Embracing A New Thing (Isaiah 43)
Imagine being on the verge of something new and exciting, yet uncertain about what lies ahead. We’ve all experienced moments like this—whether it’s starting a new job, moving to a new place, or embarking on a new journey. These moments are filled with both anticipation and apprehension.
Today, we’re going to explore Isaiah 43, a chapter where God speaks to His people who are in a similar place. They are in need of hope, assurance, and a vision for the future. God’s message to them is powerful and transformative: He is doing something new. This new thing is not only a promise but a revelation of His grand plan for His people, pointing us to the ultimate new beginning found in Jesus Christ.
As we dive into this chapter, let’s open our hearts and minds to what God is revealing. Let’s be ready to see the new things He is doing in our lives and in our world, and to embrace our role as His witnesses, spreading His love and truth.
With that in mind, let’s turn to Isaiah 43 and discover the incredible newness God has in store for us.
God's Assurance of Redemption (Isaiah 43:1-7)
Isaiah 43:1–7 (ESV) — 1 But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. 3 For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I give Egypt as your ransom, Cush and Seba in exchange for you. 4 Because you are precious in my eyes, and honored, and I love you, I give men in return for you, peoples in exchange for your life. 5 Fear not, for I am with you; I will bring your offspring from the east, and from the west I will gather you. 6 I will say to the north, Give up, and to the south, Do not withhold; bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the end of the earth, 7 everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.”
Imagine the scene: God Himself is speaking directly to Israel, and by extension, to us. His words are tender yet powerful, filled with love and assurance. "But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.'" Picture this: the Creator of the universe, the One who formed the stars and the seas, speaks to each of us personally. He knows our names, our stories, our struggles. He claims us as His own.
God continues, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you." These are not mere promises; they are declarations from the Almighty. Think about the waters of chaos and the fires of trials in your own life. God assures us that no matter how deep the waters or how fierce the flames, His presence is with us. We are never alone.
The imagery here is profound. Water and fire are often used in the Bible to represent trials and tribulations. In Exodus, the Israelites passed through the Red Sea on dry ground, escaping the pursuing Egyptian army. In Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were thrown into the fiery furnace but emerged unscathed because God was with them. These stories are not just historical accounts; they are testimonies of God’s unchanging faithfulness and power.
In verses 3-4, God reminds Israel of His past acts of salvation: "For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I give Egypt as your ransom, Cush and Seba in exchange for you. Because you are precious in my eyes, and honored, and I love you, I give men in return for you, peoples in exchange for your life." God’s love for His people is so immense that He is willing to give up nations for their sake. This shows the extent of His love and the lengths He will go to redeem and protect His people.
God’s declaration of love is not based on Israel’s performance but on His character and His promises. "Fear not, for I am with you; I will bring your offspring from the east, and from the west I will gather you. I will say to the north, Give up, and to the south, Do not withhold; bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the end of the earth, everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made." Here, God promises not only to be with His people but also to gather them from all corners of the earth. His plan is comprehensive and inclusive, covering every direction and reaching every person He has called.
This passage is a powerful reminder that our identity and worth are found in God. He has created us, formed us, and redeemed us. We are His, and He is committed to us with a love that is fierce and unyielding. When we face the trials of life, we can hold on to this assurance: God is with us, He knows us by name, and He will never let us go.
To make this message personal, think about your own life. What are the waters you are passing through? What are the fires you are walking through? Can you feel the heat, the pressure, the overwhelming sense of fear? Hear God's words today: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine." Let these words sink deep into your heart. God's promises are not just for Israel; they are for you. He is with you, He knows your name, and He claims you as His own.
In the face of life's challenges, remember that God's love and protection are steadfast. Just as He was with Israel in their times of trouble, He is with you now. His promise is sure: when you pass through the waters and the fires of life, you will not be overwhelmed or consumed. Hold onto this truth and let it be your anchor in the storms of life.
God's Sovereignty and Unique Power (Isaiah 43:8-13)
Isaiah 43:8–13 (ESV) — 8 Bring out the people who are blind, yet have eyes, who are deaf, yet have ears! 9 All the nations gather together, and the peoples assemble. Who among them can declare this, and show us the former things? Let them bring their witnesses to prove them right, and let them hear and say, It is true. 10 “You are my witnesses,” declares the Lord, “and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after me. 11 I, I am the Lord, and besides me there is no savior. 12 I declared and saved and proclaimed, when there was no strange god among you; and you are my witnesses,” declares the Lord, “and I am God. 13 Also henceforth I am he; there is none who can deliver from my hand; I work, and who can turn it back?”
