Isaiah 56:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 56:6
6 Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the LORD, to serve him, and to love the name of the LORD, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant;
Chapter Context
Isaiah 56 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, righteousness, wisdom. 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
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 56:6
6 Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the LORD, to serve him, and to love the name of the LORD, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant;
Analysis
Foreigners who join themselves to the LORD 'to serve him, and to love the name of the LORD, to be his servants' are welcomed. The threefold description - serving, loving, being servants - emphasizes genuine devotion. Sabbath-keeping and covenant-holding again mark true faith.
Historical Context
This anticipates Gentile inclusion in the people of God, later explicitly fulfilled in the New Testament church. The barriers between Jew and Gentile are broken down in Christ (Ephesians 2:11-22).
Reflection
- What marks genuine joining to the LORD versus mere association?
- How does this passage prepare for the New Testament inclusion of Gentiles?
Word Studies
- Love: אַהֲבָה / חֶסֶד (Ahavah / Chesed) H157 - Love / Loyal-love
Cross-References
- Covenant: Jeremiah 50:5
- References Lord: Isaiah 44:5, 58:13, Revelation 1:10
- Love: Galatians 5:6, James 2:5
- Parallel theme: Acts 2:41