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What Isaiah Saw – Part 1
Isaiah Saw God’s Greatness
In the year of King Uzziah’s death I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, lofty and exalted, with the train of His robe filling the temple. Seraphim stood above Him, each having six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one called out to another and said, “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord of hosts, the whole earth is full of His glory.” And the foundations of the thresholds trembled at the voice of him who called out, while the temple was filling with smoke (vv. 1-4).
In this vision, Isaiah is allowed to gain insight into the spiritual reality that was usually obscured by the chaos and unfaithfulness of Israel and Judah. In spite of the mess on earth, God is still on his throne and in control. In fact, God is presented as so far removed from sin that his throne is “lofty and exalted,” and in his holiness, his robe fills the temple. Even in our culture it is considered rude to step on a bride’s train. How much more would it be unthinkable to tread on the train of God’s robe? The obvious point is that God’s greatness leaves no room for anyone to stand directly in his presence.
While very few men have ever seen such a heavenly vision, it is imperative in our spiritual lives to also be awed by God’s greatness. This may come as a result of observing his works, as David did in Psalm 19:1.
The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.
God’s word is also a profound witness to his greatness, as is declared in verses 7-9 of the same Psalm.
The law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul;
The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart;
The commandment of the Lord is pure, eyes.
The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever;
The judgments of the Lord are true; they are righteous altogether.
In fact, it is impossible to respect God’s person without respecting his will. Thus, disregarding his word is clear and convincing evidence that God’s greatness is not truly perceived.
Another important way to get a glimpse of God’s greatness is through his wonderful plan for human redemption and the matchless love it displays. In John 3:16 we are told that
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.
In Psalm 130:3-4 this willingness to forgive is shown to be the very reason why he should “be feared.”
We live in a time that has very little understanding of God’s greatness or respect for his word. Human “self-esteem” is at such high levels that the need for God among most intellectuals and media elitists is considered childish and naïve. Yet in a world of false illusions God has chosen to reveal to man, not only his will but himself. It is essential for mankind to understand the reality exposed by this revelation. There will come a day in which “every knee will bow” and “every tongue will confess” Jesus’ lordship and God’s glory (Phil. 2:10-11). If we see that greatness now, we can become his beloved children. If we wait until it is too late, our confession will be that of conquered enemies being led away to eternal punishment.
