Throughout its history, Israel, having been drawn out of Egypt, was always to be a separated people in the midst of idolatry. Moreover, God had always confronted that idolatry through his people: You are my witnesses... and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after me. I, I am the LORD, and besides me there is no Saviour. I declared and saved and proclaimed, when there was no strange god among you; and you are my witnesses... and I am God. Also henceforth I am he; there is none who can deliver from my hand; I work, and who can turn it back?... Fear not, nor be afraid; have I not told you from of old and declared it? And you are my witnesses! Is there a God besides me? There is no Rock; I know not any (Isa. 43:10-13; 44:8). |