The Final Gathering (Isaiah 27:1-13)

Here we have yet another masterful song or poem from Isaiah. It continues to contrast the City of Meaninglessness with the City of YHWH. However, it also harkens all the way back to chapter 5, with Isaiah.

The song begins and ends with two “in that day” statements. Isaiah is looking ahead to the time when God will intervene in creation. He will destroy the evil systems of man established against God by those who have rebelled against Him, and set up the delightful intentions of creation for those who trust in Him. The systems of the world are poetically and mythically referred to as Leviathans, Serpents (see Genesis 3) and Dragons. One is “gliding” or “flying,” one is “coiled” or “twisted,” and the final is “in the sea.” All of creation has been infected with the evil of sin. God’s sword against this triple threat is “herd” and “great” and “strong.”

God’s vineyard is brought up again from chapter 5. “In that day” it will be as it was intended. It will be “delightful.” Some translations see a variant word here, one meaning a good wine. This is a good contrast to the “sour wine” of chapter 5. God will protect His vineyard and will have no wrath for it, because it will be perfect. The song even seems to dare any weeds to appear to test God on this. However, it then rephrases; weeds are welcome to join the garden and be changed. Any who are willing are welcome! The garden will encompass the whole world as was always the plan.

Throughout history, God has been patient with His rebellious people. He has not destroyed them as He has other peoples. He exiled them but always gave them more mercy than they deserved. Isaiah looks to a day when God’s people will be atoned for. They are not going to pay for their own wrongdoing. God will accomplish that. They will no longer turn to false idols. It even seems to be said here that after God accomplishes Jacob’s atonement; sacrifice will be no more.

However, in contrast, the City of Meaninglessness will not be protected. Their self-devised strongholds will fail. They will be desolate. They will struggle in their lack of discernment. Their rejection of God will be so repeated and ingrained that God will have no more compassion on them.

However, the garden is there for any who will turn to God. Pride should not stand in the way!