28:1 Ephraim represents the northern kingdom, ruled by a line of evil kings. When Israel split into two kingdoms after Solomon’s reign, Jerusalem ended up in the southern kingdom. Leaders in the northern kingdom, wishing to stay entirely separate from their relatives to the south, set up idols to keep the people from going to the Temple in Jerusalem to worship (see 1 Kings 12). Thus, the people in the northern kingdom were led into idolatry. Isaiah gave this message to Israel to warn them that destruction was certain. It was also meant to encourage Judah to repent before being punished, as the northern kingdom would be only a few years later.
28:9-14 These verses characterize the people’s reaction to Isaiah. In effect, they were saying, “He’s speaking to us like a schoolteacher speaks to small children. We don’t need to be taught. We’ll make up our own minds.” For this attitude, Isaiah prophesied that the Assyrians would teach them in a way they would like even less.
28:13 God used repetition and simple words to get his messages through to the people. Do you find that God has to teach you the same lessons over and over again? The simplicity of God’s message can be a stumbling block for some (28:9, 10), leading them to think it must have little value. We must not be too proud to heed God’s simple message.
28:15 Judah was afraid of the Assyrians, the “overflowing scourge.” Instead of trusting God, the Judeans turned to other sources for security. God accused them of making a covenant with death. This passage may refer to Hezekiah’s alliance with Pharaoh Tirhakah against Assyria (2 Kings 19:9; Isaiah 37:9). God would cancel this agreement—Egypt would be of no help when Assyria attacked. Is it worth selling out what you believe in for temporary protection against an enemy? If you want lasting protection, turn to the only one able to deliver you from eternal death—God.
28:16 If you’re building anything, you need a firm base. Isaiah speaks of a foundation stone, a precious corner stone, that will be laid in Zion. This cornerstone is the Messiah, the foundation on whom we build our lives. Is your life built on the flimsy base of your own successes or dreams? Or is it set on a firm foundation (see Psalm 118:22; 1 Peter 2:8)?
28:21 God fought on Joshua’s side at the battle of Gibeon (Joshua 10:1-14) and on David’s side at Mount Perazim (2 Samuel 5:20). But here he would fight against Israel, his own people, in these same places.
28:23-29 The farmer uses special tools to plant and harvest tender herbs so he will not destroy them. He takes into account how fragile they are. In the same way God takes all our individual circumstances and weaknesses into account. He deals with each of us sensitively. We should follow his example when we deal with others. Different people require different treatment. Be sensitive to the needs of those around you and the special treatment they may need.