Isaiah 48:13, commentary and pictures

God by His own hand laid the foundation of the earth, and by His right hand spanned and stretched out the heavens, and when He calls to them they stand up together in order, subject to His command. All things, both material and spiritual, came into existence at His command and not from any pre-existing matter, and were made for His purpose. The Bible alone, as God's Word, reveals this creative power and gives the true and authentic account of the earth's origin, of creation, and of human history.

As part of its chapter, the verse belongs to a portrayal of people who have received God's truth and warnings yet refuse to hear and obey them. In that same setting it shows God continuing His work of redemption for the glory of His name, with those who repent becoming witnesses to His power and grace.

Together with chapters 48 through 52, the verse shows the appointed work to be done now, fulfilling twenty years of messages calling for proclaiming the message throughout the world. It calls for awakening to the condition of the world and for united and determined effort with no delay, especially decided work in the cities with an increased number of workers to meet the demand. It requires that means come in to carry forward soul-saving, that lay members who have means help without delay and resist the temptation to enter commercial enterprises in order to invest in the Lord's work, and that all gird on the armor, reconsecrate themselves, and live in harmony with the Lord God and with Christ His only begotten Son.