Understanding Isaiah 57:14
Isaiah 57:14 states, "And it shall be said, Build up, build up, prepare the way, take up the stumbling block out of the way of my people." This verse emphasizes God's call for preparation and removal of obstacles for His people. Below, we will explore the insights derived from public domain commentaries, offering a comprehensive understanding of this scripture.
General Insights
The call to "Build up" signifies the importance of spiritual growth and preparation for God's coming. Commentators like Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke highlight that preparation is essential not only in a physical context but also in a spiritual one, as believers seek to clear their path to salvation and spiritual fulfillment.
Key Themes
- Preparation: The necessity of preparing the way for God's work among his people.
- Removal of Obstacles: Identifying and removing 'stumbling blocks' that impede spiritual progress.
- Divine Call: Recognizing God's call for collective action among His followers to build and prepare the way.
Bible Cross-References
Isaiah 57:14 has several connections with other scriptures that emphasize similar themes of preparation and the removal of barriers. Below are 10 cross-references:
- Isaiah 40:3: "A voice cries: 'In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.'"
- Matthew 3:3: "For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, 'The voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.'"
- Luke 3:4-5: "As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, 'The voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.' Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall become straight, and the rough places shall become level ways."'
- Romans 14:13: "Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother."
- Philippians 2:15: "That you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world."
- Proverbs 4:26-27: "Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil."
- 1 Peter 2:1: "So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander."
- Hebrews 12:1: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us."
- Isaiah 62:10: "Go through, go through the gates; prepare the way for the people; build up, build up the highway; clear it of stones; lift up a signal over the peoples."
- Jeremiah 31:21: "Set up road markers for yourself; make yourself guideposts; consider well the highway, the road by which you went. Return, O virgin Israel, return to these your cities."
Comparative Bible Verse Analysis
In analyzing these verses, we observe a recurring theme of preparation and the removal of hindrances. For instance, the verses in the Gospels (Matthew 3:3 and Luke 3:4-5) directly echo Isaiah's call, establishing a connection between the Old and New Testament. This highlights not only the continuous relevance of Isaiah's message but also the fulfillment of these prophecies in the New Testament narrative.
Thematic Connections
When exploring the connections between Bible verses, particularly those related to preparation, obstacles, and God's guidance, it becomes clear that the spiritual journey requires active participation from believers. The commentary by Albert Barnes emphasizes that the reference to 'stumbling blocks' pertains to both personal obstacles and societal hindrances that may deter individuals from following God faithfully. Adam Clarke places specific emphasis on the community aspect—how we collectively prepare and support each other in our spiritual walks.
Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing
For those wishing to delve deeper into scripture and understand the interconnections present within the Bible, utilizing a Bible concordance or a Bible cross-reference guide can be incredibly beneficial. These resources assist in identifying related verses, thereby enriching one's understanding of biblical themes.
Conclusion
Isaiah 57:14 serves as a profound reminder of the call to prepare ourselves and remove barriers in our spiritual lives. By reflecting on the combined insights of respected commentaries and cross-referencing related scriptures, we gain a fuller understanding of our responsibilities as followers of Christ. This intricate web of scriptural cross-referencing enhances our grasp of biblical teachings and fosters spiritual growth among believers.
