Isaiah 66:4
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 66:4
4 I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 66 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, mercy, salvation. 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 21-24: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 66:4
4 I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not.
Analysis
Divine judgment follows: "I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them." The Hebrew ta'alaleihem (delusions/mockeries) suggests God giving them over to what they've chosen—judicial hardening. This echoes Romans 1:24, 26, 28 where God gives rebels over to their sinful desires. Their fears will be realized—what they dreaded will come. Why? "Because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not." Four indictments: ignoring God's call, refusing to hear His word, doing evil deliberately, choosing what displeases Him. The pattern shows progressive hardening leading to judicial judgment. From a Reformed perspective, this illustrates the terrifying doctrine that God sometimes judicially hardens those who persistently reject His grace (Exodus 7:3, 13, Romans 9:17-18). Continued rejection of truth leads to God confirming people in their chosen delusions (2 Thessalonians 2:11-12). The reprobate face the consequences of their chosen rebellion.
Historical Context
Throughout redemptive history, persistent rejection of God's word led to judicial hardening—Pharaoh (Exodus 7-14), Israel in the wilderness (Psalm 95:7-11, Hebrews 3:7-19), Jerusalem before exile (Jeremiah 7:13, 25-27), and before AD 70 destruction (Matthew 23:37-38). The post-exilic community, despite prophetic warnings and temple restoration, largely rejected God's call, leading to spiritual hardening that culminated in rejecting Messiah. This pattern continues—those who persistently resist God's gracious call eventually experience judicial hardening, confirming them in rebellion.
Reflection
- How does persistent rejection of God's word lead to judicial hardening?
- What does it mean that God 'chooses their delusions' as judgment?
- How should this warning motivate us to respond immediately to God's call rather than delaying?
Cross-References
- Light: Isaiah 65:12
- Evil: 2 Kings 21:2, 21:6, Proverbs 10:24
- Parallel theme: Psalms 81:12, Proverbs 1:24, Jeremiah 7:13