Understanding Isaiah 43:19
Verse: "Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert."
Summary of Meaning: Isaiah 43:19 expresses God’s promise of renewal and divine intervention in the lives of His people. The proclamation of a "new thing" signifies a transformative act that breaks from the past, indicating hope regardless of the current desolate circumstances. This verse highlights God's ability to create pathways in seemingly impossible situations, which is a metaphor for His redemptive power and faithfulness. The imagery of making a way in the wilderness and creating rivers in the desert symbolizes provision and guidance amidst hardship.
Commentary Insights
Matthew Henry: Henry underlines that the new thing God promises is not merely a change but a profound alteration of conditions for His people. He emphasizes that this act of God emerges in an unforeseen manner, often overlooked by people. This commentary exemplifies God’s sovereignty, showing that He can provide even in the most barren places.
Albert Barnes: Barnes adds that the phrase "shall ye not know it?" serves as a challenge to believers to recognize and acknowledge God’s workings. He also interprets the wilderness and desert as representations of life’s challenges. Barnes emphasizes that God’s new work is worthy of our attention and discernment, encouraging believers to remain vigilant for God’s acts of salvation.
Adam Clarke: Clarke focuses on the symbolic nature of the 'new thing.' He suggests that this verse can be seen as a prophetic announcement of the coming of Christ and the new covenant. Clarke stresses that God's promise is active and present, providing hope and a future for those who feel lost or desolate.
Cross-Referencing Bible Verses
Isaiah 43:19 connects with several other biblical passages that echo themes of new beginnings and divine provision:
- 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
- Revelation 21:5: "And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new."
- Psalms 78:15: "He clave the rocks in the wilderness, and gave them drink as out of the great depths."
- Isaiah 35:6: "Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert."
- Exodus 17:6: "Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink."
- John 7:38: "He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water."
- Philippians 3:13-14: "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
Thematic Connections
The themes of renewal and divine provision in Isaiah 43:19 resonate with various biblical motifs:
- New Beginnings: The Biblical narrative consistently underscores God's power to create new beginnings (Genesis 12:1-3).
- God's Provision: Instances of divine provision in desperate times illustrate God's reliability (1 Kings 17:6).
- Hope in Despair: Many verses herald hope amidst trials, aligning with Isaiah's message (Jeremiah 29:11).
Applications for Study
This verse serves as an essential text for thematic Bible verse connections and can facilitate cross-referencing Bible study methods. Understanding the implications of Isaiah 43:19 can enhance one’s biblical knowledge and inspire practical applications in life.
Utilizing tools for Bible cross-referencing, such as a Bible concordance or a cross-reference Bible study guide, can help delve deeper into these mentioned connections. Learning how to find cross-references in the Bible can significantly enrich one’s understanding and appreciation of the scriptures.
