Isaiah 41:22
Let them bring them forth, and shew us what shall happen: let them shew the former things, what they be, that we may consider them, and know the latter end of them; or declare us things for to come.
ISAIAH 41:22
Here, God issues a challenge to the idols (and to human prophets who would claim comparable power): “Let them bring forth … what shall happen.” The request is to declare the past (the former things) and the future (the latter end) to show whether the speakers truly know what will unfold. The rhetorical aim is to highlight the impotence of idols and false teachers who cannot predict, control, or guarantee outcomes.
The verse emphasizes prophetic reliability and the difference between the true God and manufactured powers. If a source can predict accurately and guide into safe outcomes, it proves credibility; if not, it reveals economic and spiritual bankruptcy. The continuity of God’s sovereignty across past, present, and future underscores the coherence of divine revelation.
In practical life, beware of self-styled predictors or “gurus” who cannot demonstrate consistent accuracy or life-giving outcomes. Ground decisions in trusted, tested wisdom—the Bible, wise counsel, and tested experience. When you’re tempted to fear the unknown, recall God’s sovereignty over past and future, letting that steadiness shape your choices and pace.
Cross-References
- Isaiah 46:9-10
- Jeremiah 28:9
- Deuteronomy 18:21-22
- Micah 3:8