Isaiah 56:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 56:7
7 Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 56 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, mercy, covenant. 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 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 56:7
7 Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.
Analysis
God promises to bring foreigners to His holy mountain and make them joyful in His 'house of prayer.' Their offerings and sacrifices are accepted on God's altar. The stunning declaration: 'for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.' Jesus quotes this when cleansing the temple (Mark 11:17).
Historical Context
The temple, often viewed as exclusively Jewish, is declared a house for all nations. This universal vision exceeded most Jewish expectations and was partially fulfilled in the court of the Gentiles.
Reflection
- How does Jesus's use of this verse inform your understanding of the church's mission?
- What barriers to 'all people' accessing God's house still exist today?
Word Studies
- Sacrifice: זֶבַח (Zevach) H2077 - Sacrifice, offering
Cross-References
- Prayer: Matthew 21:13, Mark 11:17, Luke 19:46
- Sacrifice: Malachi 1:11, Hebrews 13:15
- Holy: Psalms 2:6, Zechariah 8:3, Romans 12:1, 1 Timothy 2:8
- Parallel theme: Hebrews 12:22