As we move forward in Isaiah 43, the narrative shifts to a courtroom setting. Here, God calls the nations and all people to present their witnesses and make their case. It's a dramatic scene, one that highlights God's unmatched sovereignty and power. "Bring out the people who are blind, yet have eyes, who are deaf, yet have ears! All the nations gather together, and the peoples assemble. Who among them can declare this, and show us the former things? Let them bring their witnesses to prove them right, and let them hear and say, It is true."
Picture this: the world’s greatest powers and their idols are summoned to testify. But who can compare to the living God? Who can declare the former things or reveal the future? The silence in the courtroom is deafening as the idols stand mute, unable to respond. God alone steps forward as the true and living witness. He challenges them, knowing none can match His deeds or His declarations.
God's challenge is not just to the idols but to all who doubt His power. He calls us to remember His mighty acts, the things He has done from ancient times. "You are my witnesses, declares the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after me. I, I am the Lord, and besides me there is no savior."
In this proclamation, God establishes His exclusivity and supreme authority. There is no god before Him, and there will be none after Him. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. This is a profound truth: the God we serve is not one among many; He is the one and only true God. His sovereignty is absolute, and His power is unrivaled.
To illustrate this, think of the modern-day courtroom dramas we see on TV. Imagine the defense attorney standing up, presenting irrefutable evidence that leaves no doubt in the minds of the jury. That’s what God is doing here. He presents His track record, His undeniable acts of salvation and deliverance, leaving no room for doubt. He alone is the Savior.
God's sovereignty is also evident in His role as the redeemer. "I declared and saved and proclaimed, when there was no strange god among you; and you are my witnesses, declares the Lord, and I am God. Also henceforth I am he; there is none who can deliver from my hand; I work, and who can turn it back?" These verses remind us that God is the one who declares, saves, and proclaims. His actions are decisive and final. When He works, no one can reverse it. His plans and purposes stand firm.
This section of Isaiah 43 is a powerful reminder of God’s unparalleled power and sovereignty. We are His witnesses, called to testify to His mighty works. This isn’t just a historical recount; it's a present reality. Just as God declared His sovereignty to Israel, He declares it to us today. He is the same God who saved, declared, and proclaimed, and He continues to do so in our lives.
Think about the times in your life when you’ve seen God’s hand at work. Reflect on the moments when He intervened, provided, and protected. These are your testimonies, your evidence of His sovereignty and power. We are called to share these stories, to be witnesses of His greatness.
In a world that often seeks to diminish God’s power or question His authority, we must stand firm. We must proclaim, as God’s chosen witnesses, that He alone is God. There is no other savior, no other power that can compare. Let us boldly declare His deeds, trust in His sovereignty, and rest in the assurance that His plans for us are good and unchangeable.
God's Promise of New Beginnings (Isaiah 43:14-21)
Isaiah 43:14–21 (ESV) — 14 Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “For your sake I send to Babylon and bring them all down as fugitives, even the Chaldeans, in the ships in which they rejoice. 15 I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, your King.” 16 Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, 17 who brings forth chariot and horse, army and warrior; they lie down, they cannot rise, they are extinguished, quenched like a wick: 18 “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. 19 Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. 20 The wild beasts will honor me, the jackals and the ostriches, for I give water in the wilderness, rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, 21 the people whom I formed for myself that they might declare my praise.
As we move further into Isaiah 43, we come to a beautiful promise of renewal and transformation. God, speaking through Isaiah, reminds Israel of His past acts of deliverance but then shifts their focus to the future. He wants them to see that what He has in store is even greater than what He has done before. "Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: 'For your sake I send to Babylon and bring them all down as fugitives, even the Chaldeans, in the ships in which they rejoice. I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, your King.'"
God starts by reminding Israel of His role as their Redeemer and Holy One. He speaks of bringing down their enemies, demonstrating His power and commitment to their salvation. But did you notice that Babylon hasn’t taken anyone captive yet? This is written over a hundred years before God would allow the Babylonians to destroy Jerusalem. He’s foretelling this judgment. God continues, "Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?" This salvation from Babylon will make you forget about the Egyptians and God’s deliverance through the plagues.
This call to forget the former things is profound. It’s not that God wants Israel to forget His past acts of deliverance, but He wants them to realize that His work is ongoing and evolving. He is not limited to what He has done before. His creativity and power are boundless. Picture an artist who continually surpasses their previous masterpieces, each new work more stunning than the last. This is how God wants us to see His actions in our lives.
But, then he turns to Messianic language with the rest of verse 20. He says, “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?" Then, he refers to making the way in the wilderness. God’s new work is already in motion. It’s like a seed breaking through the soil, a sign of life and growth. He goes on to describe this new thing: "I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." These images of transformation are powerful. The wilderness, often a place of desolation and danger, will become a pathway. The desert, a symbol of dryness and barrenness, will be refreshed with rivers of water.
