6Also the foreigners who join themselves to Yahweh to serve him, and to love Yahweh’s name, to be his servants, everyone who keeps the Sabbath from profaning it, and holds fast my covenant,
7I will bring these to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for all peoples.”
6 Also the foreigners who join themselves to Yahweh to serve him, and to love Yahweh’s name, to be his servants, everyone who keeps the Sabbath from profaning it, and holds fast my covenant,
7 I will bring these to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for all peoples.”
KJVKing James Version
6 Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the LORD, to serve him, and to love the name of the LORD, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant;
7 Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.
Show all 3 translations
JPSJPS Tanakh (1917)
6 Also the aliens, that join themselves to the LORD, to minister unto Him, and to love the name of the LORD, to be His servants, every one that keepeth the sabbath from profaning it, and holdeth fast by My covenant:
7 Even them will I bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer; their burnt-offerings and their sacrifices shall be acceptable upon Mine altar; for My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.
Mark 11:17(v7)He taught, saying to them, “Isn’t it written, ‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations?’ But you have made it a den…
Isaiah 2:2-3(v7)It shall happen in the latter days, that the mountain of Yahweh’s house shall be established on the top of the mountains, and shall be…
Malachi 1:11(v7)For from the rising of the sun even to its going down, my name is great among the nations, and in every place incense will be offered to my…
Luke 19:46(v7)saying to them, “It is written, ‘My house is a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a ‘den of robbers’!”
Matthew 21:13(v7)He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a den of robbers!”
Show all 36 cross-references
Micah 4:1-2(v7)But in the latter days, it will happen that the mountain of Yahweh’s temple will be established on the top of the mountains, and it will be…
Romans 12:1(v7)Therefore I urge you, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your…
Psalms 2:6(v7)“Yet I have set my King on my holy hill of Zion.”
Jeremiah 50:5(v6)They will inquire concerning Zion with their faces turned toward it, saying, ‘Come, and join yourselves to Yahweh in an everlasting…
Ephesians 2:11-13(v7)Therefore remember that once you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called “uncircumcision” by that which is called “circumcision” (in the…
John 4:21-23(v7)Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe me, the hour comes, when neither in this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, will you worship the Father. You…
Hebrews 12:22(v7)But you have come to Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable multitudes of angels,
Isaiah 56:2-4(v6)Blessed is the man who does this, and the son of man who holds it fast; who keeps the Sabbath without profaning it and keeps his hand from…
Isaiah 58:13(v6)“If you turn away your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on my holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight, and the holy of…
Zechariah 8:3(v7)Yahweh says: “I have returned to Zion, and will dwell in the middle of Jerusalem. Jerusalem shall be called ‘The City of Truth;’ and the…
Isaiah 44:5(v6)One will say, ‘I am Yahweh’s;’ and another will be called by the name of Jacob; and another will write with his hand ‘to Yahweh,’ and honor…
John 12:20-26(v7)Now there were certain Greeks among those that went up to worship at the feast. These, therefore, came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of…
Galatians 5:6(v6)For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision amounts to anything, nor uncircumcision, but faith working through love.
1 Timothy 2:8(v7)I desire therefore that the men in every place pray, lifting up holy hands without anger and doubting.
Hebrews 13:15(v7)Through him, then, let’s offer up a sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of lips which proclaim allegiance to his…
James 2:5(v6)Listen, my beloved brothers. Didn’t God choose those who are poor in this world to be rich in faith, and heirs of the Kingdom which he…
1 Peter 2:5(v7)You also, as living stones, are built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God…
Isaiah 66:19-20(v7)“I will set a sign among them, and I will send those who escape of them to the nations, to Tarshish, Pul, and Lud, who draw the bow, to…
Mark 12:30-34(v6)you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is…
Acts 2:41(v6)Then those who gladly received his word were baptized. There were added that day about three thousand souls.
Revelation 1:10(v6)I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I heard behind me a loud voice, like a trumpet
Isaiah 60:10(v6)“Foreigners will build up your walls, and their kings will serve you: for in my wrath I struck you, but in my favor I have had mercy on you.
Isaiah 61:5(v6)Strangers will stand and feed your flocks. Foreigners will work your fields and your vineyards.
Acts 11:23(v6)who, when he had come, and had seen the grace of God, was glad. He exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they should remain near to…
Romans 8:28(v6)We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose.
1 Corinthians 16:22(v6)If any man doesn’t love the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be cursed. Come, Lord!
