Isaiah 63: Judgment, Mercy & Redemption

Introduction: Isaiah 63 speaks to the heart as it sheds light on the Lord’s judgment, mercy, and redemption. It begins with a dramatic scene of God’s judgment, then transitions to a prayer for mercy and ends with a plea for redemption. The chapter presents God’s character as a just judge, a merciful savior, and a faithful redeemer. As we delve deeper into this chapter, we will explore each verse in detail to uncover the rich meaning and significance of the chapter.

I. Isaiah 63:1-6: The Lord’s Judgment
This section describes a vision of the Lord coming from Edom, with his garments stained red from the winepress of his wrath. The imagery of the winepress is a symbol of judgment, and the Lord is depicted as a mighty warrior executing vengeance on his enemies. The passage emphasizes the Lord’s might and power, as well as his righteous anger towards those who oppose him.

• Revelation 19:13-15 describes a similar vision of Christ returning as a warrior, with his robe dipped in blood, to execute judgment on the nations.
• Psalm 2:9 speaks of the Lord’s wrath and his power to crush his enemies like pottery.
• Joel 3:13 also uses the imagery of the winepress to describe the day of judgment when the Lord will tread the nations like grapes.

II. Isaiah 63:7-14: A Prayer for Mercy
In this section, the tone shifts from judgment to a plea for mercy. Isaiah recalls the Lord’s past mercies and faithfulness to Israel, and begs for his compassion to be shown once again. The prayer acknowledges the people’s sins and rebellion, but also reminds the Lord of his covenant promises.

• Lamentations 3:22-23 speaks of the Lord’s mercies being new every morning, emphasizing his faithfulness.
• Psalm 106:45 mentions the Lord’s compassion and his covenant with Israel, despite their rebellion.
• Nehemiah 9:17 also recounts the Lord’s mercy and forgiveness towards his people, despite their repeated disobedience.

III. Isaiah 63:15-19: A Plea for Redemption
The final section of the chapter is a cry for redemption. Isaiah laments the current state of Israel, which has been abandoned by the Lord and left desolate. He pleads for the Lord to return and to save his people, reminding him of his role as their Father and Redeemer.

• Psalm 80:14-15 asks the Lord to return and save his vineyard, which is a metaphor for Israel.
• Jeremiah 31:11 speaks of the Lord redeeming his people from the hand of their enemies, emphasizing his role as their Redeemer.
• Hosea 14:4 describes the Lord’s promise to heal and redeem his people, despite their unfaithfulness.

Conclusion: Isaiah 63 makes known the full range of God’s character – his judgment, mercy, and redemption. It begins with a powerful vision of the Lord’s wrath, but quickly transitions to a heartfelt plea for mercy and redemption. The chapter is a reminder to the believers of the Lord’s faithfulness to his covenant promises, and his willingness to forgive and save his people. It is a call to repentance and a reminder of the hope that we have in our Redeemer.