Isaiah 55:5
Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the LORD thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee.
ISAIAH 55:5
Verse 5 expands the scope of God’s redemptive plan: “a nation that thou knowest not” will come to you. The motif of foreigners or nations joining Israel reflects the prophetic hope that God’s blessing would extend beyond ethnic Israel to all peoples. This would occur through the Lord’s role as the “Holy One of Israel” and through God’s glory being manifest in Israel. The historical reality includes periods where foreigners were drawn to Israel’s God or mocked political boundaries. Theologically, this is about God’s supremacy in bringing about reconciliation and transformation. The verse sets the stage for the Servant-Messiah’s mission to draw the nations into God’s covenant community and elevate Israel as a beacon of God’s mercy. It underscores God’s sovereignty to compel admiration and allegiance from peoples who previously did not know Him.
The key themes are divine universalism, mission, and glory. God’s plan involves the nations recognizing and honoring Him, and Israel functioning as a conduit of blessing to the world. The verse points to a future where worship and allegiance cross borders, anticipating the Great Commission’s scope. It also reinforces that Israel’s uniqueness is now connected with God’s global rescue plan, not merely national privilege. Thematically, it highlights God’s glory as the magnet drawing others to Himself and the transformation that comes when people encounter the God who “glorified” Israel.
Practically, Christians today are invited to participate in God’s mission: share the story of God’s mercy with people from diverse backgrounds, welcome outsiders into communities of faith, and collaborate across cultures for justice and mercy. If you belong to a church or organization, consider outreach programs that serve refugees, immigrants, or international students—people who “know you not.” Foster hospitality that goes beyond superficial introductions, creating spaces where others can encounter God’s love. In personal life, examine biases and barriers that keep you from embracing people different from you. The text invites generosity of time, resources, and friendship as a witness to God’s transformative work in the world.
Cross-References: Isaiah 2:2-4; Psalm 67:1-2; Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8; Romans 15:9-12