A chance to hear and reflect on God's Word as you go about your day. Join Pr Jacob Ugljesa and Pr Lachlan Harders as they unpack the word of God each day.
Summary: A woman who is barren and can't have children in ancient Israel experienced shame and rejection. Yet here the infertile woman is singing loudly. Her house is so full of children and people it needs an expansion. God reverses her condition. Now no accusation or taunt can remain. They are vindicated by God. What we need: Security, approval, honour. To not be disgraced but to be held in esteem. Knowing that society approves of us is a longing of our heart. Why we can't: shame that produces fear. Inadequacy. Disappointment in the eyes of others. God has turned his face away from us. Why Jesus can: Jesus took our shame. He was spat upon, stripped naked, and slapped. All to shame him and make him an outcast. He was crucified beyond the walls of the city. An outcast's death. God turned his face away from Christ. He prayed with a broken heart: My God My God why have you forsaken me? Now what: When fear and shame is displaced by God's acceptance and honour we become confident.
Summary Have you ever had to take responsibility for something you didn't do? From Chapter 52:13, through to the entirety of chapter 53, we see the fourth and final servant song in Isaiah. It is the climax of these discussions between the Lord and His faithful servant. You can word-for-word re-create most of the chapter using quotations from the New Testament. This song is a chaiasm with five sections, each 3 verses long. At the centre of this poem is the heart of the issue. Why We Can't The problem with humans is that we're bent towards ourselves. We tend to twist right and wrong in a way that most suits ourselves. The problem that comes when we do this is that others are disadvantaged. Try as we might to fix this problem of sin, we can't. Why Jesus Can God has a plan to deal with the problem of Sin. Though we go astray like sheep, The Lord lays on Jesus our sin. He is pierced, crushed, and beaten so we can be forgiven, healed, and have peace! Question What in this chapter stands out to you about Jesus' sacrifice on the Cross?
Summary A messenger is running. He is excited and eager to deliver the good news. Before the era of fast communication, it was people who carried news quickly to far away places. This messenger is bringing good news that a new King is sitting on the throne - God himself reigns. God We get a glimpse back into Isaiah's present day here. But no matter when we live or under what societal pressures we face - the message that God is King is good news. It is the good news of peace and salvation. In fact, this is the Gospel message. When Jesus preached he shared this good news - the kingdom of heaven is here! Application Our broken emptiness is replaced by God's complete fullness. Whatever has fallen apart around us, when God comes into our life and becomes ruler - immediately a process of repair begins. Whether substance abuse, porn addiction, habits of selfishness leading to broken relationships, unhealthy relationship to finance, toxic beliefs, thinking, or behaviours - God is King and when he rules on the throne it is good news.
Summary Trust in God is the outcome of remembering God's work in the past and listening to God's voice in the present. As you fill your mind with scripture you will never forget that God does work and will work in your situation. Why We Can't Forgetfulness produces apathy. If we do not keep God at the central focal point of our life, we begin to look elsewhere, or have other priorities. Why Jesus Can Jesus lived by God's word. Every step was based on God's plan. He fulfilled and lived out God's prophecies. Even to his death. Now What? Invite God to work today as he did in the past. (Vs 9-10) “are you not the same today?” Take note of what God is doing in your life by keeping a record of his work in your life - a journal, a note on your phone, a picture, a song, etc. God won't lead you halfway. He wouldn't leave you halfway either.
Summary As we press deeper into the final stages of the book of Isaiah we get clearer and clearer pictures of the God of Isaiah. It is like we are ascending the mountain and now we can see more than when we first set out. We are nearing the peak. We are seeing a very unique and special picture of God's chosen servant. This is the King Isaiah saw coming to sit on the throne - yet he is very different to any who comes before Him. What We Need Submitting to God's ruling in our life. Giving him total control to decide how we live. Obedience is an indicator of commitment. Love is an indicator that obedience is willing. Why We Can't Resentment and a broken relationship leads to a lack of obedience and diverging paths. Israel failed in that they decided to choose their own way and rejected God. God didn't divorce Israel, they abandoned God. The relationship is complicated. Why Jesus Can It is different with the Servant - glimpses of Jesus Isaiah sees. We follow Him now in the first-person perspective. Imagine what it would be like to be Him. We notice straight away how different He is from my way of thinking. He is attentive to the words of God. He listens carefully. Not one thing said by God is neglected by Him. (Vs 4-6) He is reliant on God and determined to do what God says (vs 7-8). He is accused and mocked - yet he stands firm. But no charge is brought. No case can stand. No accusation is warranted. He is perfectly obedient in every regard. Now What? my failure and broken relationship to God is remedied by Jesus' bridging the gap. He is the mediator. When I am abandoning God, he won't give up on the relationship. He gives up himself before he gives me up. Obedience isn't about doing more good things to outweigh the bad. “Trust in the Lord and rely on your God” (vs 10) is the way forward. The analogy at the end implies we are all in darkness. It is easy to try to make your own fire and try to keep yourself going. The fire will go out eventually. Instead, we need His light.
