. The gracious grant of covenant signs was made in order to proclaim the truth of the existence of God's covenant with his people, to urge the performance
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting

The Unchangeableness of God
The next attribute is God's unchangeableness. I am Jehovah, I change not.' Mal 3:3. I. God is unchangeable in his nature. II. In his decree. I. Unchangeable in his nature. 1. There is no eclipse of his brightness. 2. No period put to his being. [1] No eclipse of his brightness. His essence shines with a fixed lustre. With whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.' James 1:17. Thou art the same.' Psa 102:27. All created things are full of vicissitudes. Princes and emperors are subject to
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

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