Question 1

What does “Arise, shine; for thy light is come” mean?

Accepted Answer

“Arise, shine” is God’s call for his people to wake up from a low and troubled state and live in the new day he has given them. “Thy light is come” means God himself has brought them out of spiritual darkness into the light of his presence and truth. It is not a light they made, but a gift from him. Because his glory has risen over them, they are meant to stand up, be encouraged, and reflect that light so others can see and be drawn to God as well.

Question 2

What is the darkness that covers the earth in this passage?

Accepted Answer

The darkness over the earth and the thick darkness over the people picture the state of the world without God’s truth. It is the blindness of idolatry, false worship, and ignorance of God. While many live in this darkness, God promises that his light and glory will shine on Zion. This shows that real understanding and hope come only from him. The church is pictured as bright in the middle of a dark world, so those in darkness can see God’s light and be led to him.

Question 3

Why do Gentiles and kings come to the light mentioned here?

Accepted Answer

Gentiles and kings come because they are drawn to the light of God that shines on his people. This pictures people from every nation turning from idols and error to the truth about God. They see God’s glory in his people, so they come to share in it, to worship, and to bring their gifts. It shows that God’s plan was never limited to one group, but that both common people and rulers from far lands would come to honor him and join his people.

Question 4

What is the meaning of nations bringing gold, incense, and flocks?

Accepted Answer

The gifts of gold, incense, camels, and flocks show people offering what they have to God’s service. As nations come into God’s light, they do not come empty‑handed. They bring their wealth and resources so that God’s house is supplied and his praise is increased. This pictures hearts changed by grace, gladly using their possessions for God’s honor instead of selfish use. It also hints at the way people from many lands will support and care for the work and worship of God.

Question 5

Why does God say he once smote his people, then had mercy?

Accepted Answer

God reminds his people, “In my wrath I smote thee, but in my favour have I had mercy on thee,” to show both his justice and his kindness. They had suffered because of their sin, and exile and ruin were signs of his anger against their rebellion. But that was not the end of the story. He now shows mercy, rebuilding their walls, opening their gates, and bringing help from other nations. This teaches that God’s correction is real, but his aim is to restore and comfort those who turn back to him.

Question 6

What does it mean that the LORD is an everlasting light?

Accepted Answer

When God says he will be an everlasting light and that sun and moon will no longer be needed for light, it means his presence will fully satisfy and guide his people. They will not depend on changeable, earthly sources for joy and security. Instead, God himself will be their brightness and glory. In that state there is no more mourning, no more fear of night, and no break in fellowship with him. It points to a final, unbroken joy with God that never fades or ends.

Question 7

Why are the people called all righteous, and what does that show?

Accepted Answer

The promise that “thy people also shall be all righteous” shows a future where everyone in God’s city is made right with him. This is not about people being naturally good, but about God planting and shaping them as “the branch of my planting, the work of my hands.” He changes hearts so that his people love what is right and walk in his ways. They inherit the land forever because he has made them his own. This gives hope that God will finish his work in his people and be glorified through them.

Question 8

How can this vision of Zion’s restoration encourage believers today?

Accepted Answer

This vision helps believers remember that God can lift his people from deep shame and loss into honor and joy. Even when the church seems small, weak, or opposed, God promises that he will gather people from far away, provide what is needed, and give lasting peace and righteousness. The picture of open gates, no more violence, and God as everlasting light reminds us that present troubles are not the end. God has a sure plan to grow, protect, and gladden his people in his time.

Question 9

What does “a little one shall become a thousand” mean here?

Accepted Answer

The phrase “a little one shall become a thousand” pictures surprising growth. A very small group or weak beginning will, by God’s work, become large and strong. This points to how God can greatly multiply his church, even when it starts with only a few believers. It is not human skill that does this, but God saying, “I the LORD will hasten it in his time.” That means we should not despise small beginnings, because God can quickly and quietly turn something tiny into a strong and lasting people.

Isaiah 60:1

Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.

Future Glory for Zion

Future Glory for Zion

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Isaiah 60:1

Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.

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Future Glory for Zion

Future Glory for Zion

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