isaiah - growing christians ministries

Growing Christians Ministries

Box 2268, Westerly, RI 02891 growingchristians.org

Isaiah

Study Guide for

Lesson 1

God’s Indictment of the Kingdom of Judah for their Rebellion and Hypocrisy

Isaiah 1: 1-17 background notes

1. 2. 3. doctrinal points

1. God denounces the rebellious actions of His people. 2. God despises the religious motions of His people. practical application

Make sure you are washed and clean. questions 1. How is the book of Isaiah like a “miniature Bible”?

2. What is the theme of Isaiah?

3. How long was Isaiah’s ministry? What historical events occurred during his ministry? 4. What is the emphasis of Isaiah’s title for the Lord, “The Holy One of Israel”? 5. Was the Lord setting aside the Temple and the sacrificial system in verses 10-15?

answers 1. The Bible has 66 books, Isaiah has 66 chapters. The Old Testament has 39 books, while the first section of Isaiah has 39 chapters. The Old Testament has 27 books, and the second section of Isaiah has 27 chapters. The first part of Isaiah, like the Old Testament, deals with the judgment of God because of sin. The second part, like the New Testament, contains hope and consolation because of the coming Messiah. 2. Israel’s Messiah 3. Isaiah ministered at least 50 years, through the reigns of four kings of Judah – Uzziah, Jotham Ahaz, and Hezekiah. During this time the northern kingdom of Israel fell to the Assyrian empire in 722 B.C. Isaiah’s ministry was primarily directed to the southern kingdom of Judah, and somewhat to the northern kingdom of Israel, before it’s fall. 4. This title contrasts the people’s sin with God’s holiness. 5. No, He was telling the people that their bringing sacrifices and just going through the motions was hypocrisy. Their heart was far from the Lord and therefore He despised their sacrifices. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the scenario in Isaiah 1 where the Lord brings His people into court because they have broken the covenant that He made with them. Discuss the evidence brought. What is the verdict? If your salvation was based on keeping God’s law, how would you stand up in court? 2. God hates hypocrisy – then and today. When people just go through the religious motions of going to church to impress people or cover up wrongdoing, God hates it. What is your motivation for going to church? How can you make sure you are properly motivated? challenge Do you need to come to the Lord for the bath of salvation? Do you need to come to Him for cleansing and restoration? Make sure you are washed and clean. memorize “The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.” Isaiah 1:1 “The ox knows its owner and the donkey its master‟s crib; But Israel does not know, My people do not consider.” Isaiah 1:3 “Even though you make many prayers, I will not hear. Your hands are full of blood.” Isaiah 1:15

Lesson 2

God’s Continuing Indictment of His Wayward People Israel & A Promise of Future Restoration

Isaiah 1:18-31 background notes


1. God desires to reason with His people. 2. God desires to restore His people. practical application

Always do your background studies. questions 1. What was the approximate time of Isaiah’s ministry?

2. What was the spiritual state of the Jewish people during Isaiah’s time?

3. Did the kingdom of Judah listen to the Lord and turn from their sins? 4. When do we believe the Lord will fulfill His promise of restoration found in verse 26? 5. Explain the reference to the terebinth trees in verses 29-31.

answers 1. Approximately 700 B.C. 2. The nation, which had been united under Kings David and Solomon, was later divided into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. Both kingdoms were guilty of the sins of idolatry and immorality. God allowed the northern kingdom of Israel to fall to the Assyrians in 722 B.C. Isaiah preached to the southern kingdom and denounced the sins of Judah while predicting their coming captivity at the hands of the rising Babylonian Empire. 3. No, they did not. So God allowed the Babylonians to destroy Jerusalem and the Temple and take the people into captivity for 70 years. 4. We believe the restoration of the Jewish people is still future, because Jerusalem has never been morally and spiritually restored the way the prophecy indicates. 5. Israel will be brought to a point where she will be ashamed of her former idolatry and immorality which she practiced in the groves and gardens of the land. discuss\ consider

1. Even though the people of Jerusalem were in moral and economic failure, the Lord was willing to cleanse them and blot out their sins. Discuss the application to you, whether you are a believer or an unbeliever. God desires to reason with His people. Are you willing to reason with Him? 2. The Jewish people must undergo judgment before they can be spiritually restored. Review how this judgment has taken place in phases in history past and will culminate during the end-time Tribulation Period. What is God’s purpose with this judgment? challenge Always do your background studies (and read the context). The “red like crimson” in Isaiah 1:18 is not the precious blood of Christ. It is the indelible stain of sin! memorize “„Come now, and let us reason together,‟ Says the LORD, „Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.‟” Isaiah 1:18 “I will restore your judges as at first, and your counselors as at the beginning. Afterward you shall be called the city of righteousness, a faithful city.” Isaiah 1:26

Lesson 3

A Prediction of the Coming Blessings and Purgings Isaiah 2

background notes


1. The future millennium will be a time of godliness and peace. 2. The future Tribulation will be a time of humbling and terror. practical application

Change your value system now, before it’s too late! questions 1. When will world peace come?

2. Are the prophecies in this chapter presenting a time of godliness and peace in the Church?

3. Give a general definition of the Day of the Lord. 4. When was the historical aspect of Isaiah’s Day of the Lord fulfilled? 5. What verses tell us Isaiah has moved from foretelling judgment on Judah to the worldwide judgment of the Tribulation period?

answers 1. Only with the return of Christ 2. No! This is a prophecy predicting the spiritual restoration of the literal nation of Israel and the conversion of many Gentiles in the future. These will make up the literal nations of the millennial kingdom of Christ. 3. Anytime the Lord intervenes in the affairs of the nations – for blessing or for judgment. 4. When Judah was conquered by the Babylonians and taken into captivity 5. The phrase “When He arises to shake the earth mightily” in verses 19 and 21 discuss\ consider

1. Review the sins that Isaiah lists in verses 6-8. He was calling the kingdom of Judah to repent of these things in view of the promise of future restoration. Think back over the history of the kingdom and recall when they committed these sins. 2. Discuss what it means to change your value system for an unbeliever and for a believer. Which are you? Do you need to change your value system? challenge In the time of coming judgment people will try to hide from the terror of the Lord. But you can’t hide from God. Are you trying to hide from Him? memorize “They shall beat their swords into plowshares, And their spears into pruning hooks.” Isaiah 2:4 “For the day of the LORD of hosts shall come upon everything proud and lofty, upon everything lifted up – and it shall be brought low.” Isaiah 2:12

Lesson 4

Jerusalem and Judah are Denounced for Their Rebellion Against the Lord Isaiah 3

background notes


1. When people rebel against the Lord there is the breakdown of society. 2. When people rebel against the Lord there is the judgment of society. 3. When people rebel against the Lord there is the humbling of society. practical application

Let’s humble ourselves or be humbled. questions 1. What is a general definition for the Day of the Lord?

2. What are the two aspects of the Day of the Lord? Which aspects are in view in Isaiah 2 and 3?

3. List the ways society would break down when God allowed the Babylonian army under Nebuchadnezzar to sweep in and besiege Jerusalem. 4. What is the structure of verses 9-11? What is the good news in these verses? 5. How long did the Babylonians’ siege on Jerusalem last?

answers 1. The Day of the Lord is anytime the Lord intervenes in the affairs of the nations – for blessing or for judgment. 2. There is a historical or past aspect and an eschatological or future aspect. The judgment of the Day of the Lord in chapter 2 was primarily eschatological – the judgment of the future Tribulation period. Chapter 3 the focus is primarily on the historical aspect of the Day of the Lord, when the Lord allowed the Babylonian forces to conquer Judah. 3.

The normal food supply would be cut off

The nation’s defenses would be decimated

The civil courts would no longer be operational

The religious leaders would be removed

The military commanders would be gone

The skilled workers and craftsmen would be out of business 4. Verse 10 is a note of hope between two woes of judgment. Just as the wicked will reap what they sow, so will the righteous reap what they sow. 5. It lasted for over a year. All of the conditions described here literally took place. discuss\ consider

1. When people rebel against the Lord there is the breakdown of society. Discuss how this principle is currently playing out in our own society. 2. Isaiah 3:14 shows that the Lord’s judgment was especially upon the leaders who had led His people astray. If you are a leader, this undoubtedly sobers you. If you are under leadership, how can you make the job of your leaders no more difficult than it already is? challenge Do you want to be exalted? Here’s a promise without any exceptions from God’s word – humble yourself and God will exalt you. The converse is also true: exalt yourself and God will humble you. memorize “For Jerusalem stumbled, and Judah is fallen, because their tongue and their doings are against the LORD, to provoke the eyes of His glory.” Isaiah 3:8 “Woe to their soul! For they have brought evil upon themselves. Say to the righteous that it shall be well with them, for they shall eat the fruit of their doings. Woe to the wicked! It shall be ill with him, for the reward of his hands shall be given him.” Isaiah 3:9-11

Lesson 5

The Spiritual and Physical Conditions of Jerusalem During the Coming Millennial Kingdom of Christ

Isaiah 4 background notes


1. Spiritual conditions will be different during the Millennium. 2. Physical conditions will be different during the Millennium. practical application

Try describing summer to a person who has only known winter. questions 1. What are the consequences of rebellion against the Lord (Isaiah 3)?

2. What historical background will help us understand Isaiah 4:1?

3. Who is the “Branch of the Lord”? What other prophetic passages use this title? 4. How do amillennialists interpret Old Testament passages such as this? 5. What is the meaning of verses 5 and 6?

answers 1. When people rebel against the Lord there is the breakdown of society, the judgment of society, and the humbling of society. 2. When the Babylonian forces besieged and conquered Jerusalem in the 6th century B.C., there was a shortage of men in Judah, because so many had been killed. 3. The “Branch of the Lord” is one of the messianic titles of the Lord Jesus. He is a branch in the genealogical tree of David. See also Jeremiah 23:5-6 and Zechariah 6:12-13. 4. They spiritual or allegorize these prophetic passages and make them apply to the Church today. 5. There will be topographical changes in the physical condition around Jerusalem, the headquarters and capital of our Lord’s millennial reign. discuss\ consider

1. Spiritual conditions will be different during the Millennium. Discuss who will be present in Christ’s literal earthly kingdom. 2. Discuss what the motivation may be for amillennialists to spiritualize prophetic passages, rather than acknowledge that God is able to fulfill them literally. challenge When we talk about how everything is going to be so different in the future, some folks have a hard time grasping the truth that such changes are possible. Remember this illustration: Try describing summer to a person who has only known winter. memorize “In that day the Branch of the LORD shall be beautiful and glorious; and the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and appealing for those of Israel who have escaped.” Isaiah 4:2 “And it shall come to pass that he who is left in Zion and remains in Jerusalem will be called holy.” Isaiah 4:3

Lesson 6

The Parable of the Vineyard Isaiah 5:1-7

background notes


1. God expects His people to produce fruit. 2. God will not force His people to produce fruit. practical application

What more can God do for you? questions 1. For what sins was Israel being judged?

2. In the parable of Isaiah 5, God planted a vineyard. What did this vineyard represent?

3. List some other Old Testament passages where the Lord likens Israel to a vineyard. 4. What is a common theme in all of these vineyard passages? 5. Explain the play on words for emphasis in verse 7.

answers 1. rebellion, injustice, idolatry, and immorality, among others 2. Israel, specifically the kingdom of Judah (verse 7) 3. Isaiah 3:14, Hosea 10:1, Psalm 80, Jeremiah 2:21 and 12:10, Ezekiel 15 4. Israel is expected to produce fruit, which is the purpose of a vine. 5. In Hebrew the contrasting words sound similar, for emphasis. One commentator captured the idea this way, “God waited for equity, but behold iniquity. He waited for right, but behold riot!” discuss\ consider

1. Review the parable in Isaiah 5. Discuss the details of the parable and how they portray the Lord’s care and tending of the kingdom of Judah. 2. In John 15, God describes His New Testament people as a vine, with Himself as the branch. Discuss how God has cared for us as well and had expectations of us. challenge God does everything to make it possible for you to produce good fruit for His glory. What more can God do for you? Are you bringing Him glory by your actions? memorize “What more could have been done to My vineyard That I have not done in it? Why then, when I expected it to bring forth good grapes, did it bring forth wild grapes?” Isaiah 5:4 “For the vineyard of the LORD of hosts is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah are His pleasant plant. He looked for justice, but behold, oppression; for righteousness, but behold, a cry for help.” Isaiah 5:7

Lesson 7

Six Woes are Pronounced upon Israel and Judah Isaiah 5:8-30

background notes

1. 2. 3. doctrinal point

God promises woes upon His wayward people. a) Woe to those who are materialists. b) Woe to those who are drunkards. c) Woe to those who are skeptics. d) Woe to those who call evil, good. e) Woe to those who are conceited. f) Woe to those who are unjust. practical application

Let’s not cause God to whistle! questions 1. Review the parable in the first section of Isaiah 5.

2. How were the people of Isaiah’s day being materialistic?

3. Explain the meaning of verses 15 and 16. 4. How were the people of Isaiah’s day being conceited? 5. What ultimate consequence did the Lord bring for Israel’s sin?

answers 1. The Lord had planted a vineyard and expected it to produce good grapes, but instead it produced wild grapes. The vineyard represents Israel, both the northern and southern kingdoms 2. They were buying up all the real estate with no concern for the housing needs of the less fortunate. 3. The exile would be a time of humiliation for every person, but it would be a time of exaltation for the Lord. As the land became empty of its wealthy inhabitants and only a place for sheep and Bedouin shepherds, it would prove that God was holy and righteous and He judges according to what He has declared in His law. 4. There were those in Israel who would not listen to the prophets and the Word of God. They thought that they could solve all the nation’s problems with diplomacy and treaties and that they did not have to rely on God. 5. The Assyrians and later the Babylonians would come with well-trained armies and overtake the land. The invasion by these foreign nations would be God’s discipline upon His people. discuss\ consider

1. We know that unbelievers are skeptics of God and His Word, but do you also know some believers who are skeptics? Why do people have a hard time accepting the Bible as God’s inspired Word, free from human error? What is the consequence for such skepticism (verses 18-19)? 2. It is extremely common in our society today to call evil, good and good, evil. Think of some examples you have seen this week. As a believer, how can you stand against this cultural trend? challenge God whistled to call the foreign nations to come discipline His people. Must God bring discipline into your life because you’ve deliberately disobeyed Him or rebelled against Him in some way? Let’s not cause God to whistle! memorize “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” Isaiah 5:20 “He will lift up a banner to the nations from afar, and will whistle to them from the end of the earth.” Isaiah 5:26

Lesson 8

Isaiah has a Vision of the Holiness of God & He is Commissioned by God to be a Prophet



1. Salvation should follow a realization of God’s holiness. 2. Service should follow a realization of God’s call. practical application

Have you told the Lord, “Here I am, send me!”? questions 1. Who was King Uzziah and in what year did he die?

