Isaiah 1:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 1:9
9 Except the LORD of hosts had left unto us a very small remnant, we should have been as Sodom, and we should have been like unto Gomorrah.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 1 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, righteousness, discipleship. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 1:9
9 Except the LORD of hosts had left unto us a very small remnant, we should have been as Sodom, and we should have been like unto Gomorrah.
Analysis
The doctrine of the remnant appears here for the first time in Isaiah, a theme central to his theology. The Hebrew 'sarid' (remnant) emphasizes survivors preserved by grace. The comparison to Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) invokes total divine judgment, making the preservation of even a small remnant evidence of pure mercy, not merit.
Historical Context
The 'LORD of hosts' (Yahweh Sabaoth) title emphasizes God's sovereignty over heavenly and earthly armies. Only His restraint prevented Judah's complete annihilation during the Assyrian crisis.
Reflection
- Do you recognize that your spiritual survival is entirely due to God's preserving grace?
- How does the doctrine of the remnant comfort you regarding the church's future?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 17:6, 37:4, Genesis 18:32, 19:24, Lamentations 3:22, Amos 4:11
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 6:13, 24:13