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Isaiah 64:5

Thou meetest him that rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, those that remember thee in thy ways: behold, thou art wroth; for we have sinned: in those is continuance, and we shall be saved.

Isaiah 64:5 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the Book of Isaiah highlights the concept of divine judgment and salvation. It starts by emphasizing the idea that God meets those who rejoice and follow His ways with favor. However, it quickly shifts to acknowledge that God is also angry with those who have sinned. The verse suggests that despite God's anger, there is hope for salvation for those who continue to remember and walk in His ways. The passage captures the tension between God's justice and mercy, illustrating that while there are consequences for sin, there is also the possibility of redemption through repentance and righteousness. Ultimately, the verse conveys the message that God's forgiveness and salvation are available to those who strive to live according to His will, even in the face of their shortcomings.

Theological Overview

Interpreting this verse theologically, we see a deep truth about God's character and relationship with humanity. The verse begins by emphasizing God's willingness to meet those who rejoice and strive to live righteously. It highlights the importance of remembering God in one's ways and the promise of salvation for those who continue in faith. However, the verse also acknowledges the reality of human sinfulness and the consequences that result from it. The mention of God's wrath signifies his holiness and justice, which reacts to sin. Despite this, there is hope for salvation for those who turn back to God. The word 'continuance' suggests the endurance and steadfastness of those who remain faithful to God. Overall, this verse conveys the idea that God is responsive to our actions, both in terms of righteousness and sin, but ultimately offers salvation to those who seek Him with sincerity and repentance.

Isaiah 64:5 in other translations

American Standard Version

Thou meetest him that rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, those that remember thee in thy ways: behold, thou wast wroth, and we sinned: in them [have we been] of long time; and shall we be saved?

World English Bible

You meet him who rejoices and works righteousness, those who remember you in your ways. Behold, you were angry, and we sinned. We have been in sin for a long time; and shall we be saved?

Douay-Rheims

Thou hast met him that rejoiceth, and doth justice: in thy ways they shall remember thee: behold thou art angry, and we have sinned: in them we have been always, and we shall be saved.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Thou diddest meete him, that reioyced in thee, and did iustly: they remembred thee in thy wayes: beholde, thou art angrie, for we haue sinned: yet in them is continuance, and we shall be saued.