In Isaiah 28:21–22, does the notion of God performing a “strange work” and bringing swift judgment raise questions about the consistency of divine justice elsewhere in the Bible?

I. Understanding the Passage

Isaiah 28:21–22 states:

“For the LORD will rise up as at Mount Perazim; He will rouse Himself as in the Valley of Gibeon to do His work, His strange work, and to perform His task, His disturbing task. So now, do not mock, or your shackles will be made stronger. Indeed, I have heard from the Lord GOD of Hosts that destruction has been determined against the whole land.”

These words describe a situation in which the judgment of God takes on a form that appears extraordinary or “strange.” The context involves both a warning to the unresponsive leaders of Israel and a stark illustration of divine resolve. Though it may sound disconcerting to read of God acting in a manner described as “strange” and “disturbing,” deeper study shows that this passage does not conflict with the broader biblical message regarding divine justice.

II. The Historical and Literary Context

Isaiah delivered these words while warning Israel and Judah of the consequences of rebellion, corruption, and idolatry. The reference to “Mount Perazim” alludes to a point in King David’s battles (2 Samuel 5:20), while the “Valley of Gibeon” recalls another victory divinely granted (1 Chronicles 14:16). During both battles, there was a sudden and decisive act of God resulting in victory for His people. The prophet draws upon these remarkable events to illustrate that God’s present judgment, though unusual, is not without precedent.

Archaeological discoveries, such as the Tel Dan Stele and the Siloam Inscription, reflect the historical reality of Israel’s kings, battles, and divine interventions in the geopolitical world of the Old Testament era. While these artifacts do not always directly reference Isaiah’s prophecy, they illuminate the lived conditions of the people and kingdoms that Isaiah addressed, confirming that biblical references to political turmoil and warfare align with known historical contexts.

III. Defining “Strange Work” and “Disturbing Task”

1. Divine Action Outside Familiar Patterns

The phrase “His strange work” or “His disturbing task” speaks to an action that is unexpected. God’s deliverance and mercy are prominent themes across Scripture; however, swift judgment can feel “alien” when contrasted with the patience He often demonstrates. Despite this, God performing an action that is unfamiliar to human expectations does not imply inconsistency. Instead, it highlights the breadth of His righteousness.

2. Judgment as a Response to Persistent Sin

Scripture consistently teaches that individuals and nations bent on defiance cannot continue indefinitely without consequence. Second Peter 3:9 reminds us, “The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise … but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” Judgment, though sometimes abrupt, follows a period in which God pleads for repentance. The “strange” nature of God’s work in Isaiah 28 reflects how He may act decisively after warnings have been disregarded.

IV. Consistency with Divine Justice Elsewhere

1. Ancient Examples of Swift Judgment

Events such as the global flood (Genesis 6–9) and the judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) illustrate that God can act decisively and suddenly to uphold justice. Far from contradicting His character, these episodes reveal the seriousness with which He regards wickedness.

2. The Continuity of Mercy and Judgment

From the Flood account (Genesis 7) to the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7–12), divine judgment is typically preceded by warnings, signs, and extended opportunities to repent. The “strangeness” occurs when people persist in defiance and God’s patience reaches a limit. Such a pattern reaffirms God’s consistency—all His dealings with humanity proceed from His righteousness and holiness.

3. Examples in the New Testament

Some question if this notion of “strange work” conflicts with the portrayal of love and compassion in the New Testament. Yet passages like Acts 5:1–11 (concerning Ananias and Sapphira) demonstrate that even in the early church era, deliberate sin could incur sudden judgment. The same God who authors mercy also enforces moral order, preserving both the holiness of His people and His own character.

V. The Harmonization of Holiness and Love

1. Holiness, Justice, and Mercy

Scripture underscores that God’s holiness demands perfect justice. “The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion” (Psalm 103:8). Sometimes, His actions of judgment might seem severe to observers who focus on only one aspect of His character. Isaiah’s warning reveals that God remains loving even in His judgments, intent on urging people to abandon sin.

2. Redemptive Outcomes

Throughout biblical history, sudden displays of divine intervention often produce opportunities for transformation. For instance, the judgments of Egypt led a mixed multitude (Exodus 12:38) to see the reality of the God of Israel. In Isaiah’s context, the “strange work” serves as a wake-up call, offering redemption to those who heed it.

VI. Manuscript Evidence and Reliability

1. Textual Integrity in Isaiah

The Dead Sea Scrolls, including the Great Isaiah Scroll, demonstrate the reliability and preservation of the Book of Isaiah over centuries. Scholars such as those specializing in textual criticism attest that the words of Isaiah 28 have remained intact. This consistency in scribal transmission supports a faithful representation of the original message.

2. Implications for Consistency of Divine Justice

Since the text of Isaiah has been accurately preserved, the portrayal of God’s “strange work” in judgment can be regarded as part of the Bible’s coherent witness. Numerous studies and manuscript comparisons (including those noted by experts in biblical documents) affirm that the overarching scriptural narrative is unified: God acts consistently across all eras, and Isaiah 28’s depiction fits seamlessly within that broader message.

VII. Philosophical Perspectives on Justice

1. Human Perception vs. Divine Perspective

The difficulty lies not in God’s morality but in our limited perspective. What appears abrupt or “strange” to humans is the natural outworking of God’s righteousness. Seeing the complete picture of history, omniscience, and eternal values, God acts at precisely the right moment.

2. Judgment as an Expression of Goodness

True goodness does not allow evil to flourish unchecked. The swift judgments of Scripture, including the scenario in Isaiah 28, highlight God’s protective nature over creation. Far from undermining divine justice, these acts reinforce the principle that wrongdoing will be addressed in time.

VIII. Practical Takeaways

1. Soberness in Response to Divine Warnings

Isaiah 28:22 admonishes readers, “So now, do not mock, or your shackles will be made stronger.” When confronted with messages of correction, persistent scoffing leads to spiritual bondage. Hearing God’s warnings should draw people to humility and repentance.

2. Assurance of God’s Consistent Character

Throughout Scripture and history—backed by archaeological, textual, and testimonial evidence—God is unwavering in His holiness. Instances of swift judgment, seemingly “strange” or unusual, fit within the grand narrative of redemption and righteousness.

3. Hope in Restoration

Even in passages emphasizing judgment, the Bible repeatedly underscores the goal of redemption. Those who respond to God’s warnings and submit to His grace find forgiveness and restoration, culminating in the ultimate revelation of that grace through the resurrection of Christ.

IX. Conclusion

Isaiah 28:21–22 presents a sobering picture of judgment, described as God’s “strange work.” Far from contradicting the broader biblical teaching on divine justice, this passage reveals the consistent pattern of a righteous and loving God acting steadfastly against unrepentant sin. When examined in harmony with the full testimony of Scripture—supported by manuscript evidence, historical context, and the overarching record of divine mercy—there is no contradiction. God’s character remains beautifully consistent: He promises patience and salvation, yet He will not permit evil to triumph unchecked. This unity of holiness and love resonates throughout the entirety of the Bible, affirmed by historical, archaeological, and textual studies that underscore the sacred message’s reliability.