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How do you consider the words spoken by the Savior? Do you regard them, do you hold them sacred, dear and of utmost improtance? Words spoken directly by the Savior Himself either as the premortal and postmortal Jehovah or as the mortal Jesus should carry great weight and importance. They should even command our attention. But what about words Jesus quotes from another? Should they not have a similar impact?
Jesus Christ himself stated to the Nephites in Ancient America, when he appeared to them following his resurrection: “And now, behold, I say unto you, that ye ought to search these things. Yea, a commandment I give unto you that ye search these things diligently; for great are the words of Isaiah.” (3 Nephi 23:1).
The ancient American prophet Nephi, from the Book of Mormon, tells us that Isaiah's words are "of great worth" to those of the last days; which we are living in now. He states he has written them for "our good" 2 Nephi 25:8.
Similarly Elder Bruce R McConkie from our latter-days stated the following: If our eternal salvation depends upon our ability to understand the writings of Isaiah as fully and truly as Nephi understood them and who shall say such is not the case, how shall we fare in that great day when with Nephi we shall stand before the pleasing bar of Him who said: "Great are the words of Isaih" It just may be that my salvation and yours also does in fact depend upon our ability to understand the writings of Isaiah as fully and truly as Nephi understood them. For the matter that God who is no respecter of persons treat all his children alike? Has he not given us his promise and recited to us the terms and condition of his law pursuant to which he will reveal to us what he has revealed to them? (Ensign October 1973)
Thus we must surely accept that yes, the words of Isaiah should have a magnificent impact in our lives; and so we continue our study of his writings in the Old Testament, that we may be fully prepared in all ways to gain eternal salvation.
About Isaiah
Isaiah's writings focus on the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ, in fact, if you are familiar with the Book of Mormon, then you know that of the 425 separate verses of Isaiah quoted in the Book of Mormon, 391 say something about the attributes or mission of Jesus Christ.
However, Isaiah did much of his teaching in symbolic language using descriptions such as a key or a stone. This language does not teach directly and can be hard for us to understand, so we must examine and ponder Isaiah’s words continually to discover the truths they teach. Isaiah's words are important to us for many reasons but in large, as stated, because some of his most beautiful and profound symbolic language is about the Savior.
To learn more about the details and life of Isaiah click here The Glory of Zion will be a defense
Why is Isaiah So Difficult to Understand?
One major reason why the people of our day have such difficulty with Isaiah is that over sixty percent of the book is written in poetic form. Translating this type of style is difficult at best so the text we have been given in the King James Version of the Bible can be accompanied with error and misunderstanding.
Also, as stated above, the prophet Isaiah used extensive symbolism. Words, geographical locations, historical events, people and animals that were familiar to his day but foreign to us. The prophet Nephi from the Book of Mormon teaches us that; we know not concerning the manner of prophesying among the Jews, we are not filled with the spirit of prophecy as Isaiah was when writing his words, and we have not been taught the manner of the things of the Jews thus understanding the words of Isaiah can be difficult in our day. 2 Nephi 25:1-5
Victor Ludlow, Professor of Ancient Scripture Brigham Young University suggested that: "Isaiah, when facing a difficult teaching situation, did not use the parable as a tool, instead he veiled his message in clouds of symbolism, poetry and complex terminology. In other words, instead of speaking at a simple level and letting his listeners build upon that foundation, Isaiah spoke at a high intellectual and spiritual level, thus challenging or even forcing his listeners to attain that level before they could begin to understand his words. Isaiah was not only difficult he was deliberately difficult."
We must study his words, wrestle with them, and ponder them at great length before his powerful sublime teachings begin to emerge and inspire us. Because of this, it is easy to become discouraged and give up before we begin to understand his message. However, through serious and prayerful study, when we finally grasp the language and ideas of a particular chapter until they not only make sense, but enlighten and inspire as well, we realize that we have arrived at a profound level of understanding.
Suggestions for Understanding Isaiah
The key to understanding the writings and prophecies of Isaiah, or any other prophet, is to receive the guidance of the spirit. The apostle Peter cautioned, "No prophecy of scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost" Peter 1:20-21.
