Understanding Isaiah 6:5

Isaiah 6:5 states: "Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." This verse reflects a profound recognition of human unworthiness in the presence of God, highlighting the response of a prophet confronted with divine holiness.

Summary of Meaning

Isaiah's declaration of "Woe is me!" embodies a powerful moment of self-awareness and repentance. He acknowledges his own sin and the sinful nature of those around him, recognizing that seeing the Lord brings clarity to his own condition.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes that Isaiah's vision of God in His majesty leads to a stark awareness of personal sinfulness. This self-condemnation is not merely a despairing lament, but an essential step toward spiritual awakening and divine grace.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes notes that Isaiah's exclamation illustrates the connection between vision and confession. The realization of God's holiness naturally engenders a sense of disgrace and guilt in the sinner. This verse invites believers to reflect on their own standing before God.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke elaborates on the imagery of "unclean lips," indicating that speech is a reflection of the heart. He discusses how Isaiah's awareness of his own failings aligns with the scriptural themes of humility and the need for atonement before God can use someone for His purposes.

Cross References

This verse connects with various other scriptures that reinforce themes of sin, uncleanliness, and divine holiness:

• Exodus 3:6: Moses' reaction upon encountering the Lord's presence.
• Luke 5:8: Peter's response to Jesus' miraculous catch of fish, echoing a sense of unworthiness.
• Revelation 1:17: John falls at the feet of the glorified Christ, illustrating reverence and fear in the presence of holiness.
• Job 42:6: Job's repentance after seeing God, relating the theme of recognition of unworthiness.
• Romans 3:23: The universality of sin, connecting Isaiah’s acknowledgment to New Testament teachings.
• Psalm 51:1-4: David's confession of sin and plea for mercy, mirroring Isaiah's lament.
• Proverbs 30:12: A description of those who are pure in their own eyes but unclean.
• Matthew 5:8: "Blessed are the pure in heart," presenting the call for purity in relation to divine vision.
• 1 John 1:8: Acknowledgment of sin as part of the Christian endeavor toward truth.

Application and Reflection

Isaiah 6:5 questions us about our own condition when we come face to face with God. It invites a reflection on our speech, our heart's intentions, and our community. Just as Isaiah was purified for service after confessing his uncleanliness, so too can we seek God's cleansing grace to prepare us for His calling. The necessity of self-examination in light of God's holiness remains a critical aspect of spiritual maturity.

Conclusion

In studying Isaiah 6:5 alongside its cross-references, we find a rich tapestry of connection between testaments that illuminates the consistent message of human need for redemption through recognizing our sinfulness before a holy God. This theme traverses through various scriptures, enhancing our understanding of both individual and collective repentance.