Urbana Friends Church

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Isaiah 61

  • Vv. 1-3 this passage begins with the call of the Messiah and the mission which he is to lead. Jesus himself claims to be the fulfillment of this passage in Luke 4. Kings of the Old Testament were anointed by their fellow men with oil, but God anoints with the Holy Spirit. The medium that the mission comes into fruition is most positively seen through proclaiming the good news. That is because the good news was being fulfilled and has been fulfilled through Christ.

  • Vv. 4-9 The people who hear the proclamation of good news are forever changed. They are made beautiful, joyful, righteous, and worthy to praise God. From the brokenness of sin, God’s people will build a holy city. This is speaking of building up a beautiful city where we find our own converted lives as the bricks. And this new kingdom under the good news will be a kingdom for all people, Jew and Gentile. All are welcome to be a holy priesthood, bringing glory to the Lord. Those who do not deserve such grace will find it and a greater reward because of their willingness to hear the Lord.

  • Vv. 10-11 We are given Garden of Eden language, showing a redemption to the perfection of original creation. Sin is defeated and the relationship between God and man is restored. This all happens in context of this Messiah and the good news he proclaims. This brings forth praise, because God’s redemptive story for all mankind is worthy to be praised.