An Amazing Text!

I am presently teaching two classes over the book of Isaiah. What a fascinating book! One of the great themes of the book is God's sovereignty over the nations. Let me set the table for one of the most amazing texts, not only in Isaiah, but in the entire Bible. In the 8th century BC, Assyria was the dominating power controlling the world. Always laying in the weeds, wanting to regain the dominating power it once had, are the Egyptians. And between the present giant and the former giant lay Israel, Judah, and the other smaller nations of the levant. I was amazed to discover how prominent the Assyrians become within the first 39 chapters of Isaiah, culminating in the Assyrian ruler's failed attempt to seize Jerusalem in 701 BC. (You will find that story in chapters 36 and 37).

Now to that amazing text. It is found in Isaiah 19:16-25. Let me share several significant events that are yet future. First, there will be turning to God among the Egyptians (vs. 16-22). Some of the Egyptians cities will even learn Hebrew. Within Egypt an altar to the living God of Judah will be erected and the Egyptians will offer sacrifices and worship there. God still has plans for that former giant. Second, the Assyrians will join the Egyptians in worshiping God (vs. 23-25). Now we all know where Egypt is located. But did you know that the ancient nation of Assyria is encompassed by the modern nation of Iraq? Well, it is.

So, when you read those final verses, substitute Iraq for Assyria...then be amazed at what God is going to do. Verse 24 - In that day Israel will be a third, along with Egypt and Assyria (Iraq), a blessing on the earth. There is coming a day when the Egyptians, the Iraqis, and the Jews will bless the earth. Wow! But God is not finished. Verse 25 - The LORD Almighty will bless them, saying, "Blessed by Egypt my people, Assyria (Iraq) my handiwork, and Israel My inheritance." All three nations will have a special place with God. All three nations will play a special role in God's program for His Kingdom. You might say, "That's impossible!" It is when you look at Egypt and Iraq today, both dominated by Islam whose intent is the destruction of Israel. But, God is in control. God is the sovereign over the nations. The events of the world are not moving according to the will of man, but, praise God, according to His will.

How we need to look at contemporary events in the light of God's program for the future.