Digital Logos Edition
The prophet Isaiah’s influence extended from his long career in Jerusalem in the late eighth century BCE through Judah’s exilic and Second Temple periods. For both Jews and Christians, Isaiah’s words have heavily influenced later theological writings, liturgies, lectionaries, hymns, poetry, and art. Among early Christian writings, Isaiah was seen as evangelist rather than prophet, foretelling Christ’s birth, life, death, and resurrection—a view that continues to prevail today. This happens despite scholars’ long arguing that Isaiah addressed his own time and not the distant future. Readers of Tull’s engaging commentary will come to understand Isaiah as visionary spokesperson of ancient Jerusalem’s God. Preachers, teachers, and students will gain fresh connections between their modern setting and this ancient book. They will learn about the paths the book traveled as it grew, absorbed new meanings, and underwent reinterpretation. In this process, the book of Isaiah eventually emerged as Scripture for synagogues and churches.