Conclusion: “For Zion’s Sake I Will Not Keep Silent”

Jeremiah did not particularly enjoy being God’s prophet. It brought him “insult and reproach all day long.” But if he tried to remain silent: “His word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot.” God Himself said that the words of a true prophet would be “like fire . . . and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces” (Jer. 20:7–9; 23:25–32).

God’s prophet Isaiah was compelled to proclaim the awe-inspiring word of the Lord: “For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent” (v. 1). Why not? “For Zion’s sake” or “for Jerusalem’s sake” means for the sake of God’s people—until they are saved and vindicated. Israel’s salvation will be a “crown of splendor” or a “royal diadem” in God’s hand, a witness to all the world that He keeps His promises, loves faithfully, and is mighty to save (vv. 2–3). That day will be like a joyous wedding celebration (vv. 4–5).

We are to pray relentlessly for this event—which we now know to be Christ’s Second Coming—to arrive (vv. 6–7). Watchfulness is a key biblical theme related to Christ’s return, as seen, for example, in the parable of the ten virgins, lamps, and oil (see Matt. 25:1–13).

“Watchmen on the walls” are the ones who see first what is approaching. In the same way, those who are faithful in prayer (Col. 4:2) will be the first to rejoice when the time comes.

Among and around the riches of the biblical theme of silence is the life-saving truth that ultimately God is not silent. He has spoken and acted to reveal Himself in creation, history, Scripture, and the Person of His Son, Jesus Christ!

Pray With Us

As we come to the end of this month’s study, let’s praise God for speaking to us and for hearing our prayers. We’d like to thank you, members of the Moody family, for your faithful prayers, generosity, and friendship.

BY Brad Baurain

Dr. Bradley Baurain is Associate Professor and Program Head of TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) at Moody Bible Institute. Bradley has the unique privilege of holding a degree from four different universities (including Moody). He has just published his first book, On Waiting Well. Bradley taught in China, Vietnam, the United States, and Canada. Bradley and his wife, Julia, have four children and reside in Northwest Indiana.