But thus saith the LORD, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children.
But thus saith the LORD, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children. God's answer emphatically reverses the impossibility posed in verse 24. The opening "But thus saith the LORD" introduces divine contradiction of human logic. The terms "mighty" (gibbor) and "terrible" ('arits, עָרִיץ, ruthless tyrant) acknowledge Babylon's formidable power, yet God promises to overcome even this.
The dual promise—"captives shall be taken away" and "prey shall be delivered"—uses passive voice to emphasize divine action, not human achievement. The theological center appears in "I will contend" (anoki arib, אָנֹכִי אָרִיב), depicting God as legal advocate and warrior champion. God fights Israel's battles; their deliverance depends on His intervention. The concluding "I will save thy children" places covenant relationship at the center—God acts for His people because they are His.
From a Reformed perspective, this models effectual calling and irresistible grace. Those whom God purposes to save will be saved; no power can prevent it (Romans 8:31-39). Christ is the ultimate champion who contends with Satan, sin, and death on behalf of His people. The atonement satisfies divine justice while delivering those lawfully captive to sin. This verse grounds assurance in God's power and promise, not human worthiness or effort.
Historical Context
This promise found initial fulfillment in Cyrus's decree (538 BCE) releasing Jewish captives despite Babylon's previous might. Isaiah 44:28-45:4 specifically names Cyrus as God's instrument, demonstrating sovereign control even over pagan rulers. Babylon fell to Persia in one night (Daniel 5), and Cyrus immediately authorized Jewish return—a stunning reversal.
The phrase "I will contend with him that contendeth with thee" echoes God's covenant promise to Abraham: "I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee" (Genesis 12:3). Throughout history, nations that oppressed Israel ultimately fell: Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Rome. Yet ultimate fulfillment comes through Christ who "spoiled principalities and powers" (Colossians 2:15), delivering captives from sin's tyranny. Church history shows persecution ultimately failing to destroy God's people—the "terrible" cannot prevent God's saving purposes.
Questions for Reflection
How does knowing God fights your battles change your approach to spiritual warfare?
What captivities in your life need God's delivering power?
How does Christ's role as your champion/advocate affect your confidence in salvation?
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Analysis & Commentary
But thus saith the LORD, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children. God's answer emphatically reverses the impossibility posed in verse 24. The opening "But thus saith the LORD" introduces divine contradiction of human logic. The terms "mighty" (gibbor) and "terrible" ('arits, עָרִיץ, ruthless tyrant) acknowledge Babylon's formidable power, yet God promises to overcome even this.
The dual promise—"captives shall be taken away" and "prey shall be delivered"—uses passive voice to emphasize divine action, not human achievement. The theological center appears in "I will contend" (anoki arib, אָנֹכִי אָרִיב), depicting God as legal advocate and warrior champion. God fights Israel's battles; their deliverance depends on His intervention. The concluding "I will save thy children" places covenant relationship at the center—God acts for His people because they are His.
From a Reformed perspective, this models effectual calling and irresistible grace. Those whom God purposes to save will be saved; no power can prevent it (Romans 8:31-39). Christ is the ultimate champion who contends with Satan, sin, and death on behalf of His people. The atonement satisfies divine justice while delivering those lawfully captive to sin. This verse grounds assurance in God's power and promise, not human worthiness or effort.