Isaiah 61:10
I will rejoice greatly in the LORD, my soul will exult in my God; for He has clothed me with garments of salvation and wrapped me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom wears a priestly headdress, as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
I delight greatly in the LORD
The phrase "I delight greatly in the LORD" expresses profound joy and satisfaction found in a relationship with God. The Hebrew word for "delight" is "שׂוּשׂ" (sus), which conveys a sense of exultation and rejoicing. This delight is not superficial but deeply rooted in the soul's recognition of God's sovereignty and goodness. Historically, this joy reflects the Israelites' understanding of God as their deliverer and provider, a theme prevalent throughout the Old Testament. The phrase invites believers to find their ultimate joy and fulfillment in God, transcending earthly circumstances.

my soul rejoices in my God
The phrase "my soul rejoices in my God" emphasizes an inner, spiritual joy that goes beyond mere emotional happiness. The Hebrew word for "rejoices" is "גִּיל" (gil), which suggests a spinning or leaping for joy. This indicates an exuberant, almost physical expression of joy that originates from the soul's connection with God. The use of "my God" personalizes the relationship, highlighting the intimate bond between the believer and the divine. This personal relationship is central to the faith journey, encouraging believers to cultivate a deep, personal connection with God.

For He has clothed me with garments of salvation
The imagery of being "clothed with garments of salvation" is rich with meaning. In ancient times, clothing was a symbol of identity and status. The Hebrew word for "clothed" is "לָבַשׁ" (lavash), which means to put on or wear. The "garments of salvation" signify a transformation and covering provided by God, indicating a new identity as one who is saved and redeemed. This metaphor is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to "put on" Christ (Romans 13:14). It speaks to the transformative power of God's salvation, which covers and redeems the believer.

and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness
The "robe of righteousness" further develops the clothing metaphor, emphasizing the righteousness bestowed upon the believer. The Hebrew word for "arrayed" is "יַעְטֵנִי" (ya'ateini), meaning to wrap or envelop. This suggests a complete covering, indicating that righteousness is not self-derived but granted by God. The "robe" symbolizes honor and dignity, reflecting the believer's new standing before God. This righteousness is a gift, not earned, pointing to the grace of God in the believer's life. It underscores the Christian doctrine of imputed righteousness through faith in Christ.

as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest
The comparison to a bridegroom who "adorns his head like a priest" draws on cultural and religious imagery. In ancient Israel, both bridegrooms and priests wore special headdresses or turbans as symbols of their roles and responsibilities. The Hebrew word for "adorns" is "כַּהֵן" (kohen), which can also mean to serve as a priest. This dual imagery highlights the sanctity and joy of the occasion, likening the believer's righteousness to the honor and dedication of a priest. It suggests that the believer is set apart for a holy purpose, much like a priest in service to God.

and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels
The imagery of a bride adorning herself with jewels conveys beauty, value, and preparation for a significant event. The Hebrew word for "adorns" is "תַּעְדֶּה" (ta'adeh), meaning to decorate or make beautiful. This reflects the care and attention given to one's appearance for a wedding, symbolizing the believer's preparation and readiness for a relationship with God. The "jewels" represent the precious and valuable aspects of the believer's new life in Christ, adorned with the virtues and graces that come from a life transformed by God's love and righteousness. This imagery invites believers to see themselves as cherished and valued by God, prepared for a divine relationship.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Isaiah
The prophet who authored the book, delivering messages from God to the people of Israel.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is the source of salvation and righteousness.

3. The Bridegroom
Symbolic of Christ, who is often depicted as the bridegroom in the New Testament.

4. The Bride
Represents the people of God, often symbolizing the Church in the New Testament.

5. Garments of Salvation and Robe of Righteousness
Metaphors for the spiritual transformation and redemption provided by God.
Teaching Points
Joy in Salvation
Emphasize the profound joy and gratitude that should accompany the realization of God's salvation.

Encourage believers to express their joy in worship and daily life.

Identity in Christ
Highlight the transformation from sin to righteousness through Christ.

Encourage believers to embrace their new identity and live accordingly.

Symbolism of Clothing
Discuss the significance of being clothed in salvation and righteousness.

Encourage believers to "put on" Christ in their daily actions and decisions.