Summary For any relationship to thrive, giving time and showing commitment are crucial. To develop a skill it takes time and commitment. What We Need Commitment and relationship - both to give it and to have others give it to us. We long for security, love, and compassion which only come when we have someone give us full commitment. We want a community where everyone is together and united. We also need to reciprocate for such a relationship to thrive. Why We Can't The sad reality is that we feel forgotten and deserted. Community feels scattered and we don't feel a sense of security. We feel the threats around us and conflict comes so quickly. It feels that no one fully commits to others and things quickly fall apart. Why Jesus Can God is committed. Even when we feel a lack of commitment, he promises to be faithful. He promises that he will never forget and never abandon us (verses 15-16). God's new covenant is built on the assurance that God will achieve what we couldn't. The new covenant involves God's rescuing the trapped, restoring the weak, and retrieving the lost. God's commitment reaches beyond boundaries inviting people from all nations. God unites and gathers those who are broken and hurt by abandonment. Jesus is the One who demonstrated God's full commitment at the expense of his own rejection and abandonment. He is totally committed to us, being betrayed and abandoned by his friends. How We Live Now Jesus inspires us to live in commitment to God and to our community. As we realise that he was rejected for us, we would not allow anyone else to feel excluded. We constantly remember the one who remembered us. We commit to the one who is fully committed to us.
Summary: When we lack authenticity, we deceive others and ourselves. Isaiah challenges his readers to look inward and ask who am I really? Not who I pretend to be, nor who I want to be - but who am I really? This is so they can realise who God is and why he deserves worship and obedience. What we need: To be true and genuine - to be committed and not changing. God laments that "Jacob" is dishonest and does not keep promises. God longs for his people to be consistent and to live out what they profess to be. They are deceiving everyone and themselves. God wants us to listen to his commands and respond consistently. If we live authentically and in line with God's word, we will have peace flowing like a gentle river, righteousness rolling over us like waves in the sea. Why we can't: Unwilling to be corrected. Easier to pretend than adjust (vs 4). Tell ourselves a different narrative - I had to do it this way. The narrative for those Isaiah writes to was to ignore God and just claim the idols are better. God speaks of the future to correct that belief and challenge their worldview. Easy to rationalise away God's word "I already knew that." Honesty comes when humility is present. We choose destructive habits that prevent us from being honest and living genuinely. Instead, they defaulted to traitorous acts. They betrayed God. Why Jesus can: Jesus never broke a promise. The hands that formed the heavens and formed humans from the dust of the ground - were the same hands that healed lepers and were nailed to the cross. Jesus had peace in the most difficult times because he was perfectly attuned to his Father. He was betrayed, he was not a traitor. He suffered but not to be refined - so that we would be refined. How do we live now: The only person God can't save is the one you pretend to be. Obedience and authentic living come from the realisation of Jesus and to start being honest with ourselves. We will live authentically because He is authentic.
