LESSON 1

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 1 Verse to Remember Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. Isaiah 1:18

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 1. 1. God calls the heavens and earth to witness the charges against his people. a. What charge does God bring? (v. 2)

Historical Context Isaiah’s ministry began about 740 years before Christ when the nation of Israel was divided into a northern and southern kingdom. The northern kingdom, called Israel, was made up b. How are the ox and donkey wiser than God’s people? of 10 tribes. It had been ruled for almost 200 (v. 3) years by kings that displeased God. The powerful kingdom of Assyria had already begun its conquest of these tribes. The southern kingdom, called Judah, was made up of the two tribes of Judah and Benjamin. It was ruled both by kings who pleased God and almost an equal number who displeased him. 2. Read the indictment of God’s people in verse 4. Why do During Isaiah’s ministry, four kings ruled. The first you think Isaiah uses such harsh language? king, Uzziah, reigned for 52 years. God gave him success as long as he sought the Lord. Uzziah had a well-trained army, was prosperous and powerful, and completed many building projects. As his fame spread far and wide, his pride increased, he was unfaithful to God, and was then afflicted with leprosy. The second king, Uzziah’s son, Jotham, reigned for 16 years. He “grew powerful because he walked steadfastly before the LORD his God,”1 though the people continued 3. God speaks about these rebellious people as his children and his people. He also chose Isaiah, whose name means, with their corrupt practices of idolatry. Ahaz, Jotham’s son, did not follow in his father’s ways. “‘the LORD is salvation’ that is, ‘the LORD is the source of During his 16-year reign he “promoted salvation.’“5 What tone does this set from the very wickedness in Judah and [was] most unfaithful to beginning of the book? (*Deut. 4:31; 1 Sam. 12:20–22) the LORD.”2 The LORD gave him over to his enemies and Judah suffered greatly at their hands. The final king during Isaiah’s ministry was Hezekiah, who reigned for 29 years. Though a son of Ahaz, Hezekiah did what was right in the eyes of the LORD. One of his greatest accomplishments was the restoration of the temple that his father had desecrated. He led his people in returning to the LORD with sacrifices and joyful worship. Though the kingdom was threatened by Assyria, God intervened to save Judah. Hezekiah’s remaining days were peaceful, he was greatly honored, and he succeeded in everything he undertook and became exceedingly rich. Then his heart became filled with pride, and because of God’s wrath he lay on his deathbed. Hezekiah repented, and God graciously restored him and added an additional 15 years to his life. 3 Commentator William Sanford LaSor writes, “Isaiah is great for two reasons…he lived in momentous days, in critical days of international upheaval, and he wrote what many consider to be the greatest book of the Old Testament.” 4 So begins our study of Isaiah. Lesson 1—page 1 of 4

Day 2 — Read Isaiah 1:1–15. 1. God had made a deal with his people: if they obeyed, they would be blessed and remain in the land; if they disobeyed, they would be punished and sent into exile (vv. 19–20; and Lev. 26). With this in mind, how does Isaiah describe the consequences of Judah’s rebellion? (vv. 5–10;  Deut. 29:22–28 )

2. Temple worship was originally set up to foster intimacy with God and point to the Savior he would provide. a. How does God react to what the people’s worship has become? List some of the phrases he uses. (vv. 11–15)

b. How does God ultimately solve the problem of flawed worship? Heb. 10:1–22

Jn. 4:23–24; Eph. 5:18–20

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For the story of Sodom and Gomorrah turn to Genesis 18:20—19:29.

Day 3 — Read Isaiah 1:16–20. 1. “The love which is hidden behind the wrath, and would gladly break through, already begins to disclose itself.”6 a. What is the bad news of verses 18–20?

b. What is the good news of verses 18–20?

2. The Holy One of Israel calls his people to reason with him so they will see their need. How does he accomplish the cleansing and redemption of his people? (Rom. 3:21–26; 1 Cor. 6:9–11)

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 1:21–26. 1. We’ll come to see that Isaiah is a master of carefully chosen images or word pictures that help unlock ideas and communicate God’s heart. How do the images in verses 21–22 help you understand Isaiah’s grief and indignation?

2. Jot down the contrast between what God wants for his people and the way things really are. (vv. 16–17, 23)

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3. Over the course of his book, Isaiah uses several different titles for God. a. The most common title is “the Holy One of Israel,” which he uses 25 times in this book. Why do you think this title is appropriate given Isaiah's message?

b. In verse 24 he uses three additional titles back to back. Taken together, what do they convey?

Day 5 — Read Isaiah 1:27–31. 1. Zion is a term used interchangeably with Jerusalem to refer to God’s people. a. What does the future hold for Zion? (vv. 25–27;  Rev. 21:1–7; Rev. 22:1–6)

b. What does the future hold for those who reject God’s gracious offer of salvation? (vv. 28–31; Rev. 21:8)

2. Reread chapter 1. What have you learned about God by what he loves and what he hates?

Review the lesson. My take-away from this lesson is:

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 2 Chr. 27:6 2 2 Chr. 28:19 3 For more details on this period of Judah’s history read 2 Kings 15:32-2 Kings 20 and 2 Chronicles 27-32. 4 William Sanford LaSor, Great Personalities of the Old Testament (Old Tappan, NJ: Revell, 1959), 136. 5 Edward J. Young, The Book of Isaiah, Volume 1 Chapters 1-18 (Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans, 2001), 3. 6 Young, quoting Delitzsch, p. 70.

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LESSON 2

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 2—5 Verse to Remember Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths. Isaiah 2:3 In our passage for this week, Isaiah writes about events taking place in three different time periods. He describes the way Judah has forsaken God in the present, God’s resulting judgment in the near future, and God’s promise of redemption and restoration in the distant future. Isaiah does not record these time periods in chronological order, but instead weaves them together in a way that beautifully highlights God’s justice, mercy, compassion, covenant faithfulness, love, and goodness. This lesson will look at chapters 2—5 through the lens of each of these time periods.

Locate each kingdom and its capital on the map below.

Northern Kingdom: Israel, Samaria (capital city)

Southern Kingdom: Judah, Jerusalem or Zion (capital city), house of Jacob, daughter of Zion

In Scripture, the phrases “last days” and “in that day” refer “most often... to the time initiated by Jesus’ first coming to earth and climaxed by his second coming to judge and to reign forever.”1 (Joel 2:28–32; Heb. 1:1–2)

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 2—5 to see how Isaiah weaves together the themes of God’s judgment and his blessing in the three time periods mentioned above.

Day 2 — The present: Judah’s sinful disobedience

https://en.wikipedia.org/?title=Kingdom_of_Israel_

Beginning in 2:6 Isaiah paints a detailed picture of Judah’s rejection of God and his ways. He also describes some of her underlying attitudes and motivations (Lk. 6:45). Read the following verses about Judah’s behaviors. Why do you think each one is offensive to the LORD? Is. 2:6b

Is. 2:7; Is. 5:8

Is. 2:8

Is. 2:11; Is. 3:9; Is. 5:21 Day 2 continues on page 2 Lesson 2—page 1 of 4

Is. 2:22 Is. 3:8 Is. 3:14–15; Is. 5:23 Is. 3:16 Is. 5:11, 22 Is. 5:12, 24b Is. 5:18–19 Is. 5:20

Day 3 — The near future: God’s righteous judgment of Judah in the Old Testament In chapters 2—5 the LORD rises to judge his people, and his anger is aroused against them. All the while God longs for them to repent and return to him, as Isaiah expresses in the Song of the Vineyard in chapter 5. 1. Describe the judgment God has in store for his people and the effect it has on them. Is. 2:9–11, 19–21

Is. 3:1–8, 11

Is. 3:17–24

Is. 3:25—4:1

Is 5:5–6, 9–10

Is. 5:13–15 Day 3 continues on page 3 Lesson 2—page 2 of 4

2. Isaiah uses a string of images (word pictures) in 5:24–30 to describe the Assyrian army’s invasion of Judah. Pick two images and explain how they convey the terror of the coming destruction.

3. If you only had the verses you’ve studied today on which to base your understanding of God, how would you describe him?

4. Isaiah weaves the themes of Judah’s disobedience and God’s judgment throughout his book. The Song of the Vineyard is another example of this. Read Isaiah 5:1–7. What else do we learn about God’s relationship with his people in this song? (Is. 5:1–4a)

5. Review how you described God in question 3 above. How does the Song of the Vineyard give you a fuller picture of who God is?

* The image of

the vineyard

Day 4 — The distant future: God’s redemptive plan for Judah Read Isaiah 2:1–5. The purpose behind God’s judgment is restoration. He desires his people to repent and return to loving and worshipping him alone. Judah’s unfaithfulness stands in stark contrast to God’s faithfulness to his covenant. He will make good on his promises: to Adam and Eve, Abraham, Moses, David, and Isaiah. These promises culminate in God's sending of a redeemer who will one day reign over all the earth with justice and righteousness. 1. How does Isaiah characterize “the mountain of the LORD’S temple”? (Is. 2:2)

runs through the Old Testament and would be familiar to any Jew. Read Mark 12:1–12 to see how Jesus drew upon this imagery in his confrontation of the Jewish leaders.

2. What is the priority of the people in these last days? (Is. 2:3)

3. What dramatic changes will the LORD’S reign and rule bring about on the world scene? (Is. 2:4)

4. In the past, Judah had “no regard for the deeds of the LORD, no respect for the work of his hands” (Is. 5:12). How will this be different in the future? (Is. 2:5, 11b)

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Day 5 — The distant future: God’s redemptive plan for the entire world Read Isaiah 4:2–6. 1. The Branch of the LORD ultimately refers to the Son of David, the Messiah: Jesus. He will be the longawaited King that will rule with both justice and mercy. He will be the one through whom God fulfills his promises of restoration. How does Isaiah describe him? (Is. 4:2; Is. 11:1–3a;  Zech. 6:12–13)

2. How does Isaiah describe what it will be like in Zion at this time? (Is. 1:26–27; Is. 4:2–6)

3. How do the images that Isaiah uses describe God’s relationship with his people? (Is. 4:5–6)

God’s promise to create a

cloud and fire over Mount Zion is reminiscent of his protective presence with his people after he rescued them from slavery in Egypt. (Exod. 13:17–22)

1.

Personal Reflection

For the questions below, consider the themes of rebellion, judgment, and redemption. How is your story both similar to and different from that of Judah?

2. How is the story of Jesus both similar to and different from the story of Judah and your story?

3. How does the story of Jesus intersect with and transform your story? (Is. 53:10–11; Rom. 5:9–11)

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 Kathleen B. Nielson, Isaiah: The Lord Saves, Living Word Bible Studies (Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R Publishing, 2011), 31-32.

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LESSON 3

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 6 Verse to Remember Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory. Isaiah 6:3

Day 1 — The Holy King Read Isaiah 6:1–4.

Chapters 1 through 5 have served as a prologue to the book of Isaiah. Now in chapter 6 we read about God's call to Isaiah to be his prophet. This comes at the end of an era of blessing for Judah: "In the year that King Uzziah died" (v. 1). Isaiah was a man of importance in the kingdom of Judah, likely even part of the royal family. He cared deeply for his people. Isaiah's name essentially means “God saves.” He was a skilled communicator whom God called to prosecute his covenant people for their unfaithfulness. The message God gave Isaiah would indeed harden their hearts, but it is full of the gospel of grace.

1. Skim through the summary of King Uzziah's reign in 2 Chronicles 26. How is “the King, the LORD Almighty” (v. 5) that Isaiah sees different from Uzziah?1

2. Use a dictionary or Bible to compose a definition of holiness.

In Hebrew, the language of the Old Testament, there is no good, better, best. Instead a word is repeated to add emphasis. To say "holy, holy" would be to say "very holy." Here, and in Revelation 4:8,

“holy, holy, holy” gives God the highest praise possible.

3. Describe Isaiah’s vision of the Holy One. (vv. 1–4)

Read verse 5. Why do you think Isaiah responds this way?

4. The New Testament gives us more information about the King before whom Isaiah trembles. a. Who is the glorious King that Isaiah saw? (Jn. 12:41)

b. How do people respond when they see the exalted Holy One? (Rev. 1:10–18; Rev. 4:6b–11; * Acts 22:4–16)

c. How do you respond to these visions of your God? You may wish to write out a prayer, sing a song, or humbly admit your sin.

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Day 2 — Woe to Me! Read Isaiah 6:5–7.

2. How does God solve the problem of Isaiah's lack of holiness? (vv. 6–7; Consider Exod. 29:35–37.)

1. Look back at the six woes of Isaiah 5 (verses 8, 11, 18, 20, 21, 22). How is the woe Isaiah pronounces in today's reading different?

What does this tell you about Isaiah?

The seraphs were able to 3. Each of us would also be completely undone in the presence of the Holy One. a. What has God done to atone for your sin? (Rom. 3:21–26; Heb. 9:13–14)

b. Like Isaiah, what must we do to receive this gift? (1 Jn. 1:5–9)

worship in the presence of God, and the words of their lips were not spoken in vain repetition. Isaiah realized that his lips were not clean; he was unable to truly worship in his sinful condition. Upon his confession God gives His holiness to cover Isaiah's sin and to remove his guilt. Isaiah is given not only clean lips but also a new heart. His cleansing has prepared him for his role as prophet of God, the one who speaks the words of God to the people.

To atone means “’to cover’…. With reference to sin the thought is that the person is so covered by means of a sacrifice that the sin can no longer be seen; the sin is atoned for. God does not see the sin.… That which covers the person (namely, the sacrifice) God regards as sufficient. He is satisfied.”2

Day 3 — Sent by God Read Isaiah 6:8–10.

1. The Lord speaks for the first time in this vision, asking for someone to send (v. 8). Why do you think Isaiah responds to the call in the way that he does? (You may wish to consider Psalm 51.)

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2. What kind of ministry is Isaiah called to? (vv. 9–10)

What does Isaiah’s call teach us about how to measure success in ministry?

3. All four gospels quote this passage, applying it to Jesus' ministry. a. Why does Jesus say he speaks in parables? (Mt. 13:10–16; Mk. 4:10–12;  Rom. 9; Rom. 11:22–23)

b. How do the people respond to the words and miracles of Jesus? Jn. 1:10–11; Jn. 12:37–40

4. The fact that God gives understanding to some and not to others is a hard truth. Meditate on Paul’s response to this truth in Romans 11:33–36.

Jn. 1:12–13; Jn. 12:42

Day 4 — A Stump of Hope?! The images of the seed or offspring, root, stump, and branch run from Genesis to Revelation. Just after the fall Eve is promised a seed that will crush the head of the serpent (Gen. 3:15). In 2 Samuel 7:12–16 God promises King David that his offspring "will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever." In John's vision of the end of time he is comforted by the words, "Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David has triumphed" (Rev. 5:5).

All of these images ultimately point to Christ. Read Isaiah 6:11–13. 1. How long will this judgment on Judah last? (vv. 11–12)

Day 4 continues on page 4

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2. This chapter began with the death of a mostly good king and ends with a description of the coming destruction. How does God remind Isaiah that judgment and destruction do not have the last word? (vv. 5–7, 13; Hint: Job 14:7–9)

3. At the end of this passage (v. 13) we’re left with an apparently dead stump. But what does God promise will come from this stump? (Is. 11:1; Is. 4:2–3)

Day 5 — Encountering the Holiness of God Reread Isaiah 6. What will you take away from this passage?

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 Adapted from Kathleen B. Nielson, Isaiah: The Lord Saves, Living Word Bible Studies (Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R Publishing, 2011), 50. 2 Edward J. Young, The Book of Isaiah, Volume 1 Chapters 1-18 (Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans, 2001), 252-253.

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LESSON 4

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 7:1—9:7 Verse to Remember For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

Historical Context

Isaiah 7 is set in the year 734 B.C.,1 approximately six years after the calling of Isaiah recorded in chapter 6.

