Paving The Way (Isaiah 34-35)

Imagine, if you will, a world where every city lies in utter ruin, every garden turned to dust. Now imagine, just as vividly, a desert bursting into bloom, streams of water cascading through parched lands, and a road so holy, no evil dares to tread upon it. This is not the script of a fantasy film; this is the vivid world of Isaiah chapters 34 and 35.

Many people grapple with the concept of divine justice, especially the idea that God will judge sin and wickedness. There is often a fear or misunderstanding about God’s nature concerning His judgments. Isaiah 34 vividly portrays the certainty and severity of God's judgment against sin, providing a clear picture desolation, where the land of Edom becomes a chilling monument to God’s fierce judgment.

On the other hand, many people struggle with the idea of salvation. In a world filled with brokenness, despair, and personal failures, many yearn for hope and renewal but often feel it is out of reach. Christians often struggle with living a life of holiness in a world that offers many paths and choices, some of which lead away from God. There is a constant battle against sin and a search for guidance. Isaiah 35 offers a powerful counterpoint to despair—the promise of divine restoration and joy. It speaks to the transformative power of God’s grace that can turn barren areas in our lives into flourishing gardens, offering hope and encouragement to persevere in faith.

There is an inherent human desire for security and a fear of the unknown future, which can lead to anxiety and apprehension about what lies ahead. In these chapters, we find clarity on our current state and future reality. They are about us—our spiritual journeys, our battles with sin, and our ultimate hope in God’s promises. They are about the very essence of the Christian life, marked by trials but destined for triumph.

Judgment on All Nations (Isaiah 34:1-4)

Isaiah 34:1–4 (ESV) — 1 Draw near, O nations, to hear, and give attention, O peoples! Let the earth hear, and all that fills it; the world, and all that comes from it. 2 For the Lord is enraged against all the nations, and furious against all their host; he has devoted them to destruction, has given them over for slaughter. 3 Their slain shall be cast out, and the stench of their corpses shall rise; the mountains shall flow with their blood. 4 All the host of heaven shall rot away, and the skies roll up like a scroll. All their host shall fall, as leaves fall from the vine, like leaves falling from the fig tree.

Brethren, as we open our Bibles to the 34th chapter of Isaiah, we are immediately confronted with a summons that rings across the ages—a divine call not just to Israel, but to every nation under heaven. Here, the voice of the Lord thunders forth, demanding the attention of the world. "Draw near, O nations, to hear, and give attention, O peoples!" This is no ordinary gathering; this is the courtroom of the Almighty, where He declares His righteous judgment against the sins of all nations.

The severity of this proclamation lies not merely in its scope but in its intensity. The Lord is enraged, and His wrath is poised to descend like an unstoppable storm on all the armies of the earth. Their wrongs are so grievous that the Lord Himself has devoted them to destruction, their blood destined to stain the mountains, their flesh left as fodder for the beasts and birds. In this grim picture, the sovereignty of God over all creation is unmistakable. He is not a regional deity, confined to the borders of Israel; His dominion extends to every corner of the earth, and His moral law governs every people.

As we reflect on this passage, let us consider our own position before the Lord. It compels us to introspection and repentance, for who can stand before such a Judge without blemish? Let it be a reminder that no nation, no individual, is beyond the reach of God’s justice. It beckons us to forsake pride and to humbly seek the mercy that only He can offer. In this divine judgment pronounced so fiercely against the nations, we find a call to examine our own lives, to ensure that we are not found wanting when we too are called to account.

The Devastation of Edom (Isaiah 34:5-15)

Isaiah 34:5–15 (ESV) — 5 For my sword has drunk its fill in the heavens; behold, it descends for judgment upon Edom, upon the people I have devoted to destruction. 6 The Lord has a sword; it is sated with blood; it is gorged with fat, with the blood of lambs and goats, with the fat of the kidneys of rams. For the Lord has a sacrifice in Bozrah, a great slaughter in the land of Edom. 7 Wild oxen shall fall with them, and young steers with the mighty bulls. Their land shall drink its fill of blood, and their soil shall be gorged with fat. 8 For the Lord has a day of vengeance, a year of recompense for the cause of Zion. 9 And the streams of Edom shall be turned into pitch, and her soil into sulfur; her land shall become burning pitch. 10 Night and day it shall not be quenched; its smoke shall go up forever. From generation to generation it shall lie waste; none shall pass through it forever and ever. 11 But the hawk and the porcupine shall possess it, the owl and the raven shall dwell in it. He shall stretch the line of confusion over it, and the plumb line of emptiness. 12 Its nobles—there is no one there to call it a kingdom, and all its princes shall be nothing. 13 Thorns shall grow over its strongholds, nettles and thistles in its fortresses. It shall be the haunt of jackals, an abode for ostriches. 14 And wild animals shall meet with hyenas; the wild goat shall cry to his fellow; indeed, there the night bird settles and finds for herself a resting place. 15 There the owl nests and lays and hatches and gathers her young in her shadow; indeed, there the hawks are gathered, each one with her mate.

