Isaiah 59:19
So shall they fear the name of the LORD where the sun sets, and His glory where it rises. For He will come like a raging flood, driven by the breath of the LORD.
So shall they fear
The phrase "so shall they fear" indicates a reverential awe and respect that will be instilled in the people. The Hebrew word for "fear" here is "yare," which encompasses both terror and reverence. In a biblical context, this fear is not merely about being afraid but involves a deep respect and acknowledgment of God's power and holiness. This fear is transformative, leading to repentance and a renewed commitment to God's covenant.

the name of the LORD
The "name of the LORD" signifies more than just a title; it represents God's character, authority, and presence. In Hebrew, "name" is "shem," which implies reputation and renown. The name of the LORD is a strong tower (Proverbs 18:10), and it is through His name that believers find protection and identity. This phrase underscores the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty and His rightful place in the lives of His people.

from the west
The mention of "from the west" indicates the universality of God's influence and the reach of His power. In the ancient Near Eastern context, directions often symbolized different aspects of life and divine activity. The west, being the direction of the setting sun, can symbolize the end of an era or the completion of God's work. It suggests that God's renown will spread to all corners of the earth, fulfilling the promise that His glory will cover the earth as the waters cover the sea (Habakkuk 2:14).

and His glory
"His glory" refers to the visible manifestation of God's presence and majesty. The Hebrew word "kavod" is often associated with weightiness and honor. God's glory is a central theme throughout Scripture, representing His holiness and the awe-inspiring nature of His being. It is His glory that fills the temple (Isaiah 6:1-4) and is revealed in the person of Jesus Christ (John 1:14).

from the rising of the sun
This phrase complements "from the west," indicating the global scope of God's majesty. The "rising of the sun" refers to the east, symbolizing new beginnings and the dawn of God's redemptive work. It emphasizes that from the east to the west, all will recognize and honor the LORD. This imagery is a poetic way of expressing the totality of God's dominion over the earth.

for He will come
The certainty of God's intervention is highlighted in "for He will come." This is a promise of divine action and presence. The Hebrew verb "bo" conveys the idea of arrival and presence. It reassures the faithful that God is not distant but actively involved in the affairs of the world, bringing justice and salvation.

like a raging flood
The imagery of "a raging flood" depicts the overwhelming and unstoppable nature of God's intervention. In biblical literature, floods often symbolize judgment and cleansing (Genesis 6-9). This metaphor suggests that God's coming will be powerful and purifying, sweeping away injustice and establishing righteousness.

driven by the breath of the LORD
The "breath of the LORD" signifies the Spirit of God, often associated with life-giving power and divine inspiration. The Hebrew word "ruach" can mean breath, wind, or spirit, indicating the dynamic and life-sustaining force of God. This phrase assures believers that God's actions are not arbitrary but are guided by His Spirit, bringing life and renewal to His creation.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, representing God's power, authority, and glory.

2. The West and the Rising of the Sun (East)
These geographical references symbolize the entirety of the earth, indicating the universal recognition of God's power.

3. The Raging Flood
A metaphor for God's overwhelming and unstoppable intervention in human affairs.

4. The Breath of the LORD
Symbolizes the Spirit of God, indicating divine action and presence.
Teaching Points
Universal Recognition of God's Glory
God's power and glory are not confined to one nation or people but are recognized across the entire earth.

The Power of God's Intervention
Like a raging flood, God's intervention is powerful and unstoppable, reminding us of His sovereignty over all circumstances.

The Role of the Holy Spirit
The "breath of the LORD" signifies the active presence of the Holy Spirit in executing God's will and bringing about His purposes.

Fear and Reverence for God
The appropriate response to God's power and glory is a reverent fear, acknowledging His authority and majesty.

Hope in God's Deliverance
In times of trouble, believers can find hope in the promise of God's powerful intervention and ultimate justice.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the imagery of a "raging flood" help us understand the nature of God's intervention in our lives?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a reverent fear of the LORD in our daily walk with Him?

3. How does the universal recognition of God's glory challenge us to share the gospel with others?

4. What role does the Holy Spirit play in your understanding of God's presence and action in the world today?

5. How can the promise of God's powerful intervention provide comfort and hope in your current circumstances?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Psalm 113:3
This verse also speaks of the name of the LORD being praised from the rising of the sun to its setting, emphasizing the universal recognition of God's glory.

