What is the significance of the title "Holy One of Israel" in Isaiah?

• A. It emphasizes God's creative power
• B. It shows God's relationship with all nations
• C. It emphasizes God's holiness, authority, and His unique relationship with Israel
• D. It highlights God’s compassion for the poor

Answer: (C)

The title "Holy One of Israel" carries deep significance, particularly in the context of the book of Isaiah. This title emphasizes God's inherent holiness, which reflects His moral purity and separateness from sin. By calling Him the "Holy One," Isaiah conveys that God is utterly distinct and transcendent, setting the standard for righteousness that His people are expected to follow.

Moreover, this title highlights the authority of God over Israel, establishing Him as the supreme ruler with the power to command and guide His people. It indicates His unique relationship with Israel, underlining that they are chosen, set apart as His people, and bear a special covenant with Him. This covenant relationship necessitates a response of faithfulness and obedience from Israel.

While other options may touch on relevant aspects of God's nature or relationships, they do not capture the comprehensive significance of how "Holy One of Israel" encapsulates the themes of holiness, authority, and a unique covenantal relationship specifically with the nation of Israel, which are central themes throughout the book of Isaiah.