Isaiah 45:4 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

For Jacob my servant’s sake, and Israel mine elect, I have even called thee by thy name: I have surnamed thee, though thou hast not known me.

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

For the sake of Jacob my servant and Israel my chosen people, I have called you by name and given you a title of honor, even though you don't know me.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

God is saying He chose and honored someone for the benefit of His people Israel, even though that person didn't know God personally.

📚 Historical Context

God is speaking to Cyrus, the Persian king who would conquer Babylon and allow the Jewish exiles to return home around 538 BC. Though Cyrus worshiped other gods, God used him as His instrument to fulfill His promises to Israel. This shows God's sovereignty over all nations and rulers to accomplish His purposes for His chosen people.

Explore Similar Verses

1 Chronicles 16:13

You descendants of Israel, God's servant, you children of Jacob, his chosen people.

Isaiah 41:8

But you, Israel, are my servant. You are Jacob, whom I have chosen—the descendants of Abraham, my friend.

Isaiah 42:1

Look at my servant, whom I support; my chosen one, in whom I find great joy; I have put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to all nations.

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