God’s Word tells us that He is sovereign over all things: history, nations, events, and individuals. Often, we only like to think of God as being in control when it suits our interests. In that way, God is like a powerful servant who meets our needs. But God declares that He is the one who builds up and tears down, who chastises and saves. Isaiah makes this clear as He prophesies about the coming judgment of Israel and Judah on account of their idolatry and lack of faith. Assyria will be the tool in the Lord’s hands, but that does not mean that the Lord is siding with Assyria against His people. Instead, it is a reminder that God will use whatever He wants to purify His people and bring them to Himself. That is why God also promises that a remnant will return to Him and “lean on the Holy One of Israel.” This is a prophecy of “Sovereignty and Salvation” (Isaiah 10:5-34).

I. God Sovereign in the World
II. God Sovereign in Salvation