2. What practical application can we take from Uzziah?

3. How was Isaiah a contrast to the proud and sinful Uzziah? 4. What are seraphim? 5. To what ministry did God call Isaiah?

answers 1. Uzziah was a good king, but he was not content with just being king. He wanted a role that God had not given him- the role of priest. God had to strike Uzziah with leprosy and he had to be cut off from the House of the Lord until the day of His death, in 740 B.C. 2. Let’s be content with the role and spiritual gifts that the Lord has given us and not try to steal someone else’s role or use someone else’s gifts. 3. Isaiah was humble and very conscious of his sinful condition. Isaiah was given a vision of the majesty and holiness of God – something that Uzziah probably wanted, but did not attain. 4. Seraphim are a class of angels occupied with the holiness of God. The seraphim had six wings – four were used for covering their face and feet, emphasizing reverence in the presence of God. 5. Isaiah was called to proclaim God’s word to His wayward people. They were not going to listen to his sermons and they were not going to return to the Lord. Isaiah was to continue proclaiming God’s message until God’s judgment fell on the rebellious nation. But a godly remnant of Jews would be preserved. discuss\ consider

1. Review Isaiah’s reaction and response to the vision of God’s holiness. Tell about the point of time when you realized that God was holy and you did not measure up to His standards. Salvation should follow a realization of God’s holiness. 2. Every believer is called to serve the Lord in some way, in some place, and in some capacity. Tell how God has called you to serve. How have you responded? challenge Isaiah essentially said, “Here I am Lord, send me wherever, whenever, and to whomever you choose.” Have you told this to the Lord? memorize “In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple.” Isaiah 6:1 “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!” Isaiah 6:3 “Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips.” Isaiah 6:5

Lesson 9

The Prediction of the Virgin Birth of Christ Isaiah 7

background notes


1. Isaiah predicted the birth of a son as a sign for Ahaz. 2. Isaiah predicted the hard times of Judah at the hands of the Assyrians. practical application

Let the Lord choose the sign. questions 1. What do we know about King Ahaz?

2. What predicament did King Ahaz face in this chapter?

3. How was Isaiah sent to comfort King Ahaz? 4. Why was it wrong for Ahaz to say, “I will not ask, nor will I test the LORD!” (verse 7)? 5. Explain why the phrases “abundance of milk” and “curds and honey” (verse 22) are not describing times of plenty.

answers 1. Ahaz, the king of Judah, was in the line of David, but he was not a good king. He is known in the Bible for sacrificing his son to the god Molech and for erecting a pagan altar in the courts of God’s Temple. 2. Rezin the king of Syria and Pekah the king of northern Israel (Ephraim) had conspired together against Ahaz. They wanted to force the southern kingdom of Judah to form an alliance with them against the super power of that day, the Assyrian Empire. 3. Isaiah told King Ahaz not to fear this coalition of Ephraim and Syria because they would fall to Assyria, and within 65 years the northern kingdom of Israel (Ephraim) would not even exist. 4. Isaiah told Ahaz to ask for a sign from the Lord to prove that all of this would come to pass. Ahaz piously and hypocritically said that he would never test the Lord by asking for a sign. But the Lord gave Ahaz a sign anyway. 5. There would be an abundance of milk during these hard times because there were not a lot of young cows and goats to nurse and consume the milk. Curds and honey describe the food of nomadic people when there was no longer the regular harvesting of crops. discuss\ consider

1. Read Isaiah’s predicted sign in verse 14. Discuss the three views of the fulfillment of this prophecy (historical, exclusively Messianic, typical). Which of these views makes the most sense when considering the whole of Scripture? 2. Review how the Samaritan people came to be. How do biblical insights such as this round out your knowledge of Scripture? Do they cause you to marvel at God’s work throughout history? challenge As believers we walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). Yet sometimes the Lord gives us a confirming sign to encourage us. Let the Lord choose the sign. memorize “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” Isaiah 7:14 “And it shall come to pass in that day that the LORD will whistle for the fly that is in the farthest part of the rivers of Egypt, and for the bee that is in the land of Assyria.” Isaiah 7:18

Lesson 10

The Birth of Isaiah’s Second Son Isaiah 8

background notes


1. The Lord is a sanctuary and a stone of stumbling. 2. The Word is a standard and a means of testing. practical application

Don’t play around with the occult! questions 1. Why is the birth of Isaiah’s son recorded here?

2. What does the name Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz mean? Why was the child given this name?

3. Describe how the Lord is either a sanctuary or a stone of stumbling to each individual. What New Testament passage quotes Isaiah 8:14? 4. What will happen to those who do not use the Word of God as their standard (verses 21-22)? 5. List some modern practices that could be defined as “occult.”

answers 1. This predicted child was born as a sign to King Ahaz of Judah that the threat of the coalition forces of Syria and Israel would be eliminated. The mother and son were also typical of the virgin Mary and her son, Jesus. 2. It means “Swift is the booty, speedy is the prey.” This was to be a comforting sign of God’s presence to Judah because it meant that the threat of Syria and Israel would soon be gone when the Assyrians conquered them. 3. He is a sanctuary to those who fear Him, but a stone of stumbling to those who turn away from His offer of salvation. See 1 Peter 2:6-8. 4. They will look to their sources of authority and find no help or relief. They will be sent into eternal darkness because they rejected the light of God’s Word (see also 2 Peter 2:17). 5. Horoscope, ouiji boards, eastern mysticism, astrology, “white magic,” hypnotism, or any kind of altered conscious state discuss\ consider

1. In Isaiah 8:8 the Lord declares that the waters of the Assyrian army would reach to the neck of Judah, but not overcome the head. Review the story of Sennacherib’s invasion of Judah and siege upon Jerusalem. How did the Lord supernaturally intervene at this time (Isaiah 37)? 2. God’s Word was the standard and means of testing in Isaiah’s day and it is the same today. How can you practically apply this truth in your own life? challenge Have you been tempted to play around with the occult? God gives a severe warning against these practices. Guard yourself and warn your children and grandchildren. memorize “Call his name Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz; for before the child shall have knowledge to cry „My father‟ and „My mother,‟ the riches of Damascus and the spoil of Samaria will be taken away before the king of Assyria.” Isaiah 8:3-4 “He will be as a sanctuary, but a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel.” Isaiah 8:14

Lesson 11

The Coming of the Messiah and His Kingdom & The Fall of the Northern Kingdom of Israel



1. Isaiah predicted the rise of the Messianic kingdom in the distant future. 2. Isaiah predicted the fall of the northern kingdom in the immediate future. practical application

Don’t test the Lord’s patience. questions 1. What was “the land of Zebulun” and “the land of Naphtali” and why were they distressed?

2. Which verses in the first section of Isaiah 9 were fulfilled at the first coming of the Messiah, which at the second? 3. What was the political status of Israel at the time of Isaiah’s prophecy? To whom was his message given? 4. When did the kingdom of Israel finally come to an end? 5. Which phrase is repeated throughout Isaiah 9-10?

answers 1. This refers to the northern most lands in the kingdom of Israel. When Isaiah wrote this, Israel had not completely fallen to the Assyrians, but the northern portion was already considered a province of the Assyrian Empire. 2. Isaiah 9:1-2 were quoted in the gospel of Matthew as being fulfilled at the first coming of Christ. But verses 3-5, which predict national happiness, no more oppression, and defeated enemies has yet to be fulfilled. 3. The united kingdom of Israel no longer existed. The northern kingdom of Israel was also known as Ephraim, and had its capital in Samaria. There was also the southern kingdom of Judah, whose capital was Jerusalem. Isaiah’s message was primarily addressed to the northern kingdom, but it certainly was a warning to Judah. 4. The kingdom came to an abrupt end when Samaria fell to the Assyrians in 722 B.C. 5. “For all this His anger is not turned away, But His hand is stretched out still.” Isaiah 9:12,17,21, and 10:4 discuss\ consider

1. When the Old Testament prophets looked forward to the coming of the Messiah, they did not distinguish between His first coming and His second coming. This can lead to confusion in our biblical interpretation. Discuss why it is important to watch for this possibility. 2. Review and discuss the four names given to the Messiah in Isaiah 9:6. Which is most personally meaningful to you? challenge Are you experiencing the Lord’s discipline in your life right now because of some sin? Don’t try the Lord’s patience. Turn back to the Lord. memorize “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

Lesson 12

The Fall of the Assyrian Empire & The Promise that God would Preserve a Remnant



1. God in His discipline employed the ax of Assyria. 2. God in His judgment punished the pride of Sennacherib. 3. God in His grace preserved a remnant of Jacob. practical application

You can’t take it with you! questions 1. Why was God so angry with Israel?

2. Why is Assyria referred to as the rod of God’s anger and His ax, saw, and club?

3. What was Assyria’s viewpoint of their victory over Israel? 4. Why would God punish Assyria after using her as a disciplinary ax? 5. When did this judgment on Assyria come?

answers 1. Israel had turned away from the Lord and turned to foreign gods. They were guilty of personal and national sin. In verses 1-4 of this chapter, the social sins of the nation are denounced. 2. God was using the Assyrian empire to discipline His people. Israel was referred to as a godless nation and the people of God’s wrath. 3. They did not know they were being used of God to discipline His people. Assyria thought they were just plundering another nation. They thought the gods of the kingdoms they had already conquered were greater than the god of Jerusalem. 4. In her pride and arrogance, Assyria claimed that she had conquered all these territories and kingdoms with her own military might. Assyria would be punished for not recognizing the one true God. 5. In 701 B.C. the proud Assyrian king, Sennacherib, marched his armies against Jerusalem intending to conquer King Hezekiah and the kingdom of Judah. But God intervened and cut down the arrogant Assyrians. discuss\ consider

1. Just as God used the pagan Assyrian empire as His rod, ax, and club to discipline His people Israel, so God can use any tools He wants to discipline us. Can you think of a time when God used events, circumstances, or people to discipline you when you sinned? Was there a positive end result? 2. Discuss how God has preserved a remnant of Jewish people throughout history, despite repeated attempts by Satan to eliminate this nation. challenge Have you ever seen a U-Haul behind a hearse? If you are trusting your wealth for your security, remember, “You can’t take it with you!” memorize “Woe to Assyria, the rod of My anger And the staff in whose hand is My indignation.” Isaiah 10:5 “Shall the ax boast itself against him who chops with it? Or shall the saw exalt itself against him who saws with it? As if a rod could wield itself against those who lift it up, Or as if a staff could lift up, as if it were not wood!” Isaiah 10:15 “The remnant will return, the remnant of Jacob, To the Mighty God.” Isaiah 10:21

Lesson 13

The Coming Messiah and His Kingdom on Earth Isaiah 11

background notes


1. In that Day, the wolf will dwell with the lamb. 2. In that Day, the remnant will return to the Land. practical application

Get ready to remap the Middle East. questions 1. The fall of which two kingdoms was predicted in Isaiah 9 and 10?

2. How does the Messianic prophecy of Isaiah 11 fit into its context?

3. Is the kingdom of righteousness and peace described here Heaven? 4. Is this earthy kingdom taking place now, in the church? 5. What does it mean to be “amillennial”?

answers 1. The fall of the northern kingdom of Israel at the hands of the Assyrians and the fall of the pagan Assyrian empire, after God used them as His rod of judgment 2. In contrast to the rebellious kingdom of Israel and the godless Assyrian empire, another kingdom will arise in the future. The kingdom of the Messiah, here on earth, will be a peaceful kingdom where idolatry and immorality do not exist and where the one true God will be acknowledged and worshipped. 3. No; there are not going to be poor and oppressed people in heaven (verse 4). Verses 4 and 9 make it clear this kingdom will be on earth. 4. No; to take that view we must spiritualize or allegorize everything in the passage (a common practice). We believe this prophecy is to be taken literally and will be fulfilled literally in the future when the Lord returns to this earth after the Tribulation Period and sets up His literal kingdom which will last for 1,000 years. 5. Amillennialists (“no millennium”) do not believe in the literal kingdom of Christ on this earth. discuss\ consider

1. Review Isaiah 11:1-5, what do we learn of Jesus, the Messiah, from this prophecy? Discuss how His righteous reign will be different from any other ruler who has ever lived. 2. Discuss the evidence that the predicted return to the land was not the Jews’ return from the Babylonian captivity. Would we say this is a still future return which has already started before our modern eyes? What makes the Jews’ return to the land such an exciting event? challenge The Middle East is continually in the news these days. Take heart and remember that God has a plan for the Middle East and peace will reign there one day – when the Messiah establishes His kingdom in the Land. memorize “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.” Isaiah 11:6 “It shall come to pass in that day that the Lord shall set His hand again the second time to recover the remnant of His people who are left.” Isaiah 11:11

Lesson 14

A Hymn of Praise Isaiah 12

background notes


1. In that day, Israel’s praise to the Lord will finally be realized. 2. In this day, Israel’s praise to the Lord can always be applied. practical application

Let’s draw water from the well of salvation. questions 1. Chapter 12 is a fitting conclusion to what topic?