In the end one must be guided by the Spirit, being filled with the spirit of prophecy in order to grasp the spiritual insights of the scriptures. Modern day revelation gives counsel on this: "For they that are wise have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide...and have not been deceived." D&C 45:57
We do however have council from our present day to help us in attaining this. Elder Bruce R McConkie, an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ upon this earth from 1972 until his death in 1985, gave keys to understanding Isaiah:
1. Gain an overall knowledge of the plan of salvation and of God's dealings with his earthly children.
2. Learn the position and destiny of the house of Israel in the Lord's eternal scheme of things
3. Know the chief doctrines about which Isaiah chose to write. These include: (a) restoration of the gospel in latter days through Joseph Smith, (b) latter-day gathering of Israel and her final triumph and glory, (c) coming forth of the Book of Mormon as a new witness for Christ and the total revolution it will eventually bring in the doctrinal understanding of men, (d) apostate conditions in the nations of the world in the latter days, (e) messianic prophecies relative to our Lord's first coming, (f) second coming of Christ and the millennial reign, and (g) historical data and prophetic utterances relative to his own day
4. Use the Book of Mormon
5. Use latter-day revelation
6. Learn how the New Testament interprets Isaiah
7. Study Isaiah in its Old Testament context
8. Learn the manner of prophesying used among the Jews in Isaiah's day
9. Have the spirit of prophecy
10. Devote yourself to hard, conscientious study
The King James Version of the Bible printed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints includes the following statement: The reader today has no greater written commentary and guide to understanding Isaiah than the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants. As one understands these works better he will understand Isaiah better, and as one understands Isaiah better, he more fully comprehends the mission of the Savior, and the meaning of the covenant that was placed upon Abraham and his seed by which all the families of the earth would be blessed."
The Prophesies of Isaiah Concerning Jesus Christ
Following are prophesies dealing with Jesus Christ seen and written by Isaiah that give us a most important insight and knowledge needed for our eternal progression.
1. The Savior opens the door to Heavenly Father’s presence Isaiah 22:22
Beginning with Isaiah 22:22 we are taught prophesies concerning the Savior. As previously discussed, Isaiah uses rich symbolism to describe his visions and revelations. Isaiah 22:22 says that the Messiah has the "key of the house of David." This is a symbolic way of saying the Savior has the power to admit or exclude any person from Heavenly Father's presence.
22 And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open.
Also see Revelation 3:7–8; 2 Nephi 9:41.
7 And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth;
8 I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.
41 O then, my beloved brethren, come unto the Lord, the Holy One. Remember that his paths are righteous. Behold, the way for man is narrow, but it lieth in a straight course before him, and the keeper of the gate is the Holy One of Israel; and he employeth no servant there; and there is none other way save it be by the gate; for he cannot be deceived, for the Lord God is his name.
What did the Savior do to open this door for us and what must we do to be able to enter? The key, which represents authority and power opens the door to the heavenly temple. Only Christ has the power to open and close the door of the heavenly temple. Matt. 16:19; Rev. 3:7 In order to be able to enter this door we must accept and follow all of the precepts of the gospel of Jesus Christ. 2 Nephi 9:45.
45 O, my beloved brethren, turn away from your sins; shake off the chains of him that would bind you fast; come unto that God who is the rock of your salvation.
2. The Savior shows mercy for those in spirit prison Isaiah 24:21–22
A clear and dramatic shift in emphasis takes place in Isaiah 24 and is often referred to Isaiah's Apocolypse. Here Isaiah's seership becomes profoundly evident as he moves forward in time to the final dispensation. It describes events and conditions as they will be just before or in conjunction with the Second Coming of the Lord, and gives specific detail concerning spirit prison. Isaiah 24:21–22
21 And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall punish the host of the high ones that are on high, and the kings of the earth upon the earth.
22 And they shall be gathered together, as prisoners are gathered in the pit, and shall be shut up in the prison, and after many days shall they be visited.
In Isaiah 24:21–22 What prison is referred to? Spirit prison, the place where the spirits of some deceased mortals go while awaiting the Resurrection.
