Read Isaiah 60.
Certainly, the captured and scattered people of Israel were looking forward to
better days ahead. But none of the events of their return under Persian
rule, nor any time since, can account for the prophecies in this chapter.
Indeed, the Jews continued to be under someone else's rule until 1948.
And, the promised days of prosperity, world homage, and peace have yet to
be fulfilled.
When the Messiah returns and establishes His rule in Jerusalem, here is what
the nation of Israel will be like.
1. Worldwide Ministry. (vv.1-3)
"Arise and shine." Israel will not only embrace Jesus as LORD,
but the nation they will reflect His glory to the world. They will
literally be attracting the world to Jesus.
2. Worldwide Honor. (vv.4-13)
"Lift up your eyes." A new Temple will be erected in Jerusalem.
World leaders will come to serve the interests of Israel. The
world's abundance will flow toward this one small land. The purpose will
be for "the praises of the LORD" (v.6), "to beautify my
beautiful house" (v.7 and 13).
3. Worldwide Peace. (vv.14-18)
All Israel's enemies will be coming in great humility and acknowledgement of
Messiah's reign over them. With the Prince of Peace in place, world peace
will finally be a reality. God's purpose is not political but "you
shall know that I, the LORD, am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One
of Jacob" (v.16b).
The entire nation will be right with God and disputes over the land with its
Biblical boundaries will no longer be an issue. Why? So "that
I might be glorified" (v.21).
How soon will this happen? "I am the LORD, in its time I will hasten
it" (v.22b). The Disciples knew these prophecies and after the
resurrection asked Jesus, "'Lord, will you at this time restore the
kingdom to Israel?' He said to them, 'It is not for you to know times or
seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority." Then, Jesus
ascended to heaven as they watched. Two angels declared, "This Jesus
who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him
go into heaven" (Acts 1:6-11).
Today, we look forward to the literal, visible, powerful, personal, and royal
return of Christ.
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