Summary Babylon is beautiful, powerful, secure, and in charge. What they do with their power is corrupt. God challenges abuses of power. The chapter invites us to reflect: "What will I do with power?" We must also contemplate: "If Babylon abused power and was corrected, what will God do in our day against abuses of power?" What We Need If we sat in the seat of power, calling the shots, with the ability to change things how we want - would we use our power for good, or would we do the same thing others have done with the power? We long for power used correctly. However, power often is abused. Relationships can quickly become broken and soured by abuse. Societies struggle when those in power use it incorrectly. We desperately need power used appropriately. But like Babylon in this chapter we see that as power multiplies it is mismanaged and harmful. God challenges power and its abuse in this chapter. Through natural consequence or divine intervention - abuse of power will be corrected by God. Instead, he will exalt the humble and the vulnerable. God fights for the weak. God is working through those who stop corruption. Why We Can't Power corrupts. With more power comes control and pushing of agendas. The vulnerable are ignored and oppressed. They think themselves invulnerable and above accountability and the need for transparency. “No one sees me.” Is used to give power abusive capabilities. Babylon believes, as all who hold the keys of power do, that they will withstand anything and succeed even if they are crooked and corrupt. Once power is taken from the powerful, they are torn apart just as they did to the vulnerable. Why Jesus Can Jesus gave up power. He had all power but he gave it up. He was not weak being put on the cross. He was so powerful that he didn't retaliate and willingly went to the cross. This is a power we have never seen before in humanity. His disciples James and John mistook the true secret of power - Jesus taught them it was found in service. Now What? The way we treat the vulnerable is an indicator of our understanding of salvation and our relationship with God. With power, in any form - whether finances, position, reputation, or influence - we are called to relinquish it. By praying to God and giving up ourselves to him, we learn to live not by power, but by faith. Giving the power to God allows me to live in a way that doesn't take power from others. We now serve and live differently and proactively help those in need.
Summary Bel and Nebo - the gods of Babylon fail to provide for and protect people. They are powerless. They must be carried. In contrast, God carries us. God shows his care and compassion for those sucked into worshipping idols. However, he also challenges and corrects. God: God is correcting and teaching his people the right way to live. He can see them failing and He won't let it persist. God here uses logic and reason to correct. Yet, God also talks about consequences and outcomes - worshipping idols does not increase people, it decreases them. God also states clearly their failure. He is compassionate but not afraid to challenge. We think that following Jesus is only nice and comforting things. God's desire for us is to reveal our sins and failures and the right way to live. Gospel It is good news that God tells us to listen, to learn, and to live differently. If God speaks it, God also provides everything for his word to be effective. God does whatever he wishes. His wish is to make you whole. Jesus challenged his disciples often in their thinking and behaviour. There was unmeasured love for them, but they knew his challenges were for them to improve for their good. Reflection What do you find difficult about following Jesus? Why do you think it is challenging? Give it to God today.
Summary God knows the end from the beginning. God is the first and the last. God alone can speak about the future. Isaiah speaks and we will listen because He speaks on behalf of the one true God. God God calls Cyrus. A king who never knew or acknowledged him - so that he could stop the Babylonian conquests. Years before Cyrus was born, God talks about this king. Babylon who takes Assyria's seat as the world power would eventually do the same evil deeds. God sends Cyrus and the Medes and Persians to correct this wrong. Cyrus was also the King who would give the order to allow the Israelites to return home to rebuild Jerusalem. When we contrast this chapter with other prophets of the Bible - we can see a similar message - Babylon is not eternal (no human empire is) and it will give way to the Medes and Persians. They too will disappear. Only 1 kingdom will remain. Gospel An anointed King coming to deal with evil in this world - sounds like Jesus doesn't it? God is openly declaring the future so that we will put our trust in him. God is not working in the dark, but he is in the light. Jesus said: "I have told you these things before they happened so that when they do happen you will believe." (John 14:29). God has prepared everything. The future direction of this universe is moving towards God's kingdom plan. "Every knee will bend, and every tongue will confess allegiance to me." These words appear in the New Testament looking forward to the day when all the world will worship King Jesus. If there is no other God but Yahweh - then all nations will worship him eventually. They will discover the one true God.
SummaryAre all religions basically the same and pointing to the same thing. The difference between the God of the Bible and the other gods worshipped by people. The other gods are about what you do for them, whereas the God of Isaiah is about what He does for you. God pays the price, God does the work. Salvation in human religion is a human achievement. Salvation in God's way is God's achievement. GodYou have to do so much to worship the gods. So much effort is involved in making it, and so much time is spent bowing before it. This kind of religion is built on human actions and accomplishments. The God of the Bible initiates. The God of Isaiah is the opposite. Worshipping God is not about survival. Worshipping God is about lifting up humanity. Worship of idols is feeding on ashes, and believing in lies. Religion is perceived by many as a delusion that degrades humanity. There is an irony in saying that all religions believe the same thing.Some people say all religions lead to the same place but neglect to realise the diversity of beliefs in religion. It is naive to put all the distinct beliefs of the world into one category and label them the same. The God of the Bible is different to other deities worshipped. To lump Isaiah's God in with other beliefs about god is foolish and misguided. This God is distinct - known for what he does for people, not for what people do for him.God's way is summed up in the image of water flowing onto the land to nourish it just like the Spirit flows and creates life in my heart (44:3). GospelIt is good news that God is both Redeemer and Creator. God doesn't need your help. Some people think it's "Do your best then God will do the rest" but this is idol worship. Idol worship is about making god and then living for god. Maybe we should see it like: "God did the best so that I can rest." He paid the price. He redeemed me. Jesus also called us to be born of the water and the spirit in John 3. A transformation that comes from above. God's initiative to create my new lifestyle.
