It is important at this point in Isaiah to be reminded of the history, the historical events that are going on at this time. King Ahaz died in 715 B. C. and his son, Hezekiah, assumed the throne.
In 703-701, King Sennacherib of Assyria came against Judah. Egypt was trying to regain its own independence as was Babylon to the east of Assyria. The Israelites were strongly tempted to form an alliance with Egypt against Assyria. That’s what we have pictured in the next few chapters, 28-33.
In chapter 28, Isaiah warns the northern tribes of Israel (called “Ephraim” after the largest tribe) that their “proud crown” and “glorious beauty” were going to be trodden under foot and fade away (vs 3-4). Instead, the Lord will be their beautiful crown, a glorious diadem (vs 5).
The wicked Jews, drunk on their deceitful religion, will have only vomit to eat, in contrast to the banquet that awaits those who will be faithful to the God of heaven (25:6). Smith comments: “some people are so blind that they do not realize that the nutritional value of the ‘spiritual food’ they are fed is not much better than vomit” (480).
It has been clear from very early in Isaiah that a fundamental problem of the Israelites is that they weren’t listening to God’s laws and commandments, statutes and judgments. So, here, Isaiah asks, “To whom will God share knowledge?” (vs 9). To those just weaned? To those recently taken from the breast? His teachings, to them, sounded like childhood gibberish. But, “to reject the word of God is not to escape it” (Motyer, 210).
Isaiah rebukes the leaders in verses 14-22. They claim they have made a covenant with death – that they will not die or be punished in the way that Isaiah has claimed. But, God is still in control.
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In Isaiah’s context, I believe this “stone” refers to God’s promise, perhaps even God’s promise to bless the world through Abraham but at least God’s promises He has often given that if Israel will stay faithful to God, He will stay faithful to them. But, it is also clear that this “stone” is a person, the fulfillment of God’s promises. You should recognize this verse being applied to Jesus by Paul (Romans 9:33) and Peter (1 Peter 2:6). A further idea utilizing this imagery is used by Paul in Ephesians 2:19-20.
Jesus is the cornerstone of God’s new spiritual temple, city, or kingdom (the Church). He is a tested, costly cornerstone, firmly placed into the foundation. The one who trusts in Him, rather than in man, will not be disturbed.
This Stone will bring into His kingdom (vs 17) “righteousness” (68x) and “justice (26x).” The only way to flee from God’s wrath is to flee to His mercy.
Isaiah is leading his Jewish audience (and us) to Jesus, the Christ.
–Paul Holland
