thinking bible.

You asked

how did old testament prophets envision the inclusion of non israelites in god's people?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Isaiah 56:6-7

Also the foreigners who join themselves to Yahweh, to minister to him, and to love the name of Yahweh, to be his servants, everyone who keeps the Sabbath from profaning it, and holds fast my covenant; even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.”

The prophet Isaiah, writing to a people likely facing exile or recently returned from it, offers visions of restoration and hope. In this section, he broadens the scope of God's covenant and promises beyond just the descendants of Israel, extending an invitation to outsiders.

What does it mean for a community to genuinely be 'a house of prayer for all peoples'?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Isaiah 2:2-4

    Describes all nations streaming to Jerusalem to learn God's ways.

  • Zechariah 8:20-23

    Speaks of many peoples and strong nations coming to seek the Lord in Jerusalem.

  • Malachi 1:11

    Mentions God's name being great among the nations, with incense and pure offerings everywhere.

Ask your own follow-up