We are continuing with our series entitled “Israel: “God's timepiece.” Prophecy is being fulfilled that is counting down to the return of Christ and the nation of Israel will be in the center of it. So today we're looking at some more Biblical prophecy, and I want to look at 43rd chapter of Isaiah.
Isaiah 43:1 But now, thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you 5b… I will bring your descendants from the east, and gather you from the west; 6 I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’ and to the south, ‘Do not keep them back!’ Bring My sons from afar, and My daughters from the ends of the earth….
Back in 1969 the “Hollies” had a hit song: “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother.” The lyrics go like this: “The road is long with many a winding turn, that leads us to who knows where? Who knows where?
That has certainly been the case for God's people Israel. Because of their own rebellion and stiff-necked attitude and hard-heartedness; it's a long road back, but there is a road back - the road of redemption. That road leads home to the Father through His Son, Jesus. The road home for the nation of Israel is similar to the story of the prodigal son who went astray and ended up in the pigpen and who came home with nothing. Nothing that is, except for a loving Father waiting at the end of the road with His arms open ready to receive Him.
And so, it is for the children of Israel. The road out of captivity to Egypt was facilitated by the blood of the Passover Lamb that redeemed them from slavery; which is a type of Jesus. The road has led through the wilderness; it took them through the fire and flood …. but God calls these people of Israel - “Mine” and He has redeemed them, and He will gather them again from the ends of the earth, where they will be His people; and they will declare His praise.
Join us in person on Sunday at 10:00 a.m. or via livestream by going to https://www.firstbaptistsudbury.com and clicking on livestream for “The Redeemed Shall Return.”
Blessings,
Kevin