Isaiah 57:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 57:21
21 There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 57 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, hope, redemption. 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 21-21: Conclusion and application
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 57:21
21 There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.
Analysis
The chapter concludes with an absolute declaration: "There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked." This statement appears twice in Isaiah (48:22, 57:21), forming a refrain emphasizing its certainty. The Hebrew ein shalom (no peace) is emphatic—the wicked are utterly excluded from the peace God announces to His people. "Saith my God" (amar Elohai) adds personal emphasis—the prophet's covenant God declares this truth. This verse establishes the great division of humanity: the redeemed who have peace with God through faith (Romans 5:1) and the wicked who remain under wrath (John 3:36). From a Reformed perspective, this highlights the doctrine of particular redemption—Christ's peace-making work is effectual for the elect, not universally applied. It also affirms the reality of eternal punishment: those who die unreconciled to God will never experience peace, facing instead eternal restlessness and judgment. This sobering truth should drive believers to evangelism and sinners to seek Christ while He may be found (Isaiah 55:6).
Historical Context
This was tragically fulfilled when unrepentant Judeans experienced the horrors of Babylonian siege and exile, finding no peace in their rebellion. It continued through Israel's history whenever they persisted in covenant unfaithfulness. Ultimately, it points to the eternal separation between the righteous (who have peace through Christ) and the wicked (who face eternal judgment). The New Testament affirms this division (Matthew 25:31-46, Revelation 21:8).
Reflection
- How does this verse shape our understanding of the urgency of the gospel message?
- What distinguishes temporary troubles from the ultimate absence of peace for the wicked?
- How should the reality of eternal separation from God's peace motivate our evangelistic efforts?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Peace: Isaiah 48:22, 59:8, 2 Kings 9:22
- Evil: Isaiah 3:11