2 Corinthians 8:5(v6)This was not as we had expected, but first they gave their own selves to the Lord, and to us through the will of God.
Ephesians 6:24(v6)Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love. Amen.
1 Thessalonians 1:9-10(v6)For they themselves report concerning us what kind of a reception we had from you, and how you turned to God from idols, to serve a living…
James 1:12(v6)Blessed is a person who endures temptation, for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life, which the Lord promised to…
1 Peter 1:1-2(v7)Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the chosen ones who are living as foreigners in the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia,…
Cross-references from openbible.info (CC BY 4.0)
Explain this passage (17 sources)
Historical commentary, presented as a primary source — not an endorsement.
Geneva Bible translators1599 · Public DomainOn v7Not only for the Jews, but for all others,…
Not only for the Jews, but for all others, Matt. 21:13.
Hereby he meaneth the spiritual service of God, to whom the faithful offer continual thanksgiving, yea themselves and all that they have, as a lively and acceptable sacrifice.
Geneva Bible (1599) marginal notes — public domain.
John Trapp1656 · Public DomainOn vv6–7Isa 56:6 Also the sons of the stranger, that…
Isa 56:6 Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the LORD, to serve him, and to love the name of the LORD, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant;
Ver. 6. Also the sons of the stranger that joineth.] Relinquishing his heathenish superstition, and devoting himself to my fear. The Levites had their name from the word here used; and leviathan, whose scales and parts are so fast joined and jointed together.
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To love the name of the Lord, to be his servants.] Plato could say, Parere legibus est Deo servire: et haec summa est libertas, To obey the laws, is to serve God; and this is the chiefest liberty, this is perfect freedom. But Plato never knew what it was to love to be God’s servant. Lex voluntarios quaerit, saith Ambrose. {a} All God’s soldiers are volunteers, all his people free hearted; {Psa 110:3} they wait for his law. {Isa 42:8 Deu 10:12}
Every one that keepeth the Sabbath.] See on Isa 56:2.
{a} In Psalm i.
John Trapp, A Commentary or Exposition upon All the Books of the Old and New Testament (1647–1656) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Matthew Poole1685 · Public DomainOn vv6–7That join themselves to the Lord; that with purpose…
That join themselves to the Lord; that with purpose of heart cleave unto him, as is said, Act 11:23.
To serve him, and to love the name of the Lord; to serve him out of love to him, and to his worship.
Matthew Poole's English Annotations on the Holy Bible (1683–1685) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
John Gill1763 · Public DomainOn vv6–7Also the sons of the stranger that join themselves…
Also the sons of the stranger that join themselves to the Lord,.... Having answered the objection and removed the discouragement of the eunuch, he now returns to the sons of the stranger, who also join themselves to the Lord, as the eunuch had done; see Isa 56:4 and who do this,
to serve him, and to love the name of the Lord, to be his servants; who give up themselves to him, not only to be saved by him, but to serve him in righteousness and holiness, with reverence and godly fear, and from a principle of love to him; being heartily desirous, and accounting it an honour, to be his servants:
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everyone that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant; See Gill on Isa 56:4.
John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible (1746–1763) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
John Wesley1765 · Public DomainOn v7Mountain - To my house, which stood upon Mount…
Mountain - To my house, which stood upon Mount Zion. Joyful - By accepting their services, and comforting their hearts with the sense of my love. Accepted - They shall have as free access to mine house and altar, as the Jews themselves, and their services shall be as acceptable to me. Evangelical worship is here described under such expressions as agreed to the worship of God which then was in use.
John Wesley, Explanatory Notes Upon the Whole Bible (1754–1765) — public domain. Text via the GEBible commentary corpus.
Adam Clarke1810 · Public DomainOn vv6–7Verse 6. The sons of the stranger] The Gentiles.
Verse 6. The sons of the stranger] The Gentiles.
That join themselves to the Lord] Who shall enter into the Christian covenant by baptism and faith in Christ, as the Jews and proselytes did by circumcision.
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To serve him] To live according to the Gospel, and ever do that which is right in the sight of the Lord.
To love the name of the Lord] The name of JESUS, the Christ, the Saviour of sinners, the Anointed of God, and the Giver of the Holy Spirit to his followers.
To be his servants] To worship no other God but JEHOVAH, and to trust in none for salvation but his CHRIST.
That keepeth the Sabbath] That observes it as a type of the rest that remains for the people of God.