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 7:1–9. 1. Use the map and chart to get your bearings on the geography and characters discussed in chapter 7. a. Highlight the following cities or areas on the map: Judah, Aram, Israel, Jerusalem, Damascus, Samaria, and Assyria. b. Then fill in the chart.

Nation

Capital City

King

Judah (house of David)

Aram (Syria)

Israel (Ephraim or Jacob) https://en.wikipedia.org/?title=Kingdom_of_Israel_

2. Earlier Judah had suffered terribly under separate attacks from Aram and Israel (2 Chr. 28:5–8). What now causes the hearts of Ahaz and his people to shake? (Is. 7:2, 4–6; Consult the map to get a sense of what’s happening.)

3. The word Isaiah brings to Ahaz (7:4a) seems glib given the fierceness of the foes he faces. What example of Judah’s history with her God would prove that it is not? (2 Chr. 20:2–24)

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4. What perspective does God give to Ahaz through Isaiah? (Is. 7:4–9)

5. What history do you have with God that can encourage you in present or future troubles?

Day 2 — Read Isaiah 7:10–25. Many of the prophecies in Isaiah were fulfilled in Old Testament times, but also find their ultimate fulfillment in Christ and his work. The sign in chapter 7 is one example of this kind of dual fulfillment.

1. The LORD, knowing Ahaz’s faithless heart, invites him to ask for a sign of his choosing to confirm the message he just received, but Ahaz refuses: “Therefore the LORD himself will give [him] a sign” (7:12–14). What is the sign? (Is. 7:14)

2. The sign given to Ahaz will be fulfilled in the near future and more fully in the distant future. a. How is it fulfilled in the near future? (Is. 8:1–4; Note: the “prophetess” is likely a reference to Isaiah’s second wife, at the time a virgin.)

b. How was it fulfilled more than 700 years into the distant future? (Mt. 1:18–23)

3. The child of the virgin will be called Immanuel, which means “God with us.” a. What is the significance of the name for Isaiah’s generation? (Is. 8:9–10) Commentator Alec Motyer says, b. What is the significance of the name for future generations? Jn. 1:1, 14

Jn. 14:16–20

c. What is the significance of this name for you?

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“Immanuel is a truth as well as a name… God himself is present as the security of his people.”2

Day 3 — Read Isaiah 8:1–10. 1. As noted in the New International Version footnote, the name of Isaiah’s second son means “quick to the plunder, swift to the spoil.” How is the prophecy given through this name fulfilled? (Is. 7:16–17; Is. 8:4; * 2 Kgs. 15:29–30; 2 Kgs. 16:9)

2. God delivers Judah from this threat posed by Aram and Israel; however, later the people will suffer consequences for their rejection of God. a. How does Judah reject “the gently flowing waters of Shiloah” (8:6a)? (2 Kgs. 16:7–18; 2 Chr. 28:16–25)

b. What will be the consequences of this rejection? (Is. 8:7–8)

"In 7:3 Ahaz, under threat of invasion and siege, was [out at the aqueduct] looking at his vulnerable water supply [“the gently flowing waters of Shiloah”]…. To live in Jerusalem...required faith that the Lord would stand by his promises that this was the city he had chosen and which he would defend.”3

3. Is there any hope in the midst of such anticipated destruction? (Is. 8:10; Note the name of Isaiah’s first son who accompanied him to the aqueduct means “a remnant will return.”4)

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 8:11–22. 1. God calls Isaiah to live differently from the people of Judah. a. What does this calling look like for him? (Is. 8:11–13, 16–17, 19–20)

b. What does he find when he lives this way? (Is. 8:14a;  Ps. 90:1)

c. What is the alternative to “stand[ing] firm in your faith” (7:9b)? (Is. 7:9; Is. 8:14–15, 21–22)

d. How are we similarly encouraged to live? (2 Pet. 3:9–14)

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2. The New Testament writers pick up on Isaiah’s imagery of a stone that causes stumbling and a rock that makes people fall (8:14–15). How do these writers understand the images? (Rom. 9:30—10:4; 1 Pet. 2:6–8)

Day 5 — Read Isaiah 8:22—9:7. 1. In light of 8:22 what is the good news in 9:1–2?

How will God fulfill these promises? (Mt. 4:12–16; Lk. 2:25–32; Jn. 8:12)

2. What transformations does Isaiah see in the future for the nation? (Is. 9:3–5)

3. All gloom is ultimately put away because a child is born. a. What do the titles for this “son” tell you about him? (Is. 9:6)

We are all familiar with

John 3:16. Read it afresh in light of Isaiah 9:6.

b. How does the description of his reign in 9:7 encourage you?

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Comforted: Feeling Secure in the Arms of God (Colorado Springs, CO.: David C. Cook, 1992), 42. 2 J. Alec Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah: An Introduction & Commentary (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1993), 92, 94. 3 Motyer, 91. 4 NIV text note on Isaiah 7:3.

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LESSON 5

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 9:8—12:6 Verse to Remember

Political Review

In that day you will say: "Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted." Isaiah 12:4

At the time of the great kings, David and Solomon, there was one united nation, a brotherhood of the twelve sons of the patriarch Jacob. In the last lesson we learned of a coming King whose rule and reign will supersede all earthly kings and kingdoms. In this passage, the kingdom is divided into Israel and Judah. Read 2 Kings 16—18 for some historical context on both Judah and Israel.  In 732 B.C., the king of Israel was attacking Judah and King Ahaz needed someone to save them from this attack. He sent gifts to the king of Assyria asking for his help. (2 Kgs. 16:7)

Day 1 — "...his hand is still upraised." (Is. 9:12, 17, 21; Is. 10:4)

Read Isaiah 9:8—10:4. 1. Summarize the response of Israel to the message of the Lord's coming judgment. (Is. 9:9-10)

 2. When the twelve tribes of Israel entered into a covenant with the LORD, they were warned of the consequences of disobedience and rejection (Lev. 26). It is no surprise that the  LORD must punish Israel's leaders and false prophets. a. But what other surprising groups of Israelites will be shown no pity? (Is. 9:17; * Is. 1:17)

3. Read Isaiah 10:3-4. Why do you think God asks these questions?

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The kingdom of Israel completely fell to Assyria in 722 B.C. The people were taken from the promised land and sent to Assyria. Only the kingdom of Judah remained. (2 Kgs. 17:1-23)



Ahaz's son Hezekiah became the new king of Judah. He obeyed God. Hezekiah attempted to restore worship of the true and living God. He broke his father's alliance with Assyria. (2 Kgs. 18:1-8)



In response, the King of Assyria attacked in 701 B.C. and captured all but Jerusalem. He sought to destroy Judah as he had destroyed Israel. (2 Kgs. 18:13-37)

b. Why is the Lord punishing them all? (Is. 9:13, 17b; See God’s punishment also in Gen. 6:5-7.)

c. It may be tempting to stand back and judge God’s people for their failure to obey God, but what does Romans 3:9-12 say about us?

Assyria's help caused Ahaz to befriend the king of Assyria. Ahaz changed the worship in the temple to be more similar to the worship in Assyria. (2 Kgs. 16:10-17)

Day 2 — Assyria, "the rod of [God's] anger" (Is. 10:5)

Read Isaiah 10:5-19. 1. Why does the king of Assyria think Israel and Judah are just like the other nations he has conquered? (Is. 2:8; Is. 10:10-11;  2 Kgs. 18:33-35)

2. Assyria has a misinformed idea of the true and living God because of Israel’s failure to accurately represent him. God however has an accurate view of Assyria. a. How does God describe the Assyrian nation? (Is. 10:5-6, 12, 15)

b. How will God punish Assyria? (Is. 10:16-19; read ahead Is. 10:25-26, 33-34) 3. What names does Isaiah use for the One who controls the nations? (Is. 10:16-17, 33-34)

Assyrian Domination

Which one stands out to you? Why?

The nation of Assyria has conquered whole kingdoms in the north (Is. 10:8-9). As Isaiah prophesies, it has even taken Samaria, the capital of Israel. The northern kingdom has faced its "day of reckoning" (Is. 10:3). As the power and territory of Assyria grows, they become a serious threat to the southern kingdom of Judah. In a wave of destruction they capture Judah's fortified cities as they advance towards the goal of taking Jerusalem and causing the fall of Judah (Is. 10:28-32).

Days 3 & 4 — "In that day..."

(Is. 10:20, 27; Is. 11:10, 11; Is. 12:1, 4)

Read Isaiah 10:20—11:16. 1. God has used Assyria to judge Israel. What difference is seen in the survivors? Contrast with Is. 9:9-10, 13)

(Is. 10:20-21;

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2. Describe the Assyrian threat that God's remnant in Zion (Jerusalem) fears. (Is. 10:6-11, 13-14, 28-32; Is. 8:7-8;  2 Chr. 32:1, 9-15)

"It is this Root itself, equivalent to the shoot and Branch of verse 1, which becomes the rallying standard for the peoples. This root is no longer under the ground and invisible, but standing to such a height that it can serve as a point about which the peoples will meet and rally. As the Root the Messiah was unknown and disregarded; as the Standard He is lifted up that all men may gather about Him."2

3. After the Mighty One finishes his judgment, Assyria ("once a cedar in Lebanon," Ez. 31:3) will only have a few trees left standing and Judah will have been cut down to only a stump. What characterizes the Branch that comes up from the roots of this stump? (Is. 11:2-3a; Jn. 1:29-34)

4. The Branch Isaiah refers to is the promised ruler of Isaiah 9:6-7, who we know to be Jesus.1 a. How will his rule be different than any of the kings of this world? (Is. 11:3b-5)

b. Look at the images in Isaiah 11:6-9a. What is so striking about these changes that the Branch brings about?

5. All through Day One of this study God's hand had been raised up against Israel. Because of the Branch, how will God’s response to his people change? (Is. 11:11)

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Day 5 — "The LORD…is my strength and my song" (Is. 12:2)

Read Isaiah 12.

1. In what ways is this song also your song?

Moses and Miriam sang when God delivered the Israelites from the Egyptians (Exod. 15:1-18). David sang when the ark of the covenant was brought to Jerusalem (1 Chron. 16:7-36). Both of these songs are echoed in the Songs of Praise in chapter 12. Read this chapter aloud in praise to the God of your salvation.

2. To whom could you “make known…what he has done” (Is. 12:4)?

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 Check out what Zechariah says about the Branch in Zech. 6:12-13. 2 Edward J. Young, The Book of Isaiah, Volume 1 Chapters 1-18 (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans, 2001), 393.

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LESSON 6

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 13—18 Verse to Remember The Lord Almighty has sworn, “Surely as I have planned, so it will be, and as I have purposed, so it will stand.” Isaiah 14:24

Recap and Introduction

In chapters 1—11, Isaiah alternated between the two themes of judgment and restoration. We saw in those chapters that God’s holiness demanded that he judge and punish the sin of his people and the surrounding nations, and we read about the devastation that punishment would entail. But we also saw God’s grace, mercy, and love in his promises of restoration and hope. He promised to bring salvation, reconciliation, and peace through the King he would send to rule his people. Furthermore, we saw how in all things and at all times the LORD Almighty is in control, using even nations and kings who refuse to acknowledge him to accomplish his will. Daniel 4:25 says, “…the Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and gives them to anyone he wishes.” Isaiah’s prophecies show this to be true. God’s plan for history is all encompassing; it includes not only his chosen people, but the surrounding gentile nations as well. Ultimately, God’s way will be acknowledged as best, and he will finally receive the praise and worship he alone deserves. While there are scattered passages of hope in Isaiah 13—23, most of the content is dark. The events these chapters describe are distressing and heart-wrenching. In them, Isaiah further develops the theme of judgment, going into great detail about the judgments that are going to come upon Judah and the ten nations that Day 1 — Today we will travel back to an earlier surround her. He presents an “oracle” (divine time in Israel’s history. declaration) for each nation, in which he Read 1 Samuel 8:1–21. describes the devastation God will bring. He also exposes each nation’s total inability to 1. Why did the nation of Israel ask Samuel to appoint a king change the course of events God has for them? (1 Sam. 8:5b, 20) ordained. Each of these nations was selfconfident and proud, believing that through their own strength and efforts or by some strategic alliance with another power, they could be safe, secure, and successful. Isaiah fervently wants his readers to see that hope in anything—any ruler, god, or government—other than God will never bring 2. What did this say about their relationship with God? about the safety and security people long for. (1 Sam. 8:7–8) God is the only King that can rule with righteousness and justice; he is the only King that can use evil for good and eventually triumph over it. God is the only King who can produce lasting peace, and he is the only one who can actually change the very nature of creation. He alone is to be trusted and 3. What did God say would eventually happen to Israel if she worshipped. had a king? (1 Sam. 8:18) This lesson will focus on the oracle concerning Babylon in Isaiah 13:1—14:27. You may want to read through chapter 18 to get a feel for the judgments God has planned for the other nations. Through these oracles you will see that God rules over all nations.

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Day 2 — The Prophecy against Babylon Babylon

Read Isaiah 13 and 14:23–27.

“This first oracle… address[es] Babylon on several It may be hard for us to reconcile the desolation and levels: 1) as the most valued city of the Assyrian destruction that results from God’s judgment with Empire…; 2) as the powerful center of the what we mean when we say “God is good.” But the Babylonian Empire to come; 3) as a symbol of all cruelty, corruption, and darkness we see in these those who rebel against God.”1 passages flow out of the sin in people’s hearts. God The fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecies in the near uses the nations to accomplish his purposes, and in future gives credibility to the prophecies he made these passages we see him using their sinful greed about the end times or the “last days.” In the past, and violence. As commentator J. Alec Motyer in Isaiah’s time, and in the future, “Babylon” explains, however, God doesn’t make people his represents any human agency, government, or puppets; he simply gives their sinful nature free rein: system that sets itself up in defiance of God. “In a very real sense, therefore, what the Bible speaks of as ‘the stretching out of [God’s] hand’ (Is. 14:26) would be more easily understood if we thought of it as the withdrawing of his hand—to leave sinners to implement all the inhumane savagery of fallen human nature, bereft of the restraining, humanizing efficacy of common grace.”2 1. Briefly summarize what God says will be the fate of proud and self-confident rulers and nations? (Is. 13:7–22)

2. What do verses 1–5 tell us about the One doing the judging?

3. How will God’s power and control be displayed in the broader “Babylonian” systems and governments of this world? (Is. 13:11; Is. 14:22–27)

4. Peter recalls Isaiah’s prophecy about the end times. How does he exhort believers to live in light of these events? (2 Pet. 3:10–18)

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Day 3 — Read Isaiah 14:1–8. After Isaiah describes the devastating destruction to come, he switches back to the theme of hope. 1. What will the Lord do for his people in the future? (Is. 14:1a, 3–7; * Ezek. 37:21–28)

2. How would God’s restoration plan extend beyond the Jewish nation? (Is. 14:1b)

3. How will the restoration plan be fulfilled in a far greater way in the future? (Eph. 2:11–22; Rev. 7:9–10)

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 14:9–27. This passage describes the fate of kings and rulers who trust in themselves and not in God. 1. Who was waiting to greet the king of Babylon in “the realm of the dead”? (Is. 14:9)

3. Contrary to the king’s view of reality, what was really true about him and his fate? (Is. 14:10–12, 15–17)

2. What evil desire was behind the king’s boast in 14:13–14?

4. Normally, after kings die, they are honored with a regal ceremony and buried in a prestigious place. Describe this king’s “ceremony” and “burial.” (Is. 14:18–21)

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5. Isaiah prophesied the fall of Babylon, but he saw beyond his own time to the fall of Satan – the energizer and motivator of all worldly systems that “act contrary to the will of God.”3 How does the writer of Revelation describe this event? (Rev. 12:7–9; Rev. 20:10)

6. The king of Babylon grasped for status and power, for dominion and wealth – things our culture also values and pursues. How does a heavenly perspective change how we see these things? (Mt. 6:19–21; 1 Tim. 6:6–7, 17–19;  Lk. 16:19–31)

Day 5 As we have seen, Israel put their hope in earthly kings to provide safety and security for them. Isaiah 11:2–9 contains the promise of the perfect king God will send to establish peace and prosperity in the future. But in the meantime, his people will have to live by faith. Skim through Hebrews 11 to see how all of God’s people are called to live by faith and not by sight. 1. What people, places and things do you tend to trust for safety and security?

