Isaiah 56:6

Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the Lord, to serve him, and to love the name of the Lord, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant;

Isaiah 56:6 (KJV)

Context

Isaiah prophesied during a period of turmoil in Israel, when the people had turned from God. His messages warned of judgment while also promising restoration. In Isaiah 56:6, the prophet addresses the inclusion of foreigners, called “the sons of the stranger,” into the covenant community of God’s people. This verse is part of a larger passage (Isaiah 56:1-8) that expands the scope of God’s salvation beyond ethnic Israel.

Meaning

The verse describes foreigners who willingly join themselves to the Lord, serve Him, love the name of the Lord, and become His servants. They also keep the Sabbath from being polluted and take hold of God’s covenant. These actions show wholehearted devotion and commitment. The inclusion of such foreigners demonstrates that God’s invitation to salvation is not limited to a particular ethnic group but is open to all who come with genuine faith and obedience.

Each phrase in this verse points to a deliberate, personal choice. Joining oneself to the Lord means binding one’s life to Him in loyalty. Serving Him and becoming His servants indicate a life of active obedience. Loving the name of the Lord expresses affection for God’s character and reputation. Keeping the Sabbath from being polluted involves honoring the day set apart for worship and rest. Taking hold of His covenant means embracing the relationship and promises God has established with His people.

Biblical connections

In the Old Testament, Israel was God’s chosen people, and worship of Yahweh was primarily associated with them. Yet this verse reveals that God’s plan extends beyond Israel. The New Testament fulfills this inclusive vision in the church, where both Jews and Gentiles are united in Christ (Ephesians 2:19). This connection shows that the promise of inclusion given through Isaiah finds its ultimate expression in the gospel.

Application

Isaiah 56:6 teaches that God’s inclusive love reaches all people, regardless of background, ethnicity, or nationality. True inclusion in God’s kingdom comes through faith and obedience—wholeheartedly serving and loving the Lord, observing His commandments, and holding onto His covenant. While Sabbath observance was given specifically to Israel, it also signifies the importance of setting aside time for worship, rest, and communion with God. It reminds believers of the need for spiritual renewal and dedication.

Reflection

This verse challenges readers to examine their own commitment to God. Do we join ourselves to the Lord willingly, serve Him faithfully, and love His name? Do we keep His commandments and hold fast to His covenant? The inclusive nature of God’s kingdom calls us to embrace fellow believers from every nation, just as God embraces us. It highlights the importance of faith, obedience, devotion to God’s commandments, and regular worship and spiritual renewal.