And taketh hold of my covenant] בבריתי biberithi, "of my covenant sacrifice;" as without this he can do nothing good; and without it nothing can be acceptable to the infinite majesty of the Most High.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible (1810–1826) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Joseph Benson1811 · Public DomainOn v6Isa 56:6-7. The sons of the stranger that join…
Isa 56:6-7. The sons of the stranger that join themselves to the Lord — That with purpose of heart cleave unto him, as is said Act 11:23. To love the Lord, to be his servants — To serve him out of love to him and to his worship. Them will I bring to my holy mountain — To my house which stood upon mount Zion, including mount Moriah; and make them joyful — By accepting their services, and comforting their hearts with the sense of my love; in my house of prayer — In my temple, in and toward which prayers are daily made unto me. Their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar — They shall have as free access to my house and altar as the Jews themselves, and their services shall be as acceptable to me. Evangelical worship is here described under such expressions as agreed to the worship of God which was then in use. My house shall be called a house of prayer for all people — Jews and Gentiles shall have equal freedom to my house, and shall there call upon my name. “The temple was originally designed for strangers as well as Jews, as a place to offer up their prayers to the Divine Majesty; which is sufficiently plain from the prayer of Solomon, at the dedication of it, though the number of proselytes was small till the time of the second temple. But there can be no doubt that this verse alludes particularly to the conversion of the Gentiles. This truth could not be told the Jewish people otherwise than by using terms taken from rites familiar to them, unless the nature of the Christian dispensation had been previously explained; a matter evidently unfit for their information, when they were yet to live so long under the Jewish law. For though the prophets speak of the little value of their regard to the ceremonial law, they easily make themselves understood, that they mean, when it was observed without the moral law; which they describe in the purity and perfection of the gospel. So admirable was this conduct, that while it hid the future dispensation it prepared men for it.” — Bishop Warburton’s Div. Leg. Upon the whole, the reader may observe, “that the principal scope of this paragraph is to teach that all the privileges of the covenant of grace should be common to all, without distinction of nation, state, or condition; that God would distribute to all believers, according to the measure of their grace, equal gifts, as our Lord hath taught in the parable of the labourers in the vineyard, Matthew 20.”
Joseph Benson's Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1811–1818) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Albert Barnes1834 · Public DomainOn vv6–7Also the sons of the stranger - (see the…
Also the sons of the stranger - (see the note at Isa 56:3). The conditions on which they should be admitted to the same privileges are specified, and are the following:
1. They were to ‘join themselves to the Lord’ (see the note at Isa 56:3).
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2. This should be with a purpose to ‘serve him.’ Their aim and design should be to keep his commandments and to do his will.
3. They were to ‘love the name of the Lord;’ that is, to love Yahweh himself, for the ‘name’ of the Lord is often used as denoting the Lord himself.
4. They were to keep his sabbaths (see the notes at Isa 56:4).
5. They were to take hold of his covenant (see the notes at Isa 56:4).
On these conditions the sons of the foreigner were to be admitted to all the privileges of the children of God, and to be united with all who love and serve him.
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible (1834–1885) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Haydock's Catholic Bible Commentary1859 · Public DomainOn v7Prayer. So the temple is justly styled. (Haydock) ---…
Prayer. So the temple is justly styled. (Haydock) --- This shall be open to all nations. After the captivity, the Jews condescended to let the Gentiles have a court, and they even suffered some princes to go into the court of the priests, 2 Machabees iii. 33. Physcon wished to penetrate into the inner sanctuary, (3 Machabees; Ecclesiasticus l.) which could not be granted.
George Leo Haydock (1774–1849), Haydock's Catholic Family Bible and Commentary, 1859 edition — public domain. Excludes Psalms (Douay-Rheims chapter numbering differs from Protestant) and Deuterocanonical books (Catholic canon only).
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown1871 · Public DomainOn vv6–7join . . . Lord-- (Jer 50:6). Conditions of…
join . . . Lord-- (Jer 50:6). Conditions of admission to the privileges of adoption.
Jamieson, Fausset & Brown — Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
Daniel D. Whedon1874 · Public DomainOn v66, 7. Stranger — Again, Gentiles throughout the world…
6, 7. Stranger — Again, Gentiles throughout the world are more than urged and invited — they are made welcome with outstretched arms, if seen coming, even before invitation, “to the mountain of the Lord’s house.” Only a sense of penitence and spiritual want could influence their steps thitherward.
Daniel D. Whedon (gen. ed.), Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1874–1909) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges1878 · Public DomainOn vv6–76, 7. The answer to the misgivings of proselytes…
6, 7. The answer to the misgivings of proselytes (Isa_56:3).
to serve him] Better as R.V. to minister unto him. The verb is used of honourable personal service (Gen_39:4; Gen_40:4), and especially of the priestly service of God at the sanctuary. It is found again in ch. Isa_60:7; Isa_60:10, Isa_61:6.
