'What shall one then answer the messengers of the nation? That the LORD hath founded Zion, and the poor of his people shall trust in it.' Philistine messengers (possibly seeking alliance or gauging Judah's response) ask about security. Isaiah's answer: Zion's security rests not on military might or political alliances but on divine foundation—'the LORD hath founded Zion.' Because God established Jerusalem, it stands firm. The 'poor of his people' (often Israel's self-designation, emphasizing dependence on God rather than wealth/power) trust in this divine foundation, not human schemes. This is the proper ground of confidence: God's work and promise, not human strength. Zion survives not because of her power but because of her Founder.
Historical Context
Throughout Isaiah, Zion/Jerusalem represents not just a city but God's dwelling place and His people. God's foundational work (Psalm 87:1, 5) guarantees Zion's security—ultimately. Historically, Jerusalem survived Assyrian siege (701 BC) miraculously but later fell to Babylon (586 BC), then was rebuilt. The point isn't that earthly Jerusalem never falls but that God's purposes for Zion ultimately prevail. For Christians, Zion is the church, the new Jerusalem, founded by Christ (Matthew 16:18). Gates of hell will not prevail against it. The 'poor of his people' are believers who trust not in themselves but in God's unshakeable foundation.
Questions for Reflection
How does trusting that 'the LORD hath founded Zion' provide confidence when circumstances seem threatening?
What does it mean to be among the 'poor of his people' who trust in God's foundation rather than human strength or wisdom?
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Analysis & Commentary
'What shall one then answer the messengers of the nation? That the LORD hath founded Zion, and the poor of his people shall trust in it.' Philistine messengers (possibly seeking alliance or gauging Judah's response) ask about security. Isaiah's answer: Zion's security rests not on military might or political alliances but on divine foundation—'the LORD hath founded Zion.' Because God established Jerusalem, it stands firm. The 'poor of his people' (often Israel's self-designation, emphasizing dependence on God rather than wealth/power) trust in this divine foundation, not human schemes. This is the proper ground of confidence: God's work and promise, not human strength. Zion survives not because of her power but because of her Founder.