Isaiah 56:1

Thus saith the Lord. The central thought of ch. 56 is the conversion of the Gentiles. Against this bright prospect is placed the gloomy picture of Israel’s unreadiness to receive them. A great work of reformation is necessary before God can work to bring into fellowship with His people these “aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise” (Eph. 2:12). This work of reform is to center in a return to faithful Sabbath observance. The message of this chapter is fraught with meaning for the church today.

Keep ye judgment, and do justice. Better, “Keep justice and do righteousness.” Compare the pointed admonition of Micah 6:8. Religion is not mere theory; it is intensely practical. God’s people must be orthodox in conduct as well as in doctrine before God can work through them for the conversion of others (see on Matt. 7:21-27).

Near to come. If Israel had cooperated fully with God’s requirements, His glorious promises would not have been long delayed. The same is true of the church today.

To be revealed. Revealed, that is, in the fulfillment of the glorious promises to make Israel His mighty instrument for the conversion of the world (see pp. 28-30). The gospel was not for the Jews only, but for all men.