Why are the spirits of some deceased mortals in spirit prison? Some of them did not receive the gospel on earth, and others were not valiant in their testimonies. D&C 138:32
32 Thus was the gospel preached to those who had died in their sins, without a knowledge of the truth, or in transgression, having rejected the prophets.
What did the Savior do for the spirits in prison? Isaiah 42:5–7; D&C 138:29–37 He organized righteous spirits to teach them the gospel.
5 ¶ Thus saith God the Lord, he that created the heavens, and stretched them out; he that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; he that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein:
6 I the Lord have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;
7 To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.
29 And as I wondered, my eyes were opened, and my understanding quickened, and I perceived that the Lord went not in person among the wicked and the disobedient who had rejected the truth, to teach them;
30 But behold, from among the righteous, he organized his forces and appointed messengers, clothed with power and authority, and commissioned them to go forth and carry the light of the gospel to them that were in darkness, even to all the spirits of men; and thus was the gospel preached to the dead.
31 And the chosen messengers went forth to declare the acceptable day of the Lord and proclaim liberty to the captives who were bound, even unto all who would repent of their sins and receive the gospel.
32 Thus was the gospel preached to those who had died in their sins, without a knowledge of the truth, or in transgression, having rejected the prophets.
33 These were taught faith in God, repentance from sin, vicarious baptism for the remission of sins, the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands,
34 And all other principles of the gospel that were necessary for them to know in order to qualify themselves that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
35 And so it was made known among the dead, both small and great, the unrighteous as well as the faithful, that redemption had been wrought through the sacrifice of the Son of God upon the cross.
36 Thus was it made known that our Redeemer spent his time during his sojourn in the world of spirits, instructing and preparing the faithful spirits of the prophets who had testified of him in the flesh;
37 That they might carry the message of redemption unto all the dead, unto whom he could not go personally, because of their rebellion and transgression, that they through the ministration of his servants might also hear his words.
How did this demonstrate the Savior's love and mercy? Isaiah 49:9–10
9 That thou mayest say to the prisoners, Go forth; to them that are in darkness, Shew yourselves. They shall feed in the ways, and their pastures shall be in all high places.
10 They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them.
3. The Savior is a strength and a refuge Isaiah 25:1–4; 32:1–2.
3. The Savior is a strength and a refuge Isaiah 25:1–4; 32:1–2.
Isaiah wrote of the Savior strengthening us during the storms, tempests, deserts and heat of our lives. Isaiah 25 contains a psalm of praise and thanksgiving to the Lord God, who has been a "strength to the poor and a strength to the needy in his distress. A refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall" See how the following images teach about how the Savior helps us when we face such challenges.
He is a refuge from the storm and a shadow from the heat (Isaiah 25:4).
4 For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.
He is a hiding place from the wind, a covert from the tempest, rivers of water in a dry place and the shadow of a great rock in a weary; thirsty, land. (Isaiah 32:2).
2 And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.
4. The Savior will prepare a feast and destroy the “vail.” Isaiah 25:6–9
When people think of the word Apocalypse they automatically think of destruction, death, the end of all things; and when googled for definition it says the end of all things. But actually when this word is translated and understood correctly the word Apocalypse means revelation, to uncover things that are hidden or an unveiling. We see that is the true case in Isaiah 25 for he tells us about things that are not known or misunderstood that will be made visible or clear.
Though he spoke of great destruction and judgments, Isaiah was filled not with despair but with joy. Here he burst into a hymn of exultation because the Lord would finally come and reign in Zion and Jerusalem Isaiah 24:23.
The Second Coming will be a time of great rejoicing that follows “much tribulation” (D&C 58:3–4). A great “feast of fat things” (Isaiah 25:6) will also attend the Lord’s return, meaning that men will feast upon the fruits of the gospel until they are full (compare D&C 58:8). The Lord’s coming will help to dispel “the veil that is spread over all nations” (Isaiah 25:7). This veil may be the “dark veil of unbelief” (Alma 19:6; see also Ether 4:15) which characterizes those of the latter days who reject the gospel. Or, it could be a more literal “veil of darkness,” such as that described in Moses 7:61 when the heavens shall be darkened and “shall shake, and also the earth.” But great joy will also follow, for the time will come when “the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces” (Isaiah 25:8). This figure is used twice in the book of Revelation (Revelation 7:17; 21:4) and obviously represents a millennial condition. (Old Testament Student Manual)
One interpretation of Isaiah 25:6–7 is that the mountain is a symbol for the temple.