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to love the name of the Lord] Cf. Deu_6:5; Deu_11:1, &c.
to be his servants] i.e. worshippers (a different word from that used above).
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges (gen. ed. J. J. S. Perowne; Cambridge University Press, 1878–1918) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers1878 · Public DomainOn vv6–7(6) Also the sons of the stranger . .…
(6) Also the sons of the stranger . . .—Proselytes also were to share in the blessings of the wider covenant. The words “to serve him” have been referred to some menial offices like that of the Nethinim, “hewers of wood and drawers of water” (Jos_9:27; Ezr_8:20). The usage of the word, however, limits it to honourable functions. The germ of Isaiah’s thought appears in Solomon’s dedication prayer (1Ki_8:41-43). It receives its highest development (in its entire separation from the building with which there and here it is associated), in Joh_4:23. Comp. a further emancipation from the bondage of the law in Isa_66:21.
A Bible Commentary for English Readers, edited by Charles John Ellicott (1878–1897) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Pulpit Commentary1880 · Public DomainOn vv6–7Also the sons of the stranger (comp. ver. 3).…
Also the sons of the stranger (comp. ver. 3). The proselytes shall not be treated as they fear. On the contrary, God will treat them in exactly the same way as his original people will conduct them to Palestine, settle them in his "holy mountain," admit them to the temple services, accept their burnt offerings and their sacrifices. All this will be a foretaste of their position in the Christian Church, where there will be neither Jew nor Gentile, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision, but a community where all are brethren and all have equal privileges.
HOMILIES BY W.M. STATHAM Ver. 6. Service.
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"The sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the Lord, to serve him," etc. This word is often degraded in human speech. "Service" is con-sidereal humiliating, and only mastership is glorious. But "the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister." We are all of us debtors to others; we owe them much, and we owe Christ all.
I SERVICE CALLS OUT WHAT IS BEST IN MEN.
1. Their unselfishness.
2. Their heroism.
3. Their patience.
II SERVICE CHARACTERIZES THE NOBLEST AND THE BEST OF MEN.
1. Think of the world"s great leaders.
2. Think of the Church"s sufferers and martyrs.
III SERVICE IS EMBODIED IN MANY FORMS. There is a service of gift; a service of speech; a service of submission. "They also serve who only stand and wait.
All God"s universe is alive with blest activity. The idler is out of harmony with the entire creation of God. W.M.S.
The Pulpit Commentary (1880–1919), ed. H.D.M. Spence-Jones & Joseph S. Exell — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Biblical Illustrator1887 · Public DomainOn vv6–7Also the sons of the stranger
Isa_56:6-7
Also the sons of the stranger
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Gentiles enjoying Gods favour
This is a clear prophecy of the call of the Gentiles into the Church of Christ.
Let us attend to this description of those who are objects of the Divine favour, and entitled to the privileges of His house.
1. They join themselves to the Lord. This supposes a former distance and alienation from Him. But that is removed by humble repentance and returning to the Lord. It includes, renouncing all their idols; forsaking all their sin, everything contrary to the nature and will of God: a deliberate choice of Him, as their portion and felicity; and of His people, as their friends and associates.
2. The design of their thus joining themselves unto the Lord is to serve Him. This is further expressed in the phrase, to be His servants; not only to serve Him occasionally, or for a while, but perpetually; to adhere to Him and His ways, from a deep conviction that nothing can be more reasonable, important, and advantageous than to hear what He saith, and to do it.
3. It is added, and to love the name of the Lord. They take delight in His service; they perform it not from fear and a servile dread, but from a sincere and strong affection. They love His name; that is, they love him, His worship and His ways, and pursue His work with delight. It is opposed to narrow; selfish, mercenary views, which render the service less acceptable and comfortable. They esteem it their meat and drink to do His will.
4. Another thing-expected from Gods people is, that they keep His Sabbath from polluting it. This is an essential character, a distinguishing mark, of good men.
5. Gods people take hold of His covenant. They enter into serious, deliberate, solemn engagements to observe and keep His laws, in order to obtain the blessings which He hath promised; and which, in so doing, they cheerfully expect. They take hold of it; which implies a hearty consent to Gods terms, a cheerful approbation and acceptance of them and delight in them. It likewise implies a steady resolution. They take hold of it, as those who are determined not to let it go. (J. Orton.)
