Elijah, distressed by the behavior of Israel, turns off the rain. The resulting drought sets up the remainder of his ministry.

When this creation has served its purpose, there will be a new Heaven and a new Earth. There peace will flow to Jerusalem like a river.

Writing over a century prior to the Babylonian exile, Isaiah writes of Israel's plea from exile. There they will acknowledge that God is the potter and they are clay in His hands. This expression of sincere contrition will be the catalyst that begins the process of restoration.

Upon His return, the Messiah will lead His army and will extract vengeance upon His enemies. Throughout Scripture, a winepress is associated with God's judgment upon the wicked. At the end of the chapter, there is a prayer for mercy and the return of the exiles.

Writing of the future restoration of Israel, Isaiah invokes images of the priests and Levites in the Wilderness camp. They were supported by the rest of the nation so that they could devote their time and energy to maintaining and serving in the Tabernacle. When Israel assumes its proper role as a nation of priests, they will be supported by the nations.

God rebukes Israel for not using the legal system to promote justice. Rather they are using the courts as simply another venue for social competition. In doing this they have woven a web of laws and regulations designed to ensnare the innocent. The same charge could be leveled against us today.

The prophet rhetorically asks who or what was so intimidating that Israel turned to idols rather than fearing God. Part of the answer is that God seemed remote and uncaring whereas idols offered immediate gratification.

Here God assures even gentiles and those who have no hope that He has a place for them in His kingdom. For Israelites, foreigners and eunuchs alike, a key is keeping the Sabbath.

God's promise for the restoration of Israel and Jerusalem. Just as He made a covenant never again to flood the earth, here He promises never again to be angry with His people.

This part of Isaiah speaks of the ministry of the Messiah. The shedding of His blood will serve to heal the sins of Israel and the nations.