Here is an intriguing title for an intriguing book. On one level it can be read as an aid to Bible study (and indeed it is useful as that alone), but it also aims to be more than this. The author’s conviction, based upon decades of prayer, Bible study and mission work in the Middle East, is that world events are starting to line up with the sovereign will of God as outlined in Isaiah 19. As such he is inviting us to join in intercession and ‘live in the light’ that these events will soon be fulfilled, which is the title of the final chapter. The book then ends with a prayer guide.
Extraordinary Passage
But what is so significant about Isaiah 19? This question forms the title of the first chapter and informs its content. In all likelihood most Christians have probably never considered Isaiah 19 in detail, tucked away as it is amongst the many similar prophecies and oracles in one of the less popular parts of Isaiah. It may be read occasionally as part of a Bible reading programme but its amazing statements are never really thought through. This book will certainly remedy that omission.
The significance of Isaiah 19 becomes apparent once we realise the relevance of its main subject: Egypt. As Craig explains, Egypt is the second most mentioned nation in the Bible after Israel, a main early enemy of Israel and often symbolic of the world. Moreover, it is still a key player in the modern Middle East today, as recent events show, and has a future according to many Bible passages (not just this one).
Chapters 2 to 4 seem rather preliminary to the main theme, even somewhat unnecessary. They cover topics such as Kingdom, land, covenants and righteousness. For those already familiar with these themes it is tempting to skip or skim these 70 pages, but the author insists that Isaiah 19 can only be properly understood in relation to God’s promises to Israel and those regarding the land.
Most Christians have probably never considered Isaiah 19 in detail, tucked away as it is in one of the less popular parts of Isaiah. This book will certainly remedy that omission.
However, for many, the main interest will begin with chapter five with its verse-by-verse analysis of this extraordinary passage of Scripture. Craig outlines the clear structure of Isaiah 19 and provides commentary on the details, while always bearing in mind the overall message that he is presenting. For instance, he shows us that there are seven prophetic proclamations in vv16-25, statements which form the basis of the prayer guide at the end of the book. He makes the valid point that intercession must be in line with God’s plans in order to be effective. Once we understand God’s determined outcomes then “Thy will be done” is the right way to pray.
Prophetic Context
Even after we have understood what Isaiah 19 says, questions remain, which the author goes on to explore. How does this chapter fit into the overall biblical context? How does it link in with other similar passages? In particular, what can be said about the timing of its fulfilment, especially in relation to these other prophetic passages?
Craig admits that this last question was the hardest to write about, but his approach is clear and sensible, and his conclusions valid. In particular, he stresses the importance of a correct interpretation of the rapture if believers are to fully engage with God’s heart and plan for the Middle East. We will be on earth at this time, rather than being whisked away in advance, and so should be ready and waiting to see these things unfold.
Craig also explains other fascinating details found in Isaiah 19, for instance the role of Assyria in the later verses and the reference to a highway in v23, comparing it with other ‘highway’ texts in Isaiah. In addition, from his experience of living in the Middle East, Craig is able to provide valuable information about the current situation in Egypt, especially regarding believers - what they are doing, the support they will need and how they will have a pivotal role in the region as the return of Jesus approaches.
From his experience of living in the Middle East, Craig is able to provide valuable information about the current situation in Egypt.
Grab a Bible…
If nothing else, you should by now be eager to grab the nearest Bible and read Isaiah 19 for yourself, assuming it isn’t already firmly engraved in your memory! Hopefully you will then want to go a step further and read what Craig has to say on this fascinating chapter.
Whether you then want to participate in the intercession and practicalities he suggests is another matter. Nevertheless, to have gained a deeper understanding of this part of Scripture will create a greater anticipation of what God has planned for this part of the Middle East.
‘Living Fully for the Fulfilment of Isaiah 19’ (218pp) is available from Amazon in both paperback and e-book forms, for £8.08. Also available from ICEJ.