The rewards of Gods servants
The text--
I. HOLDS OUT UNIVERSAL ENCOURAGEMENT TO MAN.
1. By the transfer of the priesthood from Aaron to Christ.
2. By the change of sacrifice. From the blood of bulls and of goats to the precious blood of the Son of God.
3. By the removal of place. From Jerusalem to the temple of the universe.
4. By a change of worship. From ritual to spiritual. What an encouraging prospect! (Eph_2:11-22.)
II. INCULCATES UNIVERSAL PIETY, Piety in heart and practice. The duties enumerated may be divided into three classes.
1. Those which relate to Christ, expressed by taking hold of His covenant--accepting--agreeing to it.
2. Those which relate to God as the Governor of the world.
(1) His servants.
(2) Walk by His laws.
(3) Keep His Sabbaths.
3. Those which relate to the Church.
III. PROMISES UNIVERSAL HAPPINESS.
1. Access to heaven. I will bring them to My holy mountain.
2. Joyfulness in His service. I will make them joyful in My house of prayer.
3. The Divine acceptance of their religious engagements. Their burnt-offerings and sacrifices shall be accepted upon Mine altar. (R. Watson.)
The Biblical Illustrator, edited by Joseph S. Exell (c. 1880s–1900s) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
unfoldingWord translationNotes2017 · CC BY-SA 4.0On v6who join themselves to Yahweh
who join themselves to Yahweh
This refers to foreigners who have joined Yahweh's people.
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who love the name of Yahweh
Yahweh's "name" represents himself. AT: "who love Yahweh" (See: Metonymy)
holy mountain
See how you translated this in Isaiah 11:9.
will be accepted on my altar
This can be stated in active form. AT: "I will accept on my altar" (See: Active or Passive)
my house will be called a house of prayer
This can be stated in active form. AT: "my house will be a house of prayer" (See: Active or Passive)
Tyndale Open Study Notes2022 · CC BY-SA 4.0On vv6–756:6 The essential ingredient for covenant fellowship is love…
56:6 The essential ingredient for covenant fellowship is love for God (Deut 6:5; 30:20; Matt 22:34-38). • Keeping the Sabbath is a sign of keeping the covenant itself (see Exod 31:13-17).
GEBible — Godless Engineer's Bible App
Geneva Bible translators 1599 · Public Domain On v7 Not only for the Jews, but for all others,…
Not only for the Jews, but for all others, Matt. 21:13.
Hereby he meaneth the spiritual service of God, to whom the faithful offer continual thanksgiving, yea themselves and all that they have, as a lively and acceptable sacrifice.
Geneva Bible (1599) marginal notes — public domain.
John Trapp 1656 · Public Domain On vv6–7 Isa 56:6 Also the sons of the stranger, that…
Isa 56:6 Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the LORD, to serve him, and to love the name of the LORD, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant;
Ver. 6. Also the sons of the stranger that joineth.] Relinquishing his heathenish superstition, and devoting himself to my fear. The Levites had their name from the word here used; and leviathan, whose scales and parts are so fast joined and jointed together.
Read full note →
To love the name of the Lord, to be his servants.] Plato could say, Parere legibus est Deo servire: et haec summa est libertas, To obey the laws, is to serve God; and this is the chiefest liberty, this is perfect freedom. But Plato never knew what it was to love to be God’s servant. Lex voluntarios quaerit, saith Ambrose. {a} All God’s soldiers are volunteers, all his people free hearted; {Psa 110:3} they wait for his law. {Isa 42:8 Deu 10:12}
Every one that keepeth the Sabbath.] See on Isa 56:2.
{a} In Psalm i.
John Trapp, A Commentary or Exposition upon All the Books of the Old and New Testament (1647–1656) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Matthew Poole 1685 · Public Domain On vv6–7 That join themselves to the Lord; that with purpose…
That join themselves to the Lord; that with purpose of heart cleave unto him, as is said, Act 11:23.
To serve him, and to love the name of the Lord; to serve him out of love to him, and to his worship.
Matthew Poole's English Annotations on the Holy Bible (1683–1685) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
John Gill 1763 · Public Domain On vv6–7 Also the sons of the stranger that join themselves…
Also the sons of the stranger that join themselves to the Lord,.... Having answered the objection and removed the discouragement of the eunuch, he now returns to the sons of the stranger, who also join themselves to the Lord, as the eunuch had done; see Isa 56:4 and who do this,
to serve him, and to love the name of the Lord, to be his servants; who give up themselves to him, not only to be saved by him, but to serve him in righteousness and holiness, with reverence and godly fear, and from a principle of love to him; being heartily desirous, and accounting it an honour, to be his servants:
Read full note →
everyone that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant; See Gill on Isa 56:4.
