God’s assurance in this verse urges His followers to remain calm and steady in the face of criticism, trusting His eternal promises.
Isaiah, who ministered as a prophet in the southern kingdom of Judah between about 740-681 BC, addresses those faithful to God in this verse. He proclaims, “Listen to Me, you who know righteousness, a people in whose heart is My law; Do not fear the reproach of man, Nor be dismayed at their revilings” (Isaiah 51:7). This statement is a direct call from the LORD, reminding His covenant people not to be intimidated by human criticism or persecution. Instead, those who embrace God’s instruction are to focus on the enduring truth of His law written in their hearts. Isaiah’s ministry took place in and around Jerusalem, the capital city of Judah—a region that faced political turmoil and threats from other nations, such as Assyria. In the midst of these external pressures, Isaiah’s message encouraged believers to anchor their hearts in God’s steadfast promises.
By commending “you who know righteousness” (Isaiah 51:7), the LORD invites His followers to lean on divine truth rather than worldly validation. This implies a deep, internalized faith rather than a surface or formalistic obedience. Their commitment to God’s law sets them apart and empowers them to stand firm when others might ridicule their devotion. Centuries later, Jesus would echo this theme by cautioning His disciples about the world’s hatred, telling them that just as He was persecuted, so too would they be treated (John 15:18-20). When believers ground themselves in God’s righteousness, fear of human reproach fades in the light of His eternal perspective.
Furthermore, “Do not fear the reproach of man, Nor be dismayed at their revilings” (Isaiah 51:7) urges a posture of unwavering trust, rooted in divine empowerment. Just as the prophet Isaiah called Judah to hold onto God amid looming invasions, modern-day believers are beckoned to look beyond hostile environments or societal scorn, confident that God’s ultimate justice will prevail. This verse emphasizes that reverence of the LORD should supplant any fear of humankind, reaffirming that He alone holds authority over ultimate vindication.
Set to dark mode
Isaiah 51:7 meaning
Isaiah, who ministered as a prophet in the southern kingdom of Judah between about 740-681 BC, addresses those faithful to God in this verse. He proclaims, “Listen to Me, you who know righteousness, a people in whose heart is My law; Do not fear the reproach of man, Nor be dismayed at their revilings” (Isaiah 51:7). This statement is a direct call from the LORD, reminding His covenant people not to be intimidated by human criticism or persecution. Instead, those who embrace God’s instruction are to focus on the enduring truth of His law written in their hearts. Isaiah’s ministry took place in and around Jerusalem, the capital city of Judah—a region that faced political turmoil and threats from other nations, such as Assyria. In the midst of these external pressures, Isaiah’s message encouraged believers to anchor their hearts in God’s steadfast promises.
By commending “you who know righteousness” (Isaiah 51:7), the LORD invites His followers to lean on divine truth rather than worldly validation. This implies a deep, internalized faith rather than a surface or formalistic obedience. Their commitment to God’s law sets them apart and empowers them to stand firm when others might ridicule their devotion. Centuries later, Jesus would echo this theme by cautioning His disciples about the world’s hatred, telling them that just as He was persecuted, so too would they be treated (John 15:18-20). When believers ground themselves in God’s righteousness, fear of human reproach fades in the light of His eternal perspective.
Furthermore, “Do not fear the reproach of man, Nor be dismayed at their revilings” (Isaiah 51:7) urges a posture of unwavering trust, rooted in divine empowerment. Just as the prophet Isaiah called Judah to hold onto God amid looming invasions, modern-day believers are beckoned to look beyond hostile environments or societal scorn, confident that God’s ultimate justice will prevail. This verse emphasizes that reverence of the LORD should supplant any fear of humankind, reaffirming that He alone holds authority over ultimate vindication.