What happensPermalink
God answers Israel’s prayer: He revealed Himself even to people who did not seek Him, while rebellious Israel continually provoked Him through idolatry. He will repay persistent sin, yet for His servants’ sake He will preserve a remnant who inherit and prosper in the land. God then creates new heavens and a new earth where His people rejoice with Him, enjoy long and fruitful lives, securely possess the work of their hands, and live in peace throughout creation.
Why it mattersPermalink
God distinguishes rebellious Israel from His servants and promises the latter joy, security, and peace in a new creation. Paul quotes verses 1–2 in Romans 10:20–21, contrasting Gentiles who found God with Israel that resisted Him. Isaiah’s vision still includes death, so Revelation 21:1–4 carries it to final fulfillment, where the new heavens and earth contain no death, mourning, crying, or pain.
Key versePermalink
“For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind.”