In Isaiah, chapter thirty-five, verse one, whereas the preceding chapter described God’s judgment, this prophetic chapter foresees a time when the whole landscape changes from judgment and spiritual wilderness to a time of great salvation and life. This great change, described in terms of the wilderness blossoming with life, beauty, and joy, as in verses one to two, occurs as a result of the visible manifestation of God’s majestic excellency and glory in the midst of His people. In connection with this revelation of God’s glory is also the demonstration of His miracle-working power, as in verses five through six, the open display of His holiness, as in verses eight to nine, and an incredible joy that overtakes the redeemed of the Lord, as in verse ten.
This theme chapter has several levels of application and fulfillment, beginning with the appearance of Messianic salvation in Jesus Christ, as in Matthew four, verse seventeen, verses twenty-three to twenty-five, chapter ten, verse one, verses seven to eight, and chapter fifteen, verses thirty to thirty-one, respectively. Then there is the proclamation of the gospel of the kingdom by the church, as in Matthew twenty-eight, verses eighteen through twenty, John fourteen, verses twelve to thirteen, Acts two, verses forty-two through forty-seven, chapter eight, verses four to eight, and verse thirteen, accordingly. And reaching its full realization at the second coming of Christ, as in Revelation seven, verses nine through ten, chapter eleven, verse fifteen, chapter twelve, verse ten, and Revelation chapters nineteen through twenty-one, respectively.
As the land of the church’s enemies, which had enjoyed many external blessings and comforts, shall be turned into a desolate wilderness, as was declared in the foregoing chapter. Therefore, Emmanuel’s land, or the seat of God’s church and people, which formerly was barren and despised, shall flourish exceedingly.