“"I am he, I will carry and will save."”
Isaiah 46:4
Summary
Isaiah 46 contrasts the impotence of the Babylonian idols, Bel and Nebo, with the sovereign power of God. The chapter opens with a vivid depiction of idols being carried away on beasts of burden, illustrating their inability to save or move themselves. In contrast, God reassures Israel of His unchanging and sustaining presence, having carried them ‘from the womb’ and promising His support to their old age. The passage emphasizes God's uniqueness and the futility of idols crafted by human hands. God continues to assert His sovereignty by declaring His knowledge of the end from the beginning and His unwavering purpose to bring about His plans. The chapter concludes with a call to Israel to recognize God's righteousness and salvation, which are near and not delayed.