As I stated earlier, Isaiah 49 is a continuation of Isaiah 48. But because of the great amount of content, I have split the two chapters into two sections.
In Isaiah 48, covenant was made. In Isaiah 49, the covenant is broken and now a court is convened to hear the two sides. Isaiah 49 will contain four steps of this court hearing: the summons, the plaintiff’s charge, the defendants plea and the judge’s indictment.
The Summons (v 1-6)
The Servant Song
Ludlow points out that these “six verses comprise on of the four recognized ‘servant songs’ of Isaiah (along with 42:1-4; 50:5-9 and 52:13-53:12)”
This servant has the following attributes:
1. He is “called from the womb” foreordained (v 1)
2. He is “in the shadow of his [the Lord] hand” (v 2)
3. He is like a “polished shaft” (v 2)
4. He seemingly labors in vain (v 4)
5. He is involved in the gathering of Israel (v 5-6)
Ludlow lists several people who fit this description. Israel, Jesus Christ and Joseph Smith all fit these descriptions in one way or another. He also cites Ephraim, who is a recipient of Jacob’s birthright, as another possible person who fits the description.
The Plaintiff’s Charge (v 7-13)
In the charge, the Lord reminds Israel that he has “fulfilled his obligations” in that he will gather her from all parts of the earth.
Isaiah 49:9 refers to the liberation of the people from darkness and a life of sin. This seems to refer to our day when we have the fullness of the restoration of the Gospel. This could also allude to the liberation of those who sat in the prison world before Christ organized the preaching of the gospel to those souls (see D&C 138).
Isaiah 49:12 refers to the gathering of Israel from all quarters of the earth. Ludlow points out that some Bible scholars believe that the land of Sinim may be China. Others believe it may be a place in Egypt.
The Defendant’s Plea (v 14, 21, 24)
Israel responds to the Lord’s charge. In Isaiah 49:14 she claims the Lord has forsaken and forgotten her.
In Isaiah 49:21 she claims she is left childless, alone without friends and held captive.
And in Isaiah 49:24 she “fears she has been robbed of her heritage” (Ludlow 412).
The Judge’s Indictment (v 15-20, 22-23, 25-26)
The Lord Will Not Forget
In verse 14, Israel has lost faith in the Lord’s capacity to deliver her. But the Lord cannot forget his chosen people. A woman may (although unlikely) forget her baby and focus on her pregnancy, the Lord will never forget his chosen people.
A mark of the laborer is his hands. He will have worn and bruised hands if he has labored hard. The Lord’s work also can be seen by looking at his hands. He says to Israel and to us, “Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands” (Isaiah 49:16).
When I read those words, I almost instantly think of that wonderful, soul-penetrating hymn “Reverently and Meekly Now” (Hymn #185)
Think of me, thou ransomed one;
Think what I for thee have done.
With my blood that dripped like rain,
Sweat in agony of pain,
With my body on the tree
I have ransomed even thee. . . .
Oh, remember what was done
That the sinner might be won.
On the cross of Calvary
I have suffered death for thee.
Nursing Fathers and Mothers
Israel complains to the Lord that her numbers are too few. The Lord assures her that she will have plenty of help. “Thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I will lift up mine hand to the Gentiles, and set up my standard to the people: and they shall bring thy sons in their arms, and they daughters shall be carried on their shoulders.
“And kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their queens they nursing mothers: they shall bow down to thee with their face toward the earth, and lick up the dust of thy feet; and thou shalt know that I am the Lord: for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me” (Isaiah 49:22-23)
Anyone who has read or is familiar with the history of the nation of Israel will know that this scripture has been fulfilled. Wikipedia does a good job summarizing the history of Israel as a nation (see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Israel).
I am not going to copy it in full here, but Ludlow does an amazing job summarizing the prophecies pertaining to the return of Judah that have either been partially or fully fulfilled.
Included in this list are:
1. Elijah the Prophet to return to the earth
2. Descendants of Judah to gather
3. Gold and silver from the nations to revive the land
4. The land of Jerusalem to be made productive
5. The descendants of Judah to be attacked and delivered
6. Jerusalem will come under the control of Israel
7. The Jewish people will begin to believe in Jesus Christ
He also lists many prophesies about the Jews that have not been fulfilled.
1. A new temple will be built in Jerusalem
2. A leader named David … will lead Israel
3. The nations … will gather … and Judah will be smitten
4. Two prophets are to be raised up to the Jewish nation
5. The Savior to appear to the descendants of Judah
6. The Messiah to lead Israel to victory and rule as King of Kings
7. Two great world capitals are to be established, Zion and Jerusalem
Ludlow notes scriptures and other references for each point, along with some brief information regarding the point. These lists can be found in the book on pages 415-416).
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Isaiah 48
Ludlow lumps Isaiah 48 and 49 together. They should go hand in hand, but because of the volume of content, I will split them into two entries.
Isaiah in the Book of Mormon
Ludlow makes a few notes about these two chapters in the Book of Mormon. He says, "chapters 48 and 49 are the first Isaianic chapters to be quoted in their entirety in the Book of Mormon. (1 Nephi 20-21.) Also, approximately one-third of the Isaianic verses in the Book of Mormon containing major changes are located in these two chapters." He goes on to explain that some of these changes found in the Book of Mormon help clarify passages that have confused scholars in the past. (399)
Covenant Form
Isaiah 48 is in covenant form. Ludlow explains that there are six parts to a treaty between a king and his vassal or in this instance, a covenant between the Lord and his people.
The six parts are 1) Preamble, 2) Historical prologue, 3) Stipulations, 4) Witnesses, 5) Curses and blessings and 6) Perpetuation of the contract.
Isaiah 48 has all these elements, although they slightly different order (400).
Preamble (v 1-2)
The preamble is an introduction to the people.
"or out of the waters of baptism"
The 1 Nephi 20:1 rendition of Isaiah 48:1 adds the phrase "or out of the waters of baptism." This phrase did not originally appear in the 1830 edition of the Book of Mormon. It first showed up in the 1840 edition. Ludlow cites Daniel H. Ludlow to explain this.
