Introduction to Isaiah 49

Structure and Formatting

This chapter begins the second section of Part Seven of the book of Isaiah. The prophet now speaks very personally, telling his own story, as he describes how the people have rejected his message and even attacked him for proclaiming it. Nevertheless, he finds renewed strength and confidence when Yahweh affirms his prophetic mission and shows him that it will ultimately have even more far-reaching effects than he has yet imagined.This chapter presents four oracles that begin to develop these themes. 1. Yahweh has prepared the prophet from birth, and his message will reach all nations (1–6) 2. Yahweh will use the prophet to help rescue the Israelites from exile (7–13) 3. Yahweh has not forsaken the Israelites; he will abundantly restore their exiles (14–23) 4. Yahweh will defeat the Israelites’ enemies and claim the Israelites as his prize (24–26)