ISB ~ Luke 3 v4 - 6

Isaiah’s words announce the restoration of Israel and the world (Is 40:3-5). John is the desert voice calling Israel to prepare for the Lord’s coming. Just as roads were improved for the procession of ancient kings, so John prepares for Jesus’ arrival and the salvation of all flesh.

• By citing the opening chapter of Isaiah’s central section (chaps. 40-55), Luke cues an entire symphony of biblical promises to be fulfilled by the Lord. He will rescue the poor and oppressed (Is 41:17; 42:7; 49:13), pour out the Spirit (44:3), restore Israel (43:5-7; 48:20; 49:5), come to Jerusalem as King (40:9-10; 52:7-10), destroy his enemies (41:11-13; 47:1-15), and show mercy to his children (43:25; 44:22; 55:7). At the summit of this stands the messianic Servant, whose mission is to bless the nations (42:1-4; 49:1-6) and atone for sin (50:4-9; 52:13-53:12). All of this is fulfilled by Jesus (2:32; 22:37; 24:46; Acts 3:13).