Isaiah 11:10-16 – A Signal for the Peoples
This prophecy is partially fulfilled by the envoys coming from the land of Babylon after Hezekiah has been used by God for the destruction of the great Assyrian army. (2 Kings 20:12-19; 2 Chronicles 32:31; Isaiah 39) There’s also a partial fulfilment in 2 Chronicles 30. Hezekiah holds a great Passover, and he called for people to come down from what was left of the northern kingdom. But if you read these verses, you’ll see that this prophecy is talking about nations all over the world. That didn’t happen in Hezekiah’s time or Josiah’s time. At the end of Hezekiah’s reign, something far greater waited. Someone far greater was coming, a descendant of Hezekiah, one who would fulfil all things. This is the great king, the rod of Jesse, the branch who would come forth from David. In Romans 15:7-13, Paul applies this prophecy of Isaiah to Jesus. In John 12:32, Jesus says, “And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” What does that have to do with this? Well, Jesus is the banner or signal to the people. In ancient days there would be a standard or banner raised that would mark the leader, and you would follow the flag. Jesus is the one who leads forward, and He has as those who assist Him, primarily the elders of the church of Jesus Christ. Ministers bear His standard as they preach Jesus Christ to the nations, and in Christ the peoples become united.
Here is the promise: As the banner of Jesus Christ is lifted up, as Jesus is exalted, as Jesus’ Person and work are displayed, people shall come to Him. You witness for Jesus Christ. Do so in your families, with your children. Do so with your extended family, your relations. Do it with your friends and your neighbours, your coworkers. Live for Jesus and speak of Jesus. The outcome is certain. The elect are all over the place, there will be people who come to Jesus. We who understand, by God’s grace, the sovereignty of God ought to be those who are most eager to go out and tell people of Jesus, because we know we’re going to bump into those whom God will save.
Questions
- How is this prophecy fulfilled?
- Why should we speak to others of Christ?
Prayer Points
- Pray for the salvation of family and friends.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.