Isaiah 35 follows on the heels of the promise of great devastation and destruction for Israel's enemies in Isaiah 34. The wrath of God would kill and annihilate all those who contended with Israel and would leave their nation and kingdom a barren desert. But then God would turn that desert into a place of abundant life and refreshment for God's people.
Isaiah 35 is referring to the work of the Messiah, Who would come to save His people (verse 4). The whole chapter shows the work of the Messiah in salvation and is an excellent description of the "abundant life" that Jesus came to give all who believe. Theologian Matthew Henry wrote this about Isaiah 35:
Judea was prosperous in the days of Hezekiah, but the kingdom of Christ is the great subject intended.
https://www.biblehub.com/commentaries/mhc/isaiah/35.htm
Let's take a closer look at Isaiah 35 and see Jesus:
“The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus; 2 it shall blossom abundantly and rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the majesty of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the LORD, the majesty of our God.” Isaiah 35:1-2
Salvation begins with a heart that is barren and dry, unfruitful, dead in its sins and trespasses (Ephesians 2:1). But then Jesus comes to it, and in salvation, He makes the desert glad, causing it to rejoice and be fruitful. Singing and rejoicing are always the results of one finding salvation in Jesus Christ. And more importantly, the one who had previously exchanged the glory of God for the creation (Romans 1:23) can now, in salvation, see the beauty and majesty of God in the Person of Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 3:18 states this clearly:
"And we all, with unveiled faces, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." 2 Corinthians 3:18
Question 4. How does 2 Corinthians 3:18 compare with Isaiah 35:2?
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“Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who have an anxious heart, "Be strong; fear not! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you." Isaiah 35:3-4
Out of the cross, flow the blessings of spiritual strength for those who are weak and feeble. Because Jesus died for us, the Holy Spirit indwells all who believe, Christ lives in us, and through His power, we overcome sin, defeat the devil, and live in continual victory (though not in sinless perfection).
The cross also brings with it courage and comfort for those who are anxious at heart. The work of Christ on the cross removes the fear of punishment and provides an acceptable ground whereby we may approach God and ask for help. This knowledge brings comfort and removes fear. To all who are anxious and fearful, the gospel points us to the cross and says, "Behold, your God..." (verse 4).
“Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then shall the lame man leap like a deer and the tongue of the mute sing for joy. For waters break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert;” Isaiah 35:5-6
Question 5. What does Isaiah 35:5-6 teach us about the abundant life that Jesus Christ died to give us?
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