6 ¶ And in this mountain shall the Lord of hosts make unto all people a feast of fat things, a feast of wines on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wines on the lees well refined.
7 And he will destroy in this mountain the face of the covering cast over all people, and the veil that is spread over all nations. Also see Isaiah 2:2; D&C 58:8–9
What is the feast mentioned in Isaiah 25:6? A feast of the words of the teachings of Christ.
Feasting is a powerful symbol, incorporating imagery from the sacrament of the Lord's supper and the partaking and eating of the tree of life, as well as imagery of communal meals and fellowship. This feast is to be understood literally as well as spiritually as an occasion that has been prepared for the rich and mighty but is also attended by the poor and humble, an occasion for rejoicing in the richness and fellowship of the Saints with their king. (Studies in Scripture Vol 4 Kent P Jackson)
How can temple attendance be like a feast? Temple attendance is a great time of learning, it is a spiritual banquet of the words, ordinances, and teachings of Christ.
A veil is a thin covering, symbolically often representing the unbelief that prevents people from truly coming to Christ. Moses 7:26
26 And he beheld Satan; and he had a great chain in his hand, and it veiled the whole face of the earth with darkness; and he looked up and laughed, and his angels rejoiced.
How will the "vail" that is over the earth be destroyed? Isaiah 25:7–9.
7 And he will destroy in this mountain the face of the covering cast over all people, and the veil that is spread over all nations.
8 He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken it.
9 ¶ And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.
5. The Savior wipes away our tears Isaiah 25:8
What do you do when someone love is crying? You do everything in your power to help them and bring them comfort right? You wipe away their tears.
8 He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken it.
How does the Savior "wipe away our tears?" Picture a Parent wiping tears away from a child's face. There is a sense of intimacy in this act. It is a tender gesture that is shared only by the people who love and trust each other deeply. It is the same with the savior, as he brings us comfort, healing and help through the atonement and resurrection and he wipes our tears which only someone we deeply love and trust and who deeply loves us would do.
What are the conditions mentioned in Revelation 21:4 that cause tears?
4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
How will the Savior wipe away tears that are caused by these conditions?
Elder Neal A. Maxwell: "A tender and hope-filled assurance is given by Isaiah, who said the Savior 'will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces.' (Isaiah 25:8.) The Lord, who knows perfectly about suffering, will, one day, comfort us so personally. The hopeful understand this as well." (Notwithstanding My Weakness, p56)
6. The Savior will bring the Resurrection Isaiah 26:19
Isaiah prophesied that when the Messiah would come, he would die and be resurrected. Isaiah 26 Is a song , or psalm of praise that give tribute to the Lord. This chapter is also a clear statement of the fact of resurrection, the Lord's and our own. Isaiah prophesied that when the Messiah would come, he would die and be resurrected Isaiah 25:8
8 He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken it.
Who else will be resurrected? President Ezra Taft Benson: "Nothing is more absolutely universal than the Resurrection. Every living being will be resurrected." (Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, p16)
19 Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust: for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead.
This grand song of thanks and praise for redemption credits the Lord not only with bringing about resurrection but with initiating it in raising His dead body (Isa. 26:19 and fn.; Isa. 25:8-9). These are some of the best Old Testament statements on the resurrection of the dead. Enjoy the beauty and truth in many of the poetic couplets in this prophecy (e.g., Isa. 26:3-4, 7, 12, 19-20). (Latter-Day Saint Commentary on the Old Testament Ellis T Rasmussen)
What does Isaiah 26:19 suggest about how we will feel when we are resurrected? D&C 138:12–16, 50.)
The Prophet Joseph Smith said: “When the voice calls for the dead to arise, … what would be the first joy of my heart? To meet my father, my mother, my brother, my sister; and when they are by my side, I embrace them and they me” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 295–96)
7. The Savior is our sure foundation Isaiah 28:16
16 ¶ Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.