2. Messiah’s kingdom as described in Isaiah 11 is contrasted with which earthly kingdoms?

3. When will this predicted earthly kingdom take place? 4. What is the meaning of the phrase “in that day”? 5. Is Isaiah 12 beneficial to us as New Testament believers?

answers 1. Isaiah 12 is a hymn of praise, which is a fitting conclusion to chapters 7-11, a section of Isaiah emphasizing the coming of the Messiah and the blessings of His earthly kingdom. 2. The Messiah’s kingdom, characterized by righteousness and justice, is a great contrast to the earthly kingdoms of Isaiah’s day which would come under God’s judgment – both the northern kingdom of Israel (Isaiah 9) and the entire Assyrian empire (Isaiah 10). 3. Not currently in the Church, or all of the promises would have to be spiritualized, and not during the eternal state, as the descriptions do not match. Isaiah 11 is a description of a literal kingdom that our Lord Jesus will set up here on this earth in the future when He returns for His Second Coming to this earth. This kingdom will last for 1,000 years, according to Revelation 20 and will merge with eternity. 4. In the prophets, and especially Isaiah, the phrase “in that day” often refers to the end times, either the judgment of the Tribulation Period or the blessings of the Millennium 5. Yes! Although the interpretation of this passage involves future prophecy for Israel, we can find present day application to encourage us today. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the trials and tribulations that God has allowed the Jewish people to experience down through 2,000 years of history to cause them to turn back to the God of their salvation and to the Messiah they once rejected. 2. Israel will praise the Lord in the future for His salvation, strength, comfort, greatness, goodness, and excellence. Tell how you can praise the Lord for these acts now. challenge Are you spiritually satisfied right now as a believer, or is your soul thirsty? Only living water can quench the thirst of the soul (see John 4). memorize “Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; „For YAH, the LORD, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.‟” Isaiah 12:2 “Sing to the LORD, for He has done excellent things; this is known in all the earth.” Isaiah 12:5

Lesson 15

The Lord’s Denunciation of Babylon Isaiah 13

background notes


1. The historical Day of the Lord for Babylon was near. 2. The eschatological Day of the Lord for Babylon is still future. practical application

Remember the Mountain Peak illustration. questions 1. Chapter 13 begins what new section of the book of Isaiah?

2. What are the various times suggested for the fulfillment of this prophecy against Babylon?

3. What does the phrase “the Day of the Lord” refer to in Scripture? 4. How do we know that there will be a Babylon in end times? 5. Read Isaiah 13:10. Where else do we read of cosmological disturbances during the end times?

answers 1. Isaiah 13-23 form a subdivision of the book in which judgment is pronounced against the foreign nations surrounding Judah. 2. Some commentators say this judgment was fulfilled when Assyria attacked Babylon in 689 BC. Others say it was when Babylon was conquered by the Medes and Persians in 539 BC. Regardless of the historical fulfillment, we also recognize an eschatological or future fulfillment of this prophecy of judgment against Babylon. 3. The Day of the Lord in Scripture is any time that the Lord intervenes in the affairs of the nations. 4. Revelation 17-18 speaks of a Babylon in the end times. This Babylon may be symbolic for the one world government and one world religion of those days or it may include the rebuilding of the literal ancient city of Babylon. Either way, this end times Babylon will be destroyed with devastation characteristic of Sodom and Gomorrah. 5. The book of Revelation, Joel 2, and Christ’s Olivet Discourse concerning the last days in Matthew 24 discuss\ consider

1. Discuss why the invading forces in Isaiah 13:3 were called “sanctified” or set apart. Compare this to the pagan emperor Cyrus being referred to as God’s anointed in Isaiah 45. What does this teach you about God? 2. Draw your own diagram to help you understand the Mountain Peak illustration. Why is this so important to keep in mind when reading the Old Testament prophets? challenge Our Lord is a God who keeps His promises, whether for blessing or judgment. Remember this, and be encouraged. memorize “Wail, for the day of the LORD is at hand! It will come as destruction from the Almighty.” Isaiah 13:6 “I will punish the world for its evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; I will halt the arrogance of the proud, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible.” Isaiah 13:11

Lesson 16

The Continuation of the Lord’s Denunciation of Babylon & A Description of the Fall of Satan, the Evil Power behind

the Empire of Babylon and its King Isaiah 14:1-23

background notes


1. The prophecy against the king of Babylon foreshadows the fall of Babylon in the future. 2. The prophecy against the king of Babylon reveals the fall of Satan in the past. practical application

Watch out for pride. questions 1. What are the two aspects of the fulfillment of God’s judgment against Babylon?

2. Describe Isaiah 14:4-21.

3. Explain how this taunt song also has historical and eschatological aspects. 4. Why do we think the latter part of this passage refers to Satan? 5. What was the root source of Satan’s fall?

answers 1. There was a time already in history when Isaiah’s prophecy against Babylon was partially fulfilled. The Babylonian empire no longer exists. We will also see the Babylon of the end times judged and destroyed in the future (see Revelation 17-18). 2. These verses are a taunt sung by God’s people in reference to the defeat of the king of Babylon. 3. Certainly the Jewish captives in Babylon rejoiced when the Medes and Persians were victorious over Babylon (verses 5-6). Especially when Cyrus the Persian Emperor issued his famous edict which allowed the Jewish captives to return home to Jerusalem. This song also looks to the far future when the whole earth is at rest and is quiet (verse 7). This will happen in the future when the Babylon of the end times will be defeated by the Lord Himself. 4. Beginning in verse 12, the taunt song goes beyond the literal king of Babylon and describes the evil source of power behind pagan Babylon – Satan himself. Read the passage and point out the items that would not be describing the literal king. 5. Pride (verses 13-14) discuss\ consider

This passage in Isaiah 14 along with Ezekiel 28 teaches us much of what we know about Satan before his fall. What new insight have you gained from this passage? Are the five “I wills” that Satan utters a sober reminder for you to keep your pride in check? challenge As you go throughout your week, ask God to reveal to you how often pride is at the root of your “bad days.” memorize “You will take up this proverb against the king of Babylon, and say: „How the oppressor has ceased, the golden city ceased! The LORD has broken the staff of the wicked, the scepter of the rulers.‟” Isaiah 14:4-5 “For you have said in your heart: „I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation on the farthest sides of the north; I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.‟” Isaiah 14:13-14

Lesson 17

God’s Pronouncement of Judgment on the Foreign Nations of Assyria, Philistia, and Moab

Isaiah 14:24-16:14 background notes


1. The Lord pronounced judgment on Assyria. 2. The Lord pronounced judgment against Philistia. 3. The Lord pronounced judgment against Moab. practical application

Don’t think that God is happy about judgment. questions 1. What is the theme of this section of Isaiah?

2. How did the topic of Satan fit into the first half of Isaiah14?

3. What did we learn about Assyria in Isaiah 10? 4. Where was Philistia? 5. Where was Moab? Who were these people? 6. Why was God judging Moab?

answers 1. Isaiah 13-23 contains God’s judgment pronounced upon the foreign nations surrounding Judah. 2. Satan was the evil power source behind the pagan king of Babylon denounced in Isaiah 14. Likewise he is operating behind evil world rulers today. 3. In Isaiah 10 we saw that God used Assyria as His ax, club, and rod of discipline on His people, Israel. But in chapter 14 it was Assyria’s turn for judgment because of her cruel and ungodly ways. 4. Philistia was located southwest of Judah along the Mediterranean Sea, where Gaza is today. 5. Moab was the foreign nation east of Judah on the other side of the southern half of the Dead Sea. The Moabites were the descendants of Lot through his incestuous relationship with one of his daughters (see Genesis 19). 6. Because of Moab’s pride (verse 6). God hates pride and hypocrisy – then and today. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the historical (Isaiah 37) and eschatological (Micah 5:5) aspects of the prophecy of judgment against Assyria. 2. Review and explain Isaiah 16:1-5. Judah is exhorted to show mercy to the Moabite refugees and to provide a hiding place for them. As application, how can you seek out and care for refugees in your life, whether literally or figuratively? challenge Because of God’s character, He must judge sin. But He is not happy about it. The next time you are facing God’s judgment, remember that He does not take pleasure in judging you, but He does it because of His love. memorize “That I will break the Assyrian in My land, and on My mountains tread him underfoot. Then his yoke shall be removed from them, and his burden removed from their shoulders.” Isaiah 14:25 “In mercy the throne will be established; and one will sit on it in truth, in the tabernacle of David, judging and seeking justice and hastening righteousness.” Isaiah 16:5

Lesson 18

God’s Pronouncement of Judgment on Syria and Ethiopia

Isaiah 17-18 background notes


1. The Lord pronounced judgment against Syria. 2. The Lord pronounced judgment against Ethiopia. practical application

Let God pick the time! questions 1. Damascus was the capital of which country?

2. Why is Ephraim mentioned in the judgment against Syria (17:3)?

3. What is referred to by the phrase “in that day”? 4. What was the political status of Ethiopia at the time of Isaiah’s prophecy? What was Ethiopia’s fate? 5. Isaiah 18:7 contains what good news for Ethiopia?

answers 1. Syria 2. Syria and the northern kingdom of Israel (also known as Ephraim after its largest tribe) formed an alliance together against Assyria. They tried to force the southern kingdom of Judah to join their alliance, to God’s displeasure. Assyria conquered Damascus in 732 BC and then Samaria, the capital of Israel in 722 BC. 3. Isaiah uses this phrase to refer to the Day of the Lord. The Day of the Lord refers to anytime that the Lord intervenes in the affairs of nations. There is a historical aspect to the Day of the Lord and an eschatological or future aspect. 4. Like many other nations the Ethiopians at that time were pursuing an anti-Assyrian policy. Their ambassadors came in seaworthy papyrus boats (18:2) to pressure King Hezekiah to join in rebellion against Assyria. The kingdom of Judah was to send a swift message to the Ethiopians that they wanted no part of an Ethiopian alliance, because Hezekiah was looking to the Lord for deliverance and not to military alliances. Ethiopia would be conquered by the Assyrians, but Judah would not, because they were looking to the Lord. 5. This prophecy may have been partially fulfilled after Sennacherib’s defeat in the time of King Hezekiah, when Ethiopia may have brought gifts to Jerusalem. But we know that in the future millennial kingdom of our Lord, Ethiopia will be one of the nations bringing gifts to Jerusalem. Ethiopia will exist in the future. discuss\ consider

1. In Isaiah 17:7-8 the people of Syria and northern Israel were forced to recognize that the God of Israel whom they had forsaken was the true God, and the idols that they had worshipped were false gods. What “false gods” have you worshipped in the past? What happened to make you recognize your loyalty was misplaced? 2. God promised that the Assyrian threat would come to an end, but it would be in His time. When have you felt like God was silently lingering in answering your prayers and fulfilling His promises? In hindsight, was His time better than your expectations? challenge Judah was implored by other nations to join them in alliance against Assyria. God told Judah to wait on His timing. Think of a situation in your life right now where you are tempted to take matters into your own hands. Instead, will you allow God to do His work? memorize “In that day a man will look to his Maker, and his eyes will have respect for the Holy one of Israel. He will not look to the altars, the work of his hands; he will not respect what his fingers have made, nor the wooden images, nor the incense altars.” Isaiah 17:7-8

Lesson 19

God’s Pronouncement of Judgment on Egypt Isaiah 19-20

background notes


1. The Lord pronounced judgment against Egypt. 2. The Lord promised future blessing for Egypt. practical application

Are we willing to be embarrassed for the Lord? questions 1. Why was it important for the people of Isaiah’s day to hear that Egypt would come under judgment?

2. What is the emphasis of Isaiah 19:1?

3. What natural cause would the Lord use to defeat Egypt? 4. When will the prophesied blessings come on Egypt? 5. What embarrassing act did the Lord ask Isaiah to do, and why?

answers 1. Because many in Judah were looking to Egypt for help in view of the coming threat of Assyrian invasion. 2. That it was the Lord who would bring Egypt down, although it might seem that it was through natural or political causes. 3. The Lord would bring a drought on Egypt and the lifeblood of the country, the Nile River would begin to dry up. This would bring economic and natural disaster upon Egypt. 4. In the millennial kingdom of Christ, when the Lord returns to this earth to reign (verse 20). 5. Isaiah was to strip off his outer clothes and walk about in his undergarments. This was to drive home the point to the people of Judah that the Egyptians would be no help against the Assyrians, who stripped their captured slaves in this way. discuss\ consider

1. Can you think of a time when our country has put its confidence in political alliances or economic savvy? Where should our confidence lie instead? What can you individually do to affect change? 2. “Peace in the Middle East” is a common topic of discussion these days. As believers, we know there will one day be peace for those nations – when the Prince of Peace comes to reign. In the meantime, what should our mindset be toward the Middle East? challenge Are you willing to be embarrassed for the Lord? The Lord asked Isaiah to perform some odd acts in service to Him. Are you willing to set aside your pride to obey the Lord in some humble way? memorize “The burden against Egypt. Behold, the LORD rides on a swift cloud, and will come into Egypt; the idols of Egypt will totter at His presence, and the heart of Egypt will melt in its midst.” Isaiah 19:1 “In that day Israel will be one of three with Egypt and Assyria – a blessing in the midst of the land, whom the LORD of hosts shall bless, saying, „Blessed is Egypt My people, and Assyria the work of My hands, and Israel My inheritance.‟” Isaiah 19:24-25

Lesson 20

The Lord’s Pronouncement of Judgment on Babylon, Edom, and Arabia



1. The Lord pronounced judgment against Babylon. 2. The Lord pronounced judgment against Edom. 3. The Lord pronounced judgment against Arabia. practical application

Watch for coming events! questions 1. Where else did we read a judgment pronounced on Babylon?

2. Most likely verses 5-9 predict the invasion of Babylon by the Medes and Persians in 539 B.C. Where do we see this prophecy fulfilled in Scripture? 3. The titles Dumah and Seir both refer to which nation? 4. What is the meaning of “Dumah”? 5. What is the meaning of the phrase in verse 16 “according to the year of a hired man”?

answers 1. Isaiah 13-14 contained another judgment against Babylon. This second series of judgment oracles seems to be more intense and more negative than the first series. 2. Daniel 5 3. Edom 4. “Dumah” is used to describe Edom here in the Hebrew text as a word play in this prophetic oracle. Dumah means “silence” and the watchman in the prophecy is silent about Edom’s ultimate fate. 5. A hired man counts the time he works exactly, so in exactly one year Arabia and her army of tribesmen would be decimated. discuss\ consider

1. What is your reaction when you see wicked people judged? We see from Isaiah’s example that he praised the Lord for judging sin, because the righteousness of God is vindicated and the consequences of sin are realized in line with biblical truth. Discuss the fact that he did not glory in seeing people suffer and he didn’t enjoy seeing the horrors of judgment. 2. One of the purposes of these judgments against foreign nations was to remind the kingdom of Judah not to make alliances with these nations in face of the coming Assyrian invasion. These nations would fall to Assyria, so any alliance with them would be futile; Judah should put her faith in the Lord. What do you find yourself putting your faith in rather than the Lord? Is it possible that those alliances are futile? challenge We are living in a day which may indeed be the threshold of the end times. Keep your eye on the news as it relates to biblical prophecy. Watch for coming events! memorize “Babylon is fallen, is fallen! And all the carved images of her gods He has broken to the ground.” Isaiah 21:9 “For thus the LORD has said to me: „Within a year, according to the year of a hired man, all the glory of Kedar will fail.‟” Isaiah 21:16

Lesson 21

God’s Pronouncement of Judgment on The City of Jerusalem


1. 2. 3. doctrinal point

The Lord pronounced judgment against Jerusalem. practical application

Where are you putting your trust? questions 1. How does chapter 22 fit into the plot of the book of Isaiah?

