Isaiah 24:15

Therefore glorify the LORD in the east. Extol the name of the LORD, the God of Israel in the islands of the sea.

Study Bible

Therefore glorify the LORD in the east.
The phrase "glorify the LORD in the east" suggests a call to worship and honor God from regions that are geographically east of Israel. In biblical times, the east often referred to areas such as Mesopotamia, Persia, and beyond. This call to glorify God in the east may indicate the universal scope of God's sovereignty and the spread of His worship beyond the borders of Israel. It reflects the prophetic vision of God's glory being recognized worldwide, as seen in passages like Malachi 1:11, which speaks of God's name being great among the nations. The use of "therefore" connects this call to the preceding context of judgment and redemption, emphasizing that God's ultimate plan includes the acknowledgment of His glory by all peoples.

Extol the name of the LORD,
To "extol" means to praise enthusiastically, suggesting a deep, heartfelt worship. The "name of the LORD" represents His character, authority, and reputation. In Hebrew culture, a name was more than just an identifier; it encapsulated the essence of a person. Extolling God's name involves recognizing His attributes such as holiness, justice, mercy, and love. This phrase calls believers to lift up God's name in worship, acknowledging His supreme authority and goodness. It aligns with the biblical theme of God's name being exalted, as seen in Psalms 34:3 and Philippians 2:9-11, where every knee will bow to the name of Jesus.

the God of Israel
Referring to God as "the God of Israel" highlights His covenant relationship with the nation of Israel. This title emphasizes God's faithfulness to His chosen people and His role as their protector and redeemer. It also serves as a reminder of the historical acts of deliverance and provision God performed for Israel, such as the Exodus from Egypt. This designation underscores the continuity of God's promises and His unfolding plan of salvation, which began with Israel and extends to all nations through Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant (Galatians 3:14).

in the islands of the sea.
The "islands of the sea" likely refer to distant lands and peoples across the Mediterranean and beyond, symbolizing the far reaches of the earth. This phrase indicates the expansive reach of God's glory and the call for all nations, even those far removed from Israel, to worship Him. It reflects the prophetic vision of a time when God's kingdom will encompass all nations, as seen in Isaiah 42:10 and Revelation 7:9, where people from every tribe and tongue worship before God's throne. This global perspective reinforces the theme of God's universal reign and the ultimate fulfillment of His redemptive plan through Christ, who commissions His followers to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The central figure in this verse, the LORD is the God of Israel, deserving of glory and worship.

2. The East
This refers to the regions east of Israel, possibly indicating the lands where the sun rises, symbolizing the spread of God's glory.

3. The Islands of the Sea
These are distant lands, possibly referring to the far reaches of the known world at the time, indicating the universal scope of God's glory.

4. The God of Israel
This title emphasizes God's covenant relationship with Israel, highlighting His faithfulness and sovereignty.

5. Isaiah
The prophet who delivered this message, calling for the glorification of God amidst judgment and hope.

Teaching Points

Universal Call to Worship
The call to glorify the LORD in the east and the islands signifies that worship is not confined to Israel but is a universal mandate for all peoples.

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
Recognizing God as the "God of Israel" reminds us of His covenant faithfulness and sovereignty over all nations.

Missionary Impulse
The mention of distant lands encourages believers to participate in global missions, spreading the knowledge of God's glory to all corners of the earth.

Praise in All Circumstances
Even in the context of judgment, as seen in Isaiah 24, believers are called to glorify God, trusting in His ultimate plan and purpose.

Cultural and Geographical Inclusivity
The inclusion of diverse regions highlights the inclusivity of God's kingdom, inviting all cultures and peoples to worship Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the call to glorify the LORD in the east and the islands challenge our understanding of worship and its geographical boundaries?

2. In what ways can we participate in spreading God's glory to the "islands of the sea" in our modern context?

3. How does recognizing God as the "God of Israel" deepen our understanding of His character and His relationship with His people?

4. What parallels can we draw between the call to glorify God in Isaiah 24:15 and the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19?

5. How can we maintain a posture of praise and glorification of God even amidst difficult circumstances, as suggested by the context of Isaiah 24?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 113:3
This verse speaks of the LORD's name being praised from the rising of the sun to its setting, similar to the call in Isaiah 24:15 to glorify God in the east and the islands.

Malachi 1:11
This passage prophesies that God's name will be great among the nations, echoing the theme of God's glory being recognized worldwide.

Matthew 28:19
The Great Commission to make disciples of all nations aligns with the call to glorify God in all places, including the distant islands.

Revelation 15:4
This verse speaks of all nations coming to worship before God, fulfilling the vision of His glory being acknowledged universally.