Isaiah 57:2

Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest, lying down in death.

Study Bible

Those who walk uprightly
The phrase "walk uprightly" is derived from the Hebrew word "yashar," which means to be straight, level, or right. In the biblical context, it refers to living a life of integrity and righteousness according to God's commandments. Historically, the Israelites were called to be a people set apart, living in a manner that reflected God's holiness. This phrase emphasizes the importance of moral and ethical conduct, suggesting that those who live in alignment with God's will are the ones who truly walk uprightly. In a conservative Christian perspective, this is a call to live a life that mirrors the teachings of Christ, embodying virtues such as honesty, kindness, and faithfulness.

enter into peace
The Hebrew word for peace here is "shalom," which encompasses not just the absence of conflict but a state of completeness, wholeness, and harmony. In the ancient Near Eastern context, peace was a rare and precious commodity, often disrupted by war and strife. The promise of entering into peace is a profound assurance of divine rest and fulfillment. For believers, this peace is not only a future hope but a present reality through faith in Jesus Christ, who is referred to as the Prince of Peace. It signifies a deep, abiding sense of well-being that comes from being reconciled with God.

they find rest
The concept of rest, or "nuach" in Hebrew, is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, beginning with God's rest on the seventh day of creation. It signifies a cessation from labor and a state of tranquility. In the historical context of Israel, rest was often associated with the Promised Land, a place where God's people could dwell securely. For Christians, this rest is ultimately found in Christ, who invites all who are weary to come to Him for rest. It is a spiritual rest that transcends physical circumstances, offering solace and comfort to the soul.

as they lie in death
This phrase acknowledges the reality of death, yet frames it in a context of hope and peace. The Hebrew word for death, "mavet," is often seen as the ultimate enemy, but here it is portrayed as a gateway to rest for the righteous. In the ancient world, death was a mysterious and often feared transition, but for those who walk uprightly, it is depicted as a peaceful passage. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, death is not the end but a transition to eternal life with God. The assurance of rest in death reflects the Christian hope of resurrection and eternal life, where believers will experience the fullness of God's peace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah's ministry spanned the reigns of several kings of Judah. He is known for his prophecies concerning both judgment and redemption.

2. The Righteous
This refers to those who live according to God's commandments and walk uprightly, as mentioned in the verse.

3. Peace
In the Hebrew context, "peace" (shalom) encompasses completeness, welfare, and tranquility, not just the absence of conflict.

4. Rest
This implies a state of spiritual and eternal rest, often associated with the peace that comes after a life lived in righteousness.

5. Death
In this context, death is not seen as an end but as a transition into eternal peace for the righteous.

Teaching Points

The Promise of Peace for the Righteous
The verse assures believers that those who live uprightly will enter into peace, both in this life and the next. This peace is a divine promise that transcends earthly troubles.

Understanding Biblical Rest
Rest in the biblical sense is not merely physical cessation from work but a spiritual state of being in harmony with God. It is a foretaste of eternal life with Him.

Death as a Transition, Not an End
For believers, death is not to be feared but seen as a passage to eternal peace and rest. This perspective can bring comfort in times of loss.

Living Uprightly in a Fallen World
The call to walk uprightly is a challenge in a world that often opposes God's ways. Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast, knowing the promise of peace awaits them.

The Role of Faith in Achieving Peace
Faith is essential in walking uprightly and entering into God's peace. Trusting in God's promises enables believers to live righteously despite challenges.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of peace for the righteous in Isaiah 57:2 encourage you in your daily walk with God?

2. In what ways can you pursue peace in your relationships, reflecting the biblical concept of shalom?

3. How does the understanding of death as a transition to eternal rest influence your perspective on life and mortality?

4. What practical steps can you take to ensure you are living uprightly in accordance with God's commandments?

5. How can the teachings in Hebrews 4:9-11 about entering God's rest inspire you to deepen your faith and obedience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 37:37
This verse speaks of the future of the blameless and upright, promising peace to those who live righteously.

Matthew 5:9
Jesus blesses the peacemakers, indicating that those who pursue peace are aligned with God's will and will be called His children.

Hebrews 4:9-11
Discusses the rest that remains for the people of God, encouraging believers to strive to enter that rest through faith and obedience.

Revelation 14:13
Speaks of the blessedness of those who die in the Lord, as they will rest from their labors and their deeds will follow them.