Who has aroused one from the east and called him to his feet in righteousness? He hands nations over to him and subdues kings before him. He turns them to dust with his sword, to windblown chaff with his bow.
Abraham was the pattern of God's justice, called from Chaldean idolatry to obey and settle in Canaan. This is who the Prophet means: the righteous man raised from the east, given dominion over nations and kings, turning them to dust and stubble before his sword.
AI summary
The Prophet means to assure the Jews they will not go astray if they follow his counsel. Abraham came out of Chaldea through numberless perils; if God led one poor man safely, why should His captive people doubt He will guide them home? His strength is not diminished, His kindness not cooled.
AI summary
God opens His court and summons even the distant islands to testify. Silence falls while the case is tried between His kingdom and Satan's. The defenders of idolatry are invited to speak freely and stake all their strength against Him; but the cause of God fears no fair trial, and religion will surely carry the day.
AI summary
Commenting on Isaiah 41:1-9