2. Why are they unworthy of your trust? (Ps. 135:15–18; Jonah 2:8)

3. What practical things can you do to transfer your trust to God and live by faith in your current circumstances? (Consider Jonah 2:7–10; Ps. 62:5–8; 2 Cor. 4:18; Heb. 12:1–3)

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 Kathleen B. Nielson, Isaiah: The Lord Saves, Living Word Bible Studies (Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R Publishing, 2011), 94. 2 J. Alec Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah: An Introduction & Commentary (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1993), 139. 3 Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Comforted: Feeling Secure in the Arms of God (Colorado Springs, CO.: David C. Cook, 1992), 58.

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LESSON 7

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 19—23 Verse to Remember

Days 1 & 2 — Read Isaiah 19:1–22.

...and in that day they will acknowledge the LORD. from Isaiah 19:21 In Isaiah 19—23, Isaiah continues his oracles against the nations. The nations he addresses either believe they have control of their destiny or are desperately trying to get it, but these chapters make it clear that God alone is in control. He has a plan for each nation, which they are powerless to change. In the oracles, Isaiah continues to alternate between predictions of devastation and destruction – which highlight God’s anger and justice – and promises of reconciliation and redemption – which highlight his mercy and love. This lesson will focus on the oracles addressed to Egypt (Isaiah 19) and Jerusalem (Isaiah 22). You may want to begin by reading Isaiah 19—23 to get the overall feel of Isaiah’s remaining oracles.

1. In his oracle, Isaiah could simply have said “God will thoroughly destroy Egypt.” Why do you think he gives so many details?

2. How do we know that the LORD is responsible for the devastating judgment Egypt will suffer? (Is. 19:1–4, 12, 14, 16)

3. God’s judgment of Egypt affects every area of Egyptian life. Some of that judgment comes through the Assyrians. (The “fierce king” of verse 4 is the king of Assyria.) Describe the effects on Egyptian… Idols (Egyptian gods) (Is. 19:1b)

Relationships (Is. 19:2)

People (Is. 19:3, 16)

Leadership (Is. 19:4, 11–14)

Natural Environment (Is. 19:5–7a)

Livelihood/Economy (Is. 19:7b–10)

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4. The Egyptians looked to all the things described in question three for hope, security, and salvation. What does God’s judgment make clear about these sources of “salvation”? 5. Why does God have a right to be angry and to bring (Consider Is. 19:15.) judgment on the nations? (Is. 13:11; Rom. 1:18–23; Rom. 2:5–11)

6. What was God’s ultimate goal in bringing divine punishment upon Egypt (and on the rest of the nations as well)? (Is. 19:19–22; Is. 16:4b–5; Is. 17:7–8)

Day 3 — Read Isaiah 19:23–25. Considering the scope of God’s anger toward Egypt and the fierce judgment he brings upon her, his promises of blessing are unexpected and amazing. “In that day” appears five times in this passage. This phrase points forward to Jesus’ Messianic kingdom, which began with his earthly ministry, continues in our day through the work of his Spirit, and will be completed at his second coming. At that time all prophecies made in the Old Testament will be fulfilled, including the promise that after God strikes Egypt he will heal her (Is. 19:22). 1. What will characterize the healing God has in store for Egypt? (Is. 19:19–25)

In light of the oracle in Isaiah 19:1–17, why is the promise of God’s healing so amazing?

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2. What kind of relationship have Egypt, Assyria, and Israel had with one another? Egypt and Assyria (Is. 19:4; Is. 20:3–6)

3. What aspects of God’s character are on display in these transformations?

Assyria and Israel (2 Kgs. 17:5–6; Is. 8:3–8)

Egypt and Israel (Exod. 3:7–9)

What transformations will God bring about? (Is. 19:23–25)

Day 4

The people of God were to be a light to the nations, attracting others to him by demonstrating the blessing of worshipping the one true God. Tragically, instead of drawing the nations into light and truth, Israel was drawn into their darkness and idolatry. As a result, God’s people also became objects of God’s judgment.

Read Isaiah 22:1-14. 1. Describe the situation in Jerusalem. (Is. 22:1–8a)

Chapter 22 most likely describes Babylon’s destruction of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. This took place 115 years after Assyria's attempt to conquer Jerusalem failed because of God’s mercy.

3. What is God calling his people to do? (Is. 22:12)

2. God is judging his people (v. 14). What sin do they commit that brings about the destruction of Jerusalem? (Is. 22:8b–11)

What are they doing instead? (Is. 22:13)

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4. What do you think the underlying attitude of the people was during this time? (Consider what they say in verse 13b).

5. In contrast to God's people, Isaiah is inconsolable over the impending destruction of Jerusalem. How does God feel? (Ezek. 18:30–32; Ezek. 33:11; Lk. 19:41–44)

Day 5 1. The judgment and destruction in Isaiah’s day were not the final word. Throughout history God has been seeking to bring people together from every nation to create a new people to worship him. Read Ephesians 2. How is God bringing this about?

2. The world of Isaiah’s day was a mess. Over and over again, the nations tried unsuccessfully - to solve their problems by making alliances, worshipping idols, accumulating wealth or weapons - anything other than trusting in the one true God. Our world is a mess as well. a. What are you tempted to trust in other than God?

b. How does this lesson encourage you to trust the only true Savior?

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LESSON 8

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 24—27 This section of Isaiah (chapters 24—27) serves as a grand finale for the oracles to the nations in chapters 13—23. Each of those oracles was In that day they will say, limited to a specific people and largely described events that would take “Surely this is our God; place in the near future, with occasional glances at the more distant we trusted in him, and he saved us.” Messianic age. In contrast, the prophecies and songs of chapters 24—27 Isaiah 25:9a consistently look ahead to the final Day of the Lord at the end of the world. Chapter 24 gives us a terrifying vision of the devastation the Lord will wreak in his judgment “in that day.” Chapters 25—27 depict the effects of the judgment on that day as well, but show even more clearly the salvation God’s victory brings about for his people.

Verse to Remember

A recurring image in these four chapters is the city—not a specific city of a specific time, but a universal city that represents all the proud cities and nations of all times and places that have rejected the Lord. This city God judges – and destroys utterly. In contrast to that city stands Mount Zion, the “new Jerusalem” (Rev. 2), the “strong city” with “salvation [as] its walls and ramparts” (Is. 26:1). This is the lasting city into which God will bring all those he has saved.

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 24.

1. Scan back through Isaiah 24:1–20, focusing on what happens to the earth itself. Jot down words and phrases that show that God’s destruction of the earth will be total and final.

2. Now focus on what chapter 24 says about the people of the world. a. What do the following verses say will happen to the people? Is. 24:1 Is. 24:6 Is. 24:7–9 b. What do we learn from verse 2 about God’s judgment of the people of the earth?

c. What do verses 17–18a say about any hope of escape from God’s wrath?

3. How does Isaiah describe the once-proud city? (Is. 24:10–12; see also 27:10–11)

4. Why are the earth and its inhabitants under this sentence of judgment? (Is. 24:5)

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5. Isaiah has demonstrated that God will judge the entire world. How does 24:21 expand our view of God’s judgment even further? (* Eph. 6:12)

Day 2 — Read Isaiah 24 and 25. 1. In 24:13 Isaiah uses two images of the harvest. Olives were harvested by shaking the trees; most of the olives would fall, but some might remain clinging to the tree. Any grapes left on the vine after the grape harvest were the gleanings.2 What do you think this verse is saying about the judgment? (Hint: consider Is. 24:6b; Is. 10:20–22; Is. 17:6)

2. Given that the song of 24:14–16a follows right after Isaiah’s mention of the gleanings in verse 13, who do you think the singers are?

Why are they singing? (Is. 25:9)

3. Chapter 24 closes with a picture of the One about whom they are singing. What does verse 23 convey about him? (See also the description of the New Jerusalem in Rev. 21:23.)

4. The singers of this song in chapter 25, like the singers of 24:14–16a, are the remnant, the people whom God has saved from the destruction. a. For what are they praising the LORD? (Is. 25:1b)

b. It might at first seem strange for them to praise God for reducing the city to “a heap of rubble” (25:2). Why would they do this? (Hint: Is. 24:5, 16c; Is. 25:3–5; Is. 26:10, 21)

Day 3 — Read Isaiah 25. (Suggested: Read Isaiah 26.) 1. We’ve seen abundant evidence of God’s power and have gotten a glimpse of his glory and righteousness. How is he described in 25:4–5? (* Compare the images in these verses with those of Is. 4:5–6.)

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Day 3 continues on page 3

We have seen this great mountain before. To refresh your memory, look back at Is. 2:2–3, Is. 4:5–6, and Is. 11:9.

2. The mountain of 25:6–8 is Mount Zion. In these verses Isaiah gives us a beautiful picture of the salvation God will win for all his people from all corners of the world. Jesus accomplished this salvation through his death and resurrection. Use the chart below to show how the New Testament explains Isaiah’s prophecies more fully.

Isaiah

The New Testament

Is. 25:6

Rev. 19:6–9

Is. 25:7–8a

1 Cor. 15:51–57

Is. 25:8b

Rev. 21:3–4

3. Isaiah uses the titles “the LORD Almighty” and “the Sovereign LORD” for God in 25:6–8. a. What do these titles convey?

b. What other aspects of God’s character do we see in these same verses?

4. Moab was a real nation, an enemy of Israel. In chapters 15 and 16, it received its own oracle of judgment for its pride, conceit, and insolence (16:6). But here Moab, like the “city,” also stands for any people that opposes God. a. We recognize the image of the leveled city in 25:12, but what new image do we get in 25:10b–11 of God’s destruction of Moab?

b. How does this humiliation contrast with what God does for his people? (Is. 25:8c)

Isaiah uses three images to represent evil powers in 27:1—the gliding serpent, the coiling serpent, and the monster of the sea. “Leviathan,” a mythological creature, symbolizes “an immense power…ranged against the Lord.” 3 Isaiah also uses three words to describe the Lord’s sword – fierce, great, and powerful. This three-fold description shows that

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 27.

God is equal to the task of vanquishing these three foes. Day 4 continues on page 4 Lesson 8—page 3 of 4

1. In verses 2–5 Isaiah once again portrays the vineyard that represents his people. In the table below, contrast the vineyard as it was in Isaiah’s day with the vineyard as it will be “in that day” (27:2). In Isaiah’s Day (chapter 5)

In That Day (chapter 27)

5:5

27:3

5:6a

27:4

5:6b

27:3

5:2b, 7

27:6

Verses 7–9 of chapter 27 are extremely difficult. Isaiah asks whether the Lord has ever dealt as harshly with Israel as he has with nations that have attacked her. We’re meant to understand that the answer is no. In punishing his people— for example, by the “warfare and exile” of 27:8—God always showed “a divine restraint.”4 Through his punishments, God was always purging and purifying his people, seeking to rid them of their idolatry;5 but true atonement for sin would not be possible before Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.

2. Isaiah 27:12–13 shows the Lord assembling his saved remnant from the nations of the world. a. What two images does Isaiah use to describe this assembling? Is. 27:12

Is. 27:13

b. What will the people do once they are safely gathered? (Is. 27:13b)

Day 5

1. In chapters 24—27, we have seen a pattern: God judges and wins victory over his enemies; God graciously saves a remnant; God receives his due worship and praise. We see the same pattern in the New Testament, which reveals Jesus, the Messiah, the One through whom God wins the ultimate victory. How do the following verses show this pattern? Judgment and Victory (Col. 2:13–15; 1 Cor. 15:54b–57)

Remnant and Worship (Rev. 7:9–17)

2. Now add your own worship and praise to the Lord for what he has done.

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 J. Alec Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah: An Introduction & Commentary (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1993), 204. 2 Edward J. Young, The Book of Isaiah, Volume 2 Chapters 19-39 (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans, 1969), 168. 3 Motyer, 222. 4 Motyer,224 5 Motyer, 223; Young, 243.

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LESSON 9 

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah  Isaiah 28—30  Verse to Remember Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you;  he rises to show you compassion. For the  LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all  who wait for him!  Isaiah 30:18 

A woe is an extended lament that here  expresses the prophet’s “concern and  compassion”1  for God’s people who have  gone astray and who are under his just  judgment. Chapters 28—35 contain six  woes and this week’s passage consists of  four of them: a brief one for Ephraim  (28:1–6) and three longer ones directed  toward Judah and her leaders.   

As you read the passage this week, look  for the ways Isaiah directs Judah to find  her true rest and salvation in the Lord  alone. 

Historical Context In 740 B.C. the Assyrians first attacked the Northern Kingdom of  Israel (Ephraim), as God had promised they would. In 722 B.C.  they completed their conquest by destroying Israel’s capital city,  Samaria. When King Hezekiah and the people of Judah heard  about this destruction, they feared for their own safety. Initially,  instead of turning to the Lord to protect them, they desired an  alliance with Egypt. Isaiah was writing chapters 28—30 during  this tumultuous period.  

Day 1 — Woe to Samaria, the wreath and pride of Ephraim, the fading flower. Read Isaiah 28.  1.    In verses 1–6, Isaiah is addressing Samaria as “that wreath,  the pride of Ephraim’s drunkards….” By using this language,  he is comparing the great hilltop city to a wreath or crown  atop a person’s head. What images does Isaiah use to  describe the destruction God will bring against Samaria  through Assyria? (Is. 28:2) 

2.   In the middle of this declaration of  Ephraim’s destruction, Isaiah describes  the LORD and what he will do for the  remnant of Israel that he will save.  What is the contrast between Ephraim  and the LORD?    Ephraim (Is. 28:1, 3–4):              The LORD (Is. 28:5–6):          3.   In verse 7, Isaiah turns our attention to the Southern Kingdom, Judah (and from here on in this lesson,  the focus remains on Judah). How are Judah’s leaders similar to the people of Ephraim? (Is. 28:1, 7–8)  

Day 1 continues on page 2   

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In Isaiah 28:9–10, Judah’s leaders mock  Isaiah’s rebuke by turning his words into the  babbling sounds one makes to a child.2  The  irony of their mocking is that they are in fact  like stubborn toddlers who think they know  better. But God says they will “fall backward,  be injured and snared and captured” (28:13).  

Notes:  In 28:12, Isaiah reminds the people that God  offers them rest, which they refuse. As a result,  God said he would speak to his people through  the “foreign lips and strange tongues” (Is. 28:11)  of the nation he will send against Judah.      In 28:21–22, Isaiah refers to Mount Perazim  and  the Valley of Gibeon, where the Lord used his  power to rescue his people. Now this same power  will be used against them.3 (To read these stories,  see 2 Samuel 5:17–20 and Joshua 10:1–14.)     Isaiah ends this woe with a parable to show that  God knows how to carefully thresh each nation to  carry out his will according to his great wisdom.4  (Is 28:23–29; * Rom 11:33–36) 

4.   The rulers of Judah mockingly call an alliance with  Egypt a “covenant with death”(28:15) and an  agreement with the grave.     a.  What is their view of such an alliance? (Is. 28:15)            b.  What is God’s view of such an alliance?       (Is. 28:17–20)              c.  What is the only sure alliance for them and for       us? (Is. 28:16; 1 Pet. 2:4–8) 

Day 2 — Woe to Ariel. Read Isaiah 29:1–14.  1.  Why has Ariel (Jerusalem) come under God’s judgment? (Is. 29:1, 13;           Is. 1:11–16)        

  Check out   Matthew 23:13–37   where Jesus encounters   the very same blindness   and hypocrisy among   the Pharisees of   Jerusalem in his day.  