When Isaiah speaks to Israel, he may be addressing three different groups of people.
Blood Israel - those who are literal descendants of Jacob or Israel.
Covenant Israel - those who accept God and the covenants of Israel.
The people who live in the land of Israel - those inhabitants of the land that was granted to the tribes of Israel.
Historical Prologue (v 3-8)
In this section, "Isaiah reviews Israel's covenant relationship with the Lord." (403)
The Lord's Foreknowledge
The reason the Lord "declared the former things from the beginning" was so that Israel had no doubt it came from the Lord and would not be able to say that their dumb idols were responsible for the events.
Regarding the foresight and foreknowledge of the Lord, I have found it interesting how even today the Lord gives ample warning to his people. I remember in October 1998 sitting in a chapel in Provo listening to President Hinckley warn all of us priesthood holders to get our houses in order (Gordon B. Hinckley, “To the Boys and to the Men,” Ensign, Nov 1998, 51). He made it clear he was not prophesying that there would be a famine, but he made it clear that he was giving counsel.
To fully understand the context of this talk, you need to understand that 1998 was a great year. The economy was virtually booming. The Internet as we generally know it had been around for a few years and businesses were jumping on board with on-line models and such. It is not a far stretch of the imagination to think that some scoffed at the idea of a prophet counseling to reduce debt and cut back.
Yet just a few years later, the .com bust occurred and scores of on-line companies went out of business. Then September 11, 2001 happened and the world has never been the same. I remember filling my car up at the Chevron across from the football stadium for $.99 a gallon in 1998. Today, the gas prices are $3.50 a gallon and were up to $4.00 a gallon earlier this year. The dollar has hit historical lows against the euro. There were stories of food shortages around the world earlier this year too. Wheat and rice were very expensive and still are. The housing bubble has finally "popped" and there has been a lot of uneasiness in the economy since October 1998.
But looking back to President Hinckley's talk, it is amazing to see the wisdom in his counsel. No doubt he was inspired by the Lord.
Stipulations of the Covenant (v 8-13)
In this next section, the Lord "explains that his efforts are in fulfillment of the covenants made with Israel. He promises that in spite of Israel's rebellions, he will not completely destroy her; still, he will not let her disregard her covenant without punishment." (404)
"but not as silver"
The phrase "but not as silver" found in Isaiah 48:10 is not found in 1 Nephi 20:10. Ludlow states that this phrase has confused scholars for many years. But as the Book of Mormon version stands, the verse is crystal clear in its meaning.
The Right Hand
In Isaiah 48:13, the Lord's "right hand hath spanned the heavens." Ludlow commentates that favoring the right hand is not an invention of man, but it comes from the Lord and is a symbol of righteousness. (405)
I found one Ensign article that discusses using the right hand when making covenants, especially with regard to taking the sacrament.
“I Have a Question,” Ensign, Mar 1983, 67–69
Perpetuation of the Covenant (v 13-15)
In Isaiah 48:13-15, Ludlow identifies the person referred to here as Jesus Christ or Cyrus. Whether Christ or Cyrus, this person will "foretell the future, fulfill the Lord's word, wield power over Babylon, and ultimately succeed in his foreordained mission." (405)
Witnesses of the Covenant (v 16)
It appears in Isaiah 48:16 that the Lord himself and Isaiah are witnesses to this covenant.
Blessings and Curses (v 17-22)
The blessings or curses for obeying or disregarding the covenant are: peace as a river and righteousness as the waves of the sea or tumult and wickedness (Isaiah 48:18), seed as the sand and not being cut off from the Lord or no posterity and living in apostasy (Isaiah 48:19).
Isaiah in the Book of Mormon
Ludlow makes a few notes about these two chapters in the Book of Mormon. He says, "chapters 48 and 49 are the first Isaianic chapters to be quoted in their entirety in the Book of Mormon. (1 Nephi 20-21.) Also, approximately one-third of the Isaianic verses in the Book of Mormon containing major changes are located in these two chapters." He goes on to explain that some of these changes found in the Book of Mormon help clarify passages that have confused scholars in the past. (399)
Covenant Form
Isaiah 48 is in covenant form. Ludlow explains that there are six parts to a treaty between a king and his vassal or in this instance, a covenant between the Lord and his people.
The six parts are 1) Preamble, 2) Historical prologue, 3) Stipulations, 4) Witnesses, 5) Curses and blessings and 6) Perpetuation of the contract.
Isaiah 48 has all these elements, although they slightly different order (400).
Preamble (v 1-2)
The preamble is an introduction to the people.
"or out of the waters of baptism"
The 1 Nephi 20:1 rendition of Isaiah 48:1 adds the phrase "or out of the waters of baptism." This phrase did not originally appear in the 1830 edition of the Book of Mormon. It first showed up in the 1840 edition. Ludlow cites Daniel H. Ludlow to explain this.
The term "or out of the waters of baptism" did not appear in the first edition of the Book of Mormon. It first appeared in the edition of 1840 on page 53, and the sentence in which it appeared was punctuated as follows: "Hearken and hear this, O house of Jacob, who are called by the name of Israel, and are come forth out of the waters of Judah, (or out of the waters of baptism,) who swear by the name of the Lord," etc. It is not absolutely clear who was responsible for the insertion of this phrase, although the title pages of this edition indicates that it was the "Third Edition, Carefully Revised by the Translator" and was published in Nauvoo, Illinois.Israel
In the "Committee Copy" of the Book of Mormon that was used by Elder James E. Talmage and his committee in making changes for the 1920 edition, the words "or out of the waters of baptism" were not printed in the text although they had been inserted in red ink in parentheses. However, the parentheses were crossed out by red pencil. These words are printed in the current edition of the Book of Mormon without parentheses. (A Companion to Your Study of the Book of Mormon, 120).
When Isaiah speaks to Israel, he may be addressing three different groups of people.