In the prophetic vision of Isaiah, our attention is drawn sharply to Edom, a symbol of all who oppose the sovereignty of God. As the scriptures unfold, Edom is marked for a devastating reckoning. The Lord's sword is described as being bathed in heaven, soaked with the blood of lambs and goats, a stark imagery of divine retribution. This sword, drenched in the heavens, descends upon Edom, dousing the land in judgment so fierce that its streams turn to pitch and its dust to sulfur, the very elements of destruction transforming it into a burning waste.

Why Edom, you might ask? Edom, who took pride in her fortresses, who reveled in her wisdom and might, stands as a testament to the futility of resisting God’s decree. Edom represents the arrogance of human defiance against God. Historically, the Edomites were descended from Esau, a man who disregarded the promise of God. The Edomites were like Esau. They were kin to the Israelites, yet they chose the path of conflict and betrayal, particularly during Israel’s times of vulnerability. This choice of enmity over kinship, of pride over humility, sets Edom as a prime recipient of God's wrath, illustrating that no legacy or lineage can shield us from the consequences of our moral choices.

As Isaiah details the desolation of Edom, he speaks of it becoming a haunt for wild creatures—jackals, ostriches, wild goats, a place where the night creature meets the hyena. The vivid imagery of desolation serves not merely as a forecast but as a warning: this is the end of all rebellion against God. The once bustling cities of Edom will lie in ruins, unvisited by humanity, only roamed by creatures that thrive in desolation.

This poignant narrative calls us, today's listeners, to reflect deeply on the repercussions of our own actions and attitudes. It challenges us to ask ourselves: In what ways do we resemble Edom? Do we harbor pride, harboring bitterness, or resist God's ways? The ruin of Edom stands as a solemn reminder that such paths lead to spiritual barrenness and isolation.

Let us, therefore, take this moment to consider the state of our hearts and our communities. Are we building on rebellion or on obedience to God? The stark lesson here is that God’s justice is as unyielding as His love is vast. Just as Edom could not escape the consequences of its choices, neither can we. Thus, it behooves us to seek reconciliation with God, to turn from paths that lead to ruin, and to embrace the ways that lead to life and peace.

The Permanence of Divine Decrees (Isaiah 34:16-17)

Isaiah 34:16–17 (ESV) — 16 Seek and read from the book of the Lord: Not one of these shall be missing; none shall be without her mate. For the mouth of the Lord has commanded, and his Spirit has gathered them. 17 He has cast the lot for them; his hand has portioned it out to them with the line; they shall possess it forever; from generation to generation they shall dwell in it.

As we reach the closing verses of Isaiah 34, we are confronted with a profound declaration about the reliability and permanence of God's word. The prophet urges us, "Seek and read from the book of the Lord." Not one of these prophecies will fail, none will lack her mate, for the mouth of the Lord has commanded, and His Spirit has gathered them. This scripture is not only a historical record; it is a divine ordinance, a settled fact in the heavenlies that plays out inevitably in the earthly realm.

This passage serves as a powerful affirmation that what God decrees, He brings to pass. His words are not idle; they are active and dynamic, effecting change and fulfilling His divine purposes. In the context of Edom's judgment, we see a landscape meticulously measured and portioned out for desolation—a poignant symbol of God's precise and comprehensive control over the fate of nations.

What does this mean for us today? It means that God's promises—both of blessings and of judgments—are irrevocable. Just as Edom's destruction was assured, so too are God's promises of salvation and restoration for those who turn to Him in repentance and faith. It underscores the seriousness with which we must approach God’s Word, treating it not as a collection of ancient texts, but as the living, breathing communication of God's will for our lives.

