Isaiah 60:7
All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered together unto thee, the rams of Nebaioth shall minister unto thee: they shall come up with acceptance on mine altar, and I will glorify the house of my glory.
Isaiah 60:7 (KJV)
Context
Isaiah 60 is a chapter that speaks about the future glory and restoration of Jerusalem. It describes a time when the Lord will bring light and salvation to His people, and the nations will come to the brightness of their rising. In verse 7, the prophet Isaiah emphasises that even the flocks and rams of distant lands will come to worship and serve the Lord in Jerusalem.
Meaning
Kedar was a descendant of Ishmael, and his descendants were known as nomadic Arab tribes. The mention of the flocks of Kedar represents the nations from distant lands that will come to worship the Lord. Nebaioth was another son of Ishmael, and his descendants were also Arab tribes. The reference to the rams of Nebaioth signifies that even the strong and prominent individuals from these nations will willingly offer themselves in service to the Lord.
The verse states that the flocks of Kedar and the rams of Nebaioth will be gathered and will minister unto the Lord. This signifies that people from various nations will come together and serve God with devotion. It implies the unity of different peoples in worship and service to God.
The verse continues by saying that they shall come up with acceptance on God’s altar, signifying that their worship will be received and acknowledged by the Lord. Furthermore, it states that God will glorify the house of His glory, indicating that He will manifest His presence and majesty in Jerusalem.
Biblical connections
The imagery of flocks and rams also points to the bringing of wealth and resources to honor God. The mention of the altar and the temple connects to the sacrificial system, but here the offerings are from Gentiles, indicating a broadening of worship. This prophecy emphasizes that God’s salvation and blessing extend beyond Israel to all nations, and that worship of the true God will be universal.
Application
Inclusiveness of Salvation: Isaiah 60:7 highlights the inclusive nature of God’s salvation. It reveals that people from all nations, represented by the flocks of Kedar and the rams of Nebaioth, have the opportunity to come to the Lord and worship Him. It reminds us that God’s salvation is not limited to a specific group but is available to all who seek Him.
Unity in Worship: The verse emphasises the importance of unity in worship. Despite different backgrounds and cultures, people are called to come together and serve the Lord as one. It reminds us of the value of diversity and the beauty of worshiping God with a united heart.
God’s Acceptance and Glory: The promise of acceptance on God’s altar reveals His grace and willingness to receive the worship of those who come to Him. It assures us that when we offer our lives and worship to God sincerely, He accepts us. Moreover, the mention of glorifying the house of His glory indicates that God will manifest His presence and bless His people when they worship Him with sincerity and reverence.
Reflection
Isaiah 60:7 portrays a future vision of people from diverse nations coming together to worship and serve the Lord. It emphasises the inclusiveness of God’s salvation, the unity in worship, and God’s acceptance and glory in response to genuine worship. The verse encourages believers to see God’s heart for the nations and to anticipate the day when all peoples will worship Him. It also reminds us that our offerings, whether material or spiritual, are acceptable to God when brought with a sincere heart.
