THE ENSIGN OF THE PEOPLE

The blessing to come when the Lord Jesus returns in glory to take up His kingdom will not be limited to one nation. If that were to be so, countless others would be left out of the blessing that comes with Him. Note, first, therefore, that He will stand for a ‘banner of the peoples’, v. 10 JND. He will be an ensign, a banner raised so high that it will be seen by everyone, by all those whose trust has been in Him, no matter to what nation they belong. This banner summons them to gather round Him, as they will do with zeal.

The banner is the rallying point. In battle the fact that the banner still flew was proof that defeat had not overwhelmed them and at the end of the struggle the banner of the victor was still raised. The triumphant Victor will be that banner, His presence being the sign of His victory, not for Israel alone, but for all peoples who have looked to Him for deliverance. Israel will be recovered. But how can that be as today the nation is scattered? Isaiah is clear on this! It will take place, as the remnant will come from surrounding nations and from the islands of the sea. He will set His people free and start them back on the road to their home, Isa. 49. 22; 62. 10. The land to which they travel will again become the Holy Land.

Observe, second, that the Gentiles who seek Him will recognize that He is the guarantee of their joy, the supplier of their needs and the centre of their worship. Israel will not be denied its unique place, but blessing will be without limitation.

Third, observe that ‘his rest (or His resting place) shall be glorious’. The place from which He rules will be glory, His presence ensuring that to be so. The glory radiating from Jerusalem will testify to the fact that the Lord is there, Ezek. 48. 35. What great things will come from He who is the ensign! Hidden today, insignificant in the counsel of men, but one day He will bear the glory.

‘Jesus shall reign where’er the sun,
Doth his successive journeys run.
His kingdom stretch from shore to shore,
Till moons shall wax and wane no more’. [Isaac Watts]