Today’s Reading:
ISAIAH 5:1-7 (4)
“What more was there to do for my vineyard that I have not done in it? When I looked for it to yield grapes, why did it yield wild grapes? (v.4)
The people mentioned in this parable are initially and purposely disguised so that the audience does not recognise the singer's ploy until the end of the song. Isaiah was probably trying to hide the full import of his words from his listeners at the beginning of his song (vv.1-2). He wanted them to agree with his anger at the vineyard (vv.3-6) before they perceived the full application of his final indictment in Isaiah 5:7.
I will sing for the one I love (v.1). "I" is Isaiah. "The one I love" or "my beloved" (ESV) is God (1a). Isaiah had an intimate relationship with God. God is passionate for his people. He is jealous for them. Yet they seemed determined to have their own way at all costs. It is like Isaiah is entering into the heart of God, feeling the very heart of God as God looks at his vineyard (1b).
Judah is good only for growing grapes (v.2). The land is only good for vineyards, while Israel had some land that was good for wheat and barley and pasture. Isaiah's audience would have immediately resonated with the vineyard. It would be 3 years before you received your first crop. The first 2 years was mainly for clearing the land, especially clearing the rocks. Then they build watchtowers or people will steal your grapes (2a). After all that work and labour the grapes are bitter (2b).
But if all we want out of God is acceptance without transformation, we are receiving his grace in vain and our Christianity is worthless. Once God chooses a man, he tenderly cares for and protects him. He patiently waits for the man to produce good fruit in his life (Isa 5:2b, 4b, 7b). God views all fruit as either rotten or good according to his standards--not ours (Mt 7:15-23). God's protection and care may be withdrawn from those who fail to produce godly fruit (Jn 15:1-7). God is especially severe on privileged people who mistreat others through injustice.
Will you evaluate the fruit of your own life?
OLAJIDE OGUNFUWA
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, your investment upon my life will not be unfruitful, in Jesus name. Amen
I will produce good fruits in my life, in Jesus name.
Christianity will not be worthless in my life, in Jesus name.
As a Church we will not disappoint who has called us out of darkness to shine as a light to the world, in Jesus name.
You land of Nigeria begin to produce godly fruits of holiness, righteousness and love, in Jesus name.
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