Isaiah 45:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 45:21
21 Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the LORD? and there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 45 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, mercy, holiness. 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 21-25: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 45:21
21 Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the LORD? and there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me.
Analysis
God challenges rivals to 'tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together.' He asks: 'who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time?' The answer: 'have not I the LORD? and there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me.' Prediction and salvation prove true deity.
Historical Context
Isaiah's prophecies about Cyrus, given 150 years before fulfillment, stand as evidence no other god can match. Prediction plus performance equals proof.
Reflection
- How does fulfilled prophecy demonstrate God's unique deity?
- What does it mean that God is both 'just' and 'Saviour'?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Salvation: Isaiah 43:3, 43:11, Zephaniah 3:17
- References God: Isaiah 45:5, 45:14, 45:18
- References Lord: Isaiah 48:14
- Righteousness: Isaiah 41:26, 43:9, 45:25