Woe to the rebellious children, &c.— These two verses contain the proposition of the discourse, exhibiting the carnal counsel of the Ephraimites condemned by God, which makes the basis of this prophetical declamation. The Ephraimites are addressed as refractory children, more strongly to mark their impiety. See Deuteronomy 21:18; Deuteronomy 21:23. Hosea 4:16 and Jeremiah 2:18. To cover with a covering, but not of God's Spirit, is to seek help to themselves from the persuasion of false prophets, in opposition to the convictions and denunciations of true prophets, teaching them that their purposes are very displeasing to God.
Related Commentaries of Isaiah 30:1
Isaiah 30:1-2
1 Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin:
2 That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt!