A prophetic message generally has two timeframes. On one hand, it has to do with the immediate context when the message was first given. On the other, it also has a fulfillment sometime in the future. Here we see the message of Isaiah 32 having both the elements. Firstly, speaking to the immediate context, Isaiah was probably referring to King Hezekiah whose peaceful reign followed the wicked reign of his father Ahaz. Hezekiah also had to contend with Assyria and King Sennacherib. Secondly, this prophecy also refers to the ultimate Messiah, Jesus Christ our Lord, who would come to reign in justice and peace.
Hezekiah as we know was the son of
King Ahaz. What was positive about him was that he did not take on his father’s
character. He was a good king in the sight of God and had sought to honor Him
during his reign. He had several religious reforms during his time. He had the
priests open the temple which his father Ahaz closed. Hezekiah also removed the
idols and their altars that were encouraged by his father. He was instrumental
in having true sacrifices to God instituted and true worship installed.
Hezekiah also had the temple rededicated to the Lord and encouraged generous
giving to the Lord.
So verses 1-4 in some sense described his rule. There was a contrast between his reign and that of his predecessor. He brought measures of renewal to the people who had to endure stress prior to his reign. During his time those who were once spiritually insensitive experienced spiritual light and were given an understanding of the truth of God. In verses, 5-8, fools and the nobles were distinguished. Fools could be identified from the nonsense they spilled out and the way they treated the unfortunate. They could be clearly spotted from the devious ways they went about doing things. On the other hand, the noble would also be clearly identified. These would come up with purposeful plans to help, encourage, and build up the needy, and would stick with their plans till they were fulfilled.
We also know that Jesus the Messiah with His reign will bring about justice, righteousness, and peace. His people will experience transformation and be given insight into the truth which they can understand and obey. In His kingdom, no fool will have a place. His people will not be easily deceived. His noble ministers will be identified from the things they say and nobly conduct their lives, and discharge their duties.
As Christians who have acknowledged Jesus Christ the Messiah, we are truly His privileged people. We now come under His righteous and just rule. He has become our shelter and refuge from the storm and tempest of life. In Him, we find spiritual refreshment, given spiritual insight, and are being progressively transformed. Now as His enlisted nobles, we must act and live rightly for HIs glory!
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