Verses 1-8
CHAPTER 56
Salvation Enjoyed by the Strangers and Eunuchs
1. Strangers and servants joined unto the Lord to serve Him and to love the Name of the Lord (Isaiah 56:1-8) The first eight verses of this chapter stand by themselves. Strangers to the commonwealth of Israel and eunuchs are gathered in. It is the result of the gracious invitation of the preceding chapter and that again is the result of the work of the Servant of Jehovah and His vicarious suffering. While these verses look forward to the kingdom we have in them a hint of what God does now in gathering strangers. The gathering of the others in verse eight can only take place when the outcasts of Israel are brought in.
Verses 9-21
Chapters 56:9-57:14 must be read continuously.
CHAPTERS 56:9-57:21
The Condition of the Apostate Nation and the two Classes
1. The condition of the shepherds of Israel (Isaiah 56:9-12) 2. Apostate Israel (Isaiah 57:1-14) 3. The two classes (Isaiah 57:15-21) The final chapter of this second section corresponds to the last chapter of the first section (chapter 48). The sad condition of the people Israel is pictured. This is their national apostasy throughout this age, while strangers are joined to the Lord and the church is gathered. The worst is yet to come. Chapter 57:9 looks forward to the great apostasy during the great tribulation. The king is the Antichrist, who takes his seat in the temple and claims worship 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17). They worship him, the masterpiece of Satan, and thus they debase themselves unto hell.
Gracious is the promise to the feeble remnant, those who are contrite and humble. “I have seen his ways and will heal him. I will lead him also and restore comforts unto him and to his mourners.” Peace is promised to him that is afar off (Gentiles) and to him that is near (Israel). It will be fully realized in the kingdom. “But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.” It is the same solemn declaration which stands last in chapter 58. Comfort and peace for all, except for the wicked. It is a complete answer to the heresy of the present day, which claims that all Israel, including the wicked dead, will be saved and have a share in the Kingdom of Peace.