Known by Name: God's Redemption and Witness
The beautiful words of Isaiah 43, which reveal to us the depth of God's love, His redemptive power, and His call to be His witnesses.
A redemption from physical and spiritual bondage as well as the eschatologicalredemption yet to come (43:5-7; 44:22; 49:16-17). In addition to redeeming Israel, God alsoannounces that “all the nations” (Gentiles), will be gathered to Him for salvation
In these verses, we discover that God knows us intimately, leads us through trials, and calls us to be witnesses of His glorious name.
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I. God Knows and Calls His Children by Name (Isaiah 43:1)
Isaiah 43:1 begins with a powerful statement: "But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.'" This verse reminds us that God knows us personally and intimately. He calls us by name, signifying a deep, personal relationship with each of His children.
- The importance of responding to God’s call boldly (Jeremiah 1:4-8; Eph. 6:19)
II. Passing Through Water and Fire (Isaiah 43:2)
Verse 2 continues with an assurance that when we pass through deep waters or face the fire of trials, God is with us. He promises not to let the waters overwhelm us nor the flames consume us. This verse is a reminder that God's presence sustains us through life's most challenging moments.
The passage of Moses’ and Joshua’s generations through the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22), andthe Jordan River (Joshua 3:14-17), and the preservation of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-negoin the fiery furnace, illustrate His care for Israel
- In this world we will have tribulation - John 16:33
- God will meet our needs if we first seek His kingdom and righteousness - Mt 6:33
- Jesus will never abandon or abandon us - Mt 28:20; Heb. 13:5
- We can learn to be content - Phil 4:11-12
III. Redemption and Salvation (Isaiah 43:3)
Isaiah 43:3 emphasizes God's redemptive power: "For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." God not only knows us but also redeems us from sin and its consequences. He is our Savior, offering us salvation and eternal life through His grace.
- He came to redeem humanity from sin (Mt. 1:21; Lk. 19:10)
- He became a man (John 1:14; Phil. 2: 5-8; Heb. 2: 14-15)
- He paid the price in blood (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 1:18-19)
- He was willing to die (Mt. 20:28; Jn. 10:15; Hb 10: 7,10)
- He was free from the guilt of sin (2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:22,24)
IV. There Is No Other God (Isaiah 43:10-11)
In verses 10 and 11, we find a profound declaration: "You are my witnesses," declares the Lord, "and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after me. I, I am the Lord, and besides me, there is no savior." God calls His people to be His witnesses, testifying to His uniqueness and the fact that He alone is the Savior of the world.
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V. Forgiveness and Renewal (Isaiah 43:25)
Verse 25 speaks of God's forgiveness and renewal: "I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins." God's forgiveness is not based on our merits but on His grace. He cleanses us from our sins and offers us a fresh start.
VI. Witnesses of God (Isaiah 43:10)
Finally, we return to the idea of being witnesses of God. In Isaiah 43:10, we are reminded that God has chosen us to be His witnesses. Our lives, transformed by His grace, should bear witness to His love, mercy, and salvation. We are called to share the good news of Christ with the world.
It's wonderful to talk about God's goodness, love and mercy.
- To tell the spiritually sick about the Great Physician. Matthew 9:12.
- To count death from eternal life. John 3:16.
- To tell the lost of a Savior. Luke 19:10; 1 Peter 1:3-9.
- To tell everyone about a better world they can go to and live in if they so choose. Revelation 21.
- Sermon on Psalm 46: My Refuge and Strength is in the Lord
- Sermon on John 15: The True Vine and its Fruit
- Sermon on Ezekiel 37: The Valley of Dry Bones and the Miracle of Restoration
Conclusion:
As we reflect on Isaiah 43, let us remember that God knows us intimately, redeems us completely, and calls us to be His witnesses. He walks with us through the trials of life, forgives our sins, and offers us new life in Christ. May our lives be a testimony to the world that there is no other God but the Lord, our Savior and Redeemer.
Let us embrace our calling as witnesses of God's love, sharing the hope and salvation found in Christ with those around us. In doing so, we fulfill our purpose and bring glory to His name.