Isaiah 52:5
Now therefore, what have I here, saith the LORD, that my people is taken away for nought? they that rule over them make them to howl, saith the LORD; and my name continually every day is blasphemed. Now therefore, what have I here, saith the LORD, that my people is taken away for nought? they that rule over them make them to howl, saith the LORD; and my name continually every day is blasphemed.
The verse means that God's people are taken away for nothing and made to howl under those who rule over them, while God's name is blasphemed continually every day. The weakness and apostasy of Israel and Judah caused the surrounding nations to cease fearing God and to make His name a continual blasphemy and reproach among them. That public dishonor was illustrated in the Assyrian threat against Judah, when its officers demanded Jerusalem's surrender and reviled the God of the Hebrews with blasphemous taunts.
The Lord's name is still blasphemed when those who bear Christ's name deny His character by disregarding the needs, suffering and rights of the poor, the suffering and the sinful. Such disregard betrays Christ, who valued people enough to give Himself for them. A religion that falls short of doing to others as one would have them do to oneself is spurious.
Together with chapters 51 through 53, the verse helps show that God has furnished fallen, sinful humanity with a life-giving Saviour who is the only hope of a life that measures with the life of God. Together with chapters 48, 51, 52, 58 and 60, the verse belongs to passages that set forth God's commandments as the great subject for the present time. They are to be kept in mind, to stir souls, and to lead to seeking the Lord and doing the essential works, while through spiritual strength giving enemies no opportunity for doubt and questioning.
Chapter 52 is a prophecy regarding Christ's work to be studied as a help and blessing when the liberty of the church is endangered. Oppression of Christ's church that looks like victory for transgressors of the Sabbath and causes rejoicing among evildoers should not discourage God's people, for God has victory for them. That victory comes through true missionary work in public ministry and house-to-house labor. When the work is wholehearted, earnest and faithful and selfishness is separated from the workers' lives, the efficacy of Christ's grace will be seen, watchmen on Zion's walls will be wide awake and arouse others, workers will see eye to eye with restored unity and confidence, and the arm of the Lord whose power was seen in Christ's life will be revealed in a clear presentation of truth in the power of the Spirit.