NOTES for Isa 14:24-32

Today we read two short prophecies—about Assyria and the land of Philistia—spoken by the prophet Isaiah after the fall of Samaria. About a quarter of a century separates these prophecies, but their meaning is similar. For us, living twenty-seven centuries after both prophecies, the most important thing is that they represent an ancient, original form of apocalypse and speak of the meaning of history. The prophet discerns what is to come and says that, despite all the tangled interests and motives of its actors, history has meaning and purpose. Despite the resistance of nations and kingdoms, despite the temporary triumph of godless empires, the Lord speaks of the future: “...as I have planned, so shall it be; as I have purposed, so shall it stand.” This prophecy is clothed in a frightening form, but its meaning is great joy and hope. These words tell us that God's will, good and perfect, will certainly triumph.