Let us, therefore, embrace the Word of God with reverence and commitment. Let it guide us, not just in times of comfort, but more importantly, in moments of challenge and decision. As we stand on the promises of God, let us hold fast to the assurance that He who has promised is faithful to perform it. His decrees are permanent, extending beyond the immediate to the eternal.

In practical terms, this calls us to a life of integrity and faithfulness. As we navigate the complexities of our daily lives, let us align ourselves with the truth of God’s Word. Let us be people who build not on the shifting sands of human opinion, but on the solid rock of divine decree. In doing so, we secure not just our own spiritual wellbeing, but we become beacons of light and truth in a world that mirrors the spiritual desolation of Edom.

Restoration of Zion (Isaiah 35:1-7, 10)

Isaiah 35:1–2 (ESV) — 1 The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus; 2 it shall blossom abundantly and rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the majesty of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the Lord, the majesty of our God.

As we turn our gaze from the somber shadows of Isaiah 34 to the radiant light of Isaiah 35, we witness a breathtaking transformation. The scripture paints a vivid picture of a desert blooming into a garden, a metaphor for Zion's renewal and the joyous restoration that awaits God’s people. "The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus.”

This transformation is not merely physical but deeply spiritual. It signifies the reversal of the curse of sin and desolation brought about through divine intervention. The land, which once bore the marks of judgment, now bursts forth in jubilant celebration of God's redemptive power. It’s a prophetic vision of what God intends for Zion—His people and His city.

Verse 10 specifically anchors this transformation in Zion, stating, "And the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away." This verse encapsulates the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. It is not just a return to a geographical location but a spiritual homecoming to the presence of God, where His people are fully restored and eternally joyful.

Application for Today:

• Personal Renewal: This prophecy invites each one of us to reflect on our personal 'deserts'—the barren areas in our lives that seem lifeless and hopeless. Just as God promises to transform Zion, He promises to renew our lives, to turn our mourning into joy and our despair into hope. It encourages us to seek God in our desolation, trusting Him to bring forth life and beauty.
• Community and Church Revival: As a congregation, this passage calls us to envision our church community as part of the greater Zion. Are we a place where the spiritually dry come to find refreshment? Are we a community where the broken-hearted experience joy and gladness? This transformation begins when we embrace God’s presence and power in our midst, allowing His Spirit to work through us, turning our collective desolation into a flourishing garden of spiritual vitality.
• Anticipation of Eternal Joy: The ultimate transformation awaits us in the eternal Zion, where we, as redeemed believers, will experience everlasting joy. This hope is not just for the future; it influences how we live today. It shapes our perspectives, priorities, and pursuits, urging us to live in the light of God's eternal promises.

Healing and Holiness (Isaiah 35:3-7)

Isaiah 35:3–7 (ESV) — 3 Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. 4 Say to those who have an anxious heart, “Be strong; fear not! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you.” 5 Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; 6 then shall the lame man leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute sing for joy. For waters break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert; 7 the burning sand shall become a pool, and the thirsty ground springs of water; in the haunt of jackals, where they lie down, the grass shall become reeds and rushes.

In the heart of Isaiah 35, we find a series of promises that depict not only the physical healing of individuals but the spiritual revival of a community. The text calls out, "Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who have an anxious heart, 'Be strong; fear not! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you.'" This is a rallying cry for encouragement and faith in the midst of trials, pointing directly to the power and promise of God's intervention.

Following this call, the prophet describes miracles that signify the breaking in of God's kingdom: the eyes of the blind are opened, the ears of the deaf unstopped, the lame leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute sings for joy. Each of these miracles is a sign of the restoration that God brings—not just physically but spiritually—breaking the chains of sin and infirmity that bind humanity.

Application for Today:

• Encouragement in Struggle: This passage speaks powerfully to those among us who feel weak, weary, or worried. It is a divine reminder to not lose heart. As a community of believers, we are called to support one another, to strengthen those who are weak, and to uplift those who are downtrodden. Let us be the hands and feet of Jesus, who brings healing and strength where there is brokenness and fatigue.
• Spiritual Renewal: The opening of blind eyes and the unblocking of deaf ears also symbolizes the removal of spiritual blindness and deafness. It challenges us to ask ourselves if there are areas in our lives where we have been blind to God's truth or deaf to His call. Let this be a time where we seek a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit, to rejuvenate our spiritual senses and realign our lives with God’s will.
• Living Testimonies of God's Power: Just as the lame leap and the mute sing, we are called to be vibrant testimonies of God’s transformative power. Each story of healing and every demonstration of God’s grace in our lives should be a cause for joy and a reason for sharing. Let our personal transformations encourage others and point them to the source of our joy and strength.

