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Sin Separates Man From God - Isaiah 59
Sin Separates Man From God - Isaiah 59
Following God's rebuke of Israel's heartless religion in chapter 58 (ritual fasting and Sabbath keeping without reformation of their character and mind), God lays before them the problem and solution.
The problem was not economics, politics, nor merely social inequities: it was SIN. It was their sin that had separated them from God (59:1-8).
The response was immediate: a confession! "We have sinned!" Not only did they recognize their sinful actions, but they took responsibility for their pitiful condition as a result of offending God.
God responds and prepares for action: HE will Himself act! He will bring salvation to those who have turned back to Him but He will bring judgment upon those who persist in their sin. (15-19). HOW would God act? He would send a Redeemer who would make a covenant with them. He would put his Spirit upon them and they would walk faithfully in His word.
Sin still separates people from God. The early Christians were 'dead in their sin' and 'enemies of God' (Eph. 2:1-3, Rom. 5:10). There was no way that man could undo their condition so God acted: He sent His son to be the redeemer and savior. "While we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly" (Rom. 5:6).
The offer still demands repentance and a turning back to God through this Savior. John the Baptist demanded it (Matt. 3:2), Peter demanded it (Acts 2:38, 8:22), Paul demanded it (Acts 17:30), and Jesus demanded (Mark 1:15). The gospel of the Savior that went forth from Jerusalem was the preaching of repentance and forgiveness of sins (Luke 24:44-48).
God has acted to save us from our sins. How are you responding to his offer of mercy?
Hugh DeLong