2. When was the prophecy of this judgment fulfilled?

3. What was the basic sin of the people in Jerusalem? 4. Who is Shebna (verses 15-19)? 5. What god-fearing man replaced Shebna (verses 20-24)?

answers 1. Isaiah 22 is like a parenthesis in Isaiah 13-23, in which judgment are pronounced on the foreign nations surrounding the kingdom of Judah. Here, in this chapter, the judgment is pronounced upon Jerusalem, the capital city of Judah. 2. Some aspects of this prophecy sound like the Assyrian attack on Jerusalem in 701 BC, while other parts resemble the Babylonian siege and defeat more than 100 years later. Likely, the prophecy covers both attacks. Remember the concept of mountain peaks in prophecy; Isaiah saw the mountain peaks of these future events as fused. 3. They were depending on the city’s defensive measures for their security, rather than looking to the Lord. 4. Shebna was probably a leader in the party of those in Judah who were looking to Egypt for deliverance from the Assyrian threat. Instead of directing the people to turn to the Lord at this critical time, Shebna was thinking only of himself and preparing an elaborate tomb for himself. 5. Eliakim was a godly official, and like a father he was truly concerned about the needs of the people. It looks like King Hezekiah entrusted all the affairs of state to Eliakim. discuss\ consider

1. Shebna and Eliakim are contrasted as men in leadership in a time of crisis. Discuss their distinguishing characteristics (you can read more about Eliakim in Isaiah 36-37). What lessons can you take from their lives for your spheres of leadership? Will you be a Shebna or an Eliakim? 2. Discuss the ways in which Eliakim is a type (spiritual picture) of Christ. Note the difference in the end that Eliakim could not save the day, but Christ never fails. challenge We saw in this chapter that if you look to anything or anyone other than the Lord Himself for security, you will be disappointed because everything fails except the Lord Himself. Where are you putting your trust? memorize “He removed the protection of Judah. You looked in that day to the armor of the House of the Forest.” Isaiah 22:8 “And in that day the Lord GOD of hosts called for weeping and for mourning, for baldness and for girding with sackcloth. But instead, joy and gladness, slaying oxen and killing sheep, eating meat and drinking wine: „Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die!‟” Isaiah 22:12-13

Lesson 22

God’s Pronouncement of Judgment upon the Phoenician City-State of Tyre



1. The Lord pronounced judgment against Tyre. 2. The Lord predicted blessing for Tyre. practical application

Give your former ill-gotten gain to the Lord. questions 1. Where was Tyre located?

2. Why were the ships of Tarshish wailing (verse 1)?

3. Why was mighty Tyre brought down (verses 8-14)? 4. Would Tyre return to the Lord after she was restored? 5. In what way would Tyre’s ill-gotten gain be set apart for the Lord (verse 18)?

answers 1. Tyre was a proud and wealthy city-state of the ancient nation of Phoenicia. This important Mediterranean seaport was on the coast north of Israel, where Lebanon is located today. 2. The ships of Tarshish, near the southwest coast of Spain, were the largest and best of the commercial vessels sailing the Mediterranean Sea of the ancient world. They were wailing because Tyre, the commercial power of maritime trade had fallen. 3. Pride 4. No, after experiencing some measure of recovery after her defeat by the Babylonians, she still continued to be a godless nation (verse 17). 5. This prophecy probably has both a historical and eschatological aspect to its fulfillment. Historically, we know that some of Tyre’s wealth was used for the rebuilding of the House of the Lord in Jerusalem, after the Jews returned from the Babylonian captivity. The eschatological fulfillment will come when the Lord returns and establishes His earthly kingdom. discuss\ consider

1. The Lord hates the sin of pride, whether it be on the personal level or national level. Discuss the pride of Tyre that led to its demise. Do you think that pride is at the root of all sin? Discuss how some of your personal mistakes can be linked to pride. 2. Do you have any former ill-gotten gain? Perhaps it is money, possessions, or a skill. How could you use that gain to serve the Lord now? challenge As you go throughout your week, if you become upset, offended, angry, or irritated, ask yourself, “Is this my pride acting out?” memorize “The LORD of hosts has purposed it, to bring to dishonor the pride of all glory, to bring into contempt all the honorable of the earth.” Isaiah 23:9 “Wail, you ships of Tarshish! For your strength is laid waste.” Isaiah 23:14

Lesson 23

The Coming Tribulation Period and Millennial Kingdom Isaiah 24-25

background notes


1. There will be a future Tribulation Period. 2. There will be a future Millennial Kingdom. practical application

Are you willing to wait? questions 1. What sub-section of the book of Isaiah begins with Chapter 24?

2. How is the Tribulation described here different from the daily tribulations we face in life?

3. Who are lifting up their voices and glorifying God in Isaiah 24:14-16? 4. Why is the time period described in Isaiah 25 called the “Millennium”? 5. What are the prevailing characteristics of Christ’s kingdom?

answers 1. Isaiah 24-27 is sometimes called “Isaiah’s Little Apocalypse.” Isaiah is looking forward to the future end times. 2. The end time Tribulation will be worldwide in scope. No class of people will be spared. 3. These are the godly remnant of the Tribulation Period who will praise the Lord from west to east for His righteous judgment. 4. Because it will last for 1,000 years before merging with the Eternal State 5. Righteousness, Justice, and Blessing discuss\ consider

1. Re-read Isaiah 24 and correlate what you know about the Tribulation Period from the book of Revelation with what you read here in Isaiah. 2. “During the Millennium the curse will be greatly lifted and at the end of the Millennium it will be completely removed for the eternal state.” Discuss this curse and how it came upon the world. Discuss the extent to which it affects us every day. challenge Are you willing to wait for God’s blessing in His future kingdom? Health, wealth, and prosperity are not guaranteed to the believer now. But they are coming in the future, for certain. “And it will be said in that day: „Behold, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us. This is the LORD; we have waited for Him; we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.‟” Isaiah 25:9 memorize “The earth is also defiled under its inhabitants, because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant. Therefore the curse has devoured the earth, and those who dwell in it are desolate.” Isaiah 24:5-6a “He will swallow up death forever, and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from all faces; the rebuke of His people He will take away from all the earth; for the LORD has spoken.” Isaiah 25:8

Lesson 24

“Isaiah’s Little Apocalypse,” Continued Isaiah 26-27

background notes


1. The victory song of the remnant will be sung during the Millennium. 2. The new song of the vineyard will be sung during the Millennium. practical application

1. Take heart, for it will all come out in the wash! 2. Make your peace with God! questions 1. Who is referred to as “the remnant”?

2. What great hymn is based upon Isaiah 26:4?

3. Why are the people told to hide themselves in Isaiah 26:20? 4. Where else has Isaiah referred to Israel as a vineyard? 5. What is the only way to have peace with God?

answers 1. The “remnant” refers to the saved Jews who come out of the Tribulation Period and become the restored Israel of the Millennial Kingdom of Christ. 2. Rock of Ages 3. At that time, it seemed like the wicked were getting away with sin, including murder. The people were told to hold on and hide from obvious danger, knowing that in the future the Lord will judge all iniquity – including secret and hidden sin. 4. Isaiah 5 was the parable of the vineyard. Israel was the vineyard but they did not produce good fruit – only wild grapes. Now in Isaiah 27 we have the new song of the vineyard, which redeemed Israel will sing during the Millennium. 5. The only way is through faith in Christ who died for our sins as your substitute on the cross (see Romans 5:1). discuss\ consider

1. Isaiah 26 is a victory song that restored Israel will sing during the Millennium. We know He will have the ultimate victory over sin and evil. Our God is a God of victory, then and today. Is there an area of your life where He has given you victory so that you can testify of Him? 2. In Isaiah 27:2-6 the Lord Himself is singing of His care and protection for His vineyard Israel. In the following verses we see that God had to discipline His people until they would cease from their idolatry. Discuss this balance of care and discipline from our Heavenly Father. How are both aspects for our good? challenge Do you want perfect peace in your life? Isaiah 26:3 tells you the way: remain faithful and trust the Lord, and focus your mind on the things of God. memorize “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3 “So it shall be in that day: The great trumpet will be blown; they will come, who are about to perish in the land of Assyria, and they who are outcasts in the land of Egypt, and shall worship the LORD in the holy mount at Jerusalem.” Isaiah 27:13

Lesson 25

Denunciation Upon Israel and Judah Isaiah 28-29

background notes


1. The discipline of the Lord is God’s strange and perfect work. 2. The discipline of the Lord is God’s redeeming and restoring work. practical application

Don’t let your godly ancestors be ashamed. questions 1. What was the condition of Israel at the time of Isaiah’s prophecy here?

2. What was the people’s complaint to Isaiah (28:9-10) and what was his response (verses 11-13)?

3. Explain the poignant analogy in Isaiah 28:20. 4. Ariel (Isaiah 29:1) is a symbolic name for what city? 5. What is the message of hope in Isaiah 29:5-8?

answers 1. Israel had gone so far downhill morally and spiritually that the nation was characterized as a nation of drunkards. Even the religious community was so involved in overdrinking that their sermons and judgments carried no weight. 2. They complained that Isaiah was insulting them by speaking to them as little children. Isaiah replied that if Israel did not learn her lesson, she would hear it again in a foreign language – namely the foreign tongue of the Assyrians who would conquer them and take them captive. 3. The comfort and rest Israel had hoped for in her foreign treaties would prove to be like sleeping on a bed too short with a blanket too small. 4. Jerusalem 5. Although God was using enemy powers such as Assyria to judge and discipline His people, these nations themselves would be blown away in judgment. discuss\ consider

1. Review God’s strange and awesome work of discipline in Isaiah 28:23-19 in order to bless His people, not judge them. Explain the illustration of the farmer using different threshing implements for different grains. So God knows the right form of discipline to use on His people to produce the best results. Are you undergoing a trial, hardship, or sickness for the purpose of discipline? How will this be for your best? 2. Review Isaiah 29:15-16. Do you try to hide your thoughts and actions from the Lord and think He doesn’t see or know? Don’t kid yourself. Do you try and reverse roles with your Creator and think you’re the potter and He’s the clay? How must you correct your thinking? challenge The principle of Isaiah 29:13 is that if you will not see what God is saying to you, you cannot see. Don’t let yourself be blinded; be willing to see what God is saying to you. memorize “For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept, Line upon line, line upon line, Here a little, there a little. For with stammering lips and another tongue He will speak to this people.” Isaiah 28:10-11 “Therefore the Lord said: „Inasmuch as these people draw near with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but have removed their hearts far from Me, and their fear toward Me is taught by the commandment of men.‟” Isaiah 29:13 “For shall the thing made say of him who made it, „He did not make me‟? Or shall the thing formed say of him who formed it, „He has no understanding‟?” Isaiah 29:16

Lesson 26

Two Woes Pronounced upon Judah for Her Desire to have Alliances with Egypt



1. The Lord warns His people about worldly alliances. 2. The Lord longs to be gracious to His people. 3. The Lord protects His people when they return to Him. practical application

Let’s practice reliance and not alliance! questions 1. These chapters are a part of what subsection of the book of Isaiah?

2. Why did God find fault with the people?

3. According to Isaiah 30:15-18, where should Judah have put her confidence? 4. How would the Lord rescue His people from their present Assyrian threat? 5. What was the bad news and good news for Judah in Isaiah 31:4-5?

answers 1. Isaiah 28-35 forms a section containing six woes, mainly upon the southern kingdom of Judah and her capital city of Jerusalem. 2. The people turned away from God and turned toward Pharaoh and Egypt for security. God called this a sin in Isaiah 30:1. 3. As God’s people, Judah should have returned to the Lord and quietly rested in Him rather than trusting in fast horses and military might. 4. He says he would draw the Assyrians away and strike them down suddenly, so that the people of Jerusalem could rejoice in the mountain of the Lord. All of this took place when King Sennacherib of Assyria besieged Jerusalem in 701 BC. God intervened and struck down 185,000 Assyrian troops in one night. 5. The bad news was that the Lord was like a lion to Judah, tearing them apart like defenseless lambs because of their sin. Even the Egyptian shepherds that Judah had hired for protection, in this figure, would not be able to drive the lion away. The good news was that as a mother bird protects her young so God (not Egypt) would protect Jerusalem and Assyria. discuss\ consider

1. Egypt in the Bible is a spiritual picture of the world. What is the result in your life when you make alliances with this world for security rather than trusting in the Lord? 2. Has there been a time in your Christian life when you strayed from the Lord and then returned to Him? Tell how the Lord protected you when you returned to Him. challenge Judah’s problem was that they put their hopes in alliances with foreign nations, rather than relying on the Lord who was willing and able to protect them. What or whom are you allying with for hopes of protection? Practice reliance on the Lord instead! memorize “„Woe to the rebellious children,‟ says the LORD, „Who take counsel, but not of Me, and who devise plans, but not of My Spirit, that they may add sin to sin.‟” Isaiah 30:1 “Therefore the LORD will wait, that He may be gracious to you; and therefore He will be exalted, that He may have mercy on you. For the LORD is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for Him.” Isaiah 30:18 “Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, and rely on horses, who trust in chariots because they are many, and in horsemen because they are very strong, but who do not look to the Holy one of Israel, nor seek the LORD!” Isaiah 31:1

Lesson 27

The Coming Kingdom of the Messiah & The Defeat of the Coming Assyrian



1. The coming kingdom will be established. 2. The coming Assyrian will be destroyed. practical application

questions 1. Is there any good news in Isaiah 28-35, a section entitled “The Denunciation of Israel and Judah”?

