Isaiah 56:8
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 56:8
8 The Lord GOD which gathereth the outcasts of Israel saith, Yet will I gather others to him, beside those that are gathered unto him.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 56 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of love, salvation, 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 56:8
8 The Lord GOD which gathereth the outcasts of Israel saith, Yet will I gather others to him, beside those that are gathered unto him.
Analysis
The Lord GOD who 'gathereth the outcasts of Israel' declares He 'will gather others to him, beside those that are gathered unto him.' The Hebrew 'qabats' (gather) describes God actively assembling His scattered people. The 'others' added to Israel anticipates Gentile inclusion in salvation.
Historical Context
This looks beyond the physical return from Babylon to a greater ingathering. Jesus references this concept when speaking of 'other sheep' He must bring (John 10:16).
Reflection
- How does God's ongoing gathering of 'others' shape your view of evangelism?
- Who are the 'outcasts' God is gathering today?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H136 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Psalms 147:2, Jeremiah 31:10
- References God: Isaiah 49:22, Psalms 106:47
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 43:6, 49:12, 54:7, Genesis 49:10, John 10:16, Ephesians 1:10