  2.  What is the outcome of God’s judgment on Ariel (Jerusalem)? (Is. 29:4, 14b)   

 

   

In contrast, what is the outcome of God’s judgment on her enemies? (Is. 29:5–6)     

3.  How is what God told Isaiah at his commissioning now coming true? (Look at Is. 6:9–10 and Is. 29:9–12.) 

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Day 3 — Woe to those who work in secret. Read Isaiah 29:15–24. 

1.    In this woe, God is addressing people who “go            to great depths to hide their plans from the                                                                                                               LORD, who do their work in darkness” (29:15).    a.   Why is the image Isaiah uses in 29:16 helpful to understand what these people are like?          b.   How does their attitude show a complete lack of understanding of who God is? (Ps. 139:1–12)        2.   Isaiah interrupts this woe to describe the transformations that will happen in the future. Choose one  that leaves you in awe of God. (Is. 29:18–24) 

3.   God’s people persistently refuse to see and hear and understand his message, so  ultimately God gives them over to spiritual blindness and deafness and seals the scroll to  keep them from understanding. In 29:18, God promises to reverse this judgment. How  does Jesus fulfill this promise?     Lk. 4:16–21        1 Cor. 2:9–16        Rev. 5:1–10 (Note that Jesus is described here as “the Lamb.”)     

Day 4 — Woe to obstinate children. Read Isaiah 30:1–18. 

1.    Why are God’s people in Judah being called “obstinate           children”?  (Is. 30:1–2)    

    2.   What does God say the people of Judah will bring upon  themselves for going to Egypt for help? (Is. 30:3–5, 16–17)            

Zoan and Hanes, mentioned in Isaiah 30:4, were  possibly small kingdoms or cities on  the outskirts of Egypt in Isaiah’s time.   By mentioning them, Isaiah highlights  the fact that the officials of Judah are  well on their way to Egypt to solidify  an alliance to protect themselves  from Assyria.5  Day 4 continues on page 4 

 

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  Consider why it is ironic that the  people of Judah are seeking help   from the Egyptians, of all people.    (Ex. 1:8–14; Lev. 26:13)  

3.    Why doesn’t “the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel” (30:15a)  want Judah to seek the help of Egypt? (Is. 30:6–7)      

4.   Look at what Isaiah records as a testimony against Judah in 30:9–11. What  are the consequences of this rebellion? (Is. 30:12–14)            5.   Tragically, what does Judah really forfeit by seeking Egypt’s help?               (Is. 30:15;  Ex. 14:14) 

Day 5 — Woe to obstinate children (continued). Read Isaiah 30:18–33. 

The oracle in Isaiah 30:6–7  describes how perilous   the route is that the  camels and donkeys   are taking as they carry  Judah’s officials to Egypt.  This was the same route  Israel took out of Egypt  when God rescued them  from bondage.6  Egypt, which God calls   “Rahab the Do‐Nothing”   (30:7b), appeared to be   a powerful ally, but it was  in fact an   “utterly useless” (30:7a)   source of help.  

1.   What does the LORD say he longs to do for Judah if they will “cry for help” (30:19)? (Is. 30:18–26;       Lam. 3:19–26)          2.   What does the imagery Isaiah uses tell us about God’s judgment of the Assyrians? (Is. 30:27–33)               How will Judah respond to God’s justice toward her enemy? (Is. 30:29)        Tophet   signifies “the place   3.   Isaiah repeatedly presents God as offering his people rest through trusting in  of eternal torment.”7  him. God makes this same offer to us. How can we enter into this rest?  

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study.  1  Edward J. Young, The Book of Isaiah, Volume 2 Chapters 19‐39 (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans, 2001), 335.  2  Raymond C. Ortlund, Jr., Isaiah: God Saves Sinners, Preaching the Word (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2005),155.   3  J. Alec Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah: An Introduction & Commentary (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1993), 234‐235.  4  Young, 301.  5  Young, 338.  6  Young, 340‐341.  7  Young, 370.  Lesson 9—page 4 of 4 

LESSON 10

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 31—35 Verse to Remember

Read 2 Kings 18:13–25, which is the stage on

And the ransomed of the LORD will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away. Isaiah 35:10

which Isaiah and his people find themselves.

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 31.

As you read the next several chapters, imagine Isaiah’s gaze going back and forth between rulers in this world who seem to hold all the power and God, who truly holds all power; back and forth between the present and the future, when the promised King and his kingdom are established on earth.

1. Egypt was the land of slavery for the nation of Israel but God “brought [his] people Israel out of Egypt with signs and wonders, by a mighty hand and an outstretched arm and with great terror” (Jer. 32:21). What is behind Judah’s desire to return and seek help from Egypt? Is. 31:1a (* Is. 2:22)

Is. 31:1b, 6–7

2. Complete the chart below to show why the people of Jerusalem could be confident as they face Assyria. Verse

Image

Reason for Confidence

Is. 31:4

Is. 31:5

Is. 31:8–9 ( Mt. 19:26)

3. The “woe” pronounced in Isaiah 31:1 is a recurring theme: God’s people have put their trust in something or someone other than God. Use the following questions to examine your own life. Consider sharing one aspect with your small group. • Where are you tempted to place your trust other than God? • How has God taught you that any other trust is foolish and dangerous? • What helps you keep your eyes on your “great lion” when you are afraid? • When have you placed the full weight of your trust on God alone and found him faithful to rescue you? Lesson 10—page 1 of 4

Day 2 — Read Isaiah 32.

1. Now Isaiah’s focus swings from the present-day rule of Assyria to the future reign of God’s anointed King.

What characterizes God’s king and his subjects? (Is. 32:1–5,8)

What characterizes those who have rejected God’s king and his subjects? (Is. 32:6–7)

2. Look again at Isaiah 32:9–14. Refocusing on the Jerusalem of his day, Isaiah turns his attention to the women. What is inappropriate about their attitude?

3. Again God enables Isaiah to see beyond the depressing judgment of his people and the land he loves. What change does he see coming? (Is. 32:15–20;  Ezek. 36:26–38; Acts 2:17–21, 32–33)

Day 3

Background of Isaiah 33

“The background of this [passage] is the Assyrian times. The brave men are the military leaders [of Judea] coming belatedly, like Hezekiah (37:3), to a realization of their ineffectiveness. The envoys, those sent to negotiate the terms of surrender (2 Kings 18:14), now weep as they discover how they have been duped [by the ‘destroyer,’ the Assyrian king]. Neither human power nor human wisdom [has] proved sufficient. The invasion has left highways and roads deserted, and the prospects of peace by treaty are in ruins along with the whole landscape. Humankind without God only brings desolation.”1

Read Isaiah 33. 1. With the Assyrians just outside Jerusalem, Isaiah voices his people’s need for God and seeks God’s strength and salvation on their behalf. Why do you think Isaiah appeals to God’s graciousness (Is. 33:2)?

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2. Hezekiah’s “envoys of peace” (33:7) have failed in their mission to appease the king of Assyria. How does Isaiah describe the effect of putting their hope in earthly solutions? (Is. 33:7–9)

3. In the midst of this siege, there still dwell in Jerusalem some Jews who refuse to align themselves with God or confess their need for him. These “sinners in Zion” see God as a “consuming fire” (33:14). Is this an accurate or inaccurate view of God?

4. Verse 15 describes others in Jerusalem who are following Hezekiah’s lead and turning to God. What benefits will those who trust in the Lord enjoy? (Is. 33:16–24)

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 34. What’s Edom? The Edomites were descendants of Esau, the twin brother of Jacob. These brothers literally began their struggle with one another in the womb,2 and struggle is what characterized the relationship between the nations that descended from them.3 The prophet Amos, a contemporary of Isaiah, said Edom “pursued his brother with a sword, stifling all compassion, because his anger raged continually and his fury flamed unchecked….”4 It appears that in this passage Edom5 symbolizes all the nations who are hostile toward God’s people. Interestingly, King Herod the Great, who attempted to kill the young Jesus, the king of the Jews,6 was an Edomite!

Chapters 34—35 are similar to chapters 24—27: they summarize God’s devastating judgment against all the nations and then contrast it with the exquisite beauty of the coming kingdom. For this reason, Day 4 of this lesson is very dark, but it will brilliantly set off Isaiah’s description of what God has planned for his people! 1. How does the language Isaiah uses show the extent of God’s judgment? (Is. 34:1–5)

2. As God upholds his people’s cause (34:8), what effect does his wrath have on his enemies and their land? (Is. 34:6–17)

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3. Consider how Isaiah uses the image "sword of the LORD" in Isaiah 34:5–6. With this in mind look at Revelation 19:11–21 where Jesus wields it. What does this image convey in both passages?

Day 5 — Read Isaiah 35.

Phew - you’ve made it to chapter 35! Keep in mind as you read this chapter that the land and roads of Isaiah’s time were devastated by the Assyrians.

1. Jot down a few of your favorite phrases or images that Isaiah uses to describe the transformation God has promised from 35:1–7.

2. What do you think is the connection between the horrors of chapter 34 and the blessings of chapter 35?

3. When Israel was leaving Egypt after their years of slavery, Moses made a request to pass through Edom on the “King’s highway,” but Edom refused (Num. 20:14–21). Now God promises another highway for his people. This is truly the King’s highway, the Way of Holiness, for it leads to Zion, the city of God. a. How is this highway unlike any common highway? (Is. 35:8–9:  Rev. 21:22–27)

b. How does Isaiah portray the day when God’s people stream into Zion? (Is. 35:10;  Rev. 21:1–4; Rev. 22:14)

“Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.” (Rev. 22:20) *The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 J. Alec Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah: An Introduction & Commentary (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1993), 264. 2 Gen. 25:21-23 3 Read how Edom treated Jacob’s descendants when they were leaving Egypt in Numbers 20:14-21. 4 Amos 1:11 5 Bozrah was the capitol city of Edom. 6 Mt. 2:1-16

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LESSON 11 

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah  Isaiah 36—39  Verse to Remember

Historical Context

The reign of Hezekiah and the events in this lesson are also told in  2 Kings 18‐20 and 2 Chronicles 29‐32.  Jerusalem hadn't had a good king that honored the Lord in a long  time. Hezekiah restored true worship to Israel by leading the  people in a Passover celebration like Moses (2 Chr. 30:1),  worshipping the LORD with psalms like King David (2 Chr. 29:30),  and collecting proverbs like King Solomon (Pr. 25:1). Hezekiah also  Day 1 — Read Isaiah 36.  restored the kingdom by repairing the walls and water supply.  God blessed him with wealth and  1.  The Assyrian field commander and a great army come to  respect (2 Chr. 32:27‐30).  Jerusalem with a message. The commander speaks in Hebrew, the  In this week's lesson look for  language that all the people of Judah understood.  Hezekiah's strength during a time of    a.   What important question does he ask Hezekiah's men?     national distress. But also notice his    (Is. 36:5)  weakness during a time of peace and    prosperity. Even for all the good    Hezekiah did, he still left God's people    longing for “a better King, Servant,    Conqueror.”    Now, O LORD our God, deliver us from his  hand, so that all kingdoms on earth may  know that you alone, O LORD, are God.   Isaiah 37:20 

 

 

                 

b.   What does he think of Judah's hope in the LORD?     (Is. 36:14‐15, 18‐20) 

c.   What does he offer as an alternative to the people    of Jerusalem? (Is. 36:8, 16‐17) 

        2.  The commander continues his confident verbal  onslaught  (Is. 36:12‐20).    a.   How does he portray the king of Assyria?            b.   How does he portray Judah’s king, Hezekiah? 

Altars and High Places  In the years before Hezekiah, the people of Judah had  sinfully mixed their faith in the one true God with the  worship of pagan deities. As a result, they had set up  many "high places” ‐ pagan altars and sites of idolatrous  worship. When Hezekiah became king, he removed  many of these high places from the land. The King of  Assyria, erroneously thinking these high places were  sacred to the true God, concluded that God would be  angry with Hezekiah for tearing them down. In reality,  Hezekiah's actions pleased the Lord because the people  were to worship God alone and because God had  ordained that their worship take place at the temple       in Jerusalem.1   3.  What do you think makes this attack so  dangerous? 

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Day 2 — Read Isaiah 37.  "Torn clothes" 1.  During a time of great fear in Jerusalem, Hezekiah leads God's people well.   are an outward sign     a.   How does Hezekiah respond to the events of chapter 36?                    of mourning.     (Is. 37:1‐4)  The ripped shirt symbolizes    a heart broken in two.         "Sackcloth" is a coarse,     uncomfortable cloth     worn to show repentance     and humility.         b.  Hezekiah shows his beliefs about God in his actions and prayers. What does he    believe? (Is. 37:3‐4; 14‐20, * Ps. 46)                 c.   How does this challenge you as you consider your own prayer life? 

Jerusalem is a profoundly important city               and rich symbol in both the Old and   New Testaments. Previously called      Mt. Moriah, where Abraham offered his  son Isaac, it became the capital of Israel  under King David. The Ark of the  Covenant was brought to Jerusalem and  the Temple was built there and became  the place of worship for the nation.  Prophecies of the destruction of  Jerusalem speak of God’s judgment of  his people but promises of the  restoration show God’s mercy and his  desire to make her a glorious light to the  nations. Mt. Sinai is contrasted with  Jerusalem to explain the difference  between the old and new covenant. But  ultimately, it is the new Jerusalem that is  meant to capture our imagination. This  city is has been beautifully prepared and  will come down out of heaven. In this  city God dwells with his people and they  with him. All suffering and sin is done  away with, there is healing and  refreshment and joy, and finally God is  given the worship he has always  deserved.2 

2.   In his pride, Sennacherib, King of Assyria, has shaken his fist at  the God of Israel (Is. 37:21‐25). How does God show He is still in  control? (Is. 37:26‐35)                 3.   Read the end of the story of King Sennacherib in Isaiah 37:36‐38  and 2 Chronicles 32:20‐21. What parts of his downfall strike you  as especially appropriate and why? 

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Isaiah's Bridge from Assyria to Babylon: Chapters 36‐39 consist of historical narratives that mark a turning  point in the book of Isaiah. It is generally accepted that chapters 38‐39 actually came before chapters 36‐37  chronologically. “The prophet arranged the accounts as a ‘bridge’ between the two parts of his book. Chapters 36 and 37  end the first part of the book with its emphasis on Assyria, and chapters 38 and 39 introduce the second part of the book,  with its emphasis on Babylon.”3 

Day 3 — Read Isaiah 38. 

1.    Hezekiah learns from Isaiah that his illness will end in death (Is. 38:1),  but in response to Hezekiah’s prayer God promises to add 15 years to his life. Having given his word, why  do you think God provides a sign as well?  

      2.   Hezekiah uses four images to describe how he felt when he was under the sentence of death: tent,  weaver, lion, bird (Is. 38:12‐14). Choose one of these images and explain it in your own words, perhaps  describing how it relates to a time in your own life.           3.  What value is Hezekiah able to see in his illness? (Is. 38:15‐20)  

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 39.  1.                                 

After Hezekiah's recovery, envoys from Babylon come bearing “letters and a gift” (Is. 39:1).  a.   What does Hezekiah do when they come? (Is. 39:2, 4) 

b.   What do you think is his motivation for doing this? 

c.  What will happen to everything Hezekiah treasures? (Is. 39:5‐7)          

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2.    Isaiah is again given bad news to deliver to Hezekiah.     a.  How does the bad news in this chapter differ from the bad news in chapter 38? (Compare Is. 38:1    with Is. 39:6‐8.)                b.  How do the king's responses differ? (Compare Is. 38:2‐3 with Is. 39:8.)     

3.  Second Kings records that “There was no one like [Hezekiah] among all the kings of  Judah either before him or after him” because he trusted in the Lord (2 Kgs. 18:5).  And yet, after reading today’s passage, how are you left feeling? 

Day 5 — Review Isaiah 36—39.  Consider the challenges Hezekiah faced. What has God taught you about faith, prayer, or pride  from this section of Isaiah that you can apply to your life? 