2. Explain Isaiah 32:5-6.

3. Why did Isaiah appeal specifically to the complacent women of Judah to change their ways (Isaiah 32:9-14)? 4. List some of the characteristics of the coming kingdom of our Lord (Isaiah 32:15-18). 5. Who is the sixth woe pronounced upon in Isaiah 33, and why? 6. Who is praying in Isaiah 32:2-6?

answers 1. Although these chapters are characterized primarily by six woes, there is some good news, especially as Isaiah looks to the far future when the Lord returns and judges all the enemies of His people and establishes His glorious earthly kingdom. 2. When the Lord returns with His righteous kingdom, the ungodly behavior of the people will be transformed and brought into line with God’s righteous standards. They will no longer call evil good or good evil, as happens so frequently today. 3. Women are essential to the moral well-being of society. They were appealed to in view of the trouble on the horizon – the coming Assyrian invasion. 4.

The Holy Spirit will be poured out on a restored Israel

The land, including the wilderness, will become fertile

Justice and righteousness will dwell within the nation

Peace and security will be the portion of God’s people 5. This woe was pronounced upon Sennacherib and the Assyrian empire, enemies of God’s people. Sennacherib had dealt treacherously will Judah by accepting a large sum of money from King Hezekiah and then besieging Jerusalem anyway (see 2 Kings 18). 6. This is the prayer of the faithful remnant in Judah at the time of the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem. They are confident that God will deliver them and that they will gather the spoils from the defeated Assyrians. discuss\ consider

Calling evil good and good evil has become commonplace in our society. Discuss examples of this that you have seen. How can you set a different standard within your home and family? challenge Many times we have to deal with evil, but this is different than deliberately looking at evil. Will you be like the godly man in the Lord’s kingdom who “stops his ears from hearing of bloodshed, and shuts his eyes from seeing evil” Isaiah 33:15? memorize “Behold, a king will reign in righteousness, and princes will rule with justice.” Isaiah 32:1 “O LORD, be gracious to us; we have waited for You. Be their arm every morning, our salvation also in the time of trouble.” Isaiah 33:2 “For the LORD is our Judge, the LORD is our Lawgiver, the LORD is our King; He will save us.” Isaiah 33:22

Lesson 28

The Coming Tribulation Period of Judgment & The Coming Messianic Kingdom of Blessing



1. All nations, including unfaithful Israel, will be judged during the Tribulation Period. 2. All nations, including restored Israel, will be blessed during the Millennial Kingdom. practical application

Travel the Highway of Holiness today. questions 1. How do Isaiah 34 and 35 conclude the section of six woes that began in Isaiah 28?

2. Where in Scripture is the Tribulation Period called “the time of Jacob’s Trouble” and what is the result of this time? 3. Why is Edom singled out from all the other nations in Isaiah 34:5? List several possibilities. 4. What is the time frame of the blessings described in Isaiah 35? 5. What is the Highway of Holiness (Isaiah 35:8)?

answers 1. The final woe was directed against Assyria, the enemy of God’s people (Isaiah 33). This naturally leads to the worldwide scope of God’s future judgment on this earth (Ch. 34), and then God’s future blessings on this earth (Ch. 35). 2. Jeremiah 30:7 refers to the future Tribulation Period as the time of Jacob’s Trouble. This will be a final purging time for the Jewish people, but out of that time of trouble will come a restored Israel (Isaiah 35). 3.

It may be because Edom, as descendants of Esau, should have been more generous with their Jewish brothers, so they are singled out from other nations.

Another possibility is that Edom represents all the other nations and her judgment applies to them all.

A third, likely possibility, is that when all the nations are gathered against Jerusalem in the end times, the foreign armies will camp from the Jezreel Valley all the way to the ancient land of Edom.

4. These were not blessings for Israel when they returned from their Babylonian captivity, nor the spiritual blessings that we enjoy in the Church today. These are the blessings of the literal earthly millennial kingdom of Christ that will be established when our Lord returns. It will last for 1000 years and merge into eternity. 5. This will be a literal highway where the redeemed pilgrims during the Millennium will come to Jerusalem to worship the Lord. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the possible sequence of events at the Lord’s Second Coming. Why is it important to hold this sequence loosely? 2. Discuss the radical changes in the land during the Lord’s millennial kingdom. How will all the nations be blessed through this? challenge Are you traveling the Highway of Holiness today? Leading a holy life and obeying the Lord’s commands make our worship pleasing to the Lord. Travel the Highway of Holiness. memorize “For the indignation of the LORD is against all nations.” Isaiah 34:2 “Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then the lame shall leap like a deer, and the tongue of the dumb sing. For waters shall burst forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert.” Isaiah 35:5-6

Lesson 29

Jerusalem’s Deliverance from the Threat of Assyria Isaiah 36-37

background notes


1. God may test His people with threats from the enemy. 2. God can deliver His people from the clutches of the enemy. practical application

Wait and watch for enemy strategy to backfire! questions 1. In what year did the events of Isaiah 36 take place?

2. What successes had Assyria won previous to this?

3. List the points of the Assyrian’s logical threat. 4. What were the “high places”? 5. What was King Hezekiah’s response to the Assyrian threat? 6. What would be the penalty for Assyria’s pride?

answers 1. This 14th year of King Hezekiah of Judah was 701 BC, the date of the well-known invasion of Judah by King Sennacherib of Assyria. 2. The northern kingdom of Israel had fallen to the Assyrians in 722 BC. Now Sennacherib and the Assyrian army were making their move on the southern kingdom of Judah. According to Isaiah 35:1, Sennacherib took many fortified cities of Judah before coming to besiege Jerusalem. 3.

Egypt is too weak to help you.

The Lord your God won’t help you, because Hezekiah has torn down His altars on the high places.

Surrender and Sennacherib will give you 2,000 horses.

The Lord your God told me to come up and destroy your land.

We are telling you this in plain Hebrew so that everyone understands that they are doomed.

Hezekiah is deceiving you.

Look at our record; no one has been able to defeat us Assyrians. 4. The high places contained not only idolatrous altars, but also altars to the Lord, which Hezekiah rightly tore down. Under the Law, sacrifices to the Lord were only to take place at the Temple in Jerusalem. 5. First he humbled himself before the Lord. Then he sent to Isaiah the prophet for the counsel of the Lord. After he received the letter from Rabshakeh with the renewed threat, he spread the letter out before the Lord and prayed. 6. Assyria claimed her victories were won by her own strength, rather than recognizing that all of her success was under the sovereign will of God. God miraculously delivered Jerusalem by wiping out 185,000 Assyrians in one night. discuss\ consider

1. God may allow impressive threats from the enemy of our souls as a test of our faith. Under Hezekiah’s good leadership, Israel passed this great test of faith and stood firm. Has there been a time in your Christian life when you have been sorely tested? Are you under such a test of faith now? 2. King Hezekiah had a marvelous response to the threat of the Assyrians. He literally spread the problem before the Lord and prayed. Will you do this with a problem currently facing you? challenge Have you seen the enemy’s strategy backfire? It will. God will be victorious. memorize “Do not listen to Hezekiah; for thus says the king of Assyria: 'Make peace with me by a present and come out to me.” Isaiah 36:16 “But they held their peace and answered him not a word; for the king‟s commandment was, „Do not answer him.‟” Isaiah 36:21 “Incline Your ear, O LORD, and hear; open Your eyes, O LORD, and see; and hear all the words of Sennacherib, which he has sent to reproach the living God.” Isaiah 37:17 “Then the angel of the LORD went out, and killed in the camp of the Assyrians one hundred and eighty-five thousand; and when people arose early in the morning, there were the corpses – all dead.” Isaiah 37:36

Lesson 30

Hezekiah’s Sickness and Recovery & Hezekiah’s Mistake and Consequences



1. God’s miraculous signs are not without meaning. 2. God’s miraculous healings are not without lessons. practical application

Don’t assume maturity preserves you from stupidity. questions 1. Discuss the scriptural context in the previous chapters, Isaiah 36-37.

2. What did the Lord tell Hezekiah, through the prophet Isaiah, and what was his response?

3. Based on Hezekiah’s example, should we as believers ask God for signs? 4. How did Hezekiah respond to God’s confirming sign? 5. What major mistake did Hezekiah make during the 15 years of extended life that God gave him?

answers 1. In 701 BC Sennacherib, King of Assyria, invaded the kingdom of Judah and conquered all the outlying fortified cities surrounding Jerusalem. Then he besieged Jerusalem and sent threatening messages urging King Hezekiah to surrender. Hezekiah put his trust in the Lord and refused to surrender. Then one of the great miracles of the Bible took place. In one night, the angel of the Lord struck down 185,000 Assyrians and delivered Jerusalem. 2. The Lord told Hezekiah to set his house in order for he was going to die. Hezekiah wept bitterly and bargained with God for more life. 3. No, the actions of all Bible characters are not all right for us today. Their actions must be backed up by teaching passages of Scripture. It was not by faith that Hezekiah asked for a sign. While God may give believers confirming signs, we should let God decide if and when to give them. 4. He composed a personal lament or psalm of thanksgiving after his recovery from sickness. 5. He showed the officials from pagan Babylon all the treasures of Judah. Because of this unwise decision, the Babylonians would eventually return to conquer the land and take all these treasures to Babylon – including some of Hezekiah’s sons. discuss\ consider

We have learned much from King Hezekiah’s life. What was the most significant lesson to you personally? challenge Don’t assume maturity preserves you from stupidity. As you grow older and more mature in your faith, don’t forget your dependence on the Lord. You would not want the closing years of your life to end as Hezekiah’s. memorize “In those days Hezekiah was sick and near death. And Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, went to him and said to him, „Thus says the LORD: “Set your house in order, for you shall die and not live.”‟” Isaiah 38:1 “Thus says the LORD, the God of David your father: „I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears; surely I will add to your days fifteen years.‟” Isaiah 38:5 “„Behold, the days are coming when all that is in your house, and what your fathers have accumulated until this day, shall be carried to Babylon; nothing shall be left,‟ says the LORD.” Isaiah 39:6

Lesson 31

The Greatness of God is Emphasized Isaiah 40

background notes


1. God is great in the deliverance of His people. 2. God is great in the creation of His world. practical application

Make Isaiah 40:31 a pattern for your life. questions 1. What are the two main divisions of the book of Isaiah?

2. What is the basis of God’s consolation?

3. Explain the historical background of verse 4. 4. Which verses in this chapter allow for the fact that the earth is spherical? 5. How can Isaiah 40:31 be used as a pattern for your life?

answers 1. Chapters 1-39 emphasize denunciation from God; God’s judgment pronounced upon Israel and Judah, the foreign nations, and the whole earth. Chapters 40-66 emphasize consolation from God. 2. Consolation because of God’s greatness: chapters 40-48 Consolation because of God’s Servant: chapters 49-57 Consolation because of God’s program: chapters 58-66 3. The idea of leveling the hills and filling up the valleys comes from the work of road building. This work would be done to prepare a nice, level road for the expected arrival of the king. 4. verses 21-22 5. This verse encourages you to wait on the Lord for strength in every stage of life: Young people need strength to soar up like an eagle Middle-aged people need strength to run and not grow weary In your golden years you need strength to walk and not faint. discuss\ consider

1. Isaiah 40:3-5 was written in reference to the Lord going before His people as they returned from captivity in Babylon. Discuss how John the Baptist applied these verses in the New Testament. 2. Isaiah 40 describes the greatness of God’s majestic creation. Then it encourages people to see past the creation to the great Creator. Discuss why many people refuse to take this logical step. Compare this to Romans 1:20. challenge “Who has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand, measured heaven with a span?” Isaiah 40:12 The span of your hand is the distance between your outstretched thumb and little finger. God can measure the heavens with the span of His hand. As great as God’s creation is, He is so much greater. memorize “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” Isaiah 40:8 “Lift up your eyes on high, and see who has created these things.” Isaiah 40:26 “Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable.” Isaiah 40:28

Lesson 32

God’s Greatness Continues Isaiah 41

background notes


1. There is comfort in knowing that God confronts the nations. 2. There is comfort in knowing that God conserves His people. 3. There is comfort in knowing that God controls the future. practical application

When you feel like a worm, read Isaiah 41! questions 1. Who was the “one from the east” Isaiah prophesied of in verses 2-4?

2. How did the nations respond to God’s confrontation in verses 5-7?

3. Who is the servant of the Lord? 4. When will the prophecies of Isaiah 4:17-20 be fulfilled? 5. Why is it significant that Isaiah prophesied of Cyrus rather than the coming Babylonian Empire?

answers 1. This is a prediction of the expansion of the Persian Empire under Cyrus the Great. Cyrus will be mentioned by name in Isaiah 44 and 45. These are amazing predictions since Isaiah was written at least 150 years before these events. 2.

They are afraid and tremble (verse 5)

They try to encourage one another (verse 6)

Instead of turning to the Lord, they construct helpless idols (verse 7) 3. We will see in the Servant Songs beginning in Isaiah 42 that the Servant of the Lord is an individual, the coming Messiah. But here in Isaiah 41:8-9, the nation is referred to as God’s servant. 4. These verses were not fulfilled when the Jews returned from their Babylonian captivity. We also don’t believe they are to be spiritualized to spiritual waters of refreshment and spiritual fruit today in the Church. These promises will be fulfilled literally when the nation of Israel returns to the Lord and is restored to the Lord. This will happen when the Lord returns to the earth. 5. The Babylonian Empire was already on the rise at the time of these prophesies. The skeptic could say that predictions concerning Babylon were simply intuitive foresight. But no one except the Lord could give such detailed and long range prophecies like the coming of Cyrus. discuss\ consider

1. Isaiah 41:10 is a verse you may hear quoted often. Discuss how it would have comforted its original audience, the nation of Israel. How can it, by application, be a comfort to you as a believer today? 2. Isaiah 41 is set up as a court case between God and the idolatrous nations. Use your imagination to expand this scene as God challenges the nations to prove that their gods were true. challenge Do you ever feel like a worm, as Israel did? Small, insignificant, lowly, stepped on! The great God, who confronts the nation and controls the future, cares for His people – including you. memorize “0 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 “„Present your case,‟ says the LORD. „Bring forth your strong reasons,‟ says the King of Jacob.‟” Isaiah 41:21

Lesson 33

Contrast between the Coming Messiah and the Nation of Israel Isaiah 42

background notes


1. Jesus, the perfect Servant, fulfilled His mission. 2. Israel, the imperfect servant, failed its mission. practical application

Let the Lord fan your flame. questions 1. How does Isaiah 41 contrast with Isaiah 42?

