Chapters 9-12 of Isaiah show us contrasting views of war and peace. Looking at the deplorable scenes of what war offers should make us long for peace. But looking at the glorious scenes of peace can also bring a desire and longing for peaceful times, especially heavenly peace that will last (Isaiah 9:7).
The noble Prince of Peace (as found in the life and death of Jesus Christ) was brought out more forcefully in these chapters. God’s prophetic announcements through Isaiah show us the ever-widening gap of what has been symbolically referred to as darkness and light. Many passages reveal the “great light” (Isaiah 9:2), and provide us with stirring emotions that help us find that light for ourselves.
Although their leaders were said to cause them to err (Isaiah 9:16), God still expected the people to search for Him (Isaiah 9:13). We are encouraged by chapter 10, starting with verse 20, where it talks about a remnant of Israel who would return after exile. They are obviously those who listened to the Light, the truth about God, and did all they could to conquer the darkness around them.
Sobering is the thought that even today we are battling dark forces of evil, every bit as dangerous as the ones encouraged by the idolatrous, pagan religions of the ancients. 1 Timothy 4:1 says, “Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons.”
How comforting to know that there will be a remnant even in these latter times. Revelation 14:12 not only mentions them, but describes them. “Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.”
To find out more about Isaiah’s story, study him with us in our Sabbath School lessons:
