20:1,2
If we take this chapter on its own it doesn’t quite make sense. However, if we look at 19 and 20 as a whole then it has a chiastic structure. So the future blessings we have just read about form the middle part, with the first part of chapter 19 and chapter 20 forming judgement passages which sandwich the blessings. In the chiastic structure it is the central element that is the primary focus. The prophecy is given a clear historical anchor, Sargon captured Ashdod in 711 BC. Isaiah is told to walk about naked! However, it may be that he was not completely naked.
20:3-6
Isaiah had to walk about naked for three years! This was a “sign and portent” against Egypt and Cush. Now we just had great blessings before this, so why this stuff here? The defeat of Egypt would come about and so demonstrate the veracity of Isaiah’s words, likewise his words of blessing would also come about in due time. Isaiah's nakedness was a sign of what would happen to the people of Egypt and Cush, they too would be carted off naked by the Assyrians. At the time Judah was contemplating seeking help from Egypt. Isaiah’s prophecy is a warning that such a course of action would be very foolish indeed.
So what we have here is that one day Egypt will become part of God’s people, greatly loved by God. In the meantime, Judah must not make alliance with her, or seek help from her. May be we can draw parallels with some groups today. One day many Muslims will be saved, but only by trusting in Christ. Likewise, many people who identify as LGBT will be saved, but only by repentance and faith in Christ. In the meantime, we must not “make alliance” with them, to do so would be a foolish thing for any church to do.
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