What does Isaiah 7:13 Mean?

Study Notes

Hear ye now
The prophecy is not addressed to the faithless Ahaz, but to the whole "house of David." The objection that such a far-off event as the birth of Christ could be no "sign" to Ahaz, is, therefore, puerile. It was a continuing prophecy addressed to the Davidic family, and accounts at once for the instant assent of Mary. Luke 1:38 .

Verse Meaning

Isaiah saw right through the king"s hypocrisy. He warned him by addressing him as the representative of the house of David. The plural "you" indicates that Isaiah was addressing all the members of the house of David and perhaps the whole nation (cf. Isaiah 7:9). Yahweh had made covenant promises that David"s dynasty would continue forever ( 2 Samuel 7:16; 1 Kings 8:25). Ahaz should not have feared being replaced by a puppet king ( Isaiah 7:6). Ahaz had said he would not test God ( Isaiah 7:12), but by refusing to ask for a sign, that is precisely what he was doing-testing God"s patience with him. He was also testing the patience of the godly in Israel who were looking to their king to trust God. The prophet had called Yahweh "Ahaz"s God" ( Isaiah 7:11), but now that the king had rebelled against Him, Isaiah referred to the Lord as "my (Isaiah"s) God." This change was ominous, suggesting that God would abandon the king. If Ahaz"s decision resulted in God withdrawing support from the Davidic kings, the prophecy of Immanuel may imply that God would raise up His own King from David"s house who would be faithful to Him. This could explain why God gave such a major messianic prediction at this time. [source][source]

[source]

"To appreciate fully the messianic portrait of Isaiah 1-39 , it must be viewed against the backdrop of the generally negative presentation of Judahite kingship in these same chapters." ^[1] [source]

Context Summary

A new cycle of prophecy begins here, covering the reign of Ahaz. The complete history which illustrates these chapters is given in 2 Chronicles 28:5. The invasion of Judah by Syria and Samaria was permitted because a severe warning was needed to enforce Isaiah's remonstrances and appeals. See 2 Kings 15:37. The Holy City, as Isaiah predicted, was not to be trodden by the invader, though it would pass through severe suffering and anxiety. This immunity, which neither Ahaz nor his people deserved, was secured by Isaiah's faith and prayer, pleading as he did, God's ancient covenant.

This great prophecy of the coming Immanuel must have greatly encouraged that generation, as it has all succeeding ones. It inspired Psalms 46:1-11. What greater comfort have we than that Jesus is the companion of our pilgrimage? See Matthew 1:21-23. Though the corn-lands were desolate, the cattle on the mountain-pastures would yield butter and the wild bees honey; and this would supply the nation's needs till the invader had withdrawn. Though God chastens us, He will not forget our daily bread. [source]

Chapter Summary: Isaiah 7

¹  Ahaz, being troubled with fear of Rezin and Pekah, is comforted by Isaiah
¹⁰  Ahaz, having liberty to choose a sign, and refusing it, has for a sign, Christ promised
¹⁷  His judgment is prophesied to come by Assyria