Isaiah 59 Turning Rebels into Righteous Christians

The bulk of Isaiah 59 describes the terrible state of God's people (cf. Isaiah 59:1-2). Then, in Isaiah 59:16 God steps in to do what human beings could not do. Theology is being conveyed through prophetic description (what God promises to do for His people). So we have to ask ourselves: "Is this description true to some extent now in our lives?" However, before we get to our response, we should note Isaiah 59:17. Long before Paul instructs Christians to put on the whole armor of God (cf. Ephesians 6:11, 13), Isaiah tells us that our God put on the armor. The clothing tells what God was going to do--bring righteousness and salvation to His people. While God is ready to do battle against his enemies (cf. Isaiah 59:17-18), He is also ready to deliver those who repent (cf. Isaiah 59:20). Isaiah 59:21 explains what is true of every repentant Christian. It's time to ask ourselves in church whether we'll be on the receiving end of "repayment to his enemies" or "a Redeemer...to those...who turn from transgression." Isaiah continues his assault on all who profess faith in Christ, but do not show evidence of a living faith at work. We have the desire and capacity for righteous living because, on the cross, our Savior experienced God's wrath aimed at his adversaries (cf. Isaiah 59:18).