Exegesis of Isaiah 40

This paper is a short exegesis of Isaiah 40. It begins by noting where this Chapter fits in the structure of the Book of Isaiah before considering its significant themes. The paper then outlines the meaning of the text beginning with the literal meaning before turning to the spiritual meaning addressing in turn the allegorical, moral and anagogical meaning. The paper argues that the literal meaning of Isaiah 40:1-31 includes that of a prophecy of the preparations of St John the Baptist, the coming of Christ and of His atoning death and resurrection. The paper argues that Isaiah 40 uses the image of a highway and of physical travel as a metaphor for a spiritual journey and that Isaiah 40 operates as a type for the second coming. It asks us like St John the Baptist and his hearers to prepare for that time. Whilst Isaiah 40 does not set out any specific moral laws the paper argues that it has a clear moral instruction. This is that we are to recognise that without God our lives are short and meaningless and that we are to be prepared for our death and for the second coming of the Lord. In short the Isaiah 40's message is that if we follow God’s eternal word and hope in the Lord we can form part of Christ’s reward and prize and walk with him in glory to heaven where we will rest and never grow weary or tired.