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study.  1  Adapted from the note on Isaiah 36:7 in the NIV Spirit of the Reformation Study Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2003), 1133.   2  Gen. 22:1‐2; 2 Sam. 5:6‐10, 28:2‐6; Is. 3:8, 62:1‐7; Heb. 12:22‐24; Rev. 21‐22   3  Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Comforted: Feeling Secure in the Arms of God (Colorado Springs, CO.: David C. Cook, 1992), 110. 

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LESSON 12

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 40:1—41:20 Verse to Remember

Context

This week we begin

We have seen the LORD “put to death a a new section of Isaiah called Do you not know? hundred and eighty-five thousand in “The Book of the Servant” Have you not heard? the Assyrian camp” and eliminate (chapters 40—55). The LORD is the everlasting God, Judah’s enemy Sennacherib, the King As you read, be on the lookout the Creator of the ends of the earth. of Assyria (Is. 37:36–38). There was to for Isaiah’s many references He will not grow tired or weary, be “peace and security” in Hezekiah’s to a servant. lifetime, but Isaiah forewarned him that and his understanding no one can a time would come when Hezekiah’s fathom. Isaiah 40:28 descendants and wealth would be carried away into exile in Babylon (Is. 39:5–8). Jerusalem finally fell to Babylon in 586 B.C., a hundred years after Hezekiah’s death Read Daniel 1:1–7 (2 Kgs. 24:10—25:12). In today’s passage, Isaiah prophetically sees God’s people in to get an idea of what it would exile and addresses their need for comfort. 1 Isaiah does not live to physically see his people go into captivity, so his prophetic words are even more profound, in that have been like to go into exile. they reveal the everlasting character of God who knows “from ancient times, what Imagine the people’s need for is still to come” (Is. 46:10). comfort. Then think of your

own need for comfort.

Day 1 — “Sovereign LORD” (Is. 40:10a)

Read Isaiah 40:1–11. 1. Why at this point is God calling for comfort for his people? (Is. 40:2; Jer. 29:10; * 2 Chr. 36:15–21; Ps. 137)

God pronounces that Jerusalem’s sin “has been paid for, that she has received from the LORD’s hand double for all her sins” (Is. 40:2). This means that God’s people have “suffered sufficiently”2 for their sins—and now their time of punishment is past. As sinners, however, the people of Israel could never ultimately atone for their sin. True and complete atonement can come only through the sacrifice of Christ, the sinless Suffering Servant we will read about in chapter 53.

2. God’s revelation of himself brings comfort to his people. Fill in the chart below. Verses

What does God reveal about himself?

How does this bring comfort?

Is. 40:4–5

Is. 40:7–8

Is. 40:9–11

(Look for two contrasting images.)

Which one of these is especially comforting to you? Why?

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Isaiah 40:3 is a call for God’s people to prepare the way for the arrival of a great King. God wants his people to be ready for the glory of God to be revealed through this coming great King. Read John 1:6–7, 19–36 to see how John the Baptist fulfills this prophecy as the voice in the desert.3

Day 2 — “The Holy One” (Is. 40:25b)

Read Isaiah 40:12–26. 1. What does God continue to reveal about himself through the questions in 40:12–14?

2. To what does God compare the nations in 40:15–17, 22–24? (Compare Is. 40:6–8.)

What do these comparisons say about the nations?

3. Why do you think it is important to remember who the nations are in comparison to God?

4. What is the point of 40:18–20 and 25–26? ( Hab. 2:18–20)

Day 3 — “The Everlasting God” (Is. 40:28b)

Read Isaiah 40:27–31.

Previously “Israel” referred to the northern kingdom and “Judah” referred to the southern kingdom. From here on out, Isaiah will primarily use the names “Jacob” and “Israel” when speaking about the remnant of God’s people.

1. What are God’s people in exile complaining about? (Is. 40:27)

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Day 3 continues on page 3

2. What does Isaiah want us and his people to know, hear, and understand about God? (Is. 40:28–31)

Why are these truths so comforting to a weary soul?

Day 4 — “I, the Lord – with the first…with the last – I am he.” (Is. 41:4b)

Read Isaiah 41:1–10. Isaiah 41:2–3 describes the “one from the east” whom God will use to bring his people home. At this time, Isaiah does not name him, but as Isaiah unfolds the future to his people, he will be identified as Cyrus (Is. 45:1), the ruler of the Persian Empire.4 1. In Isaiah 41:1, God summons the Gentile islands and nations surrounding Israel to his court to put them on trial before he executes judgment through Cyrus. This dialogue he holds with them will be picked up again in Isaiah 41:21.5 a. What does God want the nations to know about him? (Is. 41:4;  Is. 44:6; Rev. 22:13)

b. How will the nations respond to Cyrus (“one from the east”), the one whom God will use to judge them (Is. 41:2a)? (Is. 41:5–7)

2. How does God comfort Israel even though another Gentile king is coming who will rule over them? (Is. 41:8–10)

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Day 5 — “Your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel” (Is. 41:14b)

Read Isaiah 41:11–20 1. What promise does God give his weary people in verses 11–14?

2. Why do you think God calls his people “worm” and “little” while he is trying to comfort them?

How will the “worm” be transformed in God’s hands? (Is. 41:15–16a)

How will the people respond to this transformation? (Is. 41:16b)

3. What will God create in the desert for his “poor and needy” people (v. 17)? (Is. 41:17b–19)

What will these miraculous works bring about in his people? (Is. 41:20)

Review the lesson. My take-away from this lesson is:

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Comforted: Feeling Secure in the Arms of God (Colorado Springs, CO.: David C. Cook, 1992), 125-126. 2 Edward J. Young, The Book of Isaiah, Volume 3 Chapters 40-66 (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans, 2001), 23. 3 Ibid., 28-29. 4 Ibid., 75. 5 J. Alec Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah: An Introduction & Commentary (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1993), 308-309.

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LESSON 13

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 41:21—43:28 Verse to Remember Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. Isaiah 43:1

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 41:21–29. 1. In 41:1, God summoned the nations to trial. Here at the end of the chapter both the people and their idols are being tried. a. What tests does God give the idols? Is. 41:22–23a

Is. 41:23b

b. How do the idols fare in this set of tests? (Is. 41:24, 26, 28–29; * Ps. 115:2–8)

c. Why do you think God chooses these two tests?

2. One hundred fifty years after Isaiah prophesied that God would stir up a nation to conquer the known world (41:25), Cyrus the Great of Persia rose to power and fulfilled this prophecy. When God’s people in exile in Babylon witnessed these events, what would be evident about the God of Israel? (Is. 41:26a; Is. 42:9; Is. 43:9–13)

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Day 2 — Read Isaiah 42:1–7. Many times, Isaiah seeks to convey 1. In these verses he who created all things and gives life and breath to all the extent of God’s rule by people (Is. 42:5) introduces his servant. mentioning “the ‘islands’ a. What is God’s relationship with his servant? (Is. 42:1) or ‘the coastlands’ (NIV), referring to the most distant places from the holy land (Is. 11:11; Is. 24:15; Is. 41:1, 5; Is. 42:4, 10, 12).”1 This b. What is the extent of the servant’s rule? (Is. 42:1, 4, 6) includes all the Gentile nations.

c. What characterizes this servant. (Is. 42:1–7)

d. How is this servant unlike any other earthly ruler? (Is. 42:1–7)

2. Read the passages below to see how the New Testament writer Luke uses Isaiah’s words to confirm that Jesus is God’s servant. SERVANT (Is. 42:6–7)

JESUS

Covenant for the people

Lk. 22:14–20

Light for the Gentiles

Lk. 2:25–32

Open eyes that are blind

Lk. 7:20–22 Lk. 4:14–21

Free captives from prison

Day 3 — Read Isaiah 42:8–17. 1. God is passionate about receiving the glory due his name (42:8). What does Isaiah say is the appropriate response of all people everywhere to the “new things” (42:9) God will do through his Servant? (Is. 42:10–12)

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2. How do the vivid images in 42:13–16 show God’s power and passion to bring about his purposes for the world? ( Gal. 4:19)

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 42:18—43:13. 1. The servant in this section refers not to the coming Messiah but to God’s chosen people. a. How is this “servant” described? (Is. 42:18–19, 22)

b. Why are God’s people like this? (Is. 42:20, 24b)

2. Isaiah attempts to get the people to contemplate and take to heart what has happened to them. What does he want them to see and hear? (Is. 42:23–25)

3. Isaiah again turns his attention to the “new things” (42:9) God has promised to do. a. Summarize why God’s people need not fear. (Is. 43:1, 3a)

b. Carefully reread Isaiah 43:2–7 and pull out the phrases that tell what God will do and be for his people.

c. How does God feel about these people who were unwilling to follow his ways or obey his law? (Is. 43:4a)

4. What role are God’s people to fulfill as they see God’s word come to pass? (Is. 43:10–12)

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Day 5 — Read Isaiah 43:14–28.

In this passage, Isaiah is looking into the future to address the people who would be in exile in Babylon.

1. Throughout this week’s passage God is reminding his people who they are and who he is, something that must have been easy to lose sight of for those in exile. What do the names he uses in 43:14–15 affirm?

2. Isaiah 43:15–17 refers to God’s deliverance of his people from the Egyptians about 900 years prior to their time in exile (See Exod. 14:19–31.). Why would this reminder be an encouragement?

To get a sense of what it was like to be exiled in Babylon, read Psalm 137:1–6.

3. God gained glory for himself when he delivered his people from the Egyptians. When they “saw the great power the LORD displayed against the Egyptians, the people feared the LORD and put their trust in him” (Ex. 14:17, 31). How does looking back at God's mighty deliverance at the cross encourage you? (For example, what does it teach you about God? How does it change how you see yourself and others? How does it change how you see both present trouble and the future?)

4. What have God’s beloved people done and failed to do? (Is. 43:22–24, 27)

5. Though the people are undeserving of the least of his kindnesses, what promise will God keep? (Is. 43:25; Is. 1:18;  2 Cor. 1:20)

Take time to reread Isaiah 41:21—43:28. It is clear that God does not want his people to be spiritually blind or deaf. Instead he wants them to “know and believe” and “understand” him (Is. 43:10). Ask God to teach you about who he is, what he has done for you, and how this understanding will change how you live. *The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Comforted: Feeling Secure in the Arms of God (Colorado Springs, CO.: David C. Cook, 1992), 133.

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LESSON 14

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 44—45 Verse to Remember I am the LORD, and there is no other. I form the light and create darkness, I bring prosperity and create disaster; I, the LORD, do all these things. Isaiah 45:6b–7

In Isaiah 44—45, the prophet continues to look into the future and sees the destruction of Jerusalem and the subsequent exile of the Jews to Babylon. Isaiah develops two recurring themes: (1) the gracious promises of God to rescue and redeem his people once their sin has been judged, and (2) the contrast between the greatness of God and the worthlessness of idols.

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 44:1–8, 21–28. 1. Read Isaiah 43:22–28. The words “But now” (44:1) at the beginning of this week’s passage indicate a shift from the dark picture painted in the last part of chapter 43. a. What does God say about his people? (Is. 44:1–2, 8, 21)

Jeshurun (Is. 44:2)

b. Why is this unexpected in light of the way they have been acting?

is an affectionate name used by God for his people. It means “the dear upright people.” 1

2. God’s decrees of disgrace, destruction, and shame for his people would understandably have generated fear in their hearts. What comforting promises does God give in response to their fear? (Is. 44:3–4, 22–23, 26b; * Joel 2:28–29)

3. God does not need to defend his character or reputation, yet he repeatedly does so in an attempt to gain the worship, trust, and allegiance of his people. What are some of the things he declares about himself? Is. 44:2a, 24 4. How does God want his people, including you, to respond to this knowledge about him? Is. 44:6 (Is. 44:2, 8a, 22b–23;  Jer. 24:7) Is. 44:7b Is. 44:26a Is. 44:27 Is. 44:28

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Day 2 — Read Isaiah 44:9–20. 1. Only one God exists and is worthy of worship, yet people continue to manufacture and worship other “gods.” a. What do those who make and worship idols hope to gain from them?

b. God makes a case for the foolishness of trusting in idols. Which of God’s arguments do you find most convincing?

c. Why do you think God goes to great lengths to expose idols for what they are?

2. “Idolatry is having or inventing something in which to put our trust instead of, or in addition to, the only true God who has revealed himself in his word.”2 a. Worshipping a block of wood seems foolish to us. Use this definition to help you identify idolatry in your own life.

b. Why are your idols just as foolish and just as offensive to God as a block of wood?

3. Why do people persist in their idolatry and never question it? (Is. 44:19–20; Rom. 1:20–25, 28)

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Day 3

Living in exile in Babylon, the Jews longed to be returned to their land. God had promised that this would take place, but his means for bringing it about was unexpected – the pagan king Cyrus. Although Cyrus arrogantly believed he was in control of his choices and battle plans, he was actually being used by God to bring about the deliverance of the Jewish people. Cyrus had the opportunity to acknowledge God’s control, but tragically he refused to do so.

Read Isaiah 44:24—45:13. 1. What surprising titles does God use for Cyrus? (Is. 44:28; Is. 45:1)

2. What does God say he will do for Cyrus? (Is. 45:1–5, 13a)

3. What will God, working through Cyrus, accomplish? Is. 44:28; 45:13b

Is. 45:6–7

4. How does Isaiah 45:7 inform, challenge, or confirm your present view of God?

5. Although it is often difficult for us to see, God’s purpose in everything he does is always his people’s good and his own glory. God anticipates pushback against his decision to use Cyrus, a ruthless pagan king, to accomplish his purpose. How does God answer his would-be critics? (Is. 45:9–13;  Rom. 9:17–24)

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Days 4 & 5 — Read Isaiah 45:14–25.

This passage brings together many of the themes and promises that we have seen over and over again in Isaiah.

1. This passage speaks of a time when God’s people will be subject to the Babylonian government. What transformation does God promise to bring about for his subjugated people? (Is. 45:17, 25)

2. What does God say about himself to give credibility to his promises? Is. 45:18 Is. 45:19c Is. 45:21 Is. 45:23 3. God calls all people to turn to him and be saved (Is. 45:22). What will be the final evidence that God is the one and only God? (Is. 23b–24a; Phil. 2:9–11)

4. What will be the ultimate outcome of God’s dealing in the world? (Is. 45:16–17, 24b–25)

5. Who are “all the descendants of Israel” who are ultimately “found righteous and will exult” (45:25)? (Gal. 3:6–9, 26–29)

6. Read Isaiah 45:7. How would the death of Jesus have appeared to be dark and disastrous to an outside observer?

What purposes of God were accomplished through this darkness and disaster?

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 Adapted from M.G. Easton M.A., D.D., Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Third Edition, published by Thomas Nelson, 1897. Public Domain. 2 Heidelberg Catechism 95

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LESSON 15

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 46—48 Verse to Remember

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 46.

For my own sake, for my own sake, I do this. How can I let myself be defamed? I will not yield my glory to another. Isaiah 48:11

1. The gods of Babylon, Bel and Nebo, cannot compare to God (Is. 46:5). How are false gods unlike the true God? (Is. 46:1–2, 6–7)

2. Since God is — has always been and will always be — what is he able to do? Is. 46:3b–4 (* Ps. 28:8–9)

Is. 46:10, 11b ( Num. 23:19)

3. How does God address his people? (Is. 46:8, 12)

Given God’s evaluation, what hope is there for his people? (Is. 46:10, 13;  Jer. 23:5–6; Rom. 3:21–24)

Day 2 — Read Isaiah 47.

"Chapter 46 is about the idols of Babylon, and chapter 47 is about the destruction of Babylon. Idolatry and destruction go together"1 - the one necessarily leads to the other.

1. What does Babylon believe about herself? (Is. 47:7–8, 10)

What is Babylon brazenly claiming in saying these things? (Consider Is. 45:5a and Is. 46:9.)

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2. What punishment has God decreed for this proud “queen of kingdoms” (47:5)? (Is. 47:1–3, 5, 9, 11)

3. In what ways will Babylon try to prevent the disaster that God has ordained? (Is. 47:11–13)

What will be the fate of the Babylonians and those they turn to? (Is. 47:14–15)

Babylon was a specific ancient empire that was destroyed for its idolatry, but “Babylon” also represents all individuals, cultures, and nations that will be destroyed for not worshipping the one true God. Read about the ultimate fall of Babylon in Revelation 18.