2. How is the term “My Servant” used in the book of Isaiah?

3. Explain verses 1-4, which Matthew quotes in reference to Christ in Matthew 12:15-21. 4. How do we know that the ministry of God’s Servant would be broader than only to the nation of Israel? 5. Why was the nation of Israel called an imperfect servant?

answers 1. At the end of Isaiah 41 the Lord challenged the nations concerning their idolatry and the failure of their foolish worship of idols. Here in chapter 42, the nations are challenged to consider the Messiah of Israel, who will bring justice to the world – something the idols could never do. 2. 1) “My Servant” sometimes refers to the whole nation of Israel (Isaiah 41:8-9) 2) “My Servant” can refer to just the godly remnant of the nation (Isaiah 43:10) 3) A third servant of the Lord is Cyrus the Persian who is called “My shepherd” (Isaiah 44) and “My anointed” (Isaiah 45) 4) “My Servant” is primarily used by Isaiah in reference to the coming Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ 3. These verses emphasize that the Perfect Servant would be gentle and gracious. He would not come with a lot of fanfare or display. He would completely fulfill His mission. 4. Because in verse 6 His mission is said to include both Israel and the Gentile nations. 5. Israel was supposed to be God’s messenger to the world as His servant, but she had failed because she was blind and deaf to the message – namely the great and glorious law of God. discuss\ consider

1. “Behold, the former things have come to pass, and new things I declare; before they spring forth I tell you of them.” Isaiah 42:9 All that the true prophets had predicted in the past had come to pass, and all that Isaiah was predicting now about the Messiah would also come true. Discuss how many predictions you hear in everyday life, ranging from the weather, to sports, to politics. Discuss the remarkable nature of the prophets of God who had to be 100% accurate in all their predictions. 2. The nation of Israel was called an imperfect servant because it had failed its mission. As a believer, what missions has the Lord given you? Are you fulfilling or failing that mission? challenge Do you feel like you’re a dying ember, spiritually burning out? Let the Lord fan your flame! He can coax your spark back to a small flame and then fan the small flame back to a useful fire. memorize “Behold! My Servant whom I uphold, My Elect one in whom My soul delights! I have put My Spirit upon Him; He will bring forth justice to the Gentiles.” Isaiah 42:1 “I am the LORD, that is My name; and My glory I will not give to another, nor My praise to carved images.” Isaiah 42:8

Lesson 34

God’s Promise of the Restoration of Israel Isaiah 43

background notes


1. God has preserved His people, Israel, throughout their captivity and scattering. 2. God has preserved His people, Israel, in spite of their callousness and sin. practical application

You can never say that it’s too great a burden! questions 1. What is the dramatic contrast between Isaiah 42 and 43?

2. How does Romans 11 relate to this passage?

3. Who experienced a very literal fulfillment of the promise of Isaiah 43:2 to “walk through the fire and not be burned”? 4. How do we know that the predicted future return of God’s people to the land of Israel includes more than their return from the Babylonian captivity? 5. What “new thing” was the nation of Israel told to look forward to in verse 19?

answers 1. Even though the nation of Israel had failed as the imperfect servant of the Lord, God promises to restore them, not only from their Babylonian captivity in the 6th century BC, but also from their worldwide scattering in the future. 2. Romans 11 makes it very clear that God has not rejected His people. They have only temporarily been set aside while the blessing of the Gentiles and the formation of the Church have been brought into the forefront of God’s program. The descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob will again be brought into the place of blessing when they turn back to the Lord and recognize and receive Jesus as their true Messiah. 3. About 100 years from when Isaiah wrote this prophecy, the three godly friends of Daniel were preserved from the fiery furnace. 4. Because verses 5-7 speak of them returning from the north, south, east, and west, a worldwide scattering, as they are doing today. 5. The new thing was more than the return of the Jewish people to their homeland from their Babylonian captivity. They were to look beyond to our Lord’s earthly kingdom in the future when He returns. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss what you know about the history of the Jewish people since the end of the New Testament period. God’s preservation of them as a people with their unique language and culture has been truly miraculous. 2. Describe the courtroom scene in Isaiah 43:8-12. What evidence does God bring into His courtroom to prove that He holds and controls all events – past, present, and future? The nation of Israel. challenge Serving the Lord can be difficult and full of persecution, at times. But you can never say that it’s too great a burden. In Matthew 11:30, the Lord Jesus says, “My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” memorize “But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: „Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy one of Israel, your Savior.‟” Isaiah 43:1-3 “„You are My witnesses,‟ says the LORD, „And My servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe Me, and understand that I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, nor shall there be after Me. I, even I, am the LORD, and besides Me there is no savior. I have declared and saved, I have proclaimed, and there was no foreign god among you; therefore you are My witnesses,‟” Says the LORD, „that I am God.‟” Isaiah 43:10-12

Lesson 35

Denunciation of Idolatry & Promise of Israel’s Deliverance



1. Those who design idols are stupid. 2. Those who dismiss Israel are short-sighted. practical application

Listen to the Rock! questions 1. What is the meaning of the title “Jeshurun” in verse 2?

2. In verses 6-8, what is the basis for the Lord’s blessing in the future?

3. How does Isaiah emphasize the stupidity and foolishness of making false idols? 4. Who was Cyrus and why was this prediction so remarkable (verse 28)? 5. Summarize the point of verses 24-27 in light of the upcoming prediction of verse 28.

answers 1. Jeshurun means “upright one.” Israel was not upright in Isaiah’s day, but they would be in the future when the Lord would pour out His Spirit on their descendants. 2. 1) Who He is – the First and the Last, the supreme and sovereign God (verse 6) 2) His creation of Israel in the past (verse 7) 3) His sovereign promises concerning Israel’s future (verse 8) 3. He speaks of a man cutting down a tree and using half of the wood to build a fire to cook and using the other half to carve an image. Then he bows down to the idol he has made and asks it for deliverance! 4. Isaiah prophesies of Cyrus by name, more than 150 years before the Persian Emperor arrived on the scene. It was Cyrus the Persian who issues a decree in 539 BC that permitted the Jewish people to return to their homeland and lay the foundation for the rebuilding of the Second Temple. At that time Jerusalem and the ruined cities of Judah were rebuilt. 5. These verses emphasize the sovereignty of God in case anyone doubts that God can perform this miracle of restoring Israel to the land and to the Lord. discuss\ consider

1. Have all of the prophecies and promises made to Israel been fulfilled? Partially. Discuss their fulfillment in part following the Jew’s return from the Babylonian captivity and again on the Day of Pentecost. Discuss their complete fulfillment to the Jewish people in the future. 2. Isaiah repeatedly emphasizes that these promises of the Lord are made to Israel, the descendants of Jacob. Discuss the all-too-common mistake of transferring these promises to the Church and seeing Christians today as the recipients. challenge In Isaiah 44:8, the Lord calls Himself the “Rock,” the only eternally secure foundation. Are you basing your life upon this Rock? memorize “Thus says the LORD who made you and formed you from the womb, who will help you: „Fear not, O Jacob My servant; and you, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen.‟” Isaiah 44:2 “Then it shall be for a man to burn, For he will take some of it and warm himself; Yes, he kindles it and bakes bread; Indeed he makes a god and worships it; He makes it a carved image, and falls down to it.” Isaiah 44:15

Lesson 36

The Sovereign Works and Ways of God Isaiah 45:1-13

background notes


1. Because God is sovereign, His works include all things. 2. Because God is sovereign, His ways should not be questioned. practical application

Don’t blame God for evil! questions 1. How do critics of the Bible try to explain away Isaiah 44:28?

2. Was Cyrus a believer, since he was referred to as the Lord’s anointed and “My Servant”?

3. What does it mean to be sovereign? 4. What strategy did the Persians use to conquer Babylon? 5. How does Romans 9:19-21 relate to this passage?

answers 1. This is an amazingly accurate prophecy predicting Cyrus by name more than 150 years before his time. Critics try to say the entire book was written later, or that certain “prophecies” were inserted into the text at a later date, after the events took place. 2. No, verses 4-5 emphasize that Cyrus did not know the Lord; He was a polytheist. He was referred to as God’s shepherd and His anointed because he was the means of leading God’s people back from their captivity in Babylon. God can use even pagan emperors to accomplish His purposes. 3. To be sovereign means to have complete and supreme power, authority, and control. 4. The Persians diverted the Euphrates River that ran through the city of Babylon. The Persians troops were able to thus get into the city and open the gates from inside, according to Herodotus, the ancient Greek historian. 5. Both passages emphasize that since God created the universe, He certainly has the sovereign right to rule it. discuss\ consider

1. Isaiah 45:6 indicates that through God’s sovereign use of Cyrus and the Persians, all people worldwide would come to know the supremacy of the God of Israel. Discuss how this would come to pass. 2. Because God is sovereign, His ways should not be questioned. He can do anything He wants in line with His perfect character and plan. When do you most often find yourself questioning God’s ways? Refer to Isaiah 55:8-9. challenge How would you answer someone who blames God for evil, since He created man who does evil? Remember, God allows and permits His created to sin, since human beings are free moral agents with the capacity of choice. memorize “Thus says the LORD to His anointed, To Cyrus, whose right hand I have held – to subdue nations before him and loose the armor of kings, to open before him the double doors, So that the gates will not be shut.” Isaiah 45:1 “Woe to him who strives with his Maker! Let the potsherd strive with the potsherds of the earth! Shall the clay say to him who forms it, „What are you making?‟” Isaiah 45:9

Lesson 37

God’s Sovereign Grace for Israel and the Nations Isaiah 45:14-25

background notes


1. God’s sovereign grace is evident in His plan of salvation for Israel. 2. God’s sovereign grace is evident in His plan of salvation for all people. practical application

Challenge the unbelieving world to “Set forth your case!” questions 1. Why was Isaiah emphasizing the sovereignty of God in the context of Isaiah 45?

2. What is the time frame of Isaiah 45:14 and following?

3. Explain the meaning of God hiding Himself in verse 15. 4. What is the point of verse 23 (which is quoted in Philippians 2:10)?

answers 1.

1) A continuing contrast is being made between the all-powerful and all-knowing God of Israel and the inability and insufficiency of the foreign gods, whose idols many in Israel embraced. 2) God in His sovereign grace had redemptive plans and purposes for His people Israel, and nothing could thwart these plans and purposes.

2. These verses look on to the time when God’s sovereign salvation for Israel is complete. When the Lord returns and establishes His earthly kingdom, all nations will acknowledge the supremacy of Israel and will revere the God of Israel who is the one true God. 3.

1) In contrast to the visible idols of the foreign gods, the true God who is the Savior of Israel is invisible. 2) The Lord’s sovereign acts are not obvious to everyone. But to the believer He gives insight into what He has revealed.

4. Not only is the entire world accountable to God and will acknowledge God, but the main point here is that by God’s grace, salvation is available to all mankind. discuss\ consider

1. God’s sovereignty means He has complete control and authority over everything. Some people find this truth very offensive. What is your personal response to this truth? Refer also to Ephesians 1:11. 2. God gives insight to the believer into what He has revealed. Discuss how this is shown by Christians who observe the spiritual and political pulse of the world and seem to be almost prophetic in their predictions. In actuality they have a high view of Scripture, and God is granting them insight. challenge While it is important that we as believers be able to defense our faith, have you ever considered going on the offense when speaking to a skeptic? Challenge the unbelieving world to “Set forth your case!” memorize “For thus says the LORD, Who created the heavens, Who is God, Who formed the earth and made it, Who has established it, Who did not create it in vain, Who formed it to be inhabited: „I am the LORD, and there is no other.‟” Isaiah 45:18 “Look to Me, and be saved, All you ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other.” Isaiah 45:22

Lesson 38

God’s Supremacy over the gods of Babylon and His Judgment of Babylon Isaiah 46 & 47

background notes


1. The Lord carries His people from conception to old age. 2. The Lord judges the instruments He uses to discipline His people. practical application

1. Don’t be stubborn-hearted! 2. Don’t get hooked on the daily horoscope! questions 1. Review how Isaiah 46-47 fit into the overall context of the book.

2. Was Babylon the major world power when Isaiah wrote these chapters?

3. Who were Bel and Nebo (46:1)? 4. What is remarkable about Isaiah 46:11? 5. If God chose the Babylonian Empire to discipline His people, why would He then punish His instruments of judgment?

answers 1. Isaiah 1-39 emphasizes denunciation from God because of Israel’s sin. Isaiah 40-66 emphasizes the consolation or comfort of God. Chapters 40-48 bring comfort to God’s people by emphasizing the greatness of God- His greatness as Creator and His greatness as the Protector and Provider for His people. Here in chapters 46-47, God’s greatness is seen in His sovereignty over Babylon, the enemy of His people. 2. No, the Assyrians were in power. The Babylonian Empire was only on the horizon at that time. 3. These were the two chief gods of the Babylonians. Bel, also known as Marduke, was the father of Nebo. He was the hero of Eruma Elish, the Babylonian account of creation. 4. This prophecy speaks of Cyrus the Persian, who would conquer Babylon and deliver God’s people. If the Babylonian Empire was just on the horizon, we could say the Persian Empire was not even a glimmer 150 years before these events took place. A remarkable prophecy! 5. Isaiah predicts in 47:6-7 that Babylon would go too far in her discipline of Israel. In her pride she showed no mercy to the Jewish people. discuss\ consider

1. Did you come to know the Lord as a child or later in life? Either way, can you give a testimony of how God has carried you from conception to old age? 2. Can you think of a time when you saw God use ungodly people to discipline His children on a personal level? God does use this method at times. But be assured those ungodly instruments will be held accountable and judged for their wicked deeds. challenge Have you considered astrology, such as the horoscope, as harmless entertainment? Be aware. This playing with fire can be ensnaring, and a doorway to further connections with the world of the occult. memorize “Listen to Me, O house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of Israel, who have been upheld by Me from birth, who have been carried from the womb: even to your old age, I am He, and even to gray hairs I will carry you! I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.” Isaiah 46:3-4 “And I will place salvation in Zion, for Israel My glory.” Isaiah 46:13 “I was angry with My people; I have profaned My inheritance, and given them into your hand. You showed them no mercy.” Isaiah 47:6

Lesson 39

Judah’s Return from their Babylonian Captivity Isaiah 48

background notes


1. God is great in His predictions for His people. 2. God is great in His provisions for His people. practical application

Don’t let it be said, “If only!” questions 1. During what time period was Isaiah prophesying? What world empire was in power at this time?