Blood Israel - those who are literal descendants of Jacob or Israel.
Covenant Israel - those who accept God and the covenants of Israel.
The people who live in the land of Israel - those inhabitants of the land that was granted to the tribes of Israel.
Historical Prologue (v 3-8)
In this section, "Isaiah reviews Israel's covenant relationship with the Lord." (403)
The Lord's Foreknowledge
The reason the Lord "declared the former things from the beginning" was so that Israel had no doubt it came from the Lord and would not be able to say that their dumb idols were responsible for the events.
Regarding the foresight and foreknowledge of the Lord, I have found it interesting how even today the Lord gives ample warning to his people. I remember in October 1998 sitting in a chapel in Provo listening to President Hinckley warn all of us priesthood holders to get our houses in order (Gordon B. Hinckley, “To the Boys and to the Men,” Ensign, Nov 1998, 51). He made it clear he was not prophesying that there would be a famine, but he made it clear that he was giving counsel.
To fully understand the context of this talk, you need to understand that 1998 was a great year. The economy was virtually booming. The Internet as we generally know it had been around for a few years and businesses were jumping on board with on-line models and such. It is not a far stretch of the imagination to think that some scoffed at the idea of a prophet counseling to reduce debt and cut back.
Yet just a few years later, the .com bust occurred and scores of on-line companies went out of business. Then September 11, 2001 happened and the world has never been the same. I remember filling my car up at the Chevron across from the football stadium for $.99 a gallon in 1998. Today, the gas prices are $3.50 a gallon and were up to $4.00 a gallon earlier this year. The dollar has hit historical lows against the euro. There were stories of food shortages around the world earlier this year too. Wheat and rice were very expensive and still are. The housing bubble has finally "popped" and there has been a lot of uneasiness in the economy since October 1998.
But looking back to President Hinckley's talk, it is amazing to see the wisdom in his counsel. No doubt he was inspired by the Lord.
Stipulations of the Covenant (v 8-13)
In this next section, the Lord "explains that his efforts are in fulfillment of the covenants made with Israel. He promises that in spite of Israel's rebellions, he will not completely destroy her; still, he will not let her disregard her covenant without punishment." (404)
"but not as silver"
The phrase "but not as silver" found in Isaiah 48:10 is not found in 1 Nephi 20:10. Ludlow states that this phrase has confused scholars for many years. But as the Book of Mormon version stands, the verse is crystal clear in its meaning.
The Right Hand
In Isaiah 48:13, the Lord's "right hand hath spanned the heavens." Ludlow commentates that favoring the right hand is not an invention of man, but it comes from the Lord and is a symbol of righteousness. (405)
I found one Ensign article that discusses using the right hand when making covenants, especially with regard to taking the sacrament.
“I Have a Question,” Ensign, Mar 1983, 67–69
Perpetuation of the Covenant (v 13-15)
In Isaiah 48:13-15, Ludlow identifies the person referred to here as Jesus Christ or Cyrus. Whether Christ or Cyrus, this person will "foretell the future, fulfill the Lord's word, wield power over Babylon, and ultimately succeed in his foreordained mission." (405)
Witnesses of the Covenant (v 16)
It appears in Isaiah 48:16 that the Lord himself and Isaiah are witnesses to this covenant.
Blessings and Curses (v 17-22)
The blessings or curses for obeying or disregarding the covenant are: peace as a river and righteousness as the waves of the sea or tumult and wickedness (Isaiah 48:18), seed as the sand and not being cut off from the Lord or no posterity and living in apostasy (Isaiah 48:19).
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Isaiah 46 & 47
These two chapters discuss the uselessness of idols. Compared to Jehovah, these idols are literally nothing. Whereas Jehovah created everything and has all power and uses that power to bless the lives of the children of Israel. The idols cannot help the children of men.
Dumb Idols
The two idols Isaiah targets are Bel and Nebo. Bel is also known as Marduk.
Ludlow explains the reason why these idols were loaded onto carts and moved by beasts to a different location. "Ancient man believed that each god had a certain territory in which he was to be worshipped. (Though a god could be worshipped anywhere, it was most effective to worship him in his own land.) If a person moved to another location, he would then worship and give honor to the god of that particular land. Ancient man also believed that the lives of the gods were reflected in their own lives. For example, if the people of one city were defeated by the people of another city, they believed it to be because there had been a war in heaven in which the god of the victorious nation defeated their god." (391)
Isaiah ridicules the idols and mocks how they must be transported by beasts. "They are a burden to the weary beast. They stoop, they bow down together, they could not deliver the burden, but themselves are gone into captivity." (Isaiah 46:1-2)
Furthermore, these idols cannot answer prayers. In Isaiah 46:7 he says, "one shall cry unto him, yet can he not answer, nor save him out of his trouble."
The Living God
In contrast, the Living God is unique. He can see from the beginning to the end and he has his own will … he can act. Isaiah 46:10 says, "Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are no yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure."
The Living God can also save his people. Isaiah 46:13 says, "I bring my righteousness; it shall not be far off, and my salvation shall not tarry: and I will place salvation in Zion for Israel my glory."
Babylon's Sins
In Isaiah 47, Isaiah describes why Babylon fell and will fall again in the latter-days.
Isaiah 47:10 sums up nicely Babylon's greatest weakness. "For thou hast trusted in thy wickedness: thou hast said, None seeth me. Thy wisdom and thy knowledge, it hath perverted thee; and thou hast said in thine heart, I am, and none else beside me."
Babylon saw no need and felt she had no obligation to anyone. She was an agent unto herself … free to do as she pleased. She attained her own wisdom and knowledge and thought she was powerful. She did not acknowledge the true and Living God. She did not understand her position in the world … she trusted in the arm of flesh rather than in the arm of God.
How often do we thank the Lord for his help in our lives? Do we recognize the hand of the Lord in our lives or do we think we are solely responsible for all our successes?
We are commanded and counseled to gain as much education as possible, but we must also always recognize the hand of the Lord in all our studies and gains and labors.
The Book of Mormon teaches, "O that cunning plan of the evil one! O the vainness, and the frailties, and the foolishness of men! When they are learned they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God, for they set it aside, supposing they know of themselves, wherefore, their wisdom is foolishness and it profiteth them not. And they shall perish. But to be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God" (2 Nephi 9:28-29)
Dumb Idols
The two idols Isaiah targets are Bel and Nebo. Bel is also known as Marduk.
Ludlow explains the reason why these idols were loaded onto carts and moved by beasts to a different location. "Ancient man believed that each god had a certain territory in which he was to be worshipped. (Though a god could be worshipped anywhere, it was most effective to worship him in his own land.) If a person moved to another location, he would then worship and give honor to the god of that particular land. Ancient man also believed that the lives of the gods were reflected in their own lives. For example, if the people of one city were defeated by the people of another city, they believed it to be because there had been a war in heaven in which the god of the victorious nation defeated their god." (391)
Isaiah ridicules the idols and mocks how they must be transported by beasts. "They are a burden to the weary beast. They stoop, they bow down together, they could not deliver the burden, but themselves are gone into captivity." (Isaiah 46:1-2)
Furthermore, these idols cannot answer prayers. In Isaiah 46:7 he says, "one shall cry unto him, yet can he not answer, nor save him out of his trouble."
The Living God
In contrast, the Living God is unique. He can see from the beginning to the end and he has his own will … he can act. Isaiah 46:10 says, "Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are no yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure."
The Living God can also save his people. Isaiah 46:13 says, "I bring my righteousness; it shall not be far off, and my salvation shall not tarry: and I will place salvation in Zion for Israel my glory."
Babylon's Sins
In Isaiah 47, Isaiah describes why Babylon fell and will fall again in the latter-days.
Isaiah 47:10 sums up nicely Babylon's greatest weakness. "For thou hast trusted in thy wickedness: thou hast said, None seeth me. Thy wisdom and thy knowledge, it hath perverted thee; and thou hast said in thine heart, I am, and none else beside me."
Babylon saw no need and felt she had no obligation to anyone. She was an agent unto herself … free to do as she pleased. She attained her own wisdom and knowledge and thought she was powerful. She did not acknowledge the true and Living God. She did not understand her position in the world … she trusted in the arm of flesh rather than in the arm of God.
How often do we thank the Lord for his help in our lives? Do we recognize the hand of the Lord in our lives or do we think we are solely responsible for all our successes?
We are commanded and counseled to gain as much education as possible, but we must also always recognize the hand of the Lord in all our studies and gains and labors.
The Book of Mormon teaches, "O that cunning plan of the evil one! O the vainness, and the frailties, and the foolishness of men! When they are learned they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God, for they set it aside, supposing they know of themselves, wherefore, their wisdom is foolishness and it profiteth them not. And they shall perish. But to be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God" (2 Nephi 9:28-29)
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Isaiah 44 & 45
Jesurun
Ludlow refers the reader to Deut. 33:5, 26 for more information regarding Jesurun. He also states that this name is Hebrew for "upright" or "righteous" (377)
Ordinances
In Isaiah 44:3, the Lord says he will "pour water upon him that is thirsty" and will also "pour [his] spirit upon they seed" symbolizing the ordinances of baptism and confirmation.
In Isaiah 44:5, Isaiah continues by describing the steps converts take in their "growing relationship with the Lord (377).
First, they say they are the Lord's or in other words, they take upon them the name of the Lord. This is what we do when we are baptized and when we partake of the sacrament each week.
Next they will desire to take upon them the name of Jacob. Today, we receive patriarchal blessing which declare our lineage. Additionally, those who honor the oath and covenant of the priesthood become "the sons of Moses and of Aaron and the seed of Abraham" (D&C 84:34).
Third, they "subscribe with [their] hand unto the Lord" meaning they use their hand to "witness [their] relationship with the Lord" (378). Ludlow additionally teaches "the hand could be used in a sign, token, or witness of a person's promises and covenants with God." In the Church today, we make many covenants with our hands.
Lastly, when a person takes upon himself the name of Israel, he is further developing the 2nd step. Ludlow states, "he actually receives the name. The actualization of the full blessings of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob come only to those who enter into the 'new and everlasting covenant' in the temples of the Lord" (378).
Scorn for Idolatry
Isaiah uses "sharp sarcasm" (380) to describe the idols that men make. He describes how men use iron and wood to make idols as well as how man will plant trees, harvest them and then use some of the wood for fuel and some of it to make idols. For all this effort, the idols and the gods they represent cannot save the man. Only the true and living God can provide true life for man.
Ludlow makes a couple of really interesting comments regarding idolatry.
First he said, "The Ten Commandments strictly forbade images of God because, among other reasons, nothing material can capture the full glory of God." (380) I somewhat appreciate art … paintings, sculptures and such. But there is a fine line between idolatry and art. I know the goal of Temple Square the Visitor's Center is to help visitors feel the spirit and want to come to Christ. But do we indulge in idolatry when we "must see" the Christus statue as well as the many other art displays?
In the following paragraph he said, "These idolators worshipped the efforts of their craftsmanship and deprived themselves of the resources the wood, metal, and their labors could otherwise provide." When I read this sentence, I wondered if we sometimes raise LDS painters and sculptors on a pedestal. Do these artists get caught up in their craftsmanship? I don't know the answer to these questions, but I simply wonder sometimes.
The bottom line and modern-day application of guarding against idolatry is to ask ourselves certain questions. Are our thoughts centered on God or on something else? Do we spend more time building up our financial portfolio or building up the kingdom of God? We should be worshipping God in our thoughts, words and actions. We should not be idolizing anything.
For another great article on idolatry, read Dennis Largey, “Refusing to Worship Today’s Graven Images,” Ensign, Feb 1994, 9
Remember
Isaiah 44:21-22 offers counsel to Israel. The Lord tells Israel to remember these things that the Lord has taught them. He pleads for them to remember who they are and that He has blessed them. He reminds them too that they will not be forgotten.
He also tells them that He has blotted out their transgressions, thus referring to His atoning sacrifice He would perform when he received a mortal body.
Cyrus the Great
From wikipedia's entry … "The Bible records that a remnant of the Jewish population returned to the Promised Land from Babylon, following an edict from Cyrus to rebuild the temple. This edict is fully reproduced in the Book of Ezra. As a result of Cyrus' policies, the Jews honored him as a dignified and righteous king. He is the only Gentile to be designated as a messiah, a divinely-appointed king."
Purpose of the Earth
Isaiah 45:18 has an interesting snippet. "God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited." Mankind was not made inhabit the earth, rather the earth was made for mankind to live on it. Indeed we are to be good stewards of the earth and keep it clean and let it be healthy, but we do not necessarily have to submit to the earth. The earth was made for us to live on it and not the other way around.
Ludlow refers the reader to Deut. 33:5, 26 for more information regarding Jesurun. He also states that this name is Hebrew for "upright" or "righteous" (377)
Ordinances
In Isaiah 44:3, the Lord says he will "pour water upon him that is thirsty" and will also "pour [his] spirit upon they seed" symbolizing the ordinances of baptism and confirmation.
In Isaiah 44:5, Isaiah continues by describing the steps converts take in their "growing relationship with the Lord (377).
First, they say they are the Lord's or in other words, they take upon them the name of the Lord. This is what we do when we are baptized and when we partake of the sacrament each week.
Next they will desire to take upon them the name of Jacob. Today, we receive patriarchal blessing which declare our lineage. Additionally, those who honor the oath and covenant of the priesthood become "the sons of Moses and of Aaron and the seed of Abraham" (D&C 84:34).
Third, they "subscribe with [their] hand unto the Lord" meaning they use their hand to "witness [their] relationship with the Lord" (378). Ludlow additionally teaches "the hand could be used in a sign, token, or witness of a person's promises and covenants with God." In the Church today, we make many covenants with our hands.
Lastly, when a person takes upon himself the name of Israel, he is further developing the 2nd step. Ludlow states, "he actually receives the name. The actualization of the full blessings of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob come only to those who enter into the 'new and everlasting covenant' in the temples of the Lord" (378).
Scorn for Idolatry
Isaiah uses "sharp sarcasm" (380) to describe the idols that men make. He describes how men use iron and wood to make idols as well as how man will plant trees, harvest them and then use some of the wood for fuel and some of it to make idols. For all this effort, the idols and the gods they represent cannot save the man. Only the true and living God can provide true life for man.
Ludlow makes a couple of really interesting comments regarding idolatry.
First he said, "The Ten Commandments strictly forbade images of God because, among other reasons, nothing material can capture the full glory of God." (380) I somewhat appreciate art … paintings, sculptures and such. But there is a fine line between idolatry and art. I know the goal of Temple Square the Visitor's Center is to help visitors feel the spirit and want to come to Christ. But do we indulge in idolatry when we "must see" the Christus statue as well as the many other art displays?
In the following paragraph he said, "These idolators worshipped the efforts of their craftsmanship and deprived themselves of the resources the wood, metal, and their labors could otherwise provide." When I read this sentence, I wondered if we sometimes raise LDS painters and sculptors on a pedestal. Do these artists get caught up in their craftsmanship? I don't know the answer to these questions, but I simply wonder sometimes.
The bottom line and modern-day application of guarding against idolatry is to ask ourselves certain questions. Are our thoughts centered on God or on something else? Do we spend more time building up our financial portfolio or building up the kingdom of God? We should be worshipping God in our thoughts, words and actions. We should not be idolizing anything.
For another great article on idolatry, read Dennis Largey, “Refusing to Worship Today’s Graven Images,” Ensign, Feb 1994, 9
Remember
Isaiah 44:21-22 offers counsel to Israel. The Lord tells Israel to remember these things that the Lord has taught them. He pleads for them to remember who they are and that He has blessed them. He reminds them too that they will not be forgotten.
He also tells them that He has blotted out their transgressions, thus referring to His atoning sacrifice He would perform when he received a mortal body.
Cyrus the Great
From wikipedia's entry … "The Bible records that a remnant of the Jewish population returned to the Promised Land from Babylon, following an edict from Cyrus to rebuild the temple. This edict is fully reproduced in the Book of Ezra. As a result of Cyrus' policies, the Jews honored him as a dignified and righteous king. He is the only Gentile to be designated as a messiah, a divinely-appointed king."
Purpose of the Earth
Isaiah 45:18 has an interesting snippet. "God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited." Mankind was not made inhabit the earth, rather the earth was made for mankind to live on it. Indeed we are to be good stewards of the earth and keep it clean and let it be healthy, but we do not necessarily have to submit to the earth. The earth was made for us to live on it and not the other way around.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Isaiah 43
Isaiah 43 is divided into four sections which make up a chiasmus. Ludlow divides them thusly (361):
A. Israel's future gathering (v. 1-7)
B. A trial scene of God before Israel and the other nations (v. 8-13)
A' Israel's future blessings (v. 14-21)
B' A trial scene between God and Israel; present Israel merits condemnation (v. 22-28)
Jacob and Israel
Ludlow makes a note about the use of the names Jacob and Israel to reference the same person. He says that Jacob and Israel are used together seventeen times between Isaiah 40 and 49 (363). Isaiah 43:1 is an example of how the two names are used together. He further states, "It is the order of the two names that makes the repetition significant, for "Jacob" nearly always precedes "Israel," hinting, perhaps, that a change in Jacob's character prompted the Lord to change his name also. Jacob, the "supplanter," who worried about his relationship with his twin brother, Esau, became Israel, the "prevailer," who worked together with God to overcome wickedness. (See Bible Dictionary "Jacob"; "Israel.")"
Do we not also take upon us a new name? As we are born again and truly become converted to Christ, we take upon ourselves the name of Christ. We become a different person, casting off our old selfish selves and in turn begin to work with God in bringing to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.
Isaiah seems to be teaching the Israelites that they too need to cast off their old selves and become true Israelites.
Water and Fire
In Isaiah 43:2 the Lord promises to be with Israel as she passes through the waters and through the fire. The water will not overpower her nor will the fire burn her.
Ludlow suggests that this verse alludes to baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost. Another layer of symbolism may be how the Lord delivered Israel through the Red Sea and protected her from the fiery serpents as she left Egypt.
Similarly, we must repent of our sins, be baptized by one who has authority and then receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. As we do so, we are delivered by the hand of the Lord from spiritual captivity.
Promise of Gathering
In Isaiah 40:5-6, the Lord promises that all of Israel, including the Ten Lost tribes will be gathered from east, to west, from the north and the south.
Ludlow discusses the modern-day manifestation of this gathering as a Jewish nation was organized in 1949 and how Israel the nation has thrived in the midst of her enemies.
No Other God, No Other Savior
One of the common arguments against the LDS church and restored Gospel is that we believe in multiple gods (God the Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost). To support their argument, many will exclusively use the last phrase of Isaiah 43:10. Taking it out of the context of the verse and chapter, the phrase seems to support their argument. But in reading the entire verse and chapter, the true meaning of the phrase becomes clear.
The Lord Jesus Christ or Jehovah was addressing the world and Israel. He called Israel to be His witness. Ludlow states, "Israel is not only God's special witness, but also his servant to the world, and her inspired records are to go to all people. No other nation can give a similar witness of its gods." (367)
"Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.
"I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no saviour" (Isaiah 43:10-11)
This idea of no other God formed before or after Christ means that there was and is only one Savior provided. The way to return to the presence of our Heavenly Father is to follow Christ. He provided the way and we must follow him. In John 14:6, Christ offers a similar statement, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
For more on this subject of one God vs mankind's ability to become like God, read this entry from my other blog.
Israel's Future Blessings
The Lord will bless Israel with many blessings including: freedom (v. 14), miracles in the sea (v. 16), protection from every enemy and army (v. 17), a restoration (v. 19), and miracles in the desert (v. 19-20) (Ludlow 368).
One of the most fascinating things to see, speaking personally, is how the modern nation of Israel has been established and flourished right in the midst of her enemies. I have always been awed by how Israel has been able to hold back every Arab state that surrounds her. To me, Isaiah 43:17 has been, is being and will be fulfilled.
In Isaiah 43:21, the Lord states the reason for his blessing Israel … "they shall shew forth my praise."
Israel's Sins, the Lord's Mercy
In Isaiah 43:22-24, the Lord accuses Israel of many sins. In the face of all of Israel's sins, the Lord offers mercy (Isaiah 43:25).
"I, even I, am he that blotteth out they transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins."
As the Lord stated earlier in Isaiah, "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." (Isaiah 1:18)
A. Israel's future gathering (v. 1-7)
B. A trial scene of God before Israel and the other nations (v. 8-13)
A' Israel's future blessings (v. 14-21)
B' A trial scene between God and Israel; present Israel merits condemnation (v. 22-28)
Jacob and Israel
Ludlow makes a note about the use of the names Jacob and Israel to reference the same person. He says that Jacob and Israel are used together seventeen times between Isaiah 40 and 49 (363). Isaiah 43:1 is an example of how the two names are used together. He further states, "It is the order of the two names that makes the repetition significant, for "Jacob" nearly always precedes "Israel," hinting, perhaps, that a change in Jacob's character prompted the Lord to change his name also. Jacob, the "supplanter," who worried about his relationship with his twin brother, Esau, became Israel, the "prevailer," who worked together with God to overcome wickedness. (See Bible Dictionary "Jacob"; "Israel.")"
Do we not also take upon us a new name? As we are born again and truly become converted to Christ, we take upon ourselves the name of Christ. We become a different person, casting off our old selfish selves and in turn begin to work with God in bringing to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.
Isaiah seems to be teaching the Israelites that they too need to cast off their old selves and become true Israelites.
Water and Fire
In Isaiah 43:2 the Lord promises to be with Israel as she passes through the waters and through the fire. The water will not overpower her nor will the fire burn her.
Ludlow suggests that this verse alludes to baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost. Another layer of symbolism may be how the Lord delivered Israel through the Red Sea and protected her from the fiery serpents as she left Egypt.
Similarly, we must repent of our sins, be baptized by one who has authority and then receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. As we do so, we are delivered by the hand of the Lord from spiritual captivity.
Promise of Gathering
In Isaiah 40:5-6, the Lord promises that all of Israel, including the Ten Lost tribes will be gathered from east, to west, from the north and the south.
Ludlow discusses the modern-day manifestation of this gathering as a Jewish nation was organized in 1949 and how Israel the nation has thrived in the midst of her enemies.
No Other God, No Other Savior
One of the common arguments against the LDS church and restored Gospel is that we believe in multiple gods (God the Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost). To support their argument, many will exclusively use the last phrase of Isaiah 43:10. Taking it out of the context of the verse and chapter, the phrase seems to support their argument. But in reading the entire verse and chapter, the true meaning of the phrase becomes clear.
The Lord Jesus Christ or Jehovah was addressing the world and Israel. He called Israel to be His witness. Ludlow states, "Israel is not only God's special witness, but also his servant to the world, and her inspired records are to go to all people. No other nation can give a similar witness of its gods." (367)
"Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.
"I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no saviour" (Isaiah 43:10-11)
This idea of no other God formed before or after Christ means that there was and is only one Savior provided. The way to return to the presence of our Heavenly Father is to follow Christ. He provided the way and we must follow him. In John 14:6, Christ offers a similar statement, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
For more on this subject of one God vs mankind's ability to become like God, read this entry from my other blog.
Israel's Future Blessings
The Lord will bless Israel with many blessings including: freedom (v. 14), miracles in the sea (v. 16), protection from every enemy and army (v. 17), a restoration (v. 19), and miracles in the desert (v. 19-20) (Ludlow 368).
One of the most fascinating things to see, speaking personally, is how the modern nation of Israel has been established and flourished right in the midst of her enemies. I have always been awed by how Israel has been able to hold back every Arab state that surrounds her. To me, Isaiah 43:17 has been, is being and will be fulfilled.
In Isaiah 43:21, the Lord states the reason for his blessing Israel … "they shall shew forth my praise."
Israel's Sins, the Lord's Mercy
In Isaiah 43:22-24, the Lord accuses Israel of many sins. In the face of all of Israel's sins, the Lord offers mercy (Isaiah 43:25).
"I, even I, am he that blotteth out they transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins."
As the Lord stated earlier in Isaiah, "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." (Isaiah 1:18)
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Isaiah 41 & 42
Ludlow explains that there are two discourses and five parts in Isaiah 41 and 42. Here is how it is broken down:
Discourse 1 Part A: Isaiah 41:1
Discourse 2 Part A: Isaiah 41:21-24
Discourse 1 Part B: Isaiah 41:2-7
Discourse 2 Part B: Isaiah 41:25-29
Discourse 1 Part C: Isaiah 41:8-10
Discourse 2 Part C: Isaiah 42:1-9
Discourse 1 Part D: Isaiah 41:11-16
Discourse 2 Part D: Isaiah 42:10-13
Discourse 1 Part E: Isaiah 41:17-20
Discourse 2 Part E: Isaiah 42:14-17
Idols are Nothing
Part A of the two discourses deal with one theme: idols are less than nothing (read Isaiah 41:24). In the second discourse in part A, all the idols and false gods are called out to do something great. But that cannot because they are false. Only the true and living God can has power to renew our strength (Isaiah 40:31).
Prophesied Leader
Part B discusses the coming of a prophesied leader. Ludlow does a fine job summarizing the qualities of this leader:
A. An important person comes from the east (or rising sun)
B. He has power over rulers and kings
C. He turns them unto dry powder and molds them as wet clay
D. His feet pursues them and treads them under
E. His coming is foretold
F. The Lord is the one who has announced it
G. People are powerless though they try to obtain counsel from each other
H. The people try to secure idols, but they cannot ward off the ensuing wind and confusion.
Servant of the Lord
The qualities of the servant of the Lord are worth emulating.
He does no coerce, but uses gentle persuasion (see Isaiah 42:2, D&C 121:41).
He does not get discouraged in the face of adversity (Isaiah 42:4).
He is righteous … he keeps the commandments and is pure, thus ensuring his calling from the Lord (Isaiah 42:6).
He teaches truth and light and delivers the prisoners and blind from spiritual darkness (Isaiah 42:7).
The Living God Provides
The next part demonstrates the kindness and charity the Living God has for those who follow Him. While on the other hand, false gods and idols can offer no such help to their worshipers.
Isaiah 41:17 - "I the LORD will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them."
The hand of the Lord makes the wilderness a pool of water (read Isaiah 41:18, 20).
Isaiah 42:16 and 17 offer the stark contrast between the Living God and false gods.
"I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them."
To those who worship false gods, "they shall be turned back, they shall be greatly ashamed, that trust in graven images, that say to the molten images, Ye are our gods."
Ever since I first read Spencer W. Kimball's talk "The False Gods We Worship", I've always come back to it again and again as I read and ponder the scriptures. I think our society thinks that we are not an idolatrous people, but in reality we are. As President Kimball defined it, we are idolatrous.
He said, "we learn from the scriptures that because the exercise of faith has always appeared to be more difficult than relying on things more immediately at hand, carnal man has tended to transfer his trust in God to material things. Whatever thing a man sets his heart and his trust in most is his god; and if his god doesn't also happen to be the true and living God of Israel, that man is laboring in idolatry." (Spencer W. Kimball, “The False Gods We Worship,” Ensign, Jun 1976, 3)
Discourse 1 Part A: Isaiah 41:1
Discourse 2 Part A: Isaiah 41:21-24
Discourse 1 Part B: Isaiah 41:2-7
Discourse 2 Part B: Isaiah 41:25-29
Discourse 1 Part C: Isaiah 41:8-10
Discourse 2 Part C: Isaiah 42:1-9
Discourse 1 Part D: Isaiah 41:11-16
Discourse 2 Part D: Isaiah 42:10-13
Discourse 1 Part E: Isaiah 41:17-20
Discourse 2 Part E: Isaiah 42:14-17
Idols are Nothing
Part A of the two discourses deal with one theme: idols are less than nothing (read Isaiah 41:24). In the second discourse in part A, all the idols and false gods are called out to do something great. But that cannot because they are false. Only the true and living God can has power to renew our strength (Isaiah 40:31).
Prophesied Leader
Part B discusses the coming of a prophesied leader. Ludlow does a fine job summarizing the qualities of this leader:
A. An important person comes from the east (or rising sun)
B. He has power over rulers and kings
C. He turns them unto dry powder and molds them as wet clay
D. His feet pursues them and treads them under
E. His coming is foretold
F. The Lord is the one who has announced it
G. People are powerless though they try to obtain counsel from each other
H. The people try to secure idols, but they cannot ward off the ensuing wind and confusion.
Servant of the Lord
The qualities of the servant of the Lord are worth emulating.
He does no coerce, but uses gentle persuasion (see Isaiah 42:2, D&C 121:41).
He does not get discouraged in the face of adversity (Isaiah 42:4).
He is righteous … he keeps the commandments and is pure, thus ensuring his calling from the Lord (Isaiah 42:6).
He teaches truth and light and delivers the prisoners and blind from spiritual darkness (Isaiah 42:7).
The Living God Provides
The next part demonstrates the kindness and charity the Living God has for those who follow Him. While on the other hand, false gods and idols can offer no such help to their worshipers.
Isaiah 41:17 - "I the LORD will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them."
