Tyndale Open Study NotesIsaiah 64

The prophet’s reflections on the past (Isaiah 63:7–14) inspire him to pray that God would now rescue his people as he has done before.

we remain in our sins … like something unclean: See also Isaiah 59:1–15. The only hope for salvation and transformation is through Jesus Christ (see Romans 7:25–8:11).

• You have hidden Your face from us: See Isaiah 1:15; 30:20; 59:2.

• delivered us into the hand of our iniquity: Because the people insisted on sinning, God left them to perish in their sinful ways (see Romans 1:24).

clay … potter: See also Isaiah 29:16; 45:9; Romans 9:20–21.

holy cities: All the cities of Judah were considered holy to God. However, the temple in the host city of Jerusalem was the most holy place.