Isaiah 63:8

For hee said, Surely they are my people, children that will not lie: so hee was their sauiour. Isaiah 63:8 (KJV)

Historical Context: The book of Isaiah was written by the prophet Isaiah, who prophesied during the reigns of several kings of Judah. Isaiah’s prophecies address both the immediate concerns of his time and the future redemption of God’s people through the coming Messiah.

God’s Chosen People: In Isaiah 63:8, God refers to the people of Israel as “my people.” Throughout the Bible, God established a special covenant relationship with the nation of Israel, choosing them as His own people (Exodus 6:7). This verse highlights God’s faithfulness to His chosen people, despite their shortcomings and unfaithfulness.

Divine Election: God describes His people as “children that will not lie.” This phrase reflects the ideal character God desires from His people—honesty, integrity, and faithfulness—but it is important to recognize that Israel often failed to live up to this standard, as seen in later passages such as Isaiah 63:10 where they rebelled and grieved His Holy Spirit.

God as Savior: The verse concludes by stating that God was their Savior. Throughout the Old Testament, God repeatedly demonstrated His role as the deliverer and savior of His people. He rescued the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, led them through the wilderness, and protected them from their enemies. In the context of Isaiah 63, God is portrayed as a warrior who brings salvation to His people.

Application:

Although Isaiah 63:8 speaks specifically about God’s relationship with ancient Israel, there are broader principles that can be applied to believers today.

Recognizing God’s Election: As followers of Christ, we are part of God’s chosen people, grafted into His family through faith (Romans 11:17‑24). We should be grateful for God’s election and strive to live in a manner worthy of the calling we have received (Ephesians 4:1).

Honesty and Integrity: God desires His people to be characterized by truthfulness, sincerity, and faithfulness. We should cultivate a lifestyle of honesty, both in our words and actions, reflecting the character of our Savior (Ephesians 4:25).

God as Our Savior: Just as God was the Savior of ancient Israel, He is also our Savior through Jesus Christ. We can trust in His faithfulness, love, and deliverance in our lives. It is through Jesus that we experience ultimate salvation, forgiveness, and eternal life (John 3:16).

Isaiah 63:8 reminds us of God’s faithfulness to His chosen people and His role as Savior. As believers, we are part of God’s chosen ones, and we should strive to live in honesty and integrity, knowing that God is our ultimate deliverer and Savior through Jesus Christ.