4. In the midst of the destruction brought about by God’s judgment in Babylon, what hope does Isaiah proclaim to the Jewish exiles? (Is. 47:4)

Day 3 — Read Isaiah 48:1–11. 1. List the ways that God’s people are identified in verses 1–2.

But what does the phrase “but not in truth or righteousness” (Is. 48:1) reveal about them?

2. Why did God tell his people about the fall of Babylon and the return of the exiles before these events took place? (Is. 48:4–7)

3. God knows his people are “treacherous” and are “rebel[s] from birth” (48:8). Why does he continue to care for this stubborn nation? (Is. 48:9–11)

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4. God knows not only Israel’s treachery against him, but yours as well. As you contemplate your own rebellion against God’s faithfulness, what have you learned from your study of Isaiah that gives you hope?

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 48:12–16. 1. God calls his people to listen. What important truth does he remind them of? (Is. 48:12;  Deut. 32:39; Is. 41:4)

2. How is God's power shown in creation? (Is. 48:13)

3. Cyrus the Great, king of Persia, is God's “chosen ally” (Is. 48:14) who will rule 150 years after this prophecy. Why will he successfully overcome Babylon? (Is. 48:15)

4. Skim through Isaiah 48:1–16. Why do you think Israel should listen to the Lord?

Day 5 — Read Isaiah 48:17–22. 1. What does 48:17 tell us about God’s heart for his people?

2. What blessings did this generation of Israelites miss out on because they did not listen and obey? (Is. 48:18–19)

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3. Why does God tell his people to flee Babylon (48:20)? (Jer. 51:6, 45)

4. This is not the first time God’s people have had to flee captivity in a foreign nation. a. How did God provide for their ancestors after their flight from Egypt? (Is. 48:21; Exod. 17:1–6)

b. How is this reminder meant to strengthen them as they face a long journey back to their land?

5. As you consider God’s heart for his people and his faithfulness to them, how are you encouraged?

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 Raymond C. Ortlund, Jr., Isaiah: God Saves Sinners, Preaching the Word (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2005),305-306.

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LESSON 16 

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah  Isaiah 49—50  Verse to Remember He says:    “It is too small a thing for you to be my           servant     to restore the tribes of Jacob     and bring back those of Israel I have kept.   I will also make you a light for the Gentiles,    that you may bring my salvation to the      ends of the earth.”  Isaiah 49:6 

The Four Servant Songs in Isaiah Is. 42:1–9; Is. 49:1–13; Is. 50:4–11 and Is.52:13—53:12   

We were introduced to the servant in the first song.  This week, through the next two songs, we will learn  more about the servant’s mission and call.   In the final song, we will learn about the suffering   this servant will endure for his mission.   

As you read this week’s passage about the servant, be mindful          that Isaiah is speaking to God’s people who will be in exile in Babylon and will have heard about God’s  deliverance through Cyrus, the Persian ruler (Is. 45:1–6, 13). In this passage, God is revealing “a savior  greater than Cyrus”1 ‐ the perfect servant of God, the true Messiah for the people of Israel and ultimately  all nations.   Day 1 — Read Isaiah 49:1–12. Calling   1.    Why are the “islands” and “distant nations” (Is. 49:1a) being called along with the “house of  Jacob” (Is. 48:1) to hear the conversation between the LORD and his servant? (Is. 49:6)      2.  What is the servant’s mission?     Is. 49:5      Is. 49:6      * Is. 42:1b–4, 6–7  The Perfect Israel   (Is. 49:3)  3.  Why should the nations listen to the servant? (Is. 49:1–7;  Is. 42:1)  God called the nation of    Israel to be a “kingdom    of priests and a holy    nation” (Ex. 19:6). We  4.   How does the servant evaluate his mission? (Is. 49:4a)  see through their history      in the Old Testament    that they were unable to    fulfill their call in “truth    How does the servant gain perspective? (Is. 49:4b, 5b)  or righteousness”     (Is. 48:1b). So God calls    the servant “Israel” as    he is the holy “Israel in    What reassurance does God give the servant? (Is. 49:6–12)  whom God will be  glorified.”2 The servant  completes Israel’s  mission by being the  perfect “light for   the gentiles” (Is. 49:6b).   Lesson 16—page 1 of 4 

 

 

Day 2 — Read Isaiah 49:13–26. Compassion   1.   Review the prophecy of deliverance in Isaiah 49:1–12. How should all of creation respond to the  servant’s mission? (Is. 49:13)      2.  How does Zion (God’s people still in exile) respond? (Is. 49:14)      3.  In what ways can you relate to Zion’s feeling of being forsaken?          

What comforts you in those moments? 

      4.    What images does the LORD use in response to his people’s despair? (Is. 49:15–16)       

What do these images convey? 

Children of Zion (Is. 49:17–23)   

During her time of exile, Zion was “ruined  and made desolate,” “bereaved and  barren” (Is. 49:19, 21). Isaiah 49:17–23 is a  prophecy that declares that Zion will be  restored in the distant future. At that time,  Zion will lift up her eyes and behold children  that she did not bear coming to her as to  their mother. They will adorn Zion as jewels  adorn a bride. When the LORD lifts up his  banner, the children of promise out of every  nation will be brought to Zion by kings and  rulers. The land will be too small   for the multitudes that will gather.3  

5.  God poses a question in verse 24 and then answers it  in verse 25. What point is he making? (Is. 49:25–26) 

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Day 3 — Read Isaiah 50:1–9. Commitment   1.  “Isaiah now takes up the thought introduced in 49:14, of God’s having forsaken his people, and points out  that Israel’s separation from God is the result of their own sin and not because God has forsaken them.”4  How does God assure them of his ability to rescue them? (Is. 50:2–3)      2.   How has the Sovereign LORD equipped the servant to accomplish his purpose? (Is. 50:4–5a) 

3.                                        

What aspects of the servant’s character are on display in Isaiah 50:5–9?  v. 5 

v.6 

v.7 

v. 8 

v. 9    What strikes you most about the servant in these verses? 

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 50:10–11. Counsel   1.                       

 In Isaiah 50:10–11 God uses the analogy of light and darkness.  a.   What choices exist for those in darkness?    v. 10 

 

v. 11a 

b.   Why do you think torment is the consequence for those who provide their own light? 

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2.    You may be tempted to look to something other than the Lord to illuminate a period of darkness in  your own life, just like God's people in exile. How does this week’s lesson encourage you to place  your trust wholeheartedly in the Lord?   

Day 5 — Completion   1.  Luke 4:17–21, Jesus declares to the Israel of his day that he is the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecies.   In Acts 3:13, Peter says, “The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified  his Servant Jesus.” Fill in the chart below to see some of the ways Jesus fulfills the Servant’s calling.  Prophecy 

Fulfillment5 

What do these passages say about Jesus, the Servant? 

Is. 49:3   

Jn. 17:1–5 

 

Is. 49:4   

Mt. 23:37 

    

Is. 49:5–6a 

Acts 5:30–31 

    

Is. 49:6b 

Lk. 2:25–32 

    

Is. 50:4   

Jn. 12:49–50 

    

Mt. 27:26–31 

    

Lk. 9:51 

    

Acts 2:22–33 

    

Is. 50:6  Is. 50:7    Is. 50:8 

   2.  Look back over the chart. What is your response to the Servant provided by God to bring about  salvation?     

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study.  1  Raymond C. Ortlund, Jr., Isaiah: God Saves Sinners, Preaching the Word (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2005), 323.   2  Ibid., 324.  3  Edward J. Young, The Book of Isaiah, Volume 3 Chapters 40‐66 (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans, 2001), 286‐291.   4  Ibid., 295.   5  http://www.messiahrevealed.org/isaiah49.html#isaiah 49:1a; http://www.messiahrevealed.org/isaiah50‐51.html  

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LESSON 17 

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah  Isaiah 51:1—52:12  Verse to Remember The LORD will lay bare his holy arm       in the sight of all the nations,  and all the ends of the earth will see       the salvation of our God.    Isaiah 52:10 

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 51:1–3.  

This week’s reading falls between the third and fourth (last) of  Isaiah’s Servant songs. It is made up of eight oracles,1 or “prophetic  message[s].”2 The first three oracles focus on promises; the fourth is  a prayer in response to the promises; and the fifth consists of  “words of divine assurance” given in response to the prayer.3 The  final three oracles contain commands.  1.    To whom is the Lord speaking? (Is. 51:1)   

  2.   Who is “the rock” or “the quarry” from which these people were “cut” or “hewn” (51:1b)? (Is. 51:2)      3.  Before making promises about the future, God tells his people to look back at what he has done in  the past with Abraham and Sarah.  a.   What was the situation for Abraham and Sarah before God’s miraculous blessing? (Gen. 15:1–3;  Rom. 4:19)         b.   What did God’s miraculous blessing bring about? (Gen 15:4–5; Gen. 21:1–7; Rom. 4:17–18;     Heb. 11:11–12)         4.  Now what promises does God make regarding the “ruins,” “deserts,” “wastelands” of Zion (51:3)?     (Is. 51:3)        5.  What parallel(s) do you see between what God did for Abraham and Sarah and what he will do for  Zion? (Is. 51:3) 

6.    Read Galatians 3:6–9, 14. In these verses Paul exhorts his readers to consider  Abraham just as Isaiah did before him (51:2). What encouragement can we  gain from looking back to Abraham? 

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Day 2 — Read Isaiah 51:4–8.  

God’s Arm This week’s passage   refers three times to God’s   arm. In 51:5 God promises,   “my arm will bring justice to the  nations”; the prayer in 51:9 is   addressed directly to God’s arm:  “Clothe yourself with strength, O  arm of the LORD”; and 52:10 looks  ahead to when “The LORD will lay  bare his holy arm in the sight of all  the nations….” God’s arm is an   image of his power, often,   as in 52:10, of his   “saving power.”4 

1.   Isaiah 51:1–3 focused on Zion and Abraham’s descendants. How do  the next two verses, 51:4–5, widen the focus?          2.   What promises does God make in 51:4–5?          3.   What contrasts does God set forth in the following verses between  the things of earth and the things of God?    Is. 51:6           Is. 51:7b–8        4.   How do these contrasts add weight to the commands to hear the Lord and not to fear or be  terrified of men (51:7)? 

Day 3 — Read Isaiah 51:9–16.   1.         2.                  

In verse 9 a prayer begins. How would you describe the tone of the prayer’s first two verses? (Is. 51:9–10) 

Once again, our passage is glancing back at God’s powerful working in the past.  a.   What country is being referred to as “Rahab…that monster”? (Is. 30:7; Ezek. 29:3) 

b.   Look back at Isaiah 51:10.  What great event does this verse refer back to? (Exod. 14) 

Why do you think this prayer calls to mind God’s deliverance of his people in the past (51:10)? 

Day 3 continues on page 3  Lesson 17—page 2 of 4   

 

3.   This prayer began with a tone of desperation; it then moved on to recall God’s faithfulness in the past.  What is the tone now, at the close of the prayer? (Is. 51:11)     

The prayer in Isaiah 51:9–11 began with the   emphatic double command, “Awake, awake!” (51:9).   God answers with an equally emphatic “I, even I” (51:12)   to reassure his people that he IS awake and powerful.    4.    What temptation does God warn the people about? (Is. 51:12–13; * Prov. 29:25)        5.   “The wrath of the oppressor, who is bent on destruction” (51:13), is real.   a.   What does the LORD say about himself in Isaiah 51:12–16 to reassure his people that trust in  him is well placed?                      b.  In our world today there are wrathful oppressors, there is destruction—there are many, many  things that could cause us “to live in constant terror every day” (51:13). God’s words about  himself don’t necessarily take away our fears, but they do address them.  How are his words  meant to help us?   

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 51:17—52:12.   In the Old Testament, “[the] cup is most often used figuratively as a symbol of God’s judgment against  sin. God is pictured punishing wicked, rebellious people by making them drunk…. [I]n a way, the cup of  wrath is a particularly dark symbol of judgment. …God is seen personally handing sinners their  destruction and forcing them to drink.”5  1.   In 51:17 “Isaiah sees the people of God lying in a drunken stupor, having been force‐fed the bitter cup of  his wrath in Babylonian captivity.”6 What promises does the “Sovereign Lord…who defends his  people” (51:22) now make regarding this cup? (Is. 51:22–23) 

Day 4 continues on page 4  Lesson 17—page 3 of 4   

 

2.   What does God command Zion to put on and take off? (Is. 52:1–2)          Describe the dramatic difference between Zion’s circumstances in Isaiah 51:23 and God’s call to her now  in Isaiah 52:1–2.        3.   What two things concern God in Isaiah 52:5 and motivate him to act?        4.   Through his image of the beautiful feet on the mountains (52:7) Isaiah depicts a messenger arriving to bring  good news. Then in Isaiah 52:8, he describes the watchmen posted on the city walls who see the messenger  coming. (* For a historical example of such a messenger and watchmen, see 2 Samuel 18:24–28.)    a.   What good news is this messenger proclaiming? (52:7)        b.   List the actions God will take to bring these good things about.      52:8b        52:9        52:12    5.   What will be the result of God’s acting, or “lay[ing] bare his holy arm” (52:10)? (Is. 52:6a, 10) 

Day 5 — Read Romans 10:9–15, in which Paul quotes Isaiah 52:7.   1.  What “good news” does Paul have in mind as he quotes Isaiah 52:7 in Romans 10:15?      2.   We who have believed in the Lord are called to “bring good news…proclaim peace…bring good tidings  [and] proclaim salvation” (Is. 52:7).    a.  How does this challenge you?       b.    Share how your sisters can pray for you in this calling. 

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study.  1  J. Alec Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah: An Introduction and Commentary (Downers Grove: IVP, 1993), 402.  2  ESV Study Bible (Wheaton: Crossway, 2008), 1265, note on 13:1.  3  Motyer 410.   4  Motyer 404.   5  Leland Ryken, James C. Wilhoit, Tremper Longman III, Dictionary of Biblical Imagery (Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 1998), 186.  6  Raymond C. Ortlund, Jr., Isaiah: God Saves Sinners (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2005), 346.  

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LESSON 18

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 52:13—53:12 Verse to Remember But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5

Day 1 — Isaiah 52:13–15.

This section contains the fourth Servant song, which focuses on the terrible suffering endured by the Servant as well as promises of his future glory and exaltation. When suffering inevitably comes into our lives, we rarely see it as something glorious or as something in which to rejoice. But when unspeakable suffering – suffering to the point of death – came into the life of the Servant, Jesus, it brought glory to God and made it possible for us to have joy in place of our sin, guilt, and shame.

1. The Hebrew word “appalled” in Isaiah 52:14 could also be translated “shocked” or “shattered”; it is a very strong word used to describe the horror people would experience when they looked at Jesus1, prompting them to ask “Can this man even be considered human anymore?”2 a. What does this response tell you about the extent of his suffering?

b. How does Isaiah’s description show the extent of his suffering in 52:14?

2. What positive and extensive effect would the Servant’s suffering have? Is. 52:15a (“so he will sprinkle many nations”); Heb. 9:11–14, 19–22

Is. 52:15b; Rom. 15:19b–21 (*Eph. 3:4–5)

3. Why do you think “kings will shut their mouths” (Is. 52:15)?

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Day 2 — Read Isaiah 53:1–6.

