I was looking at Isaiah 43:1–2. These are wonderful words of loving promise. However, they are addressed to Jacob (and, by implication, the nation of Israel). My question was, does this apply to me as a 21st Century believer?
Quick note: The phrase “Thus saith the Lord” appears in the King James OT over 400 times (most frequently in the prophets). This is present tense, meaning God is speaking to us and continues to do so.
The answer to my questions is yes, with a a noteworthy distinction*.
Theologians’ View
Looking at how theologians have address this, they agree on these points:
1. Original meaning
Isaiah 43:1–2 was spoken to Israel in the 6th century BC.
2. Covenant continuity
The people of God in the Old Testament (Israel) and the people of God in the New Testament (the Church) share the same redeeming God and covenant promises.
3. Christ-centered fulfillment
Because believers are in Christ, they inherit the promises given to God’s people.
4. Legitimate application (*including the distinction)
Therefore, Isaiah 43:1–2 does apply to 21st-century believers—but *not as a national or political promise; rather, as a spiritual, covenantal promise of God’s love and protection.
To Summarize
Isaiah 43:1–2 legitimately applies to Christians today because:
- God’s covenant love is unchanged.
- Believers are redeemed in Christ just as Israel was redeemed from Egypt.
- God promises His presence in trials to all His people.
- The New Testament identifies the Church as the “Israel of God” (Gal. 6:16). The NT teaches that believers are grafted into the promises given to Abraham (Romans 11:17-24).
I’m Thankful
I’m thankful that God has made a covenant with me. I’m grateful for all the aspects and blessings of the covenant that benefit me.
My prayer is that I would be a faithful member of the blessed covenant and walk in His Way.
