God Comforts Zion (Isa 51:1-23)
Isaiah gives 3 incentives for obeying the voice of the servant: (a) God can revive and transform barren Zion to joyful Eden (Gen 2:8; Eze 28:13; 31:8,9), just as God made a great nation from a barren couple Abraham and Sarah (Isa 51:1-3). (b) God's truth and justice will go out to the nations (Isa 2:2-4; 42:1-4,6; 49:6) with a saving power that will outlast the universe (Isa 51:4-6). (c) Though believers are reviled, they will be eternally vindicated (Isa 51:7,8).
Though God appears to be asleep (Isa 51:9,17), he is not, as he assures his people of his salvation (Isa 51:12-16). God says, "I, even I, am he who comforts you...For I am the Lord your God...the Lord Almighty is his name. I have put my words in your mouth and covered you with the shadow of my hand" (Isa 51:12,15,16). Though God used Babylon to reveal his wrath and rebuke for Israel's idolatry and unbelief (Isa 51:17-20), God would turn his cup of wrath upon their oppressors (Isa 51:21-23).
God Brings His Salvation to Zion (Isa 52:1-12)
Zion was conquered by Babylon and brought shame upon God's name (Isa 52:1-6; Rom 2:24), which is the most disastrous consequence. But God would turn the despising of his name into rejoicing as the gospel of God's grace spreads over the world through the beautiful feet of those who bring good news (Isa 52:7-10; Rom 10:15; Eph 6:15). God will purify and guide his people into his everlasting kingdom (Isa 52:11,12).
Practical Application: Be the beautiful feet that bring the good news (Isa 52:7).
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