Throughout Isaiah, and most clearly in this passage, God reveals his plan for bringing about worldwide salvation through the Servant. 1. Read John 12:37–41. How does this passage help you understand Isaiah 53:1? ( Rom. 10:13–18)

2. How does the Servant appear when viewed through “earthly eyes”? (Is. 53:2b–4)

3. What did the chosen Servant of God experience? (Is. 53:3, 5, 6b)

4. Why did the people think the Servant was suffering? (Is. 53:4b)

What was the real reason the Servant was suffering? (Is. 53:4a, 5–6)

Who is the tender shoot? Isaiah 11:1 says, “Out of the stump of David’s family [the root of Jesse], will grow a shoot - yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root" (NLT). Isaiah 53:2 identifies the Servant as the promised shoot. From all outward appearances, he would not look like a powerful king or a conquering warrior, yet in his life, death and resurrection, he would fulfill all of God’s promises of redemption, reconciliation and renewal for his people and for the whole world.

5. Reflect upon this personalized version of Isaiah 53:4–6 and write down your thoughts: “Surely Jesus took up my infirmities and carried my sorrows, yet I considered Jesus stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. But Jesus was pierced for my transgressions, Jesus was crushed for my iniquities; the punishment that brought me peace was upon Jesus, and by his wounds I am healed. I, like a sheep, have gone astray, I have turned to my own way; and the LORD has laid on Jesus all my iniquity.”

All that we deserve because of our sin and rebellion against God, Jesus took on himself in his body on the cross; he was forsaken by God, so that we could be accepted by God. Lesson 18—page 2 of 4

Day 3 — Read Isaiah 53:7–9. 1. What words and images does Isaiah use to describe the Servant’s suffering at the hands of others? (Is. 53:7–9)

2. How does the Servant respond to his oppressors? (Is. 53:7; 1 Pet. 2:23)

3. Below are quotations by Jesus’ disciples that show his treatment was undeserved. Fill in the blanks. Peter, quoting Isaiah

(1 Pet. 2:22)

“He committed ____________________________.”

John

(1 Jn. 3:5b)

“...in him is _______________________________.”

Paul

(2 Cor. 5:21a)

“...him who had ___________________________.”

4. What was Jesus able to accomplish for us because he was sinless? (2 Cor. 5:21; 1 Pet. 1:18–19)

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 53:10–12. 1. Why was the Servant crushed and caused to suffer? (Is. 53:10a; Acts 2:22–23)

2. List the rewards the Servant receives for submitting to the LORD’S will. Next to each one, write what you think it means. (Is. 53:10–12a)

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Day 5 — Reread Isaiah 52:13—53:12. 1. Revelation 5:12–13 describes the worship the suffering Servant will receive in the future: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” … “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!” In light of this week’s passage, what makes you want to join in this worship?

2. In preparation for eternity, how can you make worship a practice in your life now?

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 J. Alec Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah: An Introduction & Commentary (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1993), 425. 2 Alec Motyer, Isaiah by the Day: A New Devotional Translation (Ross-shire, Scotland: Christian Focus Publications, 2011), 258.

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LESSON 19

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 54—55 Verse to Remember Come, all you are who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Isaiah 55:1

“As we savor the good news of the sin-bearing servant of the Lord (52:13—53:12),... [t]he gospel of a surprising salvation can only make us laugh, sing, and cheer. …In Isaiah 54 the prophet uses three images [the woman, the marriage, and the city] to portray the miracle of God’s grace. The servant of the Lord has changed everything by his sufferings, death, and resurrection. Isaiah helps us grasp what the servant’s victory is worth to us. Then in chapter 55 the prophet coaches us in how to enjoy this amazing grace.”1

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 54. The Barren Woman Rejoices 1. In Isaiah 54:1–8 Isaiah likens Israel to a barren woman – even more, to an unfaithful barren woman – who has been rejected by her husband, the LORD. a. What does Isaiah say is associated with barrenness in the culture of his day? (Is. 54:4)

b. Why is Israel, the barren woman, commanded to sing and to enlarge her tent? (Is. 54:1, 3; Is. 49:17–23)

Isaiah 54:1–3 talks about the descendants

c. Why do you think this command would be difficult to obey?

and children of the barren woman. After the time of exile God will gather Israel's children from the four corners of the earth and they will expand into the surrounding nations (Is. 11:12; 43:5–7). God made this promise to Abraham in Genesis 22:17 and God will keep his word. In the New Testament Paul explains that God’s promise is even larger, for Israel’s true children are all those born of the Spirit through faith in Jesus (Gal. 3:26—4:7). No wonder that in heaven, the new Jerusalem, there will be a countless multitude of children from every nation who will be singing for joy and praising God (Rev. 7:9–10; 19:6–7a).

2. How is it possible for a barren woman to enjoy such blessing? (Is. 54:5–6)

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Day 2 — Reread Isaiah 54. The Confidence of Restoration 1. Those whom the LORD restores are told “Do not be afraid” (Is. 54:4). Why? Is. 54:4

Isaiah 54:6 could seem like the husband is at fault for deserting and rejecting his wife, but the blame is clearly on the wife for her adultery (Is. 1:21; Jer. 2; Hos. 2). She finds herself distressed as a result of her husband’s just departure. However, the love the husband has for his wife is an undying love; he will not allow her sin to keep them apart.

Is. 54:6–8

Is. 54:9–10; * Gen. 9:12–16

2. What does the future hold for the once-afflicted city of Jerusalem? (Is. 54:11–12;  Rev. 21:10–21)

3. Isaiah describes the recreated city as not only beautiful outside but also beautiful within, in the lives of its inhabitants. What is attractive to you about life within the restored city? (Is. 54:13–17)

What makes this life possible?

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Tyranny and Terror In this context, the distinction between tyranny and terror is that tyranny is oppression from within a nation, while terror is oppression from an outside enemy. In God’s city, neither one will be present. The inhabitants will be made righteous, and no weapon brought against them will prevail.

Day 3 — Read Isaiah 55:1–5. You are Invited! Come! 1. What amazing invitation is extended to all people? (Is. 55:1–2)

2. What must the people do to respond to this invitation? (Is. 55:1–3a)

3. How does this generous invitation contrast with what they have been doing? (Is. 55:2a)

Isaiah 55:3 refers to David, Israel’s foremost king with

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 55:6–13. A Call to Respond

whom God made an everlasting covenant (Ps. 89:19–37). In the New Testament Paul declares that while David died, his heir, Jesus, inherits the blessings of the covenant by being raised from the dead (Acts 13:32–37). The good news is that through our union with Christ, we receive the blessings as well.

1. In Isaiah 55:1 the readers are exhorted to “come.” What actions are the readers now exhorted to take? (Is. 55:6–7)

2. Do you think these actions are easy or difficult or both? Why?

3. Why do sinners need to forsake their ways and thoughts and “turn to the LORD” (Is. 55:7)? (ls. 55:8–9;  Rom. 11:33–34)

Day 4 continues on page 4 Lesson 19—page 3 of 4

4. Why is the illustration of rain and snow helpful in understanding God’s word? (Is. 55:10–11)

5. God’s word will accomplish his purposes. How will all of creation respond? (ls. 55:12–13; Rom. 8:20–21)

Day 5 — Your Chance to Respond 1. Skim through Isaiah 54—55. What words or phrases describe the God who extends this invitation to you?

Which description resonates with you?

2. How does a clearer understanding of who God is influence your response to him personally?

How can you more fully entrust your heart and life to this God?

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 Raymond C. Ortlund, Jr., Isaiah: God Saves Sinners (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2005), 363-364.

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LESSON 20

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 56—58 Verse to Remember For this is what the high and lofty One says— he who lives forever, whose name is holy: “I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite.” Isaiah 57:15

We have completed the first and second sections of Isaiah: the book of the King and the book of the Servant. We are now beginning the third and final section, the book of the Anointed Conqueror.1 Kathleen Buswell Nielson offers this helpful orientation: “Chapter 56 begins the book’s third and final section (Isaiah 56—66), in which the prophet looks ahead to God’s people returned from exile.… [We focus in this final section] on the hope of… renewal. It is a hope for an eternal city, and for the final conqueror who will bring an end to all sin.”2

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 56:1–8. This passage shows “God’s people as they should be and will be.”3 1. According to this passage, what attitudes and actions characterize those who are devoted to the Lord?

2. Three times in these verses the LORD mentions the observance of the Sabbath. Honoring the Sabbath required a whole-hearted yielding of one’s life and plans to God’s control. Read Exodus 20:8–11 and Exodus 31:12–17. What is the purpose of the Sabbath? The Old Testament (Exod. 31:13) observance of the Sabbath foreshadowed the Sabbath rest that we have in Jesus: just as the 3. In the Old Testament law eunuchs were excluded from the gathering of God’s people were called to people (Deut. 23:1); foreigners could enter only if they were circumcised cease from their work on (Exod. 12:48–49). Here, though, both eunuchs and foreigners who cling to the the Sabbath, so we are Lord and his covenant, as their keeping of the Sabbath shows, are welcomed called to cease from our and promised great blessing. “works” and rest in a. What blessings are promised to the eunuch? (Is. 56:5, in contrast to Is. 56:3b) Christ (Col. 2:16-17; Heb. 4:9-10). b. What blessings are promised to the foreigner? (Is. 56:7, in contrast to Is. 56:3a)

In his design for the temple, God designated a specific area for Gentiles to worship and pray to him. In Jesus’ time, this area had been taken over by buyers and sellers and money changers, making it impossible for its original intent to be realized. In Mark 11:15–17, Jesus shows he shares God’s heart for the Gentiles by driving out the merchants. As he does this, he quotes Isaiah 56:7: “My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.” Lesson 20—page 1 of 4

Day 2 — Read Isaiah 56:9—57:13. This passage shows “God’s people as they shouldn’t be but are.”4 1. In 56:9–12, Isaiah uses three images for the leaders of Israel. Images for Israel’s leaders Watchmen

What is the job of a watchman/ a watchdog/a shepherd?

How are Israel’s leaders described? Is. 56:10

Dogs (i.e., watchdogs)

Is. 56:10–11

Shepherds

Is. 56:11–12

2. Isaiah 57:1–13 sets two opposite groups side by side: the righteous and the unrighteous. The righteous die (57:1), which might seem like a terrible injustice. But what godly perspective does Isaiah offer? (Is. 57:1b–2)

3. God charges the unrighteous with spiritual adultery—that is, idolatry. In what repulsive pagan worship practices did these idolaters participate? Is. 57:5a; see also Num. 25:1–3

Is. 57:5b; see also Jer. 32:35

4. Then in 57:9 God charges the people with the sin of turning to other earthly powers for security. (Note that “Molech” in 57:9 in the NIV is probably better translated “the king.”) What do you think this sin and the sin of idolatry have in common?

5. What is the lot or portion or inheritance… of the idolater? (Is. 57:6, 13)

of the one who “makes [God] his refuge” (57:13)? (Is. 57:13; * Ps. 16:5–6)

6. Read Isaiah 57:10-11.The people are “wearied by all their ways” and yet they continue on this path. Why?

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Day 3 — Read Isaiah 57:14–21. In 57:14 “God opens the way into his reviving presence for all the penitent.”5 1. God is the “high and lofty One…who lives forever,” the One who lives in “a high and holy place” (57:15). a. Where else does this holy One live? (Is. 57:15)

b. What does he do for them? (Is. 57:15)

2. God’s people have been “willful,” persisting in sin despite his anger and punishment (57:17). a. What is the only hope for persistent sinners? (Is. 57:16, 18–19)

b. How do peace and healing come about? (Is. 53:5;  Eph. 2:13–18, which echoes Is. 57:19)

3. What does Isaiah say about the wicked? (Is. 57:20–21)

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 58:1–14. 1. Much of the description of the people in 58:2 sounds good. But what little hints do you see in that verse that all is not well?

2. What does 58:3 suggest is the motive for this pious-seeming behavior?

3. What actions by the people show that their religious observances do not stem from humble, faithfilled hearts? (Is. 58:3c–4)

Day 4 continues on page 4 Lesson 20—page 3 of 4

4. True fasting and Sabbath-keeping are evidence of faith and devotion to God. Fill in the chart below. What do true fasting and Sabbath-keeping look like?

What blessings does the LORD promise?

Is. 58:6–7

Is. 58:8–9a

Is. 58:9b–10a

Is. 58:10b–12

Is. 58:13

Is. 58:14

Day 5 — Like the people who have been delivered from exile, we look back to the accomplishment of our salvation; like them, we await the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises – the culmination of our salvation and the final defeat of sin and evil; and like them, we too are called to faith and obedience while we wait.6

Read 1 Peter 1:1–15 for a look at our inheritance – our “lot” – as believers. 1. What do believers have already as a result of the work of the Suffering Servant, Jesus?

2. What do we have to look forward to?

3. What is our calling while we wait?

4. How would remembering our glorious inheritance daily change the way you view and live your life? Write down one or two concrete ways this act of remembering could affect you.

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 These names for the divisions of Isaiah come from J. Alec Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah: An Introduction and a Commentary (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1993). 2 Kathleen Buswell Nielson, Isaiah: The Lord Saves (Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R, 2011), 277. 3 Raymond C. Ortlund, Jr., Isaiah: God Saves Sinners (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2005), 376. 4 Ortlund 376. 5 ESV Study Bible (Wheaton: Crossway, 2008), 1345, note to 57:14–21. 6 J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah by the Day: A New Devotional Translation (Fearn, Scotland: Christian Focus, 2011), 272.

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LESSON 21

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 59—60 Verse to Remember

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 59:1–13.

Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. Isaiah 60:1

Throughout today’s passage Isaiah shifts pronouns. In verses 2 and 3 he is accusing the people directly and so he uses “you.” In verses 4–8 he reports the people’s sins using “they.” Finally, in verses 9–13 he switches to the pronouns “us,” “we,” and “our” in order to identify with the people, both in the suffering they experience as a consequence of their sins, and then in confessing their sins to the Lord.

1. The people perceive that the Lord is distant from them. a. What misunderstanding do they have about this distance? (Is. 58:3a; also consider Is. 59:1)

b. What is the real reason for this separation? (Is. 58:4; Is. 59:2)

2. Of what iniquities does Isaiah directly accuse the people? (Is. 59:3–4)

3. Isaiah uses a number of striking images to show the people both their sin (59:5–8) and its consequences (59:9–11). Choose a few of these images and explain why you think Isaiah uses them.

4. God’s people are looking “for light, but [see only] darkness” (59:9b), “for justice, but find none; for deliverance, but it is far away” (59:11). What will be a significant step toward ending their hopeless searching? (Ps. 32:5; Is. 59:12)

Day 1 continues on page 2 Lesson 21—page 1 of 4

5. Explain the meaning of the sins confessed in 59:13 (you may want to use a dictionary). Rebellion and treachery against the Lord:

Turning our backs on our God:

Fomenting oppression and revolt: 6. Read 1 John 1:5–9. Take some time to consider how your own sins affect your relationship both with God and with others. Confess your sins to the Lord.

Uttering lies our hearts have conceived:

Day 2 — Read Isaiah 59:14–21.

1. What consequences have the people’s sins produced in society? (Is. 59:14–15a)

2. At the end of yesterday’s passage, all seemed hopeless; the people were overcome by their sin—unable to change their ways or escape the effects of their sin. a. What is God’s evaluation of the situation? (Is. 59:15b–16a)

b. What is remarkable about his response in 59:16b? (Contrast with Is. 59:2)

3. Sandwiched between God rescuing his people (59:16) and repaying his foes (59:18) is a picture of God putting on his armor (59:17). a. How would this display of his character, commitment, and power1 be an encouragement to Israel?

b. How is this display an encouragement to you?

4. How will God deal with his enemies, and what will result? (Is. 59:18–19)

Day 2 continues on page 3 Lesson 21—page 2 of 4

5. In contrast, what promises does the LORD make to his repentant people? (Is. 59:20–21)

The “you” to whom God makes a promise in 59:21 is the unnamed “Redeemer,” whom we know to be Jesus. How does this promise give you hope? (* Acts 2:32–39)

In chapter 60, we are given a glimpse of the future for those whom the Lord has redeemed—a future in which peace and righteousness will reign and in which the Lord will be the everlasting light and glory of his people (60:19b). But it is not just a picture of our heavenly existence with Christ. It also has implications for today as Christ’s glory shines through his church, drawing all nations to himself.