What does Isaiah tell us about the Savior by referring to him as a "tried stone"? Mosiah 3:17
17 And moreover, I say unto you, that there shall be no other name given nor any other way nor means whereby salvation can come unto the children of men, only in and through the name of Christ, the Lord Omnipotent.
How is Jesus Christ our "sure foundation"? Helaman 5:12.
12 And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.
What can we do to build on this foundation? Follow him... D&C 50:44
44 Wherefore, I am in your midst, and I am the good shepherd, and the stone of Israel. He that buildeth upon this rock shall never fall.
8. The Savior will restore the gospel to the earth Isaiah 29:4, 9–14, 18, 24
What did Isaiah foresee about the latter-day restoration of the gospel? He foresaw that it would come at a time of spiritual darkness. He also foresaw the coming forth of the Book of Mormon Isaiah 29:4, 9–14. Compare the following verses in Isaiah 29 with corresponding passages in the Book of Mormon, Pearl of Great Price, and Doctrine and Covenants to see how some of Isaiah’s prophecies have been fulfilled:
Isaiah told of people drawing near to the Lord with their mouths while their hearts are far from Him (Isaiah 29:13). How can we make sure that we are close to the Lord in our thoughts and actions as well as in our words?
5. The Savior wipes away our tears Isaiah 25:8
What do you do when someone love is crying? You do everything in your power to help them and bring them comfort right? You wipe away their tears.
8 He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken it.
How does the Savior "wipe away our tears?" Picture a Parent wiping tears away from a child's face. There is a sense of intimacy in this act. It is a tender gesture that is shared only by the people who love and trust each other deeply. It is the same with the savior, as he brings us comfort, healing and help through the atonement and resurrection and he wipes our tears which only someone we deeply love and trust and who deeply loves us would do.
What are the conditions mentioned in Revelation 21:4 that cause tears?
4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
How will the Savior wipe away tears that are caused by these conditions?
Elder Neal A. Maxwell: "A tender and hope-filled assurance is given by Isaiah, who said the Savior 'will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces.' (Isaiah 25:8.) The Lord, who knows perfectly about suffering, will, one day, comfort us so personally. The hopeful understand this as well." (Notwithstanding My Weakness, p56)
6. The Savior will bring the Resurrection Isaiah 26:19
Isaiah prophesied that when the Messiah would come, he would die and be resurrected. Isaiah 26 Is a song , or psalm of praise that give tribute to the Lord. This chapter is also a clear statement of the fact of resurrection, the Lord's and our own. Isaiah prophesied that when the Messiah would come, he would die and be resurrected Isaiah 25:8
8 He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken it.
Who else will be resurrected? President Ezra Taft Benson: "Nothing is more absolutely universal than the Resurrection. Every living being will be resurrected." (Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, p16)
19 Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust: for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead.
This grand song of thanks and praise for redemption credits the Lord not only with bringing about resurrection but with initiating it in raising His dead body (Isa. 26:19 and fn.; Isa. 25:8-9). These are some of the best Old Testament statements on the resurrection of the dead. Enjoy the beauty and truth in many of the poetic couplets in this prophecy (e.g., Isa. 26:3-4, 7, 12, 19-20). (Latter-Day Saint Commentary on the Old Testament Ellis T Rasmussen)
What does Isaiah 26:19 suggest about how we will feel when we are resurrected? D&C 138:12–16, 50.)
The Prophet Joseph Smith said: “When the voice calls for the dead to arise, … what would be the first joy of my heart? To meet my father, my mother, my brother, my sister; and when they are by my side, I embrace them and they me” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 295–96)
7. The Savior is our sure foundation Isaiah 28:16
16 ¶ Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.
What does Isaiah tell us about the Savior by referring to him as a "tried stone"? Mosiah 3:17
17 And moreover, I say unto you, that there shall be no other name given nor any other way nor means whereby salvation can come unto the children of men, only in and through the name of Christ, the Lord Omnipotent.
How is Jesus Christ our "sure foundation"? Helaman 5:12.
12 And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.
What can we do to build on this foundation? Follow him... D&C 50:44
44 Wherefore, I am in your midst, and I am the good shepherd, and the stone of Israel. He that buildeth upon this rock shall never fall.