Consider the implications of these promises in your own life. What are the wilderness areas you’re navigating? Where do you feel dry and barren? God is saying that He will create pathways where there seem to be none and bring life-giving water to the driest parts of your existence. This is the essence of His promise of new beginnings.
"The wild beasts will honor me, the jackals and the ostriches, for I give water in the wilderness, rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, the people whom I formed for myself that they might declare my praise." Even the wild animals will honor God, recognizing His provision and power. This is a picture of complete transformation, where every part of creation responds to God’s new work.
God's purpose in doing these new things is clear: "that they might declare my praise." He desires for His people to recognize His acts, to see the new things He is doing, and to respond with worship and praise. Our response to God’s new work should be one of gratitude and declaration of His greatness.
To bring this home, think about a time in your life when you experienced a new beginning. Maybe it was a fresh start after a period of struggle or a new opportunity that brought unexpected blessings. These moments are glimpses of God’s continual work of renewal and transformation. He is always at work, making things new, bringing life where there was death, hope where there was despair.
As we embrace God's promise of new beginnings, let’s be attentive to the new things He is doing in our midst. Let’s perceive the ways He is creating pathways in our wilderness and bringing rivers to our deserts. And as we recognize His work, let us respond with hearts full of praise, declaring His goodness and faithfulness to the world. God’s promise of new beginnings is not just a future hope; it’s a present reality. Let’s live in the light of this truth, expectant and ready for the new things God is bringing into our lives.
God's Unfailing Love and Forgiveness (Isaiah 43:22-28)
Isaiah 43:22–28 (ESV) — 22 “Yet you did not call upon me, O Jacob; but you have been weary of me, O Israel! 23 You have not brought me your sheep for burnt offerings, or honored me with your sacrifices. I have not burdened you with offerings, or wearied you with frankincense. 24 You have not bought me sweet cane with money, or satisfied me with the fat of your sacrifices. But you have burdened me with your sins; you have wearied me with your iniquities. 25 “I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins. 26 Put me in remembrance; let us argue together; set forth your case, that you may be proved right. 27 Your first father sinned, and your mediators transgressed against me. 28 Therefore I will profane the princes of the sanctuary, and deliver Jacob to utter destruction and Israel to reviling.
As we reach the final point of Isaiah 43, we encounter a profound demonstration of God’s unfailing love and forgiveness. In verses 22-28, God addresses Israel’s shortcomings and their failure to honor Him as they should. Yet, despite their sins, He promises redemption and forgiveness, showcasing His boundless grace.
"But you did not call upon me, O Jacob; but you have been weary of me, O Israel! You have not brought me your sheep for burnt offerings, or honored me with your sacrifices. I have not burdened you with offerings, or wearied you with frankincense. You have not bought me sweet cane with money, or satisfied me with the fat of your sacrifices. But you have burdened me with your sins; you have wearied me with your iniquities."
Here, God outlines Israel’s neglect. They have failed to bring offerings, to honor Him with their sacrifices, and to call upon His name. Instead of worship and obedience, they have burdened God with their sins and iniquities. It’s a stark indictment of their spiritual state. They’ve grown weary of God, turning away from Him in their hearts and actions.
Yet, in the midst of this indictment, God’s response is astonishing. "I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins." Despite Israel’s unfaithfulness, God declares His intention to forgive and forget their sins. His forgiveness is not contingent upon their actions but rooted in His own character and purposes. He forgives "for my own sake," underscoring that His mercy is an expression of His divine nature.
This is the heart of God: a readiness to forgive and to restore. Think about the parable of the Prodigal Son in the New Testament. The son, having squandered his inheritance, returns home in shame and repentance. But instead of receiving punishment, he is met with open arms and a joyous welcome from his father. This parable mirrors God’s attitude towards Israel, and indeed towards us. He is always ready to forgive and to bring us back into fellowship with Him.
God continues, "Put me in remembrance; let us argue together; set forth your case, that you may be proved right. Your first father sinned, and your mediators transgressed against me. Therefore I will profane the princes of the sanctuary, and deliver Jacob to utter destruction and Israel to reviling."
Even as God acknowledges the depth of Israel’s sin, He still extends His grace. He calls them to remember Him, to engage with Him, and to recognize their need for His mercy. The reference to their first father and mediators highlights that sin has been a persistent problem, but it also sets the stage for God’s redemptive work.