Role of the Church as the Bride
Explore the Church's role as the bride of Christ, called to purity and faithfulness.

Encourage communal and individual preparation for the return of Christ.

Priestly Role of Believers
Reflect on the priestly imagery and the call to live as a holy priesthood.

Encourage believers to intercede for others and live lives of service.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the imagery of clothing in Isaiah 61:10 enhance our understanding of salvation and righteousness?

2. In what ways can we express our joy in the LORD as described in this verse, in both personal and communal settings?

3. How does the concept of being the bride of Christ influence our daily walk and relationship with God?

4. What practical steps can we take to "put on" the garments of salvation and the robe of righteousness in our lives?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures deepen our understanding of the themes in Isaiah 61:10, and how can we apply these insights to our spiritual growth?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Revelation 19:7-8
This passage describes the marriage of the Lamb and the bride being clothed in fine linen, symbolizing the righteous acts of the saints, connecting to the imagery of the bride and garments in Isaiah 61:10.

2 Corinthians 5:21
Discusses the righteousness of God given to believers through Christ, paralleling the robe of righteousness mentioned in Isaiah.

Zechariah 3:3-5
Illustrates the removal of filthy garments and the clothing with pure vestments, similar to the transformation described in Isaiah 61:10.

Ephesians 5:25-27
Compares Christ's love for the Church to a bridegroom's love for his bride, emphasizing purity and holiness.

Psalm 132:9
Speaks of priests being clothed with righteousness, echoing the priestly imagery in Isaiah 61:10.
Dressed for EternityW. Birch.Isaiah 61:10
Fulness of JoyW.M. Statham Isaiah 61:10
Joy in the Divine AdorningsR. Tuck Isaiah 61:10
The Garments of SalvationT. Spurgeon.Isaiah 61:10
Spiritual Joy in the EternalE. Johnson Isaiah 61:10, 11
Wise ExultationW. Clarkson Isaiah 61:10, 11
People
Isaiah, Israelites
Places
City of the Lord, Zion
Topics
Adorneth, Adorns, Arrayed, Beautiful, Bride, Bridegroom, Clothed, Clothing, Covered, Covereth, Covering, Decketh, Decks, Diadem, Exult, Fair, Full, Garland, Garments, Glad, Greatly, Head-dress, Herself, Husband, Jewels, Joy, Joyful, Makes, Ornaments, Prepareth, Priest, Priestly, Puts, Putteth, Rejoice, Rejoices, Righteousness, Robe, Salvation, Soul, Turban, Victory, Wrapped
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Isaiah 61:10

     1070   God, joy of
     1320   God, as Saviour
     5145   clothing
     5177   robes
     5399   luxury
     5659   bride
     5660   bridegroom
     5710   marriage, customs
     5742   wedding
     5778   adorning
     5830   delight
     5874   happiness
     5915   ornaments
     6511   salvation
     8288   joy, of Israel
     8486   spiritual warfare, armour

Isaiah 61:10-11

     8665   praise, reasons

Library
The Joy-Bringer
'To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.'--ISAIAH lxi. 3. In the little synagogue of Nazareth Jesus began His ministry by laying His hand upon this great prophecy and saying, 'It is Mine! I have fulfilled it.' The prophet had been painting the ideal Messianic Deliverer, with special reference to the return from the Babylonian captivity. That was 'the liberty to the captives, and the
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Beauty for Ashes
We will read our text again, and then meditate thereon. "To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified." Our first consideration will be, who gives this word? Secondly, to whom doth he give it? Thirdly, what saith he in it? And, fourthly, what will come of it? I. First then, WHO GIVES THIS
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871

Centenary Commemoration
OF THE ELECTION OF BISHOP SEABURY. 1883. THE REV. SAMUEL SEABURY, D.D. WAS ELECTED FIRST BISHOP OF CONNECTICUT AT WOODBURY, MARCH 25, 1783. The one-hundredth anniversary of the election of Bishop Seabury fell on Easter-Day (being also the Festival of the Annunciation), 1883. In accordance with the request of the Diocesan Convention, the Bishop set forth the following special Thanksgiving to be used throughout the Diocese, immediately after the General Thanksgiving at Morning and Evening Prayer on
Various—The Sermons And Addresses At The Seabury Centenary