John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible (1746–1763) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
John Wesley 1765 · Public Domain On v7 Mountain - To my house, which stood upon Mount…
Mountain - To my house, which stood upon Mount Zion. Joyful - By accepting their services, and comforting their hearts with the sense of my love. Accepted - They shall have as free access to mine house and altar, as the Jews themselves, and their services shall be as acceptable to me. Evangelical worship is here described under such expressions as agreed to the worship of God which then was in use.
John Wesley, Explanatory Notes Upon the Whole Bible (1754–1765) — public domain. Text via the GEBible commentary corpus.
Adam Clarke 1810 · Public Domain On vv6–7 Verse 6. The sons of the stranger] The Gentiles.
Verse 6. The sons of the stranger] The Gentiles.
That join themselves to the Lord] Who shall enter into the Christian covenant by baptism and faith in Christ, as the Jews and proselytes did by circumcision.
Read full note →
To serve him] To live according to the Gospel, and ever do that which is right in the sight of the Lord.
To love the name of the Lord] The name of JESUS, the Christ, the Saviour of sinners, the Anointed of God, and the Giver of the Holy Spirit to his followers.
To be his servants] To worship no other God but JEHOVAH, and to trust in none for salvation but his CHRIST.
That keepeth the Sabbath] That observes it as a type of the rest that remains for the people of God.
And taketh hold of my covenant] בבריתי biberithi, "of my covenant sacrifice;" as without this he can do nothing good; and without it nothing can be acceptable to the infinite majesty of the Most High.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible (1810–1826) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Joseph Benson 1811 · Public Domain On v6 Isa 56:6-7. The sons of the stranger that join…
Isa 56:6-7. The sons of the stranger that join themselves to the Lord — That with purpose of heart cleave unto him, as is said Act 11:23. To love the Lord, to be his servants — To serve him out of love to him and to his worship. Them will I bring to my holy mountain — To my house which stood upon mount Zion, including mount Moriah; and make them joyful — By accepting their services, and comforting their hearts with the sense of my love; in my house of prayer — In my temple, in and toward which prayers are daily made unto me. Their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar — They shall have as free access to my house and altar as the Jews themselves, and their services shall be as acceptable to me. Evangelical worship is here described under such expressions as agreed to the worship of God which was then in use. My house shall be called a house of prayer for all people — Jews and Gentiles shall have equal freedom to my house, and shall there call upon my name. “The temple was originally designed for strangers as well as Jews, as a place to offer up their prayers to the Divine Majesty; which is sufficiently plain from the prayer of Solomon, at the dedication of it, though the number of proselytes was small till the time of the second temple. But there can be no doubt that this verse alludes particularly to the conversion of the Gentiles. This truth could not be told the Jewish people otherwise than by using terms taken from rites familiar to them, unless the nature of the Christian dispensation had been previously explained; a matter evidently unfit for their information, when they were yet to live so long under the Jewish law. For though the prophets speak of the little value of their regard to the ceremonial law, they easily make themselves understood, that they mean, when it was observed without the moral law; which they describe in the purity and perfection of the gospel. So admirable was this conduct, that while it hid the future dispensation it prepared men for it.” — Bishop Warburton’s Div. Leg. Upon the whole, the reader may observe, “that the principal scope of this paragraph is to teach that all the privileges of the covenant of grace should be common to all, without distinction of nation, state, or condition; that God would distribute to all believers, according to the measure of their grace, equal gifts, as our Lord hath taught in the parable of the labourers in the vineyard, Matthew 20.”
Joseph Benson's Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1811–1818) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Albert Barnes 1834 · Public Domain On vv6–7 Also the sons of the stranger - (see the…
Also the sons of the stranger - (see the note at Isa 56:3). The conditions on which they should be admitted to the same privileges are specified, and are the following:
1. They were to ‘join themselves to the Lord’ (see the note at Isa 56:3).
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2. This should be with a purpose to ‘serve him.’ Their aim and design should be to keep his commandments and to do his will.
3. They were to ‘love the name of the Lord;’ that is, to love Yahweh himself, for the ‘name’ of the Lord is often used as denoting the Lord himself.