Revelation 7:1-3
Describes the four corners of the earth, highlighting the global scope of God's influence and protection.

Isaiah 11:4
Speaks of the breath of the LORD as a force of judgment and righteousness, similar to the imagery in Isaiah 59:19.

Matthew 24:27
Jesus describes His coming as lightning from the east to the west, echoing the universal and powerful nature of God's intervention.
An Overpowering Manifestation of GodF. Delitzsch, D. D.Isaiah 59:19
EncouragementE. Erskine.Isaiah 59:19
In Time of FloodJ. H. Jowett, M. A.Isaiah 59:19
Moral InvasionsHomilistIsaiah 59:19
Temptation OvercomeF. B. Meyer, B. A.Isaiah 59:19
The Church's PowerF. Delitzsch, D. D.Isaiah 59:19
The Enemy Coming in as a FloodE. Erskine.Isaiah 59:19
The Enemy of the People of GodE. Erskine.Isaiah 59:19
The Great Enemy's Opposition OvercomeJ. S. Clomer.Isaiah 59:19
The Opposing StandardE. Erskine.Isaiah 59:19
The Standard of Heaven Lifted Up Against the Powers of Hell and Their AuxiliariesE. Erskine.Isaiah 59:19
The Standard of the SpiritR. Tuck Isaiah 59:19
The Standard Uplifted in the Face of the FoeIsaiah 59:19
The Successful StandardW.M. Statham Isaiah 59:19
Jehovah as Champion of the PeopleE. Johnson Isaiah 59:15-21
God, Man's Great RedeemerProf. G. A. Smith, D. D.Isaiah 59:16-19
He Wondered that There was no IntercessorJ. A. Alexander.Isaiah 59:16-19
Prophetic CertaintyProf. J. Skinner, D. D.Isaiah 59:16-19
People
Isaiah, Jacob
Places
Jerusalem, Zion
Topics
Adversary, Along, Banner, Breath, Distress, Drives, Driveth, East, Enemy, Ensign, Fear, Flood, Forced, Glory, Honour, Lift, Pent-up, Raised, Revere, Rising, Rushing, Spirit, Standard, Stream, West, Wind
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Isaiah 59:19

     4260   rivers and streams
     4804   breath
     4857   west
     8334   reverence, and God's nature
     8728   enemies, of Israel and Judah
     9414   heaven, community of redeemed

Isaiah 59:12-19

     8370   zeal

Isaiah 59:14-20

     5931   resistance

Isaiah 59:15-20

     5454   power, God's saving

Isaiah 59:17-19

     9145   Messianic age

Isaiah 59:18-19

     1025   God, anger of
     9210   judgment, God's

Library
Flimsy Garments
'Their webs shall not become garments.'--ISAIAH lix. 6. 'I counsel thee to buy of me ... white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear.'--REV. iii. 18. The force of these words of the prophet is very obvious. He has been pouring out swift, indignant denunciation on the evil-doers in Israel; and, says he, 'they hatch cockatrice's eggs and spin spiders' webs,' pointing, as I suppose, to the patient perseverance, worthy of a better cause, which bad men
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Salvation
ISAIAH lix. 15, 16. And the Lord saw it, and it displeased him that there was no judgment. And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore his arm brought salvation unto him, and his righteousness it sustained him. This text is often held to be a prophecy of the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. I certainly believe that it is a prophecy of his coming, and of something better still; namely, his continual presence; and a very noble and deep one, and one from
Charles Kingsley—The Good News of God

How Shall one Make Use of Christ as the Life, when Wrestling with an Angry God Because of Sin?
That we may give some satisfaction to this question, we shall, 1. Shew what are the ingredients in this case, or what useth to concur in this distemper. 2. Shew some reasons why the Lord is pleased to dispense thus with his people. 3. Shew how Christ is life to the soul in this case. 4. Shew the believer's duty for a recovery; and, 5. Add a word or two of caution. As to the first, There may be those parts of, or ingredients in this distemper: 1. God presenting their sins unto their view, so as
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life

