Isaiah 28:17

Judgment also. Literally, the clause reads, “I will set up justice as a measuring line.” Injustice prevailed, but Messiah (see on v. 16) would restore to men a knowledge of what constitutes right conduct toward God and toward their fellow men (see on Matt. 5:19-22) by magnifying the law and making it honorable (Isa. 42:21). Isaiah here continues the imagery of v. 16, drawn from the construction of a building. God’s church would have Christ for its “corner stone,” and be required to meet His standards of justice and righteousness (see on Micah 6:8; cf. 1 Peter 2:5-10). Plummet. A plumb line is used to determine whether walls, windows, and doors are truly vertical, and thus in line with the foundation. Hail shall sweep away. Only a structure built upon Christ and His standards of justice, righteousness, and truth can stand secure (see on Matt. 7:24-27). Those who build upon a foundation of falsehood will find that their structure cannot withstand the tests of time. Compare also Rev. 16:21. The hiding place. That is, the “refuge” of “lies” (see on v. 15).