Isaiah 43:18–19

Commentary on Isaiah 43:18–19 (NKJV)

The Text

Isaiah 43:18–19 (NKJV):

“Do not remember the former things,

Nor consider the things of old.

Behold, I will do a new thing,

Now it shall spring forth;

Shall you not know it?

I will even make a road in the wilderness

And rivers in the desert.”

Exegesis and Theological Insights

In Isaiah 43:18–19, God, through the prophet Isaiah, calls His people to shift their focus from the past to the new acts of deliverance He is about to perform. This passage is set within a broader context where God reassures Israel of His love and redemption despite their past unfaithfulness. Key themes include God’s sovereignty, the newness of His work, and the hope of restoration.

“Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old.”

This verse speaks to the transformational nature of God’s grace. It emphasises that while remembering God’s past deeds is essential for faith, believers should not be anchored by past experiences or failures. Instead, they are called to look forward to God’s unfolding plan of redemption.

“Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it?”

The new thing refers to God’s promise of restoration and renewal. For Israel, this might have meant deliverance from Babylonian exile. In the New Testament context, it points to the coming of Christ and the establishment of the new covenant. This is God’s ongoing work in history, culminating in the final redemption through Christ.

“I will even make a road in the wilderness And rivers in the desert.”

This imagery of transformation underscores God’s power to bring life and sustenance where there was none. It reassures believers that God is capable of making the impossible possible, thus providing hope and encouragement in times of desolation or hardship.

Application to Modern Christian Living

For modern Christians, Isaiah 43:18–19 encourages a forward-looking faith, trusting in God’s ability to bring renewal and transformation. This passage is particularly relevant in contexts of personal or communal crises, reminding believers that God is continually at work, crafting new beginnings from brokenness.

Spiritual Renewal:

Encourages individuals to seek personal renewal and transformation, shedding the weight of past sins and failures.

Community Hope:

Inspires church communities to be agents of hope, actively participating in God’s redemptive work in the world.

Trust in Providence:

Reinforces trust in God’s providence, especially during challenging times, by focusing on His promises and power to make all things new.

This commentary highlights the significance of Isaiah 43:18–19 and its profound implications for modern believers. It underscores a forward-looking faith grounded in the assurance of God’s continual work of redemption and renewal.