4. They were to keep his sabbaths (see the notes at Isa 56:4).
5. They were to take hold of his covenant (see the notes at Isa 56:4).
On these conditions the sons of the foreigner were to be admitted to all the privileges of the children of God, and to be united with all who love and serve him.
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible (1834–1885) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Haydock's Catholic Bible Commentary 1859 · Public Domain On v7 Prayer. So the temple is justly styled. (Haydock) ---…
Prayer. So the temple is justly styled. (Haydock) --- This shall be open to all nations. After the captivity, the Jews condescended to let the Gentiles have a court, and they even suffered some princes to go into the court of the priests, 2 Machabees iii. 33. Physcon wished to penetrate into the inner sanctuary, (3 Machabees; Ecclesiasticus l.) which could not be granted.
George Leo Haydock (1774–1849), Haydock's Catholic Family Bible and Commentary, 1859 edition — public domain. Excludes Psalms (Douay-Rheims chapter numbering differs from Protestant) and Deuterocanonical books (Catholic canon only).
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown 1871 · Public Domain On vv6–7 join . . . Lord-- (Jer 50:6). Conditions of…
join . . . Lord-- (Jer 50:6). Conditions of admission to the privileges of adoption.
Jamieson, Fausset & Brown — Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
Daniel D. Whedon 1874 · Public Domain On v6 6, 7. Stranger — Again, Gentiles throughout the world…
6, 7. Stranger — Again, Gentiles throughout the world are more than urged and invited — they are made welcome with outstretched arms, if seen coming, even before invitation, “to the mountain of the Lord’s house.” Only a sense of penitence and spiritual want could influence their steps thitherward.
Daniel D. Whedon (gen. ed.), Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1874–1909) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges 1878 · Public Domain On vv6–7 6, 7. The answer to the misgivings of proselytes…
6, 7. The answer to the misgivings of proselytes (Isa_56:3).
to serve him] Better as R.V. to minister unto him. The verb is used of honourable personal service (Gen_39:4; Gen_40:4), and especially of the priestly service of God at the sanctuary. It is found again in ch. Isa_60:7; Isa_60:10, Isa_61:6.
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to love the name of the Lord] Cf. Deu_6:5; Deu_11:1, &c.
to be his servants] i.e. worshippers (a different word from that used above).
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges (gen. ed. J. J. S. Perowne; Cambridge University Press, 1878–1918) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers 1878 · Public Domain On vv6–7 (6) Also the sons of the stranger . .…
(6) Also the sons of the stranger . . .—Proselytes also were to share in the blessings of the wider covenant. The words “to serve him” have been referred to some menial offices like that of the Nethinim, “hewers of wood and drawers of water” (Jos_9:27; Ezr_8:20). The usage of the word, however, limits it to honourable functions. The germ of Isaiah’s thought appears in Solomon’s dedication prayer (1Ki_8:41-43). It receives its highest development (in its entire separation from the building with which there and here it is associated), in Joh_4:23. Comp. a further emancipation from the bondage of the law in Isa_66:21.
A Bible Commentary for English Readers, edited by Charles John Ellicott (1878–1897) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Pulpit Commentary 1880 · Public Domain On vv6–7 Also the sons of the stranger (comp. ver. 3).…
Also the sons of the stranger (comp. ver. 3). The proselytes shall not be treated as they fear. On the contrary, God will treat them in exactly the same way as his original people will conduct them to Palestine, settle them in his "holy mountain," admit them to the temple services, accept their burnt offerings and their sacrifices. All this will be a foretaste of their position in the Christian Church, where there will be neither Jew nor Gentile, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision, but a community where all are brethren and all have equal privileges.
HOMILIES BY W.M. STATHAM Ver. 6. Service.
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"The sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the Lord, to serve him," etc. This word is often degraded in human speech. "Service" is con-sidereal humiliating, and only mastership is glorious. But "the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister." We are all of us debtors to others; we owe them much, and we owe Christ all.
I SERVICE CALLS OUT WHAT IS BEST IN MEN.
1. Their unselfishness.
2. Their heroism.
3. Their patience.
II SERVICE CHARACTERIZES THE NOBLEST AND THE BEST OF MEN.
1. Think of the world"s great leaders.
2. Think of the Church"s sufferers and martyrs.
III SERVICE IS EMBODIED IN MANY FORMS. There is a service of gift; a service of speech; a service of submission. "They also serve who only stand and wait.
All God"s universe is alive with blest activity. The idler is out of harmony with the entire creation of God. W.M.S.
