Commentary on Isaiah 43-45
Chuck Smith explains how God’s promises of restoration and redemption to Israel in Isaiah 43-45 reveal His sovereign power and faithfulness to His people.
In this expository sermon, Chuck Smith explores Isaiah chapters 43 through 45, focusing on God’s promises of restoration and redemption for Israel. He unpacks the prophetic significance of Israel’s regathering and highlights God’s sovereign creative work in forming His people. Through detailed exposition, Smith encourages believers to trust in God’s faithfulness and power to fulfill His word.
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But yet, God is going to restore them. Chapter 43 gets in the restoration.
But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I am the LORD thy God, and the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egypt for thy ransom, Ethiopia and Arabia for thee. Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honorable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life. Fear not: for I am with thee: I will bring thy seed from the east, I will gather thee from the west; I will say to the north, Give up; and to the south, Keep not back: bring my sons from far, and my daughters from the end of the earth (Isa 43:1-6);
And so God predicted this present-day gathering together of the people of Israel back into the land. Coming from the east, the west, the south. And even Russia, God is saying, "Give My people up." And I expect there to be a real relaxing of the Russian government on the immigration of the Jews.
Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him (Isa 43:7).
Now God says concerning them, "I have created them. I have formed him. Yea, I have made him." In the Hebrew there are three different words: created, made, and formed, as God speaks of His work. One is that of creating something out of nothing, which only God can do. And then how God made them and then formed them. Formed them and made them.
Bring forth the blind people that have eyes, and the deaf that have ears. Let all the nations be gathered together, and let the people be assembled: who among them can declare this, and show us the former things? let them bring forth their witnesses, that they may be justified: or let them hear, and say, It is truth (Isa 43:8-9).
Now God said of the Jews, "Ye are My witnesses." And surely someone said if you want proof of the Bible, just look at the Jews. There\
Sermon Outline
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I
- God’s promise of restoration to Israel
- The significance of God’s calling and redemption
- The prophetic gathering of Israel from all directions
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II
- The meaning of creation, making, and forming by God
- God’s intimate involvement in the formation of His people
- The uniqueness of God’s creative power
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III
- God’s challenge to the nations to prove His sovereignty
- Israel as God’s witnesses to His truth
- The fulfillment of prophecy as evidence of God’s power
Key Quotes
“Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.” — Chuck Smith
“I have created him. I have formed him. Yea, I have made him.” — Chuck Smith
“Bring forth the blind people that have eyes, and the deaf that have ears.” — Chuck Smith
Application Points
- Trust in God’s promise to be with you through all trials and challenges.
- Recognize that God’s creative work in your life is intentional and purposeful.
- Be a witness to God’s faithfulness by living confidently in His truth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Isaiah 43-45?
The main theme is God’s promise to restore and redeem Israel, demonstrating His sovereignty and faithfulness.
How does Chuck Smith interpret the gathering of Israel?
He sees it as a prophetic fulfillment where God will bring His people from all directions, including the east, west, north, and south.
What is the significance of the three Hebrew words for creation mentioned?
They highlight different aspects of God’s work: creating out of nothing, making, and forming, showing His intimate involvement with His people.
Why are the Jews called God’s witnesses?
Because their history and existence validate the truth of God’s promises and prophecies.
What practical encouragement does this sermon offer?
It encourages believers not to fear because God is with them and will faithfully bring about His promises.