8. The Savior will restore the gospel to the earth Isaiah 29:4, 9–14, 18, 24
What did Isaiah foresee about the latter-day restoration of the gospel? He foresaw that it would come at a time of spiritual darkness. He also foresaw the coming forth of the Book of Mormon Isaiah 29:4, 9–14. Compare the following verses in Isaiah 29 with corresponding passages in the Book of Mormon, Pearl of Great Price, and Doctrine and Covenants to see how some of Isaiah’s prophecies have been fulfilled:
| "And thou shalt be brought down, and shalt speak out of the ground, and thy speech shall be low out of the dust, and thy voice shall be, as of one that hath a familiar spirit, out of the ground, and thy speech shall whisper out of the dust." (Isaiah 29:4) | "And I exhort you to remember these things; for the time speedily cometh that ye shall know that I lie not, for ye shall see me at the bar of God; and the Lord God will say unto you: Did I not declare my words unto you, which were written by this man, like as one crying from the dead, yea, even as one speaking out of the dust?" (Moroni 10:27) |
| "Stay yourselves, and wonder; cry ye out, and cry: they
are drunken, but not with wine; they stagger, but not with strong drink.
"For the LORD hath poured out upon you the spirit of deep sleep, and hath closed your eyes: the prophets and your rulers, the seers hath he covered.... "Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men." (Isaiah 29:9-10, 13 |
"My object in going to inquire of the Lord was to know which of
all the sects was right, that I might know which to join. No sooner, therefore,
did I get possession of myself, so as to be able to speak, than I asked
the Personages who stood above me in the light, which of all the sects
was right (for at this time it had never entered into my heart that all
were wrong)--and which I should join.
"I was answered that I must join none of them, for they were all wrong; and the Personage who addressed me said that all their creeds were an abomination in his sight; that those professors were all corrupt; that: "they draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me, they teach for doctrines the commandments of men, having a form of godliness, but they deny the power thereof." (Joseph Smith History 1:18-19) |
| "And the vision of all is become unto you as the words
of a book that is sealed, which men deliver to one that is learned, saying,
Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I cannot; for it is sealed:
"And the book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I am not learned." (Isaiah 29:11-12) |
Martin Harris takes a copy of the characters and their translation to Professor Charles Anthon in New York City. (see Joseph Smith History 1:63-65) |
| "Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, even a marvellous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid." (Isaiah 29:14) | "Now behold, a marvelous work is about to come forth among the children of men." (D&C 4:1) |
Elder Neal A. Maxwell: "The Restoration brought a flood of faith-building truths that would develop a Zion people, a covenant people, a people willing to obey God's commandments and submit to His will. Isaiah described the Restoration as a 'marvellous work and a wonder' (Isaiah 29:14). The Hebrew roots for 'wonder' refer to things 'beyond human capability,' the 'miraculous'." (Not My Will, But Thine, p35) | |
“If you will read [Isaiah 29:1–2] thoughtfully, you will know that [Isaiah] not only saw the destruction of Jerusalem, but he saw the destruction of another great center like unto Jerusalem. Then he adds:
“‘And thou shalt be brought down, and shalt speak out of the ground, and thy speech shall be low out of the dust, and thy voice shall be, as one that hath a familiar spirit, out of the ground, and thy speech shall whisper out of the dust’ [Isaiah 29:4].
“Nobody in this world could explain that intelligently or know what people Isaiah saw like unto Jerusalem without the Book of Mormon. Here is the explanation in the Book of Mormon. ‘After my seed and the seed of my brethren shall have dwindled in unbelief, and shall have been smitten by the Gentiles; yea, after the Lord God shall have camped against them round about, and shall have laid siege against them with a mount, and raised forts against them; and after they shall have been brought down low in the dust, even that they are not, yet the words of the righteous shall be written, and the prayers of the faithful shall be heard, and all those who have dwindled in unbelief shall not be forgotten.
“‘For those who shall be destroyed shall speak unto them out of the ground, and their speech shall be low out of the dust, and their voice shall be as one that hath a familiar spirit; for the Lord God will give unto him power that he may whisper concerning them, even as it were out of the ground, and their speech shall whisper out of the dust.