The Pulpit Commentary (1880–1919), ed. H.D.M. Spence-Jones & Joseph S. Exell — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Biblical Illustrator 1887 · Public Domain On vv6–7 Also the sons of the stranger
Isa_56:6-7
Also the sons of the stranger
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Gentiles enjoying Gods favour
This is a clear prophecy of the call of the Gentiles into the Church of Christ.
Let us attend to this description of those who are objects of the Divine favour, and entitled to the privileges of His house.
1. They join themselves to the Lord. This supposes a former distance and alienation from Him. But that is removed by humble repentance and returning to the Lord. It includes, renouncing all their idols; forsaking all their sin, everything contrary to the nature and will of God: a deliberate choice of Him, as their portion and felicity; and of His people, as their friends and associates.
2. The design of their thus joining themselves unto the Lord is to serve Him. This is further expressed in the phrase, to be His servants; not only to serve Him occasionally, or for a while, but perpetually; to adhere to Him and His ways, from a deep conviction that nothing can be more reasonable, important, and advantageous than to hear what He saith, and to do it.
3. It is added, and to love the name of the Lord. They take delight in His service; they perform it not from fear and a servile dread, but from a sincere and strong affection. They love His name; that is, they love him, His worship and His ways, and pursue His work with delight. It is opposed to narrow; selfish, mercenary views, which render the service less acceptable and comfortable. They esteem it their meat and drink to do His will.
4. Another thing-expected from Gods people is, that they keep His Sabbath from polluting it. This is an essential character, a distinguishing mark, of good men.
5. Gods people take hold of His covenant. They enter into serious, deliberate, solemn engagements to observe and keep His laws, in order to obtain the blessings which He hath promised; and which, in so doing, they cheerfully expect. They take hold of it; which implies a hearty consent to Gods terms, a cheerful approbation and acceptance of them and delight in them. It likewise implies a steady resolution. They take hold of it, as those who are determined not to let it go. (J. Orton.)
The rewards of Gods servants
The text--
I. HOLDS OUT UNIVERSAL ENCOURAGEMENT TO MAN.
1. By the transfer of the priesthood from Aaron to Christ.
2. By the change of sacrifice. From the blood of bulls and of goats to the precious blood of the Son of God.
3. By the removal of place. From Jerusalem to the temple of the universe.
4. By a change of worship. From ritual to spiritual. What an encouraging prospect! (Eph_2:11-22.)
II. INCULCATES UNIVERSAL PIETY, Piety in heart and practice. The duties enumerated may be divided into three classes.
1. Those which relate to Christ, expressed by taking hold of His covenant--accepting--agreeing to it.
2. Those which relate to God as the Governor of the world.
(1) His servants.
(2) Walk by His laws.
(3) Keep His Sabbaths.
3. Those which relate to the Church.
III. PROMISES UNIVERSAL HAPPINESS.
1. Access to heaven. I will bring them to My holy mountain.
2. Joyfulness in His service. I will make them joyful in My house of prayer.
3. The Divine acceptance of their religious engagements. Their burnt-offerings and sacrifices shall be accepted upon Mine altar. (R. Watson.)
The Biblical Illustrator, edited by Joseph S. Exell (c. 1880s–1900s) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
unfoldingWord translationNotes 2017 · CC BY-SA 4.0 On v6 who join themselves to Yahweh
who join themselves to Yahweh
This refers to foreigners who have joined Yahweh's people.
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who love the name of Yahweh
Yahweh's "name" represents himself. AT: "who love Yahweh" (See: Metonymy)
holy mountain
See how you translated this in Isaiah 11:9.
will be accepted on my altar
This can be stated in active form. AT: "I will accept on my altar" (See: Active or Passive)
my house will be called a house of prayer
This can be stated in active form. AT: "my house will be a house of prayer" (See: Active or Passive)
translationWords
alien
Yahweh
servant
love
name
worship
Sabbath
defile
covenant
holy
joy
house of God
pray
burnt offering
sacrifice
altar
nation
unfoldingWord translationNotes — © Distant Shores Media and the Door43 World Missions Community, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Source: git.door43.org/Door43/en_tn.
Tyndale Open Study Notes 2022 · CC BY-SA 4.0 On vv6–7 56:6 The essential ingredient for covenant fellowship is love…
56:6 The essential ingredient for covenant fellowship is love for God (Deut 6:5; 30:20; Matt 22:34-38). • Keeping the Sabbath is a sign of keeping the covenant itself (see Exod 31:13-17).
Tyndale Open Study Notes — © Tyndale Open Resources, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Text via the HelloAO Bible API.