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The frequent occurrence of the phrase “Fear not” or “Do not fear” throughout these chapters indicates that fear, rather than faith, was the predominant posture of the exiles. This needed to be overcome, and the prophet addresses the problem with a threefold argument: (1) A deliverer sent by Yahweh will come very soon (vv.1-7), (2) Israel is still God’s chosen people (vv.8-20), and (3) the nations (particularly Babylon) and their gods are as empty wind (vv.21-29).
The deliverer whom Yahweh is bringing from the East (v.2) is Cyrus, the Persian, who will eventually conquer Babylon and liberate the exiles. The path of his destruction is extensive (vv.2a, 3), and his reputation has reached far and wide (vv.5-6). The prophet concludes with a mocking reference to the Babylonians' futile appeals to idols for protection in the face of impending danger. Not only must this “source of strength and protection” be made by a craftsman, he must nail it down so it will not topple!
As God’s chosen servant, Israel will be strengthened and protected (vv.8-10). Vv.11-16 explore God’s protection further, as he intervenes on Israel’s behalf against the nations. Again we meet the Isaianic phrase “Holy One of Israel.” When God acts in holiness and righteousness, he delivers his people. Even the desert will be transformed when God acts.
The prophet concludes by destroying the credibility of the nations and their gods. Were they able to predict the future? Of course not. The gods of Babylon were impotent.