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Isaiah 6:1–4
In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple (v. 1).
One of the most magnificent titles for God in the Old Testament is Adonai, which usually is translated into English as “Lord.” It comes from the Hebrew root word adon, which also is usually translated as “lord,” but which also can mean “master” or “sovereign one.” Adon is used in Scripture many times in reference both to human masters and to God. For instance, we find it in Genesis 45:9, where Joseph declares to his father, “God has made me lord of all Egypt.” Also, we find it in Psalm 8:1, where David writes, “O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is Your name in all the earth.” The first instance of the word lord here is rendered “Lord,” indicating that it is translating God’s name, Yahweh. But the second is rendered “Lord,” for it is translating adon. Thus, this sentence, speaking of God, is basically saying, “O Yahweh, our Sovereign One.”
Occasionally, however, Scripture uses an emphatic form of the word adon—Adonai. This word is used only of God. The prophet employs this word in Isaiah 6:1 when he speaks of seeing “the Lord” on His heavenly throne. He is seeing a vision of the one who is emphatically, absolutely sovereign
Clearly, then, the main thrust of the title Adonai has to do with sovereignty. But what do we mean when we say God is sovereign? On the one hand, the word refers to His power. Indeed, the Bible declares that He possesses all power; He is omnipotent. However, the primary aspect that is in view when we speak of sovereignty is authority. As the perfectly holy Creator and Sustainer of all things, God has the authority to impose His will on His creation, and none can hope to oppose Him. Just as Isaiah saw in his vision, God is “high and lifted up,” and He reigns over all things. He is the sovereign God. He is the Lord.
It is important to note that when the Scriptures were translated into Greek, the word Kurios was substituted for Adonai in Old Testament references to God. However, Kurios also appears in many New Testament references to Jesus Christ. This is entirely appropriate, for God has given Him all authority (Matt. 28:18), and He sits at God’s right hand to rule over all things (1 Peter 3:22). For this reason, the disciples of the early church recited a simple creed: “Jesus is Lord.” They knew that their Savior was also their Sovereign One.
Coram Deo Living before the face of God
Human beings are naturally resistant to authority, especially God’s. In fact, every sin is an assault against His sovereign authority. For this reason, those who would be saved must submit to His authority and recognize His Lordship. If you have never taken this step, consider the folly of resisting the one who has absolute authority.
For Further Study
- Ex. 23:21
- 1 Chron. 16:31
- Pss. 47:2, 8; 95:3
- 1 Tim. 6:13–16