Isaiah 55:5

Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee, shall runne vnto thee, because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel, for he hath glorified thee. Isaiah 55:5 (KJV)

“Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee.” This verse is part of a larger passage where the prophet Isaiah is delivering a message of hope and restoration to the people of Israel. It speaks of a future time when God’s chosen nation will experience divine favor and be a source of attraction to other nations.

Calling a nation: The verse begins by saying, “Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not.” Here, Israel is addressed as “thou,” and the instruction is for Israel to call a nation it does not know—referring to Gentile nations. This indicates God’s plan of redemption extends beyond Israel to include other peoples. This prophecy finds fulfillment in the spread of Christianity, where people from various nations respond to the call of God.

Nations running to Israel: The verse continues, “Nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee.” This emphasizes the significant impact and influence that God’s chosen nation will have on surrounding nations. As Israel experiences God’s blessings and favor, people from other nations will be drawn to them, seeking the knowledge and truth of God. The spiritual revival and blessings poured out on Israel will act as a testimony, attracting the attention and curiosity of other nations.

Reason for the attraction: The verse explains the reason why nations will run to Israel, saying, “because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel.” People of other nations will recognize that it is the Lord, the God of Israel, who is at work in their midst. They will acknowledge Israel as a chosen people, set apart by God, and will be drawn to the truth and the presence of the Holy One of Israel.

Glorification by God: The verse concludes by stating, “for he hath glorified thee.” This phrase highlights the divine honor and exaltation that God bestows upon Israel. God’s glory will rest upon His chosen people, making them a shining beacon among the nations. This glorification is a reflection of God’s faithfulness and His fulfillment of His promises to Israel.

Overall, Isaiah 55:5 speaks of a future time when God will call His chosen nation, Israel, and attract other nations to them. It points to the redemptive work of God that extends beyond Israel’s borders, inviting people from all nations to partake in His blessings and truth. This verse also underscores the concept of God’s glory being revealed through His chosen people, emphasizing the faithfulness and fulfillment of God’s promises.