Isaiah 35: Exposition And Biblical Theology -- By: Robert Asher

Journal: Chafer Theological Seminary Journal
Volume: CTSJ 08:2 (Apr 2002)
Article: Isaiah 35: Exposition And Biblical Theology
Author: Robert Asher


Isaiah 35: Exposition And Biblical Theology

Robert Asher1 *

[*Editor's note: Bob Asher received the B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK. He then studied at Dallas Theological Seminary before completing his Master’s in Old Testament and Semitic Languages at Trinity Southwest University, Southwest Institute of Archaeology and Biblical History, Albuquerque, NM where he also was a Ph.D. candidate and taught Old Testament and Semitic Languages. He went home to be with the Lord while this article was in the editing process.]

Introduction

Students often ignore Isaiah 35, but it is important for understanding pre-millennial theology. The chapter bridges between the Tribulation Period and the Millennial Kingdom. It speaks vividly of the conditions that will exist at the beginning of the Millennium. The text reveals that God reverses the curse upon mankind and nature, renewing both nature and men. All nature will see the visible glory of the Lord in the Arabah2 as He walks upon the earth after removing the curse from nature.

Israel will experience divine encouragement when she flees into the wilderness to escape the Tribulation and the outpoured vengeance of God upon the earth. Isaiah 35 presents the promise of the salvation of Israel. The redeemed of the Lord, all Israel, will have everlasting joy, unlike the rebels purged in Ezekiel 20:33–38. The people will journey to Zion from the wilderness (Ezekiel 20:35) along the Highway of Holiness. Christ will lead His now holy worshipers as they ascend to Jerusalem with everlasting joy and joyful shouting.

Exegesis will develop biblical theology, emphasizing reversal of the curse. The theology will include the sovereignty of God over all nature and all mankind. The national salvation of Israel will reverse the spiritual judgment placed upon her (Isaiah 6:9–10). The reversal of blindness and deafness in 6:5 speaks of

overturning the spiritual judgment. It also involves physical healing, because the curse has been partially reversed. This is evident from New Testament verses in which Christ not only dealt with physical healing but also spiritual healing. Those who called out to Christ showed their faith in the Messiah. He then healed them physically. This signaled what would ta...

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