Isaiah 8:9-10 - Homilies By W. Clarkson

The impotence of ungodliness.

We learn—

I. THAT SIN SOMETIMES APPEARS IN IMPOSING ASPECTS . There were four aspects, not to say elements, of power in these world-kingdoms—confederation , preparation (gird yourselves), consultation (take counsel together), authority (speak the word). Sin, which is the great enemy conducting a long campaign against the Church of Christ, certainly seems as superior in strength to its present foe as did these great kingdoms of the East to Judah and to Israel; indeed, far more so. Sin has on its side:

1. Vastly preponderating numbers.

2. Rank and authority.

3. The greater material resources, including military power and money.

4. Ancient tradition and inveterate habit.

5. An apparently impregnable seat; it is defended by the strong fortresses of worldly interests, animal appetite, spiritual pride, moral indifference.

II. THAT THE PROPHETIC EYE SEES ITS UTTER OVERTHROW . "Ye shall be broken in pieces;" "it shall come to naught;" "it shall not stand." Under the shadow of the first promise we see the head of the serpent bruised ( Genesis 3:15 ). At the feet of the prophet we see the "little stone" "break in pieces and consume all these (earthly) kingdoms," itself "standing forever" ( Daniel 2:44 ). Standing at our Master's side, we "behold Satan as lightning fall from heaven" ( Luke 10:18 ). With apostolic hope, we look on the time when Christ "will have put down all rule, and all authority, and power," all his enemies being "under his feet" ( 1 Corinthians 15:24 , 1 Corinthians 15:25 ). The world-power shall be utterly broken, and on its ruins shall rise "the kingdom which cannot be moved."

III. THAT OUR CONFIDENCE IS IN THE PRESENCE OF THE INVINCIBLE SAVIOR . "For God is with us." We may rejoice to reckon our trophies already gained; we may point, with congratulation, to the growing intelligence and enthusiasm of the army of the Lord; we may hail signs of decay in ancient, enfeebled systems; but this is our confidence : we have with us, working m us and for us, the Holy Spirit of the Divine Redeemer: "For Immanuel"—C.