Day 3 — Read Isaiah 60:1–3.

1. How can God’s people shine (60:1) in the midst of the “darkness [that] covers the earth … [and its] people” (60:2)? (Is. 60:1, 2b; Compare Jn. 8:12.)

2. What effect do this light and glory have on others? (Is. 60:3;  Mt. 5:14–16)

Day 4 — Read Isaiah 60:4–14. 1. What do the redeemed of the Lord see when they “lift up [their] eyes and look about” (60:4a)? (Is. 60:4–10a)

Why do you think this would cause them to “be radiant,” with hearts that “throb and swell with joy” (60:5)?

2. Why do the nations bring their wealth to Zion? (Is. 60:6–9)

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3. Why do you think it is significant that the gates of the city “always stand open” (60:11)? (Consider also Rev. 21:22–27.)

4. What will happen to foreigners who reject the Lord and his people? (Is. 60:12)

5. What will happen to Israel’s former oppressors? (Is. 60:14)

Day 5 — Read Isaiah 60:15–22. 1. In this vision of the future, what transformations will God bring about? (Is. 60:15–22;  Eph. 1:3–14)

2. What purpose does God give for all these blessings? (Is. 60:16b)

3. God commands his people to “lift up [their] eyes and look about” (60:4). He doesn’t want us to miss what he is doing. Where do you see God at work around you?

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 J. Alec Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah: An Introduction and Commentary (Downers Grove: IVP, 1993), 491.

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LESSON 22

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 61—63:6 Verse to Remember I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness…. Isaiah 61:10a

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 61:1–3. 1. This passage begins with Isaiah’s Messianic figure speaking about himself and his ministry. a. How has this figure been prepared for his mission? (Is. 61:1a)

b. In 61:2, what two things has he been called to proclaim?

c. How do these two proclamations capture the themes we have repeatedly seen in Isaiah?

When Jesus applies

Isaiah 61:1–2 to himself (Lk. 4:14–22), he stops after the words “to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor,” because this gracious proclamation was the purpose of his incarnation. Jesus’ first coming inaugurated the “year” of God’s favor, an extended time when salvation would be made available to all people. Jesus’ second coming will inaugurate the “day” of God’s vengeance, a short period of time when God will bring his final judgment and destroy his enemies. This week’s passage follows this same structure: 61—62 focus on God’s favor, while 63:1–6 focus on God’s vengeance.

2. Read Luke 4:14–21. What claim does Jesus make about himself in verse 21?

3. Complete the chart to see the amazing transformations God will bring about in his people through the Anointed One. For those who are…

In the year of the Lord’s favor, the Anointed One will…

61:1

poor

preach the good news

61:1

brokenhearted

61:1

captives

61:1

prisoners

61:2b

mourning

61:3

grieving

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4. After the Anointed One has done his work in the people of God, they will be called “oaks of righteousness” (61:3). What does this title imply about what they will be like?

5. Reread the closing sentence of 61:3. What is the purpose of the transformations that will take place?

Day 2 — Read Isaiah 61:4–11. 1. What changes will take place in the relationship between God’s people and the people of other nations? (Is. 61:5, 6b)

In the near future, the exiles will return from Babylon and will rebuild their broken city (61:4). This rebuilding is a picture of the transformation the Anointed One will bring, though it will not be fully realized until he comes again. At that time, all the brokenness of life will be transformed – in people’s hearts, in their surroundings, in their relationships – “all … long-standing and inherited brokenness will be restored.”1

2. What will God’s people receive in place of their shame and disgrace? (Is. 61:7)

3. What will God’s justice and faithfulness bring about for them? (Is. 61:8–9)

4. The speaker in 61:10–11 could either be Zion or the Anointed One. Either way, what causes the joy behind the singing? (Is. 61:10)

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Days 3 & 4 — Read Isaiah 62:1–12. 1. What two things is the Anointed One committed to accomplishing in Zion? (Is. 62:1)

2. After the Anointed One accomplishes his work in Zion, how will the nations and kings see her? (Is. 62:2a)

3. The LORD gives Zion new names to reflect her new status: “Hephzibah” means “my delight is in her,” and “Beulah” means “married” (62:4). How do these new names capture the transformation the LORD has brought about? (Consider Zion’s “old names” in 62:4.)

Crown

4. In 62:5, Isaiah uses the image of a wedding to illustrate how God feels about Israel, his bride. a. Describe what it means for a bridegroom to rejoice over his bride.

The result of the Anointed One’s work is that Zion will be a crown or diadem. Zion will not wear the crown, but will be the crown in the Lord’s hand: thus, “The Lord’s people will be the sign that he is King.”2

b. This description only begins to express how God feels about you. How is such delight possible? (Review what we have read so far in this week’s passage.)

5. What does God promise on oath in 62:8–9?

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6. In the past, Jerusalem’s gates existed to offer protection and keep out other nations. What will be different in the New Jerusalem? (Is. 62:10; Is. 60:11)

7. What proclamation does God want the entire earth to hear? (Is. 62:11)

8.

Isaiah lists four more new names for his people. What do these names say about them? (Is. 62:12)

Day 5 — Read Isaiah 63:1–6.

This passage describes the day of vengeance proclaimed by the Anointed One in 61:2. It is a conversation between the prophet and the Anointed One, Jesus, who by his might has accomplished the final defeat of all his enemies. 1. Give a general description of what this day of vengeance will be like.

2. Why is Jesus worthy to bring this about? (Is. 61:1; Acts 17:31; Rev. 19:11–16)

3. Why is God’s vengeance necessary? (Is. 59:14–18; Is. 63:5)

4. The Anointed One talks about his righteousness, about being mighty to save, about the day of vengeance being the year of his redemption, and about working salvation (63:1c, 4, 5). How do you think this salvation and the bloody vengeance depicted in 63:1–6 fit together?

1 2

J. Alec Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah: An Introduction and Commentary (Downers Grove: IVP, 1993), 501. Motyer 506.

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LESSON 23

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 63:7—65:16 The Intercessory Prayer of the Remnant

Verse to Remember In all their distress he too was distressed, and the angel of his presence saved them. In his love and mercy he redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them all the days of old. Isaiah 63:9

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 63:7–14. Remembrance of the Angel of His Presence

In Isaiah 62:6–7 we were introduced to the “watchmen” of Israel who “will never be silent day or night.” These watchmen will continually call upon the LORD. They will give themselves and the LORD no rest until they see Jerusalem established as “the praise of the earth.” The role of the prophet was to be such a watchman, and so in Isaiah 63:7— 64:12 we see Isaiah “the prophet, as the representative of his people, pray[ing] to God, expressing thanksgiving and confession as well as beseeching God to be merciful to His people.“1 Then in chapters 65 and 66 we will see how the Sovereign LORD will respond to Isaiah’s pleas.

1. How does Isaiah begin his intercessory prayer? (Is. 63:7)

2. What is Isaiah recalling about God? (Is. 63:8–9; * Exod. 6:7; Exod. 33:12–17)

How did “the angel of his presence” save Israel in the “days of old” (Is. 63:9)? (Exod. 14:19–20; Exod. 23:20–23)

The Angel of His Presence

3. In spite of a long history of God’s caring for them, what did the people do that caused him to become their enemy? (Is. 63:10; Ps. 78:11–22)

(Is. 63:9) The angel of the Lord was a physical manifestation of God’s presence with his people. The fact that he was with them in their distress, being distressed himself, is a demonstration of his love, mercy, and redemption, a foreshadowing of the presence of the Holy Spirit.

4. Why do you think God’s people remember the days of Moses in Isaiah 63:11–14?

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Day 2 — Read Isaiah 63:15—64:7. Intercession to the Father and Redeemer 1. Isaiah has recounted the “kindnesses” (Is. 63:7a) of God toward his people. a. What hard questions does he now pose? Is. 63:15b

Is. 63:17a

Is. 64:5c

b. What appeals does Isaiah make to God? Is. 63:15

Is. 63:16, 19a

Is. 63:17b

Is. 64:1-2

c. What hope does Isaiah cling to? (Is. 64:4–5a)

2. What is the plight of Israel (and all mankind) without God’s intervention? (Is. 64:5b–7)

Day 3 — Read Isaiah 64:8–12. Appeal to the Potter 1. What does Isaiah appeal to, in light of his people’s unwillingness to call on God’s name? (Is. 64:8)

2. What does the relationship between the clay and potter convey? (Is. 64:8; Jer. 18:1–6;  Rom. 9:20–21)

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3. What is Isaiah longing for God to see when he cries out in 64:9, “Oh, look upon us, we pray”? (Is. 64:9–11)

Now look at 64:12. How do you think Isaiah wants God to respond to what he has seen?

Days 4 and 5 — Read Isaiah 65:1–16. The Response of the Sovereign LORD 1. How does the Most High God begin his response to Isaiah’s prayer? (Is. 65:1–3)

2. What does God hold against his people? (Is. 65:2–5, 7b, 11–12)

Isaiah 65:10–11: Sharon, Achor, Fortune, and Destiny “Sharon” was rich pasture land in the days of King David but had dried up by the time of Isaiah (Is. 33:9). “Achor” was a valley that represented trouble for Israel (Josh. 7:24– 26). The restoration of both places symbolizes great blessing for the whole land.2 “Fortune” and “Destiny” are the names of foreign gods, idols who were being worshipped instead of the LORD, “… gods that need to be wined and dined and are yet thought to be the controllers of destiny.”3 Days 4 and 5 continue on page 4

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3. Isaiah 63:1–6 gave us a picture of God’s wrath on the final day of vengeance, when he will trample all the grapes (sinful nations) in the winepress. Now in response to Isaiah’s prayer, God returns to the image of grapes to represent the nation of Israel ( Is. 5:1–7). How does the New Testament help us understand what God is saying in 65:8? (Rom. 9:27–29; Rom. 11:1–6)

4. Once God has established that he will preserve a remnant, he goes on to describe what life will be like for this remnant, his chosen servants, and what awaits those who forsake him. Fill in the chart below to contrast the fates of these two groups. The remnant, God’s servants

Those who forsake the LORD

Is. 65:8

Is. 65:6–7

Is. 65:9–10

Is. 65:11–12

Is. 65:13

Is. 65:13

Is. 65:14

Is. 65:14

Is. 65:15

Is. 65:15

Is. 65:16

Is. 65:15b

5. Review this week’s passage. Isaiah was in the midst of very difficult times, as we are today. How can Isaiah’s prayer and God’s response help us to quiet our hearts?

*The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 Edward J. Young, The Book of Isaiah, Volume 3 Chapters 40-66 (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans, 2001), 480. 2 J. Alec Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah: An Introduction and Commentary (Downers Grove: IVP, 1993), 527. 3 Motyer 527.

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LESSON 24

A BETTER KING, SERVANT, CONQUEROR The Book of Isaiah Isaiah 65:17—66:24 Verse to Remember Behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind. Isaiah 65:17

Day 1 — Read Isaiah 65:17–25. 1. Throughout Isaiah we have seen promises of renewal—both temporary renewal in the near future and eternal renewal in the far future. What cosmic far-future promise does God make in Isaiah 65:17a?

2. When the new has swept in, what will become of the old, the “former things” (65:17)? (Is. 65:17b)

3. These “former things” include curses and judgments that resulted from the fall (if you wish to read the full story, turn to Genesis 3). Use the chart below to see how in describing his new creation, God uses images that are the opposite of the judgments he pronounced in Genesis. Curse or Judgment: The Old Creation

Blessings: The New Creation

Gen. 3:16a

Is. 66:7–8

Gen. 3:17–19a

Is. 65:21–23a

Gen. 2:16–17; Gen. 3:19, 22–24

Is. 25:7–8; Is. 65:19b–20 (see bubble below)

In Isaiah 65:20 Isaiah uses “poetic understatements [to express] the unending life that will come” in the new creation; “they promise a meaningful and blessed life for all, in contrast to the sickness and early death that resulted from God’s curse.”1

4. Consider some of the things that trouble your mind or cause you to mourn. Take a moment to write a prayer of thanks to God that in his new creation these things “will not be remembered” (Is. 65:17).

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Day 2 — Read Isaiah 65:17–25. 1. Jerusalem is the symbolic focal point of this new creation (Is. 65:18–19; Is. 66:10). What were Jerusalem and its inhabitants like in Isaiah’s time? Is. 1:21–23

Is. 30:1, 9–11

2. What will characterize the new Jerusalem as Isaiah describes it in this week’s passage? Is. 65:18–19

Is. 65:25 (* Is. 11:6–9)

Days 3 and 4 — Read Isaiah 66:1–24. 1. What point about himself does God drive home yet again in 66:2a? (See also Is. 40:22, 25–26, 28.)

False worship and true worship In much of his book Isaiah is concerned with worship— the false or hollow worship God’s people offered versus the true worship God desired. We encountered this concern in the first chapter, and we see it again in the last.

It was the Creator’s plan from the beginning of creation to live with the people he created and be in relationship with them. But the fall—humanity’s rebellion against God—ruined that original relationship. Since then, God has been working his plan to defeat sin and restore relationship. He made the Jews his chosen people, and when the time came, the temple was built to be the place where he would be present with them, where they could come and, with the appropriate sacrifices and ceremonies, worship him. 2. Read 1 Kings 8:23–30, the beginning of Solomon’s prayer to dedicate the temple. What did Solomon understand from the outset about the place of worship he had built? (1 Kgs. 8:27; compare Is. 66:1;  Acts 17:22–25)

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3. What pictures do we find in Isaiah of what worship in Israel became? Is. 1:11–16 Is. 29:13 Is. 57:4–8; Is. 66:17 Is. 66:3–4 4. Whenever people worship anything other than God or put anything else in his place, there are consequences. This is true on both a personal level and a global level. How do you see this play out?

5. Earlier, in chapter 65, Isaiah contrasted two groups of people: the unfaithful ones, who forsook the Lord and worshipped other gods (65:11), and his faithful “servants,” the remnant he promised to rescue (65:8). We see these two groups again in chapter 66. a. How do the LORD’S “enemies” (66:6) treat the faithful? (Is. 66:5)

b. What end awaits the LORD’S enemies? Is. 66:4a Is. 66:6 Is. 66:14c–16 Is. 66:24

6. What characterizes the LORD’S servants? (Is. 66:2b)

What do you think it means to “tremble” at God’s word (66:2, 5)?

7. What end awaits these servants of the LORD? Is. 66:10–11 Is. 66:12 Is. 66:13 Is. 66:22

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Day 5 — Reread Isaiah 65:17—66:24.

God has made it clear all through the book of Isaiah that his promises of salvation and blessing will ultimately be not just for the remnant of Israel, but for those he has chosen from all the nations of the earth. In the past when Isaiah has written about the nations sharing in God’s promises, he has pictured them streaming toward Jerusalem (Is. 2:2–3). 1. Read Isaiah 66:19–20. These verses give us a new picture of the way the nations will be brought in. What does God say will happen?

How do we see this being worked out in the New Testament—and continuing in our own time? (Mt. 28:18–20; Acts 1:8;  2 Tim. 4:1–2)

2. What detail does God include that makes it clear that the people he has called from the nations are equal sharers in the blessings of his kingdom? (Is. 66:21)

What images do the New Testament writers use to drive home this truth? (Eph. 2:11–20; 1 Pet. 2:9–10)

3. Solomon understood that God could not be contained in a brick-and-mortar building. The temple that he built was but a shadow of the way God would dwell with his people in the future. a. How does God dwell with his people now? (Eph. 2:19–22)

b. How will God dwell with his people in “the new heavens and the new earth” (66:22)? (Rev. 21:3–4, 22; Rev. 22:3–4)

4. What will all those who are saved join together to do? Is. 66:23

Rev. 7:9–12

5. What has your study of Isaiah taught you about God that you want to carry with you?

Pray that God would help you to retain this new or deeper understanding of him. *The  symbol indicates verses for further study. 1 Spirit of the Reformation Study Bible, New International Version (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2003), 1188, note on 65:20.

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