“‘For thus saith the Lord God: They shall write the things which shall be done among them, and they shall be written and sealed up in a book, and those who have dwindled in unbelief shall not have them, for they seek to destroy the things of God’ (2 Nephi 26:15–17).
“How could Joseph Smith have known these things when the Book of Mormon was published even before this Church was organized, except for the fact that the Book of Mormon is the promised record that God said he would bring forth and join to the record of Judah. How could anyone understand this prophecy of Isaiah without the explanation contained in the Book of Mormon.” (In Conference Report, Apr. 1963, p. 118.)
The Book of Mormon is truly the voice of a people brought low, speaking from the dust, for the book was in fact taken from the ground, just as Isaiah prophesied. (Old Testament Student Manual)
Isaiah told of people drawing near to the Lord with their mouths while their hearts are far from Him (Isaiah 29:13). How can we make sure that we are close to the Lord in our thoughts and actions as well as in our words?
13 ¶ Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:
Isaiah said that the Book of Mormon would help the spiritually deaf and blind to hear and see (Isaiah 29:18, 24)
18 ¶ And in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and out of darkness.
24 They also that erred in spirit shall come to understanding, and they that murmured shall learn doctrine.
How has this prophecy been fulfilled? Elder Bruce R. McConkie: "The gathering
of Israel in the last days shall consist in bringing together 'the blind
people that have eyes, and the deaf that have ears,' that is, the spiritually
blind and deaf shall come to a knowledge of the things of God and they
shall see and hear. (Isa. 43.) In large part the opening of the eyes of
the blind and the unstopping of the ears of the deaf shall take place by
means of the Book of Mormon. 'And in that day shall the deaf hear the words
of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and
out of darkness.' (Isa. 29:18)." (Mormon Doctrine, p184)
How has the Book of Mormon helped you see and hear better spiritually?
One can be either spiritually or physically deaf or blind, or both. Elder Bruce R. McConkie defined spiritual deafness as “the state of those who are lacking in spirituality, whose spirit ears are not attuned to the whisperings of the still small voice of the Spirit. Similarly, spiritual blindness is the identifying mark which singles out those who are unable to see the hand of God manifest in the affairs of men. Such have ‘unbelief and blindness of heart’ (D&C 58:15); they are ‘hard in their hearts, and blind in their minds.’ (3 Ne. 2:1.)” (Mormon Doctrine, p. 184.) (Old Testament Student Manual)
9. The Savior knows our trials and directs our paths Isaiah 30:19–21
19 For the people shall dwell in Zion at Jerusalem: thou shalt weep no more: he will be very gracious unto thee at the voice of thy cry; when he shall hear it, he will answer thee.
20 And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity, and the water of affliction, yet shall not thy teachers be removed into a corner any more, but thine eyes shall see thy teachers:
21 And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.
What does Isaiah 30:19–21 teach about adversity? The prophets admonition was to trust in the Lord, be still, hearken to the true seers and prophets, repent and be confident, then blessings would follow.
What do these verses teach about what the Savior will do for us when adversity comes? Alma 37:37.
37 Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day.
Conclusion
Great are the words and teachings of Isaiah, and I personally bear testimony that thorough the prophesies of Isaiah we learn that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world and I also express my most profound gratitude for the wonderful things he has and will do not only for me but for all.
I always try to think of what I can do for Himin return and that should be our lesson today, to stay on the path, repent, be grateful and find what we can do to serve him for all he does for us for in the end he will save us all...from everything...
I always try to think of what I can do for Himin return and that should be our lesson today, to stay on the path, repent, be grateful and find what we can do to serve him for all he does for us for in the end he will save us all...from everything...
3 ¶ Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.
4 Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompence; he will come and save you. Isaiah 35:3–4
Resources
Old Testament Student Manual
Latter-day Commentary on the Old Testament Ellis Rasmussen
Teachings of the Prophets
Not Withstanding My Weakness
Isaiah Plain and Simple the Message of Isaiah in the Book of Mormon Hoyt W Brewster
Studies in Scripture Vol 4 Kent P Jackson
Ensign
Conference Reports
Mormon Doctrine
Joseph Smith History
Doctrine and Covenants
Book of Mormon
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