Isaiah 16: Moabite’s Judgement and Distress

Introduction: Isaiah 16 offers a beacon of hope and a call to action for the people of Moab and Judah. The chapter outlines God’s judgment upon Moab, but also offers a glimmer of hope for those who seek refuge in Zion. This outline will delve into the theological significance of Isaiah 16, exploring the themes of judgment, mercy, and redemption.

I. Judgment upon Moab (Isaiah 16:1-5)
The opening verses of Isaiah 16 describe the impending judgment upon Moab, a nation that has long been an enemy of Israel. The Moabites are called to send tribute to the throne of David, a symbol of submission to God’s chosen king. This act of humility is contrasted with Moab’s pride and arrogance, which have led to their downfall.
Cross-references:

• Psalm 60:8: “Moab is my washbasin; upon Edom, I toss my sandal; over Philistia, I shout in triumph.”
• Jeremiah 48:29: “We have heard of Moab’s pride—how great is her arrogance!—of her insolence, her pride, her conceit and the haughtiness of her heart.”
• Amos 2:1: “This is what the Lord says: ‘For three sins of Moab, even for four, I will not relent. Because he burned to ashes the bones of Edom’s king.’”

II. The plea for mercy (Isaiah 16:6-11)
In these verses, the tone shifts from judgment to a plea for mercy. The Moabites are depicted as a people in distress, seeking refuge from the destruction that awaits them. The prophet Isaiah calls upon Judah to show compassion to their enemies, offering them shelter and protection. This act of mercy is a testament to the character of God, who is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
Cross-references:

• Exodus 34:6: “And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, ‘The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.’”
• Psalm 103:8: “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.”
• Matthew 5:7: “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”

III. The promise of redemption (Isaiah 16:12-14)
The final verses of Isaiah 16 offer a promise of redemption for Moab. Despite their past sins, there is hope for restoration if they turn to God in humility and repentance. The chapter concludes with a prophecy that Moab’s desolation will come to an end, and they will be restored to their former glory. This promise of redemption is a powerful reminder of God’s grace and forgiveness, which are available to all who seek Him.
Cross-references:

• Joel 2:25: “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten—the great locust and the young locust, the other locusts and the locust swarm—my great army that I sent among you.”
• Zechariah 9:12: “Return to your fortress, you prisoners of hope; even now I announce that I will restore twice as much to you.”
• Acts 3:19: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”

Conclusion: Isaiah 16 serves as a beacon of hope, judgment, and mercy. It calls upon the people of Moab to humble themselves and seek refuge in Zion, while also urging the people of Judah to show compassion to their enemies. The chapter concludes with a promise of redemption, reminding us that God’s grace and forgiveness are available to all who turn to Him in repentance. Through Isaiah 16, we are reminded of the importance of humility, mercy, and the hope of redemption that is offered to us through God’s love.