Study War No More, with Andrew Abernethy: Isaiah 2:2-5
Nov 13, 2023
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Andrew Abernethy, Professor of Old Testament and Director of the M.A. in Biblical Exegesis at Wheaton Graduate School, discusses the relevance of Isaiah 2:2-5 in a world filled with war. They explore the hope for God's peace to fill the nations, the belief in God as the ultimate king and judge, and the importance of following the Lord during difficult times. Contact information and mention of Wheaton College are provided.
God's ultimate plan is to bring peace to all nations, transforming weapons of war into instruments of peace.
Israel has a responsibility to live according to God's ways and promote peace as an example for others.
Deep dives
A vision of peace and transformation
Isaiah 2:2-5 presents a beautiful vision of a future where all nations will come to the mount of the Lord in Zion. They seek to be taught and guided by God, who will judge between nations and bring reproof. As a result of God's arbitration, nations will transform their weapons of war into instruments of peace, no longer engaging in conflict. This hopeful vision contrasts with the current state of the world, highlighting the message that things are not as they should be, but God will make all things new through his rule from Zion, teaching the nations to find peace.
The call to live in the light of the Lord
While the vision in Isaiah 2:2-5 speaks of a future reality, verse 5 emphasizes the present call to action. The prophet addresses the house of Jacob, urging them to walk in the light of the Lord. This mirrors the desire of the nations who will come to seek God's instruction and guidance. Israel, having received God's revelation, has the responsibility to live according to God's ways and promote peace in the world. By leaning into God's current instruction, Israel can set an example for others and contribute to the realization of the vision where all nations come to God and receive His arbitration for lasting peace.
Our current context of active wars in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and on the African continent makes it fitting to reflect on the prophet Isaiah’s exhortation to live now like people who hope for God’s peace to fill the nations. Dr. Andrew Abernethy is Professor of Old Testament and Director of the M.A. in Biblical Exegesis at Wheaton Graduate School. His most recent book is Savoring Scripture: A Six-Step Guide to Studying the Bible.