Isaiah 55

55:1-13 This final chapter of the prophecies of comfort (chs 40–55) summarizes the section’s prominent themes: blessing, covenant, witness, word, nations, glory, forgiveness, and joy.55:1 thirsty . . . wine or milk: The invitation to eat and drink is similar to Wisdom’s call in Prov 9:5. The image promises the slaking of thirst not only by water but also by more costly items such as wine and milk. John applied a similar theme to Jesus Christ (John 4:14; 6:27, 35; 7:37; Rev 21:6; 22:17). • it’s all free: Reconciliation with God is for anyone and has no cost.

55:2 Listen to me . . . eat what is good: Responding positively to God satisfies one’s spiritual, social, and physical being (see 1:19; 58:13-14; Prov 4:10).

55:3 Come to me. . . . Listen . . . find life: Those who respond obediently to God’s word find eternal life (see also 55:11). • an everlasting covenant . . . I promised to David: King David received a special covenant from God, a promise to preserve his kingly line (see 2 Sam 7:15-16). David’s dynasty was eternally confirmed in the kingship of the Messiah, Jesus Christ (see Isa 9:6-7; 11:1-16; Acts 2:22-36; 13:34).

55:6-9 The prophet calls for a response while the time is right.55:6 while you can find him: When God graciously extends an invitation to salvation, people must respond (65:1; Jer 29:13-14; Hos 5:6; 10:12). Those who do not seek him at such times risk never having the opportunity again.

55:7 Let the wicked change . . . turn to the Lord: True conversion demands a change of how we live in favor of God’s requirements (see 1:16-17; 30:15; 59:20). • have mercy on them: God’s compassion reaches out to the needy and finds them where they are. • he will forgive generously: Forgiveness of sin is foundational to the good news of redemption (see Eph 1:7; Col 1:14; see also Pss 32:1; 86:5; 99:8; 103:2-5).

55:8-9 My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts: God’s plans are marvelous (Ps 92:5; cp. Ps 94:11). God’s creatures, including humans, can never fully understand the Creator’s thoughts, but his revelation through his messengers gives great insight and knowledge of some of the things he will do.

55:10-11 The Creator not only sends rain and snow but also his word (Hebrew dabar). In this context, dabar means his will or plan (see 14:24; 40:8). God’s written word, as an expression of God’s plan, accomplishes his purposes. God is effective in whatever he does (see 14:26-27; 46:10).

55:12-13 The prophet encourages his people to forget the past, to leave Babylon, and to accept the perspective of the coming age.55:12 Joy is found in being redeemed from bondage. • Godly people experience an inner peace not known to the wicked (48:22). • mountains and hills . . . trees of the field: Creation participates in the freedom of the children of God (44:23; 49:11, 13; see Rom 8:19-23).

55:13 Redemption is like the transformation from desert to forest (see also 35:1; 41:19; 60:13). • great honor to the Lord’s name: God’s glory will be more and more visible to humanity as his redemption takes effect.