So what is the Lord's response to the disobedience spoken of in verses 1-7? Salvation. "I will do this for my servant's sake". We now know that this is referring to Jesus. Verse 7 has said that judgement had to be made, but this judgement was placed on Jesus in our place. Yes there is still judgement and distinction. Death is the destiny of all who forsake the Lord, who neglect His salvation. A way of salvation is offered to all In Christ, but we have to accept it, or accept the consequences.
There is a stark distinction between those who believe and those who do not. One shall live, the other die. Verses 13-16 set out this clear choice. Choose Christ and receive life, or continue in your own way and receive death.
Isaiah covers the times of Assyrian and Babylonian dominance, it points towards Christ, and looks forward also to the very end. There will be a new heaven and a new earth. "The former things will be remembered no more". There will be complete change. The new heaven and new earth will have a new Jerusalem, a place filled with gladness and joy. There will be no more weeping or distress. These words are so clearly echoed in Revelation 21. Current existence is often characterised by futility, this will not be so in the new kingdom.
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