The concept of "God's Strange Work" is primarily derived from the book of Isaiah, specifically Isaiah 28:21, which states, "For the LORD will rise up as at Mount Perazim, He will rouse Himself as in the Valley of Gibeon, to do His work, His strange work, and to perform His task, His disturbing task" . This passage refers to God's actions that are unexpected or difficult for humans to comprehend, often involving judgment or discipline.

Context in Isaiah

In Isaiah 28, the prophet addresses the leaders of Jerusalem, warning them of impending judgment due to their disobedience and reliance on false security. The "strange work" of God in this context is His intervention in human affairs in a manner that is contrary to what people might expect from a loving and merciful deity. It underscores the seriousness of God's holiness and justice, which sometimes necessitates actions that are severe and unsettling to human sensibilities.

Historical Background

The historical backdrop of Isaiah 28 includes the Assyrian threat to Israel and Judah. The leaders of Jerusalem had made alliances and sought security through means other than trusting in God. The reference to Mount Perazim and the Valley of Gibeon alludes to past victories where God intervened on behalf of Israel, such as David's victory over the Philistines (2 Samuel 5:20) and Joshua's battle against the Amorites (Joshua 10:10-12). These events were demonstrations of God's power and willingness to act decisively in history.

Theological Implications

Theologically, God's "strange work" serves as a reminder of His sovereignty and the complexity of His character. While God is love (1 John 4:8), He is also just and righteous (Psalm 89:14). His actions, though sometimes incomprehensible to human understanding, are always consistent with His nature and purposes. This duality challenges believers to trust in God's wisdom and timing, even when His ways seem mysterious or harsh.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the concept of God's strange work can be seen in the context of divine judgment and redemption. The crucifixion of Jesus Christ is the ultimate "strange work" of God, where judgment and mercy meet. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:18, "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God" . The cross, an instrument of death, becomes the means of salvation, illustrating the paradoxical nature of God's redemptive plan.

Application for Believers

For believers, understanding God's strange work involves recognizing that God's ways are higher than human ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). It calls for humility and faith, trusting that God's purposes, though sometimes hidden, are ultimately for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). It also serves as a warning against complacency and the dangers of relying on worldly wisdom and alliances instead of seeking God's guidance and protection.

Conclusion

While the concept of God's strange work may be unsettling, it is an integral part of the biblical narrative that reveals the depth and breadth of God's interaction with humanity. It challenges believers to embrace the fullness of God's character, trusting in His perfect will and timing.