For the day of vengeance was in My heartThis phrase indicates a time of divine retribution. In the context of Isaiah, it reflects God's judgment against the nations that have oppressed Israel. The "day of vengeance" is a recurring theme in the prophetic literature, often associated with the Day of the Lord, a time when God will execute justice (
Isaiah 34:8,
Jeremiah 46:10). The heart, in biblical terms, represents the center of will and emotion, suggesting that this judgment is both intentional and deeply felt by God. This concept is also echoed in the New Testament, where God's justice is ultimately fulfilled in Christ's return (
2 Thessalonians 1:7-9).
and the year of My redemption had come
The "year of My redemption" contrasts with the day of vengeance, indicating a period of deliverance and restoration for God's people. Redemption in the Old Testament often involves liberation from bondage, as seen in the Exodus narrative. This phrase suggests a time when God will reclaim and restore His people, fulfilling His covenant promises. The use of "year" implies a prolonged period of blessing and favor, reminiscent of the Year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25), when debts were forgiven and slaves freed. In the New Testament, this redemption is ultimately realized through Jesus Christ, who redeems humanity from sin (Ephesians 1:7,Galatians 4:4-5).
Persons / Places / Events
1.
The LORD (Yahweh)The speaker in this passage, expressing His divine plan and purpose.
2.
IsaiahThe prophet who conveyed God's message to the people of Israel.
3.
IsraelThe primary audience of Isaiah's prophecy, representing God's chosen people.
4.
Day of VengeanceA time appointed by God for executing judgment on His enemies.
5.
Year of RedemptionA period marked by God's deliverance and salvation for His people.
Teaching Points
Understanding Divine JusticeGod's vengeance is not arbitrary but a righteous response to sin and rebellion. It assures us that evil will not go unpunished.
The Balance of Judgment and RedemptionGod's plan includes both judgment for the wicked and redemption for His people. Believers can find hope in His promise of deliverance.
The Urgency of RepentanceKnowing that a day of vengeance is appointed should lead us to repentance and a deeper commitment to living according to God's will.
Living in the Light of RedemptionAs recipients of God's redemption, we are called to live as His redeemed people, reflecting His love and justice in our daily lives.
Trusting in God's TimingGod's timing for vengeance and redemption is perfect. We are encouraged to trust His sovereignty and not take matters into our own hands.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Isaiah 63:4?
2.How does Isaiah 63:4 reveal God's justice and redemption plan for believers?
3.What does "day of vengeance" mean in the context of Isaiah 63:4?
4.How can Isaiah 63:4 inspire us to trust in God's perfect timing?
5.Connect Isaiah 63:4 with New Testament teachings on God's judgment and salvation.
6.How should Isaiah 63:4 influence our understanding of God's role in history?
7.What does Isaiah 63:4 mean by "the year of My redemption"?
8.How does Isaiah 63:4 relate to God's judgment and mercy?
9.Why is the concept of vengeance significant in Isaiah 63:4?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Isaiah 63?
11.In Isaiah 63:4, does the prophecy about “the day of vengeance” conflict with the New Testament emphasis on grace and forgiveness?
12.What does grieving the Holy Spirit mean?
13.Why is there a discrepancy between Isaiah 61:1-2 and the version quoted by Jesus in Luke 4:18-19, if both refer to the same passage?
14.How can we proclaim liberty to the captives?What Does Isaiah 63:4 Mean
For the day• Scripture sets definite moments when God moves decisively. “When the fullness of time had come, God sent His Son” (Galatians 4:4).
• Isaiah is pointing to a divinely appointed “day”—not random, not accidental. God’s calendar is exact, and His people can rest in that certainty (Acts 17:31).
of vengeance• This is not human revenge; it is God’s righteous justice. “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay” (Romans 12:19; cf.Deuteronomy 32:35).
• Throughout Isaiah, “the day of the LORD” includes judgment on sin (Isaiah 34:8). Here, God promises to set all wrongs right, vindicating His holiness (Revelation 6:10).
was in My heart• Judgment flows from God’s own character—holy, loving, and just. It is neither reluctant nor hasty; it is purposeful.
• The phrase shows personal resolve. As Isaiah earlier declared, “The zeal of the LORD of Hosts will accomplish this” (Isaiah 9:7).
and the year• While “day” highlights a sharp moment of justice, “year” suggests an extended season of mercy and deliverance.
• God balances swift judgment with generous redemption (2 Peter 3:9).
of My redemption• Redemption speaks of rescuing and purchasing back. “You redeemed Your people” (Psalm 77:15).
• Isaiah links it to the Jubilee concept—freedom, restoration, return (Isaiah 61:2;Leviticus 25). Jesus applied this to Himself inLuke 4:19.
had come• The prophetic perfect: Isaiah speaks of future events as already accomplished because God’s promise is certain (Romans 4:17).
• Believers look ahead with similar confidence: “When these things begin to happen, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28).
summaryIsaiah 63:4 holds two seemingly opposite truths in harmony: a fixed day when God vindicates His holiness through righteous vengeance, and a gracious year when He redeems His people. Both flow from His own heart—perfectly timed, perfectly balanced. For those in Christ, it is a sober warning against sin and a steadfast assurance that ultimate rescue and renewal are certain.
(4)
The day of vengeance is.--Better, in both clauses,
was,as pointing to the motive of the action, of which the blood-stained garments were the result.
The year of my redeemed . . .--Better,the year of my redemption,scil., the work of redeeming my people.
Verse 4. -
For the day of vengeance is in my heart.
Translate,
for a day of vengeance was in my heart (comp
Isaiah 34:8;
Isaiah 61:2). "A day" is time enough for God to take vengeance, to kill, and to destroy. He hastens over work that is necessary, but uncongenial. But he lengthens out the time of release and redemption for his loved ones. The "day of vengeance" ushers in the "year of redemption."
Is come; rather,
was come. The Divine speaker goes back to the time preceding the actual punishment of the nations.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Forכִּ֛י(kî)Conjunction
Strong's 3588:A relative conjunctionthe dayי֥וֹם(yō·wm)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3117:A dayof vengeanceנָקָ֖ם(nā·qām)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5359:Vengeancewas in My heart,בְּלִבִּ֑י(bə·lib·bî)Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 3820:The heart, the feelings, the will, the intellect, centreand the yearוּשְׁנַ֥ת(ū·šə·naṯ)Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 8141:A yearof My redemptionגְּאוּלַ֖י(gə·’ū·lay)Noun - masculine plural construct | first person common singular
Strong's 1350:To redeem, act as kinsmanhad come.בָּֽאָה׃(bā·’āh)Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 935:To come in, come, go in, go
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OT Prophets: Isaiah 63:4 For the day of vengeance was (Isa Isi Is) 
