Isaiah 14:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 14:27
27 For the LORD of hosts hath purposed, and who shall disannul it? and his hand is stretched out, and who shall turn it back?
Chapter Context
Isaiah 14 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, truth, sacrifice. 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 21-32: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 14:27
27 For the LORD of hosts hath purposed, and who shall disannul it? and his hand is stretched out, and who shall turn it back?
Analysis
'For the LORD of hosts hath purposed, and who shall disannul it? and his hand is stretched out, and who shall turn it back?' Two rhetorical questions expecting the answer 'No one!' Who can nullify God's purpose? No one. Who can turn back His hand? No one. This is divine immutability and omnipotence: God's plans cannot be thwarted, His actions cannot be reversed. The questions challenge all human pride and power: try to stop God—you cannot. This provides assurance for believers (God's saving purposes cannot fail) and warning for rebels (God's judgment cannot be escaped). The verse caps the oracle against nations with absolute declaration of divine sovereignty.
Historical Context
Throughout history, nations and individuals have tried to resist God's purposes—Pharaoh refusing to release Israel, Sennacherib threatening Jerusalem, Herod killing babies to prevent Messiah, Saul persecuting Christians. All failed. God's purposes advance despite—even through—opposition. The crucifixion seemed to defeat God's plan; instead it fulfilled it (Acts 2:23). Reformed theology emphasizes divine sovereignty: God's decretive will cannot be frustrated. This doesn't eliminate human responsibility but grounds assurance—salvation, sanctification, and glorification all rest on God's unshakeable purpose, not fluctuating human will.
Reflection
- How does the impossibility of annulling God's purpose provide assurance regarding your salvation and eternal security?
- What does the unanswerable question 'who shall turn it back?' teach about the futility of resisting God's will?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 23:9, 2 Chronicles 20:6, Psalms 33:11, Proverbs 19:21, 21:30
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 43:13, Job 9:12, 23:13, Romans 8:28, 8:31