Isaiah 66:4
I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not.
Isaiah 66:4 · King James Version
Meaning
This particular verse from the Bible, found in Isaiah 66:4, speaks about the consequences of ignoring God's call and disobeying His commands. The verse highlights the tragic outcome of rejecting God's truth and choosing to do evil in His sight. By rejecting God's messages and refusing to listen to His words, individuals ultimately bring upon themselves delusions and fears. This signifies a turning away from the light and truth of God's teachings, leading to a state of darkness and confusion in one's own mind and heart. God warns that those who deliberately turn away from His love and guidance will face the consequences of their actions. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of heeding God's voice and following His will, in order to avoid the delusions and fears that result from disobedience. It emphasizes the need for faithfulness and obedience to God's commands, as a path to righteousness and peace.
Theological Overview
This verse from Isaiah 66:4 reveals a powerful theological interpretation on God's sovereignty and His response to human rebellion. The verse speaks of God's judgment upon those who have rejected Him, choosing to ignore His calls and commands. By declaring that He will choose their delusions and bring their fears upon them, God is highlighting the consequences of turning away from Him. The word "delusions" here can be understood as the consequences of their sinful choices, leading them further away from the truth. The verse emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's voice, for rejecting it will result in God's judgment. Through this verse, we see the contrast between God's desire for obedience and humanity's tendency to rebel against Him. It serves as a reminder of the need for repentance and a return to following God's will, lest we face the consequences of our disobedience.
Isaiah 66:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did that which was evil in mine eyes, and chose that wherein I delighted not.
World English Bible
I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears on them; because when I called, no one answered; when I spoke, they didn’t listen; but they did that which was evil in my eyes, and chose that in which I didn’t delight.”
Douay-Rheims
Wherefore I also will choose their mockeries, and will bring upon them the things they feared: because I called, and there was none that would answer; I have spoken, and they heard not; and they have done evil in my eyes, and have chosen the things that displease me.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Therefore will I chuse out their delusions, and I will bring their feare vpon them, because I called, and none woulde answere: I spake and they woulde not heare: but they did euill in my sight, and chose the things which I would not.