'The Breastplate of Righteousness'
'Having put on the breastplate of righteousness.'--Eph. vi. 14. There can be no doubt that in this whole context the Apostle has in mind the great passage in Isaiah lix. where the prophet, in a figure of extreme boldness, describes the Lord as arming Himself to deliver the oppressed faithful, and coming as a Redeemer to Zion. In that passage the Lord puts on righteousness as a breastplate--that is to say, God, in His manifestation of Himself for the deliverance of His people, comes forth as if arrayed
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

The Universal Chorus
And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto Him that stteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever. M en have generally agreed to dignify their presumptuous and arrogant ^* disquisitions on the works and ways of God, with the name of wisdom ; though the principles upon which they proceed, and the conclusions which they draw from
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2

The Lack of Prayer
"Ye have not, because ye ask not."--JAS. iv. 2. "And He saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor."--ISA. lix. 16. "There is none that calleth upon Thy name, that stirreth up himself to take hold of Thee."--ISA. lxiv. 7. At our last Wellington Convention for the Deepening of the Spiritual Life, in April, the forenoon meetings were devoted to prayer and intercession. Great blessing was found, both in listening to what the Word teaches of their need and power, and in joining
Andrew Murray—The Ministry of Intercession

God Seeks Intercessors
"I have set watchmen upon thy walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night. Ye that are the Lord's remembrancers, keep not silence, and give Him no rest till He make Jerusalem a praise in the earth."--ISA. lxii. 6, 7. "And He saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor."--ISA. lix. 16. "And I looked, and there was none to help; and I wondered, and there was none to uphold."--ISA. lxiii. 5. "There is none that calleth upon Thy name, that
Andrew Murray—The Ministry of Intercession

"For the Law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus Hath Made Me Free from the Law of Sin and Death. "
Rom. viii. 2.--"For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." That which makes the delivery of men from the tyranny of sin and death most difficult, and utterly impossible unto nature, is, that sinners have given up themselves unto it, as if it were true liberty, that the will and affections of men are conquered, and sin hath its imperial throne seated there. Other conquerors invade men against their will, and so they rule against their will.
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

The Hindrances to Mourning
What shall we do to get our heart into this mourning frame? Do two things. Take heed of those things which will stop these channels of mourning; put yourselves upon the use of all means that will help forward holy mourning. Take heed of those things which will stop the current of tears. There are nine hindrances of mourning. 1 The love of sin. The love of sin is like a stone in the pipe which hinders the current of water. The love of sin makes sin taste sweet and this sweetness in sin bewitches the
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12

Concerning Perfection.
Concerning Perfection. In whom this pure and holy birth is fully brought forth, the body of death and sin comes to be crucified and removed, and their hearts united and subjected to the truth; so as not to obey any suggestions or temptations of the evil one, but to be free from actual sinning and transgressing of the law of God, and in that respect perfect: yet doth this perfection still admit of a growth; and there remaineth always in some part a possibility of sinning, where the mind doth not most
Robert Barclay—Theses Theologicae and An Apology for the True Christian Divinity

Wherefore Christ Undertook a Method of Setting us Free So Painful and Laborious, when a Word from Him, or an Act of his Will, Would Alone
Wherefore Christ undertook a method of setting us free so painful and laborious, when a word from Him, or an act of His will, would alone have sufficed. 19. Then he labours to teach and persuade us that the devil could not and ought not to have claimed for himself any right over man, except by the permission of God, and that, without doing any injustice to the devil, God could have called back His deserter, if He wished to show him mercy, and have rescued him by a word only, as though any one denies
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux

The Beginning of Justification. In what Sense Progressive.
1. Men either idolatrous, profane, hypocritical, or regenerate. 1. Idolaters void of righteousness, full of unrighteousness, and hence in the sight of God altogether wretched and undone. 2. Still a great difference in the characters of men. This difference manifested. 1. In the gifts of God. 2. In the distinction between honorable and base. 3. In the blessings of he present life. 3. All human virtue, how praiseworthy soever it may appear, is corrupted. 1. By impurity of heart. 2. By the absence of
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Some General Uses from this Useful Truth, that Christ is the Truth.
Having thus cleared up this truth, we should come to speak of the way of believers making use of him as the truth, in several cases wherein they will stand in need of him as the truth. But ere we come to the particulars, we shall first propose some general uses of this useful point. First. This point of truth serveth to discover unto us, the woful condition of such as are strangers to Christ the truth; and oh, if it were believed! For, 1. They are not yet delivered from that dreadful plague of
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life