This section of Isaiah 43 is a powerful reminder of God’s unfailing love and His willingness to forgive. No matter how far we’ve strayed or how deeply we’ve sinned, God’s grace is always available. His love is not diminished by our failures; rather, it shines even brighter against the backdrop of our shortcomings.
Consider your own life. We all have moments where we’ve fallen short, where we’ve failed to honor God as we should. We might feel burdened by our sins, weary from our iniquities. But hear God’s promise today: He blots out our transgressions for His own sake. He does not remember our sins. His forgiveness is complete and absolute.
This is an invitation to come to God with a repentant heart, to lay down our burdens and receive His forgiveness. Just as the father in the Prodigal Son story ran to meet his returning child, God is ready to embrace us, to restore us, and to renew us. His unfailing love and forgiveness are our hope and our assurance.
In response to this incredible grace, let us commit to living lives that honor God. Let us bring our offerings of praise and worship, not out of obligation, but out of a deep gratitude for His mercy. Let us remember His faithfulness and declare His goodness, sharing the message of His unfailing love with a world in need of His grace.
As we conclude this point, let’s take a moment to reflect on God’s forgiveness in our own lives. Let’s thank Him for His mercy, ask for His strength to live faithfully, and share His love with others. God’s unfailing love and forgiveness are not just concepts; they are the very foundation of our relationship with Him. Let’s embrace this truth and let it transform our hearts and lives.
Application: Embracing the New Thing
As we consider the powerful message of Isaiah 43, it’s crucial that we not only understand it but also apply it to our lives. God is doing something new, and this new thing is the climax of His revelation to us. It’s an invitation to be part of His grand plan through Jesus Christ, to be His witnesses, and to spread His glory and praise throughout the world.
Embracing the New Thing in Our Lives
God's declaration of doing something new is a call to leave behind the old ways and embrace the new life He offers through Jesus. This isn't just about personal transformation; it's about being part of God's mission on earth. Jesus came to show us the way, to transform us, and to commission us as His witnesses.
The Importance of the New Thing
This new thing God is doing is central to His plan for humanity. Through Jesus, God has brought about a new covenant, a new relationship between Him and us. This is a relationship not based on our merit but on His grace. It is a call to live in a way that reflects His love and truth. As witnesses, we are to embody and share this new life with others, showing them the hope and renewal that comes from knowing Christ.
When we make God’s purpose our purpose, God promises to be with us and help us make it through the difficult situations we face in life. We don’t have to be afraid when the waters come in or the fire heats up. All of our struggles with our job, family, sickness, finances, and personal growth can be overcome by our God. He promises to help us and transform us so that we can fulfill his purpose and share our story with others.
A Purpose Story: The Transformation of Paul
To illustrate the power of this new thing, let's look at the story of Paul. Paul, originally known as Saul, was a fierce persecutor of Christians. He was dedicated to eradicating the followers of Jesus, believing he was serving God by doing so. But God had other plans for him. On the road to Damascus, Saul encountered the risen Christ. This encounter was a "new thing" that completely transformed his life.
Paul went from being a persecutor of Christians to one of the most passionate and effective witnesses for Christ. He embraced the new thing God was doing in his life, became an apostle, and spread the gospel far and wide. His letters, which form a significant part of the New Testament, continue to witness to God's power and love, inspiring countless people through the ages.
Paul’s transformation is a powerful example of how embracing the new thing God is doing can change our lives and impact the world. It shows us that no matter our past, God can use us in His grand plan if we are willing to be transformed and to witness for Him.
How to Be Witnesses of the New Thing
Recognize the New Thing God is Doing in Your Life: Reflect on the ways God is calling you to change, grow, and step into new opportunities. It could be a new ministry, a renewed relationship, or a fresh perspective on your faith.
Share Your Story: Like Paul, your personal story of transformation can be a powerful witness to others. Share how God has worked in your life, how He has brought you through trials, and how He is leading you into new things.
Live Out Your Faith Boldly: Let your actions reflect the new life you have in Christ. Be intentional in your relationships, showing love, grace, and truth. Your life can be a testament to God's transformative power.
Engage in the Mission: Look for ways to be involved in God's mission in your community and beyond. This could be through evangelism, service, or supporting missions. Be proactive in spreading the gospel and making disciples.
Conclusion
Isaiah 43 calls us to recognize and embrace the new thing God is doing. Through Jesus, we are invited into a new relationship with God, one that transforms us and calls us to be His witnesses. As we leave here today, let us commit to embracing this new thing, living as transformed people, and sharing the hope and renewal found in Christ with the world.
Let’s be inspired by Paul’s story and by the countless others who have embraced God’s new thing and become powerful witnesses. God is doing something new in each of us. Let’s perceive it, embrace it, and live it out boldly.