2. Describe the eschatological aspect of these Babylon prophecies.

3. What “new things” was Isaiah declaring (verse 6)? 4. What is the emphasis of verses 17-19? 5. Why does verse 21 refer to God’s provision for His people in the wilderness?

answers 1. Isaiah prophesied around 700 BC while the Assyrians were in power. Babylon was yet to arise on the scene as a world empire, and they would not take the Jewish people into captivity for another 100 years. 2. Revelation 17-18 teaches that there will be an end-time Babylon that arises in the last days. Just as historical Babylon was judged and brought down because of her arrogance and defiance of God, so will the end-time godless Babylon be judged and destroyed. 3. The new things that hadn’t been proclaimed before are details concerning the coming restoration of Israel. Israel’s ultimate restoration had been proclaimed generally in other passages. However, details concerning the Babylonian captivity and return, like the raising up of Cyrus the Persian by name, had not been revealed before Isaiah’s time. 4. In these verses we see all the provisions of God for His people that they could have enjoyed more fully if they had obeyed the Lord and followed His law. 5. In the first Exodus, God continually provided for His people even though they continually rebelled. Likewise when they would go back in a second exodus from the Babylonian captivity, God would provide for His people, even though they were not perfect. discuss\ consider

1. Read Isaiah 48:16. Discuss how this is believed to be the clearest reference to the Trinity in the Old Testament. Where do you see the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit mentioned? It is also notable that the verb translated “have” in our Bibles is actually singular in Hebrew. 2. The promises of the Abrahamic Covenant were unconditional and were not contingent on Israel’s obedience. But Israel’s enjoyment of these great provisions and their fellowship with the Lord did depend on their faithfulness. In the same way, God has made great spiritual provisions for His people today (see Ephesians 1). Discuss how our enjoyment of these spiritual blessings depends on our faithfulness and obedience. challenge The Lord said to His people in Isaiah 48:18, “Oh, that you had heeded My commandments! Then your peace would have been like a river, And your righteousness like the waves of the sea.” When you get to the end of your life as a believer, will you say, “If only I had done this? or If only I hadn’t done that!” Don’t let it be said, “If only”! memorize “Surely you did not hear, surely you did not know; surely from long ago your ear was not opened. For I knew that you would deal very treacherously, and were called a transgressor from the womb.” Isaiah 48:8 “Come near to Me, hear this: I have not spoken in secret from the beginning; from the time that it was, I was there. And now the Lord GOD and His Spirit have [has] sent Me.” Isaiah 48:16

Lesson 40

The Suffering Servant of the Lord – The Coming Messiah Isaiah 49

background notes


1. The Messiah is the Servant of the Lord. 2. The Messiah is the Savior of Israel practical application

Praise the Lord for the palms of His hands. questions 1. Review our outline of the book of Isaiah.

2. Recall how the phrase “the Lord’s servant” is used by Isaiah.

3. How do verses 5-6 help us deduce that the Servant of the Lord is not the nation of Israel in this passage? 4. How do we know that the future return of the Jewish people to the Messiah’s kingdom is broader than their return from Babylon (verses 9-12)?

answers 1. Chapters 1-39 consisted mainly of Denunciation from God. Chapters 40-66 consist mainly of Consolation from God. This second section can be subdivided as follows: Consolation because of God’s greatness (40-48) Consolation because of God’s Servant (49-57) Consolation because of God’s program (58-66) 2. This phrase can refer to the nation of Israel, the godly remnant of the nation, or to an individual that God uses like Isaiah the prophet, or even Cyrus the Persian. But the primary way the term “Servant of the Lord” or “My Servant” is used in Isaiah is in reference to the Coming Messiah, the Lord Himself. 3. In these verses the Servant of the Lord is distinguished from the nation, so we believe the Servant of the Lord in this chapter is the Messiah. 4. Verse 12 says that the Jewish people will return from the west. From their Babylonian captivity they returned from the east. This worldwide return of the Jewish people to their Land is already beginning and will be complete when the Messiah establishes His kingdom. discuss\ consider

1. Walk through the first section of this Servant Song and discuss how the Lord’s first advent is shown in verses 1-4, while His second advent is described in verses 5-7. 2. Being pro-Israel today may not be politically popular, but for believers with a high view of Scripture, it is a necessity. Discuss what you can do within your home and church family to promote a positive view of the modern State of Israel. This state is just a foretaste of God’s rich plans for His Jewish people. challenge The people Israel are before the Lord at all times, inscribed on the palms of His hands. This reminds us of the nail-scarred palms of our Lord – a reminder of how precious we are to Him. memorize “Indeed He says, „It is too small a thing that You should be My Servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved ones of Israel; I will also give You as a light to the Gentiles, that You should be My salvation to the ends of the earth.‟” Isaiah 49:6 “But Zion said, „The LORD has forsaken me, and my Lord has forgotten me.‟ Can a woman forget her nursing child, and not have compassion on the son of her womb? Surely they may forget, yet I will not forget you. See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before Me.” Isaiah 49:14-16

Lesson 41

The Coming Messiah as the Perfect Obedient Servant Isaiah 50

background notes


1. Israel, the disobedient servant of the Lord, deserved a certificate of divorce. 2. Christ, the obedient Servant of the Lord, was faithful unto death. practical application

Let the Lord be your Light! questions 1. How does the fall of the northern kingdom of Israel overlap with the ministry of Isaiah?

2. In Isaiah 50, what was Israel’s claim against the Lord? What was God’s response?

3. How was the Messiah contrasted to the nation of Israel in this third Servant Song? 4. Where can we find the scourging and humiliation of verse 6 literally fulfilled in the New Testament? 5. Explain Isaiah 50:11.

answers 1. Samaria and the northern kingdom of Israel fell to the Assyrian Empire in 722 BC, during the years that Isaiah was active in ministry in Jerusalem, the capital of the southern kingdom of Judah. 2. In this chapter Isaiah is prophetically looking forward to the time when Israel will be in their Babylonian captivity, trying to claim that God had forsaken and forgotten them. The Lord’s response is that He had not forsaken them. They were suffering the consequences of their disobedience to the Lord. 3. The nation of Israel is called a disobedient servant. In contrast there would arise a true and obedient Servant of the Lord, the Messiah Himself. 4. We see these prophecies fulfilled in Mark 15:15-20 as the Lord went to the cross. 5. Those who do not fear the Lord and will not obey His perfect Servant insist on walking in the light of their own self-made fires. Sorrow and ultimate torment await them. discuss\ consider

1. Review the argument that Isaiah 50:1 is saying the Lord did not give the captives in Babylon a certificate of divorce. They may have deserved it, but God did not send them away permanently. Discuss a time when God has mercifully not given you what you deserve. 2. Isaiah 50:8-9 tells us that God will vindicate the obedient Servant and defend Him against all adversaries. Discuss how the vindication of our Lord began with His resurrection. Can you think of any New Testament passages that support this principle? challenge Don’t try to live by your own self-made fire. Let the Lord be your Light! memorize “I gave My back to those who struck Me, and My cheeks to those who plucked out the beard; I did not hide My face from shame and spitting.” Isaiah 50:6 “Surely the Lord GOD will help Me; who is he who will condemn Me?” Isaiah 50:9

Lesson 42

Exhortation and Encouragement for the Godly Remnant Isaiah 51:1 – 52:12

background notes


1. The godly remnant should look and listen. 2. The godly remnant should awake and arise. practical application

Make your applications smooth transitions from the interpretation. questions 1. Who is being addressed in this section of Isaiah?

2. Review the three times the remnant was told to look and listen in 51:1,4, and 7.

3. How is pagan Egypt described in Isaiah 51:9-10? 4. In the second part of this passage, Israel is told to awake and arise three times. Identify these exhortations and briefly explain them. 5. Where do we see Isaiah 52:7 quoted in the New Testament?

answers 1. This section is addressed to the godly remnant of Israel, those who were faithful to the Lord and His Word in spite of the spiritual and moral decline all around them. 2. The godly remnant was told to look back and remember their roots – to the call and blessing of Abraham and Sarah by God Himself (verses 1-2). In the second exhortation of listen, Israel is told that in the new heaven and earth all evil will be judged and the Lord will reign in righteousness over all peoples (verses 4-6). Thirdly (verses 7-8), the remnant is told to take courage because the skeptics would pass away and righteousness would endure forever. 3. As Rahab and the dragon from pagan myth 4. The first awake section (51:9-10) begins as a prayer by the godly remnant for the Lord to come and show His power as He had when He delivered Israel out of Egypt and through the Red Sea. Secondly, the godly remnant was told to awake and arise (51:17-23) to the fact that even though God had to discipline Israel in His wrath against sin, He would comfort them in the future. In the third awake section (52:1-12) the godly remnant is exhorted and encouraged to awake and prepare for her future blessing when Israel will be redeemed and restored for all her former problems and wrong associations. 5. Romans 10:15 discuss\ consider

1. Think of the godly remnant throughout biblical and modern history. There have always been a group of believers who pursue righteousness and seek the Lord in the midst of a world of spiritual and moral decay. Can you identify who they were in different time periods? 2. In Isaiah 51:17-23, God acknowledges that Israel has had to drink the cup of His fury because of their disobedience. But soon they would be comforted, and their enemies would be forced to drink the cup of God’s wrath. Israel has had many enemies throughout her history. Discuss how these enemies have each been punished for their persecution of God’s people. challenge The Apostle Paul applied Isaiah 52:7 to preachers who bring the good news of salvation in Romans 10:15. There are nice parallels and smooth transition between this interpretation and application. Follow this example in your applications. memorize “So the ransomed of the LORD shall return, And come to Zion with singing, With everlasting joy on their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness; Sorrow and sighing shall flee away.” Isaiah 51:11 “Thus says your Lord, the LORD and your God, Who pleads the cause of His people: „See, I have taken out of your hand the cup of trembling, The dregs of the cup of My fury; You shall no longer drink it.‟ But I will put it into the hand of those who afflict you, Who have said to you, „Lie down, that we may walk over you.' And you have laid your body like the ground, And as the street, for those who walk over.‟” Isaiah 51:22-23

Lesson 43

The Perfect Servant as the Suffering Servant Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12

background notes


1. The Suffering Servant would have humble beginnings. 2. The Suffering Servant would die as our substitute. 3. The Suffering Servant would be bodily resurrected. practical application

Don’t claim Isaiah 53:5 for physical healing now! questions 1. What are the Servant Songs of Isaiah?

2. How does modern Judaism interpret this Servant Song, to avoid the obvious allusions to the Lord Jesus?

3. What is the problem with this interpretation? 4. Review the two conclusions we can make from Isaiah 53:10. 5. Why should Isaiah 53:5 not be used to promise physical healing for the believer if they have enough faith?

answers 1. They are Messianic prophecies of the coming perfect Servant. 2. They say that the Servant here is the nation of Israel, not an individual. 3. In Isaiah 53:8, the suffering Servant is definitely distinguished from the people of the nation. Furthermore, the suffering Servant is clearly an innocent victim throughout this passage. That could never be said of the nation of Israel which is denounced for her sins in the rest of Isaiah. 4. 1) The substitutionary sufferings of the perfect Servant were all in the will of God. They were part of His plan to provide the necessary sacrifice to pay for the penalty of our sins. 2) For the suffering Servant to see His offspring or seed (i.e. believers), prolong His days, and see the results of His sacrificial death would necessitate bodily resurrection. 5. In context, spiritual healing from the consequences of sin is primarily in view – not physical healing. While it is true that a believer’s resurrected body will not be subject to disease and sickness, making physical healing today reliant on the strength of your faith is dangerous and destructive. discuss\ consider

1. Many people in Jesus’ day rejected Him because of His humble beginnings. Discuss how they expected the Messiah to come. Honestly consider whether you would have accepted Christ if He had revealed Himself in your day. 2. Isaiah 53 paints a vivid picture of the sufferings of Christ. Walk through this passage and note all the prophetic elements you see. challenge If you ever have the opportunity to witness to a Jewish friend, consider asking them to read Isaiah 53 from their own Scriptures. memorize “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5 “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way; and the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:6

Lesson 44

The Restoration of Israel & The Salvation of the Gentiles Isaiah 54 & 55

background notes


1. Because of the Servant’s work, Israel will be restored. 2. Because of the Servant’s work, Gentiles will be redeemed. practical application

Don’t say, “It’s too good to be true”! questions 1. What story does Isaiah use to illustrate his point in the first part of chapter 54?

2. Was the restoration of Israel as described here fulfilled when Israel came back from the Babylonian captivity? 3. Explain the reference to Noah in verses 9-10. 4. Isaiah 55 is one of the great gospel chapters of the Bible. To whom is this gospel message offered? 5. What is the meaning of Isaiah 55:12-13?

answers 1. He tells of Israel as an unfaithful wife, being restored by her faithful, forgiving husband, the Lord Himself. 2. No, verses 9-10 indicate this is yet in the future when the Lord returns, because these verses predict that this restoration will be complete and permanent, which could certainly not be said of Israel today or anytime in the past. 3. As God’s covenant with Noah guaranteed that the world would never be flooded again with water, so God’s covenant with Israel was guaranteed. Mountains and hills may be split apart, but God’s loyal love and unconditional covenant with Israel will never fail. 4. Verse 3 might indicate that only Israel is in view. But we see in verse 4 that the Servant Messiah will be a witness to many people, and verse 5, through restored Israel Gentile nations will turn to the Lord. This is truly a message for the whole world. 5. These verses declare that the sad effects of sin on this natural world will be lifted and nature itself will rejoice. This will take place when the Lord returns to establish His glorious kingdom here on this earth. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the statements on the sovereign control of God in Isaiah 54:15-16. In our finite human minds it can be difficult to balance the goodness of God with the evil He allows. How do you hold this tension in your own thinking? 2. Have you ever had someone tell you the gospel message is “too good to be true”? In other words, they think salvation should be more difficult; they should do more to earn it. How would you respond to this claim? challenge God’s Word “shall not return void.” Do you recognize the power in the spoken, written, and read Word of God? Don’t underestimate how God will use His Word when you are faithful to share it. memorize “For your Maker is your husband, The LORD of hosts is His name; and your Redeemer is the Holy one of Israel; He is called the God of the whole earth.” Isaiah 54:5 “Incline your ear, and come to Me. Hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you.” Isaiah 55:3 “Seek the LORD while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near.” Isaiah 55:6

Lesson 45

The Blessings of the Millennium for Both Jews and Gentiles & The Contrast Between those who Respond to God’s Grace and those who Reject it

Isaiah 56 & 57 background notes


1. Millennial blessings will be for Jews and Gentiles. 2. God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. practical application

There is no rest for the wicked. questions 1. What do critics of the Bible say about the authorship of Isaiah?

