Isaiah 54:3 - Exposition

For thou shalt break forth ; or, thou shalt increase (see Genesis 30:30 , Genesis 30:43 ; Exodus 1:12 ). An overflow, like that of the bursting out of water, is pointed at. On the right hand and on the left ; i.e. "on all sides" (comp. Genesis 28:14 ). Thy seed shall inherit the Gentiles. The Christian Church is viewed as a continuation of the Jewish Church; and the conversion of nation after nation to the gospel is regarded as the extension of Jewish dominion over fresh lands. The cities of these lands—desolate hitherto, i.e. without godly inhabitants—will under these circumstances come to be inhabited; i.e. will be peopled by faithful men.