God’s Wrath is God’s Glory - Isaiah 23-28

 Isaiah 28:5-6 (ESV)

In that day the LORD of hosts will be a crown of glory,

and a diadem of beauty, to the remnant of his people,

and a spirit of justice to him who sits in judgment,

and strength to those who turn back the battle at the gate.

In this section of Isaiah we are reading about the judgements of God on the unrighteousness of man.  Isaiah is methodically going through the surrounding nations and proclaiming God’s judgment against them for their wickedness, culminated in rejection of His sovereign rule.   In chapter 28 we are reading the judgment that is going to come upon even God’s people, Israel.   He is judging them because of their failure to obey His Word.    But, as with the nations, so too with Israel, God is attempting to show Himself to them.  Even in showing His wrath, God wants them to know that He is sovereign.    In the above passage, notice what Isaiah tells the nation they will see, even in the midst of God’s wrath:

1.  He is a crown of glory and diadem of beauty.   We don’t really use the word diadem in our language, today.  Only a few nations still have kings or queens that wear diadems.  But, Isaiah is saying that God will be glorified in the demonstration of His righteous judgment.   We think of God having glory in His love, His grace, His mercy and/or His control, but do we rejoice and give him a crown of glory for His wrath?

2.  He will be the spirit of justice to him who sits in judgment.   God is going to balance the scales of justice when He shows His glorious wrath.  Those who have sat in judgment over others and distorted their positions will face the Righteous Judge who will judge THEM.   God is going to take the injustice in this world and make it just.    That is social justice!!

3.  He is strength to those who would take on this fight themselves.   God is going to give strength who “turn back the battle at the gate.”   If we are standing guard for justice in our “city,” God is going to give us the strength to fight that fight.   Many run from the battle as the enemy enters our “city” gates.   Many do not want to fight.  But, God is going to give strength to those who call out to Him to fight for Him.  They will be His tools to bring judgment on those who reject Him. 

God is to be praised for His righteous judgment on the wicked and on those who reject Him and His Word.   He is to be exalted because even in His wrath He shows His glory.