King James Version
What Does Isaiah 41:4 Mean?
“Who hath wrought and done it, calling the generations from the beginning? I the LORD, the first, and with the last; I am he.”
Context
2
Who raised up the righteous man from the east, called him to his foot, gave the nations before him, and made him rule over kings? he gave them as the dust to his sword, and as driven stubble to his bow. the righteous: Heb. righteousness
3
He pursued them, and passed safely; even by the way that he had not gone with his feet. safely: Heb. in peace
4
Who hath wrought and done it, calling the generations from the beginning? I the LORD, the first, and with the last; I am he.
5
The isles saw it, and feared; the ends of the earth were afraid, drew near, and came.
6
They helped every one his neighbour; and every one said to his brother, Be of good courage. Be: Heb. Be strong
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **I the** **Lord . . .**—The words are the utterance of the great thought of eternity which is the essence of the creed of Israel (comp. Exodus 3:14; Psalm 90:2; Psalm 102:26), and appear in the Alpha and Omega of Revelation 1:11; Revelation 4:8. The identical formula, “I am He” meets us in Isaiah 43:10; Isaiah 43:13; Isaiah 46:4; Isaiah 48:12. It is probably used as an assertion of an eternal being in the “I AM” of John 8:58.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Isaiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Isaiah 41:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Isaiah 41:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge