Lord Asks Three Questions

K. Douglas Bassett

(Isa. 51:12–16)

The Lord asks Israel three questions: Why do you fear mortal man? Have you forgotten your creator? Why fear your oppressors? He then answers them (in reverse order): You will be freed from your oppressors. I am the great creator. You are my people; I will teach and protect you.
Although these promises seem to be extended to all types of Israelites, they apply more particularly to those who become a part of covenant Israel, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Joseph Smith foretells that one group of Israelites, the remnants of the Ten Tribes, will come to Ephraim at “the boundaries of the everlasting hills.” (See D&C 133:32–35.)
The parallels between these three verses and Isaiah 51:9–16 are evident. They help us to understand Isaiah’s words and to see their fulfillment in those who join the Church in this dispensation.

(Victor L. Ludlow, Isaiah: Prophet, Seer, and Poet [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1982], 429.)

Commentaries on Isaiah: In the Book or Mormon

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