"Come, let me get the wine, let us imbibe the strong drink, and tomorrow will be like today, only far better!" “Come, let me get the wine,This phrase reflects an invitation to indulge in wine, symbolizing a call to complacency and indulgence. In biblical times, wine was a common beverage, often associated with celebration and joy (Psalm 104:15). However, excessive consumption was warned against (Proverbs 20:1). The context here suggests a disregard for spiritual vigilance, echoing the behavior of leaders who neglect their duties (Isaiah 56:10-11). Pro 23:29-30 Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions?… let us imbibe the strong drink, Strong drink refers to fermented beverages with higher alcohol content. The call to consume strong drink indicates a deeper level of indulgence and moral laxity. In the cultural context, strong drink was often used in feasts and could lead to debauchery (Proverbs 23:29-35). This phrase highlights a pursuit of pleasure over responsibility, contrasting with the biblical call to sobriety and self-control (1 Peter 5:8). Pro 31:4-5 It is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers… and tomorrow will be like today, This expression of complacency suggests a belief in the unchanging nature of life, ignoring the potential for divine intervention or judgment. It reflects a mindset of false security, similar to the attitude condemned in the days of Noah (Matthew 24:37-39). The assumption that tomorrow will mirror today without consequence is a denial of the prophetic warnings throughout Scripture (James 4:13-14). Jas 4:13-14 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow… only far better!” The expectation of an even better tomorrow without repentance or change is a delusion. This mirrors the false prophets' assurances of peace when there is no peace (Jeremiah 6:14). It underscores a misplaced hope in worldly pleasures rather than in God’s promises. Theologically, it contrasts with the Christian hope of a future perfected in Christ (Revelation 21:4), which requires faithfulness and readiness for His return (Matthew 25:1-13). 1Co 15:32 If I fought wild beasts in Ephesus for human motives… Persons / Places / Events 1. IsaiahThe prophet who authored the book, delivering messages from God to the people of Israel, often addressing their spiritual and moral state. 2. Israel The primary audience of Isaiah's prophecies, often called to repentance and warned against complacency and idolatry. 3. The Watchmen In the broader context of Isaiah 56, these are leaders or spiritual guides who are criticized for their negligence and indulgence. Teaching Points Complacency in Spiritual LeadershipThe verse highlights the danger of leaders who indulge in personal pleasures rather than fulfilling their responsibilities. Spiritual leaders today must remain vigilant and prioritize their calling over personal indulgence. The Illusion of Endless Time The attitude of "tomorrow will be like today, only far better" reflects a false sense of security. Believers are reminded that life is uncertain, and we must live with an eternal perspective, making the most of every opportunity to serve God. The Dangers of Excess The call to "get wine" and "drink our fill" serves as a warning against excess and addiction. Christians are encouraged to practice moderation and self-control, recognizing the impact of their choices on their spiritual health. The Call to Sobriety and Watchfulness In contrast to the indulgence depicted, Christians are called to be sober-minded and watchful, understanding the times and living in readiness for Christ's return. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the attitude of the people in Isaiah 56:12 reflect a misunderstanding of God's expectations for His people?2. In what ways can spiritual leaders today fall into the same trap of complacency and indulgence as the watchmen in Isaiah 56? 3. How can the message of Isaiah 56:12 serve as a warning against the dangers of procrastination in our spiritual lives? 4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that we are living with an eternal perspective, rather than assuming "tomorrow will be like today"? 5. How do the teachings in 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8 provide a counterpoint to the behavior described in Isaiah 56:12, and how can we apply this to our daily lives? Connections to Other Scriptures Proverbs 23:29-35This passage warns against the dangers of excessive drinking, similar to the indulgence criticized in Isaiah 56:12. Luke 12:19-20 The parable of the rich fool, who plans to enjoy life without regard for God's will, parallels the complacency and false security seen in Isaiah 56:12. 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8 Paul urges believers to be sober and alert, contrasting the spiritual vigilance expected of Christians with the indulgence described in Isaiah 56:12. People IsaiahPlaces JerusalemTopics Abundant, Beer, Better, Beyond, Bring, Drink, Exceeding, Fetch, Fill, Full, Heavily, Measure, Morrow, Ourselves, Pleasure, Quaff, Strong, Tomorrow, To-morrow, WineDictionary of Bible Themes Isaiah 56:12 4544 wine 4436 drinking, abstention 5856 extravagance Library We Sure of To-Morrow? a New Year's Sermon'To-morrow shall be as this day, and much more abundant.'--ISAIAH lvi. 12. These words, as they stand, are the call of boon companions to new revelry. They are part of the prophet's picture of a corrupt age when the men of influence and position had thrown away their sense of duty, and had given themselves over, as aristocracies and plutocracies are ever tempted to do, to mere luxury and good living. They are summoning one another to their coarse orgies. The roystering speaker says, 'Do not be afraid … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Concerning the Sacrament of Baptism Nor Indeed Hath the Holy Spirit Failed to Speak what Should be of Open... The House of Prayer. --Isaiah Lvi. 7 Lastly, Let us Hear the Lord Himself Delivering Most Plain Judgment on this Matter. ... That the Ruler Should be Discreet in Keeping Silence, Profitable in Speech. That the Unskilful Venture not to Approach an Office of Authority. The History of the Prophetic Sermons, Epistles, and Apocalypses How those are to be Admonished who have had Experience of the Sins of the Flesh, and those who have Not. "And if Christ be in You, the Body is Dead Because of Sin; but the Spirit is Life Because of Righteousness. " Covenanting Confers Obligation. Ye Also who have not yet Made this Vow... The Cavils of the Pharisees Concerning Purification, and the Teaching of the Lord Concerning Purity - the Traditions Concerning Hand-Washing' and Vows. ' Barren Fig-Tree. Temple Cleansed. Manner of Covenanting. Covenanting Adapted to the Moral Constitution of Man. Adoption An Appendix to the Beatitudes Love Ten Reasons Demonstrating the Commandment of the Sabbath to be Moral. Links Isaiah 56:12 NIVIsaiah 56:12 NLT Isaiah 56:12 ESV Isaiah 56:12 NASB Isaiah 56:12 KJV Isaiah 56:12 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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