Isaiah 8:16
Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Daniel 12:4But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.Hebrews 3:5And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after;Mark 4:34But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples.Matthew 13:11He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
Historical Context
When the majority rejected Isaiah's message, God directed him to preserve it among faithful disciples who would transmit it to future generations. This ensured the prophecies would be available when fulfilled, vindicating God's word. Similarly, during intertestamental silence, faithful Jews preserved Scripture. The early church continued this pattern, preserving apostolic testimony in Scripture against heresies. God always maintains a remnant to safeguard His word.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God preserve His word even when the majority rejects it?
- What is our responsibility as disciples to receive, preserve, and transmit biblical truth to the next generation?
- How do we 'bind up' and 'seal' God's testimony in times of apostasy and spiritual decline?
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Analysis & Commentary
Isaiah is commanded to preserve the testimony and seal the law among his disciples. 'Bind up' and 'seal' suggest protecting from alteration and authenticating its divine origin. During times of public rejection, God's word is preserved in the remnant community. The 'disciples' (literally 'those taught') represent the faithful few who receive and preserve divine revelation. This illustrates the Reformed principle of God's covenant faithfulness—even when many apostatize, God maintains a true church to preserve and proclaim His word.