Thirtieth Lesson. An Holy Priesthood;'
An holy priesthood;' Or, The Ministry of Intercession. An holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.'--I Peter ii. 5. Ye shall be named the Priests of the Lord.'--Isaiah lxi. 6. THE Spirit of the Lord God is upon me: because the Lord hath anointed me.' These are the words of Jesus in Isaiah. As the fruit of His work all redeemed ones are priests, fellow-partakers with Him of His anointing with the Spirit as High Priest. Like the precious ointment upon
Andrew Murray—With Christ in the School of Prayer

Christianity Requires the Temper of Childhood.
MARK x. 15.--"Verily I say unto you, whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein." These words of our Lord are very positive and emphatic, and will, therefore, receive a serious attention from every one who is anxious concerning his future destiny beyond the grave. For, they mention an indispensable requisite in order to an entrance into eternal life. "Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein."
William G.T. Shedd—Sermons to the Natural Man

Growth in Grace
'But grow in grace.' 2 Pet 3:38. True grace is progressive, of a spreading and growing nature. It is with grace as with light; first, there is the crepusculum, or daybreak; then it shines brighter to the full meridian. A good Christian is like the crocodile. Quamdiu vivet crescit; he has never done growing. The saints are not only compared to stars for their light, but to trees for their growth. Isa 61:1, and Hos 14:4. A good Christian is not like Hezekiah's sun that went backwards, nor Joshua's
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

Christ the Deliverer.
"And he [Jesus] came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; and he entered, as his custom was, into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up to read. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Isaiah. And he opened the book, and found the place where it was written, The spirit of the Lord is upon me, Because he anointed me to preach good tidings to the poor: He hath sent me to proclaim release to the captives, And recovering of sight to the blind, To set at liberty them that
Frank G. Allen—Autobiography of Frank G. Allen, Minister of the Gospel

"For they that are after the Flesh do Mind the Things of the Flesh,",
Rom. viii. 5.--"For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh,", &c. Though sin hath taken up the principal and inmost cabinet of the heart of man--though it hath fixed its imperial throne in the spirit of man, and makes use of all the powers and faculties in the soul to accomplish its accursed desires and fulfil its boundless lusts, yet it is not without good reason expressed in scripture, ordinarily under the name of "flesh," and a "body of death," and men dead in sins, are
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Of the Words Themselves in General.
We come now to the words themselves, wherein Christ asserts that he is, 1, "the way;" 2, "the truth;" 3, "the life;" and, 4, "that no man cometh to the Father but by him." In them we learn these two things in general. First, The misery of wretched man by nature. This cannot be in a few words expressed. These words will point out those particulars thereof, which we will but mention. 1. That he is born an enemy to, and living at a distance from God, by virtue of the curse of the broken covenant of
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life

Organically One.
"From whom the whole body, fitly joined together and compacted, maketh increase unto the edifying of itself in love." --Ephes. iv. 16. The newness of holy Love lies in the Church. As we look at the withered state of the Church in almost every period, we almost hesitate to make this statement; yet in principle we maintain it to its fullest extent and power. The Church of Christ on earth is like an "incluse." The "inclusi" were honorable men and women who in the Middle Ages immured themselves in little
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

The First Galilean Ministry.
The visit to Nazareth was in many respects decisive. It presented by anticipation an epitome of the history of the Christ. He came to His own, and His own received Him not. The first time He taught in the Synagogue, as the first time He taught in the Temple, they cast Him out. On the one and the other occasion, they questioned His authority, and they asked for a sign.' In both instances, the power which they challenged was, indeed, claimed by Christ, but its display, in the manner which they expected,
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

Not Like unto Us.
"Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness."--Matt. iv. 1. The representation that Christ's human nature received animating and qualifying influences and impulses directly from His divine nature, altho on the whole incorrect, contains also some truth. We often distinguish between our ego and nature. We say: "I have my nature against me," or "My nature is in my favor"; hence it follows that our person animates and actuates our nature. Applying this to the Person of the Mediator, we must
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

