Isaiah 55:1

Every one that thirsteth. That is, those who thirst for a better understanding of the will and ways of God, and for grace to be at peace with Him (Ps. 42:1, 2; 63:1; Matt. 5:6; John 7:37; Rev. 21:6; 22:17). Man was created with an inner longing for God that finds lasting satisfaction only in fellowship with Him.

The poetic beauty of this chapter is unsurpassed in Scripture. No more gracious invitation could be given for men to accept the blessings of salvation. None are excluded — “whosoever will” may come and “take the water of life freely” (Rev. 22:17). There is no room here for the idea that some men are created to be subjects of salvation and others of reprobation, some to be saved and others to be lost. God does not interfere with the free exercise of man’s power of choice (see Eze. 18:31, 32; 33:11; 2 Peter 3:9).

In this chapter emphasis is placed on the ingathering of the Gentiles and on the success of God’s eternal plan to restore the earth to its original state of purity and perfection (see Isa. 55:5, 8-11; see pp. 28-30).

Come ye to the waters. God invites all men everywhere to partake freely of His grace. Water, wine, milk, and bread (v. 2) here represent all spiritual blessings (see Matt. 26:27-29; John 4:10, 13, 14; 1 Cor. 11:25-27; 1 Peter 2:2).

Hath no money. In the figurative language here used the person without “money” is the one who realizes his spiritual need (see on Matt. 5:3). He is well aware that he has no merits of his own to offer to God as a price for the precious gift of salvation. But God invites all such to come in spite of their spiritual poverty. The price of their salvation has been paid by the Saviour.

Come, buy. Those who desire spiritual blessings must not only “hunger” and “thirst” for them, but also put forth effort to secure them (see on Matt. 13:44-46). The blessings of salvation are free, yet they may be obtained only at the cost of all that a man has. God has never promised to bestow salvation upon those who are indifferent to it or unwilling to put forth the effort to obtain it.

Wine and milk. The blessings of salvation are here represented by products which, in the ancient Orient, were considered representative of all the good things of life. The sinner’s every need will be supplied in Christ Jesus.