“Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.” Isaiah 1:18
“Settle the matter” is a phrase that means “to come to a legal decision”. Inherently, it says Israel is guilty. However, instead of passing sentence, the Judge proposes a full pardon. The appropriate question is whether the accused will throw themselves on the mercy of the court. If God’s promise restores their faith, it will also move and enable them to be willing and obedient believers instead of rebellious evildoers. So, God was not declaring His people innocent of wickedness, but He was prepared to pardon their sins if they would repent and turn to Him. God offers us that same forgiveness. He does not deny our sinfulness. Instead, He can forgive us based on the payment for our sin in the death of the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
The phrase “says the Lord” has a verb form that suggests a repeated offering of grace.
“Scarlet” is a deep-red permanent dye; its stain was impossible to remove from clothing.
“Snow” is pure white; the scarlet of sin is removed.
“Crimson … be like wool” is a restatement for emphasis. Wool means undyed (white) cloth.
Bottom line … the Lord accuses Israel of ignorance and rebellion, yet plans for their repentance and forgiveness. A chief sin is corruption and indifference in their worship services. Today, the Lord calls you to purity in prayer and worship as taught by His Word. When you confess your sins, He promises faithfully to also forgive you on account of Jesus’ pure sacrifice.
God’s blessings on your day…