The hand of the Lord makes the wilderness a pool of water (read Isaiah 41:18, 20).
Isaiah 42:16 and 17 offer the stark contrast between the Living God and false gods.
"I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them."
To those who worship false gods, "they shall be turned back, they shall be greatly ashamed, that trust in graven images, that say to the molten images, Ye are our gods."
Ever since I first read Spencer W. Kimball's talk "The False Gods We Worship", I've always come back to it again and again as I read and ponder the scriptures. I think our society thinks that we are not an idolatrous people, but in reality we are. As President Kimball defined it, we are idolatrous.
He said, "we learn from the scriptures that because the exercise of faith has always appeared to be more difficult than relying on things more immediately at hand, carnal man has tended to transfer his trust in God to material things. Whatever thing a man sets his heart and his trust in most is his god; and if his god doesn't also happen to be the true and living God of Israel, that man is laboring in idolatry." (Spencer W. Kimball, “The False Gods We Worship,” Ensign, Jun 1976, 3)
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Isaiah 40
Some of these headers are taken directly from Ludlow's book.
Living, Loving God
In the first two verses, God gives comfort and forgives his people. In Isaiah 40:2 the message to his people is, "that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned."
To me, this means that if we keep the commandments (warfare … read 2 Tim 4:7) then we will be forgiven of our sins and comforted by God.
The other example of this attribute is comparing idols to God (Isaiah 40:18-20).
If we compare our worship of God to those who make graven images, by far God outshines and outperforms any of the dumb idols man makes with his hands and then worships. Idols cannot forgive or live or love. Only God can do this.
"Elias"
"The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God." (Isaiah 40:3)
John the Baptist was an "Elias" or forerunner to Jesus Christ.
Creative, Powerful God
With his power, "every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low (Isaiah 40:4). The nations are a drop in a bucket and small dust compared to God (Isaiah 40:15).
Supreme, Eternal God
Man's nature is transitory and unsteady. Our flesh is like grass that withers and our good actions are like flowers that fade with time (Isaiah 40:6-7). We are even likened to grasshoppers (Isaiah 40:22). But our God is supreme and eternal. His word will stand forever (Isaiah 40:8) and he makes the princes of the earth nothing and the judges vain (Isaiah 40:23).
Active, Caring God
God feeds his flock, gathers his lambs, carries them in his bosom and gently leads (Isaiah 40:11). He calls his children by their names (Isaiah 40:26).
Consistent, All-knowing God
God has all power and knowledge. He never tires or wearies. No one can fathom his knowledge and wisdom (Isaiah 40:28).
Trust in God
To those that trust in the Lord and "wait upon" him, their strength shall be renewed and "that shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)
A similar promise is given in the Doctrine and Covenants to those who obey the Word of Wisdom (see D&C 89).
Conclusion
The overall message I get from Isaiah 40 is that the personage we worship is truly awesome and supreme. I feel a sense of nothingness and am humbled. I feel similar to how Moses must have felt after he visited with God and saw the endless creations of God. Moses was left to himself for many hours, unable to move for lack of strength. When he regained his strength, he said to himself, "Now, for this cause I know that man is nothing, which thing I never had supposed." (Moses 1:10)
It is easy for us to lose perspective when we see all the things our hands have made … the cities, the cars, the towers, the military machines, the boats, the bridges, the rockets, space shuttles, satellites, and everything imaginable man has created. But all these things are nothing compared to the grandeur and ultimate power of God.
We worship the ultimate source of power and knowledge and wisdom in the universe. This is the lesson I learned while reading Isaiah 40.
Living, Loving God
In the first two verses, God gives comfort and forgives his people. In Isaiah 40:2 the message to his people is, "that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned."
To me, this means that if we keep the commandments (warfare … read 2 Tim 4:7) then we will be forgiven of our sins and comforted by God.
The other example of this attribute is comparing idols to God (Isaiah 40:18-20).
If we compare our worship of God to those who make graven images, by far God outshines and outperforms any of the dumb idols man makes with his hands and then worships. Idols cannot forgive or live or love. Only God can do this.
"Elias"
"The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God." (Isaiah 40:3)
John the Baptist was an "Elias" or forerunner to Jesus Christ.
Creative, Powerful God
With his power, "every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low (Isaiah 40:4). The nations are a drop in a bucket and small dust compared to God (Isaiah 40:15).
Supreme, Eternal God
Man's nature is transitory and unsteady. Our flesh is like grass that withers and our good actions are like flowers that fade with time (Isaiah 40:6-7). We are even likened to grasshoppers (Isaiah 40:22). But our God is supreme and eternal. His word will stand forever (Isaiah 40:8) and he makes the princes of the earth nothing and the judges vain (Isaiah 40:23).
Active, Caring God
God feeds his flock, gathers his lambs, carries them in his bosom and gently leads (Isaiah 40:11). He calls his children by their names (Isaiah 40:26).
Consistent, All-knowing God
God has all power and knowledge. He never tires or wearies. No one can fathom his knowledge and wisdom (Isaiah 40:28).
Trust in God
To those that trust in the Lord and "wait upon" him, their strength shall be renewed and "that shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)
A similar promise is given in the Doctrine and Covenants to those who obey the Word of Wisdom (see D&C 89).
Conclusion
The overall message I get from Isaiah 40 is that the personage we worship is truly awesome and supreme. I feel a sense of nothingness and am humbled. I feel similar to how Moses must have felt after he visited with God and saw the endless creations of God. Moses was left to himself for many hours, unable to move for lack of strength. When he regained his strength, he said to himself, "Now, for this cause I know that man is nothing, which thing I never had supposed." (Moses 1:10)
It is easy for us to lose perspective when we see all the things our hands have made … the cities, the cars, the towers, the military machines, the boats, the bridges, the rockets, space shuttles, satellites, and everything imaginable man has created. But all these things are nothing compared to the grandeur and ultimate power of God.
We worship the ultimate source of power and knowledge and wisdom in the universe. This is the lesson I learned while reading Isaiah 40.
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