What does Isaiah 28:23 Mean?

Verse Meaning

The prophet appealed to his audience to listen to him (cf. Mark 4:3; Mark 4:9), even though some of them were scoffers. What he had to say was very important for them. Failure to listen to God"s Word had been the fatal flaw of the leaders, but they could still hearken and respond. The prophet used two illustrations. [source][source]

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Context Summary

In the beginning of Hezekiah's reign the Jewish leaders had made an alliance with Assyria, on whom they relied to protect them against any and all foes. But the prophet told them plainly that they would be disappointed, and that when the Assyrian scourge passed through the land toward Egypt, it would involve them also in disaster, Isaiah 28:18. Then he broke out with this sublime description of the only foundation of security that could never fail. The deep meaning of this prediction of the precious corner-stone is unfolded in later Scriptures, Matthew 21:42; Ephesians 2:20; 1 Peter 2:7. Christ was tried by Satan and by man: He is precious: He unites the walls of Jew and Gentile that were at right-angles to each other. All our excuses and professions are too short and too narrow when God enters into judgment. Outside of Christ there is neither peace nor safety. See that thou buildest Him a holy character of gold, silver, and precious stones, 1 Corinthians 3:10, etc. [source]

Chapter Summary: Isaiah 28

¹  The prophet threatens Ephraim for their pride and drunkenness
⁵  The residue shall be advanced in the kingdom of Christ
⁷  He rebukes their error
⁹  Their unwillingness to learn
¹⁴  And their security
¹⁶  Christ the sure foundation is promised
¹⁷  Their security shall be tried
²³  They are incited to the consideration of God's providence