Isaiah Chapter 43 — God's Promise of Redemption
God reassures Israel of His protection and redemption, calling them His witnesses and promising to perform a new work of restoration.
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Notable Verses
Isaiah 43:2
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you,”
This verse offers a profound promise of God's constant presence and protection during life's most difficult challenges.
Isaiah 43:10
““You are my witnesses,” says the LORD,”
This verse identifies the specific role of God's people to testify to His power and unique identity as the true God.
Isaiah 43:19
“Behold, I will do a new thing.”
This well-known phrase highlights God's ability to create hope and transformation even in desolate circumstances.
Chapter Summary
In Isaiah 43, the Lord speaks to Israel as their Creator and King, promising to be with them through difficult trials like passing through waters. He declares that His people are precious and honored in His sight, and He vows to gather them from every direction—north, south, east, and west. The text emphasizes God's unique identity as the only Savior, challenging the nations to produce their own witnesses while identifying Israel as His witnesses. The chapter describes the downfall of Babylon and the liberation of captives for the sake of His people. God encourages the people not to dwell on the past, but to behold a 'new thing' He is doing, such as making a way in the wilderness and providing water in the desert. Although the text notes that the people have not been faithful in their offerings, God concludes by stating that He is the one who blots out their transgressions for His own sake.
Frequently Asked Questions
God promises to be with His people as they pass through trials, symbolized by water and rivers. The text states that these elements will not overflow or overwhelm them, signifying divine protection.
God identifies Israel as His witnesses. They are chosen to know, believe, and understand that He is the Lord and that there is no savior besides Him.
The 'new thing' refers to God's act of restoration where He makes a way in the sea and a path in the wilderness. He promises to provide water in the desert for His chosen people to drink.
Despite Israel's failure to bring offerings or call upon Him faithfully, God declares that He is the one who blots out their transgressions for His own sake and will not remember their sins.
Study Note
The repetition of the phrase 'I am he' throughout the chapter serves as a linguistic emphasis on God's absolute and incomparable nature compared to false idols.
Related Chapters
Exodus 14
This chapter refers to God making a way in the sea, which recalls the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea.
Acts 1
The theme of being 'witnesses' for God is a primary focus in both Isaiah 43 and the early church's mission.
Revelation 21
The promise that God will do a 'new thing' finds its ultimate fulfillment in the creation of a new heaven and earth.
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