Isaiah 10:21
The remnant shall return, even the remnant of Jacob, unto the mighty God.
Original Language Analysis
יָשׁ֖וּב
shall return
H7725
יָשׁ֖וּב
shall return
Strong's:
H7725
Word #:
2 of 7
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
Historical Context
Partially fulfilled when Judah's remnant returned from Babylonian exile (538 BC onward under Zerubbabel, Ezra, Nehemiah). More fully fulfilled when Jewish remnant accepted Jesus as Messiah, forming the church's foundation (Romans 11:5). Continues fulfilling as Jews come to faith in Christ. The pattern persists—God preserves a remnant through every judgment to accomplish His purposes.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the remnant doctrine teach about God's faithfulness to His covenant promises?
- How is returning to God both a physical and spiritual reality?
- In what ways are we, as believers, part of the remnant God is preserving?
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Analysis & Commentary
The faithful response of the remnant is described: 'The remnant shall return, even the remnant of Jacob, unto the mighty God.' The name 'remnant shall return' echoes Isaiah's son Shear-jashub (7:3), making him a living prophecy. 'Return' (Hebrew shuv) means both physical return from exile and spiritual repentance. 'The mighty God' (El Gibbor) is one of Messiah's titles (9:6), suggesting the remnant's return is ultimately to Christ. This demonstrates God's covenant faithfulness—He always preserves and restores a people.