Isaiah 44:28

That saith of Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid.

Isaiah 44:28 (KJV)

Context

The book of Isaiah was written by the prophet during the 8th century BC, a time when Israel and Judah faced political instability and the looming threat of invasion from the Assyrian Empire. Isaiah 44:28 specifically mentions Cyrus, a Persian king, about 150 years before his birth. This detail underscores the prophetic nature of the message and God’s sovereign control over history.

Meaning

Cyrus II, also known as Cyrus the Great, ruled the Persian Empire from 559 to 530 BC. He was notable for his military conquests and his policy of allowing captured peoples to return to their homelands. This included the Jewish exiles in Babylon, who were given permission to return to Jerusalem and rebuild their temple. God calls Cyrus “my shepherd,” a striking title for a pagan king, and declares that he will perform all His pleasure. This demonstrates that God can use even those who do not know Him to accomplish His purposes.

Biblical connections

This verse highlights the prophetic nature of Isaiah. Centuries before Cyrus was born, Isaiah prophesied that he would be instrumental in the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple. The title “shepherd” is significant, as it is often used in Scripture for leaders, but here it is applied to a foreign king, showing that God’s authority extends over all nations. The prophecy also assured the people that the temple’s foundation would be laid, a promise fulfilled in the return from exile, as recorded in the books of Ezra and 2 Chronicles.

Application

Isaiah 44:28 assures the people of Jerusalem that the city will be rebuilt and the temple’s foundation will be laid. This message would have been a great source of hope and encouragement for the Jewish exiles longing to return to their homeland and restore their religious center. It reminds us of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. God is not limited by human circumstances or political situations; He can work through unlikely sources to bring about His plans. As believers, we can trust in God’s sovereignty and rely on His faithfulness, knowing that He is capable of fulfilling His promises in our lives.

Reflection

Isaiah 44:28 is a powerful verse that speaks of God’s sovereignty, His ability to use pagan kings for His purposes, and His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. It also serves as a reminder of the restoration and hope that God offers to His people. God speaks, and it comes to pass; His purposes will be accomplished, and He can use even the most unlikely individuals to be agents of His blessing and restoration.