Isaiah 17:14

In the evening, there is sudden terror! Before morning, they are no more! This is the portion of those who loot us and the lot of those who plunder us.

Study Bible

In the evening, there is sudden terror!
This phrase captures the unexpected and swift nature of divine judgment. In biblical times, evening was often a time of vulnerability, as darkness brought uncertainty and fear. The sudden terror suggests a divine intervention that catches the enemies of God's people off guard. This aligns with other instances in Scripture where God acts decisively against those who oppose His will, such as the sudden destruction of the Assyrian army in 2 Kings 19:35. The imagery of evening turning to terror can also be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual darkness that precedes judgment.

Before morning, they are no more!
The phrase indicates the complete and rapid destruction of the enemies, emphasizing the power and swiftness of God's judgment. The transition from evening to morning symbolizes a new beginning for God's people, free from their oppressors. This mirrors the deliverance narratives found throughout the Bible, such as the Exodus, where the Israelites were freed from Egyptian bondage overnight (Exodus 12:29-31). The idea of enemies being "no more" also points to the ultimate victory of God over evil, a theme echoed in Revelation 21:4, where God promises to wipe away every tear and eliminate death and suffering.

This is the portion of those who loot us
The term "portion" refers to the fate or destiny allotted to those who act against God's people. Looting, in the biblical context, often involved not just theft but also violence and desecration. This phrase underscores the principle of divine justice, where those who harm God's people will face retribution. The concept of a "portion" is reminiscent of the biblical idea of reaping what one sows, as seen in Galatians 6:7. It serves as a warning that actions against God's covenant community will not go unpunished.

and the lot of those who plunder us.
The word "lot" here is synonymous with destiny or outcome, reinforcing the certainty of divine justice. Plundering implies a deeper level of aggression and exploitation, often associated with warfare and conquest. This phrase highlights the assurance that God will defend His people and bring justice to those who exploit and oppress them. The use of "lot" can also be seen in the context of inheritance, where the righteous receive their promised inheritance from God, while the wicked receive their due punishment. This is consistent with the biblical theme of divine retribution, as seen in Psalm 37:13, where the Lord laughs at the wicked, knowing their day is coming.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
The prophet who conveyed God's messages to the people of Israel and Judah, warning them of impending judgment and offering hope for future restoration.

2. Damascus
The capital of Syria, often representing the nation itself, which was a significant power and adversary of Israel during Isaiah's time.

3. Israel
The Northern Kingdom, which was often in conflict with surrounding nations, including Syria.

4. Assyrians
A powerful empire known for its military might and conquests, often used by God as an instrument of judgment against other nations, including Israel and Syria.

5. Plunderers
Those who attack and loot, representing the enemies of God's people who face divine retribution.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of the rise and fall of nations. He uses them to accomplish His purposes, including judgment and deliverance.

The Suddenness of God's Judgment
God's judgment can come unexpectedly, emphasizing the need for readiness and faithfulness in our walk with Him.

Divine Justice for the Oppressed
God promises justice for His people. Those who oppress and plunder will face His righteous judgment.

Hope Amidst Fear
Even in times of terror and uncertainty, believers can trust in God's ultimate deliverance and justice.

The Transience of Earthly Power
Earthly powers and oppressors are temporary. God's eternal kingdom is our ultimate hope and security.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Isaiah 17:14 illustrate the concept of God's sovereignty over the nations, and how can this understanding impact our view of current world events?

2. In what ways does the suddenness of God's judgment in Isaiah 17:14 encourage us to live with a sense of spiritual readiness?

3. How can the promise of divine justice in Isaiah 17:14 provide comfort to those who feel oppressed or wronged today?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced fear or uncertainty. How can the assurance of God's deliverance, as seen in Isaiah 17:14, bring peace in such situations?

5. Compare the temporary nature of earthly powers with the eternal nature of God's kingdom. How should this influence our priorities and actions as believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 30:5
This verse speaks of weeping enduring for a night but joy coming in the morning, paralleling the sudden change from terror to relief found in Isaiah 17:14.

1 Thessalonians 5:2-3
Paul speaks of the Day of the Lord coming like a thief in the night, similar to the suddenness of the events described in Isaiah 17:14.

Exodus 14:24-27
The destruction of the Egyptian army at the Red Sea is another instance of God delivering His people by bringing sudden judgment upon their enemies.