Isaiah 55:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 55:11
11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 55 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, sacrifice, worship. 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 13-13: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 55:11
11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
Analysis
This verse applies the rain/snow analogy to God's word. 'So shall my word be'—drawing the parallel between precipitation's reliability and Scripture's efficacy. God's word 'goeth forth out of my mouth'—emphasizing divine origin, authority, and intentionality. The promise: it 'shall not return unto me void' (reyqam—empty, without effect, unsuccessful). Instead, it 'shall accomplish that which I please' (chephets—delight, purpose, desire) and 'prosper in the thing whereto I sent it' (sahlach—succeed, accomplish the mission). This guarantees Scripture's effectiveness—every divine promise will be fulfilled, every prophecy accomplished, every command effective for its intended purpose. God's word never fails to achieve what He designed it to accomplish.
Historical Context
Isaiah's prophecies often seemed impossible—exiles returning, Messiah coming, salvation reaching Gentiles. Yet God assured His word would accomplish these purposes, however long they took or unlikely they seemed. New Testament writers saw Isaiah's prophecies fulfilled in Christ, vindicating God's word's reliability. Church history demonstrates Scripture's enduring power—unchanged by cultural shifts, government opposition, or intellectual trends. Countless testimonies confirm God's promises accomplishing His purposes in individual lives, despite delays or obstacles.
Reflection
- How does God's guarantee that His word will accomplish its purpose affect your confidence in praying and claiming Scripture's promises?
- What specific word or promise from God seems delayed or unlikely in your circumstances, and how does this verse encourage you to keep trusting?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- Word: Isaiah 45:23, Matthew 24:35, John 6:63, Romans 10:17, 1 Thessalonians 2:13, James 1:18
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 46:10, 1 Corinthians 1:18, Hebrews 6:7