Isaiah 35
Read Isaiah 35
Helpful Background Information:
Isaiah lived during the decline of Israel’s kingdom period, speaking the word of God to Israel and Judah’s leaders. At this time, the people were often referred to as “deaf and blind” (6:10). This designation came upon the people as a result of their refusal to listen to Isaiah’s warnings about the consequences of their sin. Isaiah consistently warned the people that their sin would bring God’s judgment if they did not repent.
With the warnings, however, came a message of hope. Isaiah believed that things would get worse before they got better, but that there would certainly come a day when God would fulfill all of His covenant promises. In chapter 35, Isaiah describes what will characterize the days when the LORD finally rescues and redeems His people (vv.9b-10a). He says that, though the people have fearful hearts, they do not need to fear because their God will come (v.4). When their God shows up, Isaiah says that He will open the eyes of the blind and the ears of the deaf (v.5). He says that it will be a day of deep joy for those who are lame and mute (v.6).
At the end of Mark 7, we’re told that a man was brought to Jesus who was deaf and had a speech impediment (v.32). After the man’s friends begged Jesus to lay His hand on Him, Jesus took the man aside from the crowd and laid His hands on him (v.33). At Jesus’ command, the eyes and ears of the man were suddenly opened and his tongue was released, allowing him to see and hear clearly and to speak plainly! (v.35). Seeing this happen, bystanders were “astonished beyond measure” at Jesus who “even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak” (v.37). No doubt, the hopeful words of Isaiah anticipated the healing presence of God through the person of Jesus—the One who came to rescue and redeem God’s people once and for all (Isaiah 35:9-10).
Reflection Questions:
The biggest issue in Isaiah’s day was not the physical blindness of God’s people but their spiritual obstinance. Using your own words, attempt to explain how God continues to heal spiritual blindness in people today.
Before the Holy Spirit opened your eyes to God’s beauty and your brokenness, what were specific blind spots that you had? In other words, what are ways that your perspective on life has changed since becoming a believer?
God has authority over His creation, which includes our own bodies. What evidence in your life reflects a willingness to submit to God’s authority over your body?