How those are to be Admonished who Desire not the Things of Others, but Keep their Own; and those who Give of their Own, yet Seize
(Admonition 22.) Differently to be admonished are those who neither desire what belongs to others nor bestow what is their own, and those who give of what they have, and yet desist not from seizing on what belongs to others. Those who neither desire what belongs to others nor bestow what is their own are to be admonished to consider carefully that the earth out of which they are taken is common to all men, and therefore brings forth nourishment for all in common. Vainly, then, do those suppose
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

Rest for the Weary
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. W hich shall we admire most -- the majesty, or the grace, conspicuous in this invitation? How soon would the greatest earthly monarch be impoverished, and his treasures utterly exhausted, if all, that are poor and miserable, had encouragement to apply freely to him, with a promise of relief, fully answerable to their wants and wishes! But the riches of Christ are unsearchable and inexhaustible. If millions and millions
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1

Religion Pleasant to the Religious.
"O taste and see how gracious the Lord is; blessed is the man that trusteth in Him."--Psalm xxxiv. 8. You see by these words what love Almighty God has towards us, and what claims He has upon our love. He is the Most High, and All-Holy. He inhabiteth eternity: we are but worms compared with Him. He would not be less happy though He had never created us; He would not be less happy though we were all blotted out again from creation. But He is the God of love; He brought us all into existence,
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VII

"We have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the Righteous. "
1 John ii. 1.--"We have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." There is no settlement to the spirit of a sinner that is once touched with the sense of his sins, and apprehension of the justice and wrath of God, but in some clear and distinct understanding of the grounds of consolation in the gospel, and the method of salvation revealed in it. There is no solid peace giving answer to the challenges of the law and thy own conscience, but in the advocation of Jesus Christ, the Saviour
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Jesus visits Nazareth and is Rejected.
^A Matt. XIII. 54-58; ^B Mark VI. 1-6; ^C Luke IV. 16-31. ^b 1 And he went out from thence [from Capernaum] ; and he cometh { ^a And coming} ^b into his own country; and his disciples follow him. ^c 16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up [As to this city, see pages 14 and 55. As to the early years of Jesus at Nazareth, see page 60]: ^b 2 And when the sabbath was come ^c he entered, as his custom was, into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up to read. [This does not mean
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

The Comforts Belonging to Mourners
Having already presented to your view the dark side of the text, I shall now show you the light side, They shall be comforted'. Where observe: 1 Mourning goes before comfort as the lancing of a wound precedes the cure. The Antinomian talks of comfort, but cries down mourning for sin. He is like a foolish patient who, having a pill prescribed him, licks the sugar but throws away the pill. The libertine is all for joy and comfort. He licks the sugar but throws away the bitter pill of repentance. If
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12

Blessed are the Poor in Spirit
Having spoken of the general notion of blessedness, I come next to consider the subjects of this blessedness, and these our Saviour has deciphered to be the poor in spirit, the mourners, etc. But before I touch upon these, I shall attempt a little preface or paraphrase upon this sermon of the beatitudes. 1 Observe the divinity in this sermon, which goes beyond all philosophy. The philosophers use to say that one contrary expels another; but here one contrary begets another. Poverty is wont to expel
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12

The Consolation
Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received at the LORD 's hand double for all her sins. T he particulars of the great "mystery of godliness," as enumerated by the Apostle Paul, constitute the grand and inexhaustible theme of the Gospel ministry, "God manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1

Making and Breaking Connections.
Many Experiences, but One Law. In mechanics power depends on good connections. A visit to any great machine shop makes that clear. There must be good connections in two directions--inward toward the source of power, and outward for use. The same law holds true in spiritual power as in mechanical. There must be good connections. These nights we have been together a few things have seemed clear. We have seen that from the standpoint of our lives there is need of power, as well as from the standpoint
S.D. Gordon—Quiet Talks on Power

The Indwelling Spirit Fully and Forever Satisfying.
The Holy Spirit takes up His abode in the one who is born of the Spirit. The Apostle Paul says to the believers in Corinth in 1 Cor. iii. 16, R. V., "Know ye not that ye are a temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?" This passage refers, not so much to the individual believer, as to the whole body of believers, the Church. The Church as a body is indwelt by the Spirit of God. But in 1 Cor. vi. 19, R. V., we read, "Know ye not that your body is a temple of the Holy Ghost which is
R. A. Torrey—The Person and Work of The Holy Spirit

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