The Highway of Holiness (Isaiah 35:8-10)

Isaiah 35:8–10 (ESV) — 8 And a highway shall be there, and it shall be called the Way of Holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it. It shall belong to those who walk on the way; even if they are fools, they shall not go astray. 9 No lion shall be there, nor shall any ravenous beast come up on it; they shall not be found there, but the redeemed shall walk there. 10 And the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

In these culminating verses of Isaiah 35, the prophet unveils a profound and beautiful metaphor: the Highway of Holiness. This is not merely a road; it is a sacred path, reserved for those who have been redeemed by the Lord. It's a place where no lion or ravenous beast will tread—only those redeemed by God can walk there. This highway is safe, set apart, and leads directly to Zion, the dwelling place of God. It symbolizes a life of sanctity, secure under God’s protection, free from spiritual dangers that so often waylay us on our journey.

Application for Today:

• Pursuit of Holiness: This imagery of a highway invites us to consider our own spiritual journey. Are we walking on the path that God has set forth—a path characterized by holiness and obedience? This concept should inspire us to examine our daily choices and interactions. Are they reflective of someone walking on a holy path, set apart for God’s purposes?
• Safety in God’s Ways: The assurance that no harmful beast will be found on this highway offers us comfort and security in God’s protection as we walk in His ways. This should encourage us to stay the course, even when the road seems difficult or when dangers loom. In the safety of God’s path, we find the strength to resist temptations and the fortitude to face challenges with faith.
• Joyful Destination: Finally, the destination of this highway is Zion, where those redeemed by the Lord will enter with singing, crowned with everlasting joy. This paints a glorious picture of our final redemption and the joyous community of believers. It reminds us that our journey on this highway is not aimless but has a joyful and eternal destination. This ultimate promise should invigorate our present spiritual life and influence our interactions within the church community. We are not merely individuals walking a path; we are a congregation moving together towards joyous eternity with our Lord.

⠀Let us then commit anew to this highway of holiness. Let each step we take be purposeful, each action steeped in love, each decision made through the lens of Scripture. Let us encourage each other, as fellow travelers, to keep to this path, helping those who stumble, and sharing the joy of our journey. And as we walk, let us always keep our eyes fixed on the joy set before us, the joy of everlasting peace in the presence of God.

Conclusion: A Call from Judgment to Joy

As we conclude our journey through the contrasting landscapes of Isaiah 34 and 35, we have traversed from the stark reality of divine judgment to the radiant promise of divine restoration. We began in a place of desolation, witnessing the irreversible consequences of defiance against God, as seen in the utter ruin of Edom. This stark image serves as a solemn warning to all who would resist the sovereignty and righteousness of God.

But, beloved, our journey did not end in desolation. Instead, we were led into the vibrant promise of renewal in Isaiah 35—a place where deserts bloom, the blind see, the deaf hear, and the lame leap for joy. Here, we discovered not only the physical restoration of a people but a profound spiritual renewal that reflects the heart of the gospel we cherish. It is here, in these promises, we find our hope and our calling.

The main point of our exploration today is clear: God is both a just judge and a merciful savior. He is unrelenting in His justice, yet unfathomable in His mercy. His Word is trustworthy—what He decrees in judgment will surely come to pass, and what He promises in restoration will undoubtedly be fulfilled.

The main application for us, therefore, is equally clear: we are called to walk the Highway of Holiness, a path set apart for those redeemed by the blood of Christ. This is not a path of fear, for no harm will overtake us here; it is a path of joy, leading to an eternal celebration in the presence of our God.

Let us then respond to this divine invitation with a renewed commitment to holiness, with a heart ready to support and uplift our brethren, and with a spirit eager to embrace the transformative work of God in our lives. Let us walk this highway together, encouraging one another with the truth that our journey through the trials and tribulations of this world is not in vain. It leads to a glorious destination where everlasting joy awaits us.

As we go forth this week, let each step we take on this highway reflect our gratitude and awareness of God’s immense grace. Let our lives be a testament to the hope we carry within us—the hope of redemption, the joy of restoration, and the promise of eternal life with our Savior.