Isaiah 48:11

For My own sake, My very own sake, I will act; for how can I let Myself be defamed? I will not yield My glory to another.

Study Bible

For My own sake, My very own sake, I will act;
This phrase emphasizes God's motivation for action, which is rooted in His own character and purposes. In the context of Isaiah, God is addressing the Israelites, who have been unfaithful. His actions are not just for their benefit but to uphold His own name and reputation. This reflects the biblical theme that God's ultimate purpose is His own glory (Ezekiel 20:9, 14, 22). The repetition underscores the importance and certainty of His actions. Historically, this is set during the Babylonian exile, a time when God's people needed reassurance of His sovereignty and faithfulness.

for how can I let Myself be defamed?
Here, God is concerned with His reputation among the nations. The defamation of God's name would occur if His promises to Israel were not fulfilled, suggesting that His power and faithfulness could be questioned. This reflects the cultural context of the ancient Near East, where the reputation of a deity was tied to the success and status of its people. Theologically, it highlights the importance of God's name and character, as seen in the Third Commandment (Exodus 20:7).

I will not yield My glory to another.
This statement asserts God's exclusive claim to glory, a recurring theme in Isaiah (Isaiah 42:8). It underscores the monotheistic belief that Yahweh alone is God, contrasting with the polytheistic practices surrounding Israel. This is a direct challenge to idolatry, which was prevalent in the ancient world. Theologically, it points to the uniqueness of God and His rightful place as the sole object of worship. In a typological sense, this foreshadows the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ, who shares in the divine glory (John 17:5), affirming the unity and exclusivity of the Godhead.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book bearing his name. He prophesied to the Kingdom of Judah and spoke of both judgment and redemption.

2. God (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, God is speaking about His own actions and motivations, emphasizing His sovereignty and the protection of His glory.

3. Israel
The nation to whom Isaiah is prophesying. They are often the subject of God's messages through Isaiah, including calls to repentance and promises of deliverance.

4. Babylonian Captivity
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of Isaiah 48 includes the impending Babylonian captivity, a significant event in Israel's history.

5. Glory
A key theme in this verse, referring to the honor and majesty that belong to God alone, which He will not share with idols or false gods.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Glory
God acts for His own sake, underscoring His sovereignty and the importance of His glory. Believers are called to recognize and honor God's supreme authority in their lives.

The Jealousy of God
God's refusal to share His glory with another highlights His jealousy for His name. Christians should be vigilant against idolatry in all its forms, ensuring that God alone is glorified.

God's Faithfulness to His Name
God's actions are consistent with His character and promises. Believers can trust in God's faithfulness and His commitment to His own glory, which assures us of His reliability.

The Call to Reflect God's Glory
As image-bearers of God, Christians are called to reflect His glory in their lives. This involves living in a way that honors God and points others to His majesty.

The Assurance of God's Action
God's declaration that He will act for His own sake provides assurance that His purposes will prevail. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God's plans are unstoppable and for His glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's motivation for His own glory impact your view of His actions in your life?

2. In what ways can you ensure that you are not giving God's glory to another in your daily life?

3. How does the theme of God's glory in Isaiah 48:11 connect with the New Testament understanding of Jesus' exaltation?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to reflect God's glory in your community?

5. How does the assurance of God's action for His own sake provide comfort and confidence in uncertain times?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:5
This verse connects to the theme of God's jealousy for His glory, as He commands that no other gods be worshiped.

Isaiah 42:8
Similar to Isaiah 48:11, this verse emphasizes that God will not give His glory to another, reinforcing His unique divinity.

Ezekiel 36:22-23
These verses highlight God's actions for the sake of His holy name, paralleling the motivation expressed in Isaiah 48:11.

Philippians 2:9-11
In the New Testament, the exaltation of Jesus Christ is described as bringing glory to God, showing the continuity of God's glory being central to His actions.

Revelation 4:11
This verse speaks to the worthiness of God to receive glory, honor, and power, echoing the themes of divine glory found in Isaiah.