2. Give at least three arguments against these critics of Isaiah.

3. How does Isaiah 55 relate to this chapter? 4. To what does Isaiah compare the false prophets in Isaiah 56:9-12? 5. Explain the meaning of Isaiah 57:1-2.

answers 1. They say Isaiah of the 700 BC wrote chapters 1-39 of the book. They say so-called “deutero-Isaiah” wrote chapters 40-66 sometime later, because of some of the specific prophecies in this second half – such as the clear prophecies of the suffering Messiah in chapter 53. They are motivated to take this position because they do not believe in the miracle of fulfilled prophecy. 2. 1) There is no historical evidence for these theories. 2) All of Isaiah was found in the Dead Sea Scrolls, which date well before the coming of Christ. There is no evidence in the Dead Sea Scroll copies of Isaiah of anything other than a unified book. 3) All quotations of Isaiah in the New Testament are attributed to the one Isaiah of the Old Testament. 3. In Isaiah 55 we saw that because of the Servant Messiah’s finished work, not only would Israel be restored, but Gentiles would be redeemed. Chapter 56 continues to speak of the return of Israel to the Lord and the Land. 4. They are like a watch dog that only sleeps and doesn’t bark. They are like shepherds who are more interested in their own agendas of gain and pleasure than in the welfare of the sheep. 5. The Lord in His grace takes some of the righteous home to heaven where they finally find peace away from this morally corrupt world. discuss\ consider

1. God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. Discuss how this New Testament principle from James 4:6 and 1 Peter 5:5 is brought to life in Isaiah 57. What are you consciously doing to your life to become one of the humble rather than the proud? 2. “When there are ungodly rulers and leaders there is a growth in the number of ungodly who practice increasing wickedness, in contrast to the shrinking godly population who do what is right.” How have you seen this in our own society? challenge You have heard the expression “there’s no rest for the weary.” But the Lord says those who are weary can find rest for their souls (Matthew 11:28-29). The truth is that there is no rest for the wicked. Don’t be discouraged – the wicked will not find peace and rest in the end. memorize “Even them I will bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on My altar; for My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations.” Isaiah 56:7 “For thus says the High and Lofty one Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: „I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.‟” Isaiah 57:15

Lesson 46

Israel’s Sinful Condition During Isaiah’s Day & Israel’s Spiritual Restoration in the Future



1. Israel’s false worship in the land will be changed to the true worship of the Lord. 2. Israel’s confession of sin will result in the return of the Lord. practical application

Don’t have works like snake eggs and spider webs! questions 1. What message was Isaiah sent to declare to the people in 58:1-7?

2. What sort of fasting did the Lord desire (verses 6-7)?

3. What good news was offered in 58:8-14? 4. List some of the characteristics of the sinful nation from 59:2-8. 5. There is good news of Israel’s redemption and restoration in verses 16-21. When will these things come to pass?

answers 1. He was to sound a warning trumpet that the people were falling far short of what God was looking for in their lives as individuals and their life as a nation. 2. Fasting from wickedness and fasting from oppression of the poor and needy 3. If the people would change their ways then God would hear them, answer them, and bless them. 4. Bloodshed, falsehood, perversion of justice, violence, evil thoughts, and corruption 5. The good news of the Lord bringing salvation to Israel (verse 16) was fulfilled at the first coming of Christ. All the other promises await fulfillment in the future when the Lord returns. discuss\ consider

1. The people may have been surprised to hear Isaiah’s message, since they did not consider themselves as bad as the wicked who were practicing open idolatry and immorality. But God was not impressed with their religious ritualism. As you evaluate your own life, are you going through any motions that should actually be condemned? 2. Refer to Isaiah 59:16. When the Lord saw that there was no qualified human mediator, He Himself came into the world and became Man in order to die and bring salvation from sin. Discuss what impacts you most about this truth. challenge Isaiah 59:5 says that sinful Israel’s works were dangerous and as thin as a spider web – leaving them naked before God. The same is true of works done in your own strength, they don’t cover a single sin. memorize “Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke?” Isaiah 58:6 “If you extend your soul to the hungry and satisfy the afflicted soul, then your light shall dawn in the darkness, and your darkness shall be as the noonday.” Isaiah 58:10 “Behold, the LORD‟s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; nor His ear heavy, that it cannot hear.” Isaiah 59:1 “He saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor; therefore His own arm brought salvation for Him; and His own righteousness, it sustained Him.” Isaiah 59:16

Lesson 47

The Glory of Israel during the Millennium & A Prophetic Glimpse of the Messiah



1. In the Millennium, Gentile nations will honor Israel. 2. In the Old Testament prophecies, the two advents of Christ are not separated. practical application

1. Let’s be willing to admit that we don’t know all the details. 2. Let’s dress properly for the coming celebration. questions 1. Why do we refer to the Lord’s future worldwide kingdom as the “millennial kingdom”?

2. What would be a fitting title for Isaiah 60, and why?

3. Isaiah 60:10-14 speaks of foreign money pouring into Jerusalem to build up Israel and beautify the Temple. Why will all this wealth and honor come to Israel from the Gentile nations who once despised and afflicted her? 4. How do we know for certain that Isaiah 61:1 refers to the first coming of Christ? 5. Why did the Lord stop quoting Isaiah 61 in the middle of verse 2?

answers 1. Because this kingdom will last for 1000 years according to Revelation 20. 2. “The Tables will be Turned.” During the Times of the Gentiles that the Lord spoke of in Luke 21:24, Jerusalem and the Jewish people would be under the foot of the Gentile nations. But one day that time will come to an end and the nation of Israel will be restored to her God-given role of being a spiritual and moral light to the nations. 3. Because in that day these Gentile nations will be believing nations. They will be thankful to Israel as the means of their blessing. 4. Because the Lord Himself quoted this Scripture in the synagogue at Nazareth and said that it was fulfilled at that time. See Luke 4:16-20. 5. Because everything He read up through “proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD” was fulfilled with His first coming. But the second part – “the day of vengeance of our God” – and the remainder of chapter 61 awaits the return of the Lord to be fulfilled. discuss\ consider

1. We are currently living in the Times of the Gentiles. How does this understanding help you view the current situation in the Middle East and the attempts at peace there? 2. Take a moment to draw a “mountain-top diagram” showing how only the “peaks” of the Lord’s comings were seen from the perspective of the Old Testament prophet. The “valleys” of intervening time, including our current Church Age, were not visible to the prophets. Thus we frequently find in the Old Testament prophecies, the two advents of Christ are not separated. challenge We read of there no longer being any need for the light of the sun and moon because the Lord is the Light in Isaiah 59:19-20. The details of how all these prophecies will work out are hard to explain at times- and that’s okay! Let’s be willing to admit that we don’t know all the details. memorize “Violence shall no longer be heard in your land, neither wasting nor destruction within your borders; but you shall call your walls Salvation, and your gates Praise.” Isaiah 60:18 “The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, because the LORD has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God.” Isaiah 61:1-2

Lesson 48

The Millennial Kingdom, The Coming Tribulation Period, & Isaiah’s Intercessory Prayer



1. The godly of Israel await the blessings of Christ’s millennial kingdom. 2. The enemies of Israel await the judgment of God’s Day of Vengeance. practical application

Don’t grieve the Holy Spirit. questions 1. What task were the watchmen charged with in Isaiah 62:6-9?

2. Who are these appointed watchmen?

3. On what basis do we say that the inspired prophet Isaiah believed and taught the doctrine of the Trinity? 4. When is this “Day of Vengeance” mentioned in Isaiah 63:4 and also in 61:2? 5. What insight do we gain into the military aspect of the Lord’s return from verse 1?

answers 1. God appointed watchmen to pray for this coming peace of Jerusalem. They are to continue praying until all enemies of Israel are subdued and Jerusalem brings praise to the Lord. 2. They are godly believers down though history, even to this very hour, that pray for God’s chosen people and their nation. 3. Although the word “trinity” is not in the Bible, we have seen this doctrine of a triune God clearly referenced in Isaiah 48:16 and 61:1. Again we see all three members on the godhead mentioned in Isaiah’s prayer, Isaiah 63:7-14. 4. This Day of Vengeance awaits the Lord’s return. The enemies of restored Israel will be crushed and restored Israel will be saved and delivered by the Lord Himself. 5. Isaiah 63:1 speaks of the Lord coming from Bozrah in Edom. This may mean the campaign of Armageddon of the nations against Israel will extend from the Jordan Valley to ancient Edom (200 miles, Revelation 14:20). The Lord will judge and annihilate all of these armies when He returns, ending up in ancient Edom, and then proceed to victory in Jerusalem. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss how we, as evangelical Christians, should be some of the greatest supporters of the Jewish people. Read Psalm 122:6-7. This does not mean we always agree with the present secular state of Israel that continues to reject her Messiah. But we recognize that God does have great plans for a restored Israel and the Land. 2. Discuss how you can grieve the Holy Spirit, as Israel did. We are assured of our eternal future, but in this life we can grieve the Holy Spirit of God by rebelling against the Lord. See Ephesians 4:30. challenge Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. memorize “For Zion‟s sake I will not hold My peace, and for Jerusalem‟s sake I will not rest, until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, and her salvation as a lamp that burns.” Isaiah 62:1 “Look down from heaven, and see from Your habitation, holy and glorious. Where are Your zeal and Your strength, the Yearning of Your heart and Your mercies toward me?” Isaiah 63:15

Lesson 49

Isaiah’s Intercessory Prayer for Israel & The Lord’s Response

Isaiah 64:1 – 65:16 background notes


1. Isaiah’s prayer has prophetic implications. 2. God’s answer contains good news and bad news. practical application

1. Follow the 1-2 plan of Isaiah 64 in order to please God. 2. Don’t let your name become a negative byword. questions 1. On whose behalf was Isaiah interceding in this prayer?

2. Who is the nation referred to in Isaiah 65:1? 3. Who are the servants of the Lord in verses 8-10? 4. Was the idolatry of rebellious Israel (verses 11-12) describing only Isaiah’s day or also the future?

answers 1. This intercessory prayer was on behalf of the godly remnant of Israel, not only in Isaiah’s day but in the future as well. 2. The answer is in Romans 10:20-21, where the apostle Paul uses the “nation” of Isaiah 65 to refer to the Gentiles. In great contrast to the nation of Israel who rejected the Lord, Gentiles who were not the chosen people would turn to the Lord. 3. This is the godly remnant of Jews both in Isaiah’s day as well as in the last days. 4. This is also for the future, as we know from prophetic Scripture that idolatry will return to Israel in the last days. They will worship the Antichrist and this last state will be worst than the first (Matthew 12:45). discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the 1-2 plan of Isaiah 64. Hint: Step 1 is in verse 6, Step 2 is in verse 8. Follow the 1-2 plan of Isaiah 64 in order to please God! 2. How do you want your name to be remembered when you die? While the godly remnant will have a new name, the name of unbelieving Israel will be used as a byword – even as a curse. Discuss how you’re living now to determine your legacy. challenge Isaiah prayed to intercede for his people, the nation of Israel. For whom could you pray an intercessory prayer? memorize “But we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags; we all fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.” Isaiah 64:6 “But now, O LORD, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You our potter; and all we are the work of Your hand.” Isaiah 64:8 “I was sought by those who did not ask for Me; I was found by those who did not seek Me. I said, „Here I am, here I am,‟ to a nation that was not called by My name.” Isaiah 65:1

Lesson 50

The Future Millennial Kingdom of Christ Isaiah 65:17 – 66:24

background notes


1. The Millennium will merge with eternity. 2. The Millennium will follow judgment. 3. The Millennium will favor restored Israel. 4. The Millennium will distinguish the sheep from the goats. practical application

Don’t confuse interpretation and application. questions 1. Do the terms New Heavens and New Earth refer to the Millennium or the Eternal State?

2. What is the point of Isaiah 66:1-3?

3. When would God judge these followers of ritualistic religion (verse 6)? 4. How does Matthew 25:31-34 relate to Isaiah 66? 5. Who will worship the Lord throughout the Millennial kingdom and into eternity?

answers 1. According to 2 Peter 3 and Revelation 21, these terms refer to the eternal state. Yet here Isaiah seems to use the term for the Millennium. To explain this we need to remember that when the Old Testament prophets looked to the future, many times these future events were fused together from their perspective. The further revelation of the New Testament shows us the distinction between the Millennium and the Eternal State. 2. The point of these verses is that ritualistic religion apart from true worship of the Lord from the heart is detestable and despicable before the Lord. 3. This judgment would not only be with the coming destruction of the city and the temple by the Babylonians and then later the Romans, but also in the future when the Lord returns in judgment at the end of the Tribulation Period. 4. Matthew describes the Judgment of the Sheep and the Goats, when the Lord returns to this earth and gathers together all nations for judgment. Isaiah 66:15-18 also speaks of the return of the Lord and the judgment of the ungodly, not only in Israel but in all the nations. 5. This will be universal worship of the Lord by both saved Jews and saved Gentiles. discuss\ consider

1. In the Millennium the effects of the curse will be greatly lifted, but not completely removed as they will be in the Eternal State (see Revelation 21:4). Discuss what life during the millennial period will be like, as described in Isaiah 65. 2. Isaiah 66:7-8 uses highly figurative language, that once understood, illustrates a beautiful point. Discuss the child (singular) she (Israel) gave birth to before she travailed in labor, and the children (plural) she birthed when she travailed. This is a beautiful promise of the Messiah and restored Israel. challenge Thank the Lord for this study on Isaiah. Review what you have learned and commit to letting the truth of God’s word affect your life. memorize “No more shall an infant from there live but a few days, nor an old man who has not fulfilled his days; for the child shall die one hundred years old.” Isaiah 65:20 “Thus says the LORD: „Heaven is My throne, And earth is My footstool.‟” Isaiah 66:1 “For behold, the LORD will come with fire and with His chariots, like a whirlwind, to render His anger with fury, and His rebuke with flames of fire.” Isaiah 66:15

isaiah - growing christians ministries

Documents