Christ the Mediator of the Covenant
'Jesus the Mediator of the New Covenant,' &c. Heb 12:24. Jesus Christ is the sum and quintessence of the gospel; the wonder of angels; the joy and triumph of saints. The name of Christ is sweet, it is as music in the ear, honey in the mouth, and a cordial at the heart. I shall waive the context, and only speak of that which concerns our present purpose. Having discoursed of the covenant of grace, I shall speak now of the Mediator of the covenant, and the restorer of lapsed sinners, Jesus the Mediator
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

Concerning Justification.
Concerning Justification. As many as resist not this light, but receive the same, it becomes in them an holy, pure, and spiritual birth, bringing forth holiness, righteousness, purity, and all those other blessed fruits which are acceptable to God: by which holy birth, to wit, Jesus Christ formed within us, and working his works in us, as we are sanctified, so are we justified in the sight of God, according to the apostle's words; But ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in
Robert Barclay—Theses Theologicae and An Apology for the True Christian Divinity

A Defence of the Doctrine of Justification, by Faith in Jesus Christ;
SHEWING, TRUE GOSPEL-HOLINESS FLOWS FROM THENCE; OR, MR. FOWLER'S PRETENDED DESIGN OF CHRISTIANITY, PROVED TO BE NOTHING MORE THAN TO TRAMPLE UNDER FOOT THE BLOOD OF THE SON OF GOD; AND THE IDOLIZING OF MAN'S OWN RIGHTEOUSNESS AS ALSO, HOW WHILE HE PRETENDS TO BE A MINISTER OF THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND, HE OVERTHROWETH THE WHOLESOME DOCTRINE CONTAINED IN THE 10TH, 11TH, AND 13TH, OF THE THIRTY-NINE ARTICLES OF THE SAME, AND THAT HE FALLETH IN WITH THE QUAKER AND ROMANIST, AGAINST THEM. BY JOHN BUNYAN
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

"And we all do Fade as a Leaf, and Our Iniquities, Like the Wind, have Taken us Away. "
Isaiah lxiv. 6.--"And we all do fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away." Here they join the punishment with the deserving cause, their uncleanness and their iniquities, and so take it upon them, and subscribe to the righteousness of God's dealing. We would say this much in general--First, Nobody needeth to quarrel God for his dealing. He will always be justified when he is judged. If the Lord deal more sharply with you than with others, you may judge there is a difference
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Covenanting Provided for in the Everlasting Covenant.
The duty of Covenanting is founded on the law of nature; but it also stands among the arrangements of Divine mercy made from everlasting. The promulgation of the law, enjoining it on man in innocence as a duty, was due to God's necessary dominion over the creatures of his power. The revelation of it as a service obligatory on men in a state of sin, arose from his unmerited grace. In the one display, we contemplate the authority of the righteous moral Governor of the universe; in the other, we see
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting

An Analysis of Augustin's Writings against the Donatists.
The object of this chapter is to present a rudimentary outline and summary of all that Augustin penned or spoke against those traditional North African Christians whom he was pleased to regard as schismatics. It will be arranged, so far as may be, in chronological order, following the dates suggested by the Benedictine edition. The necessary brevity precludes anything but a very meagre treatment of so considerable a theme. The writer takes no responsibility for the ecclesiological tenets of the
St. Augustine—writings in connection with the donatist controversy.

The True Manner of Keeping Holy the Lord's Day.
Now the sanctifying of the Sabbath consists in two things--First, In resting from all servile and common business pertaining to our natural life; Secondly, In consecrating that rest wholly to the service of God, and the use of those holy means which belong to our spiritual life. For the First. 1. The servile and common works from which we are to cease are, generally, all civil works, from the least to the greatest (Exod. xxxi. 12, 13, 15, &c.) More particularly-- First, From all the works of our
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

Of Justification by Faith. Both the Name and the Reality Defined.
Sections. 1. Connection between the doctrine of Justification and that of Regeneration. The knowledge of this doctrine very necessary for two reasons. 2. For the purpose of facilitating the exposition of it, the terms are explained. 1. What it is to be justified in the sight of God. 2. To be justified by works. 3. To be justified by faith. Definition. 3. Various meanings of the term Justification. 1. To give praise to God and truth. 2. To make a vain display of righteousness. 3. To impute righteousness
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

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