Summary God wants to do here and now what He did there and then. God is calling for a faith that takes the promises and past experiences of God in history and invites God to work again here in the present. Isaiah 43 moves forward from the focus on creation to God's saving actions in history. Isaiah looks to the Rescue of the Israelite Slaves from Egyptian slavery and promises God will do a new Exodus in their day. God Isaiah pulls together some interesting memories from Israelite history to encourage his readers. First, he calls them “Jacob-Israel” to remind them of how their nation began. Jacob was the son of Isaac who ran away from home and made bad choices. But by wrestling with God, God promised he would bless and protect him. This is when the name change happened. In some way, by starting here, Isaiah is inviting the listeners to wrestle with God too. To also discover God for themselves. God declares at the end that he alone blots out sins, promising never to think of them again. If God forgets something, does that mean it never existed? God is also bringing a new redemption from a new Empire oppressing them - Babylon. Like Egypt, Assyria, and other nations before and after - God will stand up for His people. “I am going to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness” (vs 19) God will save us, he Himself. Like the parting of the Red Sea, he promises to part the wilderness with a river. Gospel Jacob wrestled with God because he realised his need, his sin was his burden. The sad part of Isaiah 43 is that “the dear family of Jacob, refuse to ask for God's help.” (Vs 22) they would rather be burdened with their sins and faults than to come to God for help. God invites us to come to him and review the situation together. Consult with God. Don't run from him. What Jacob did right was that he went to God. God can rescue one or he can rescue many. He can protect in the floodwaters and in the fire. He can defeat oppressive empires and conquering armies. Why not just go to him?
Summary God has a grand destiny for Israel. They would transform the world and many would be drawn into a relationship with God. Israel does not accomplish God's call for them. So He must do it himself. He must become the Servant. The Lord will fulfill his law and call as was required. God God is the Creator God who makes everything, holds everything in his hand, and works in the world to continue creating life. The reality of this world is corrupt and dark, yet God is invested in its redemption. Israel was called to reveal this God to the world - yet still they failed. So it becomes necessary that God correct Israel. The people He called became like the rest of the world. Gospel It is good news that God sends His Servant. Jesus is the One who God chose, the beloved Son in whom God is pleased (Matthew 3:17). God is bringing justice through Jesus because he never did any wrong. Not even the weakest was threatened by Him. Jesus will not falter, he will definitely not fail. Yet Jesus didn't seek fame and glory. In fact he avoided it. He would rather be incognito and insignificant in the world's standards. Jesus exudes humility. Reflection What do people see when they see you?
Summary Isaiah 41 is a courtroom scene. God invites them to present their case. He's challenging the idols. God presents both knowledge of the future and his creative power throughout history as evidence for his right to be God. God God is the Creator and the Revealer. It has always been countercultural to see God as our Creator instead of something we create. Idols don't make strong, they have to be made strong. The smith works hard to make it stand up and bring the parts together. Then people worship it. But God is the Smith, not the steel. He chooses us, forms us, makes us strong and holds us up. We don't hold God up, he holds us up. God can have friends, like Abraham. God chooses, he is not chosen. God is also the gardener. He plants the trees. Ironically, humanity cuts the trees down and makes idols out of them. Gospel God delivers the good news by His messenger. God himself is organising the message of deliverance (41:27). We refer to the 4 Gospels which detail the life of Jesus for this reason: Jesus is this messenger God sent. What He said, lived, and did is God's good news message. God sent us a message that reverberates through history. God sending Jesus was the ultimate message of victory we needed - it's what let's Him say He can hold our hand with His victorious right hand. We never could do enough to make a good and lasting changing for humanity - only Jesus did.
Summary As we move through Isaiah 40, the chapter is full of anticipation and excitement. Everyone is preparing for the coming of the new king. But the King is none other than God Himself. He will lead His people like a shepherd. God From verse 12, Isaiah makes us question ourselves and think about who God really is? The emphasis is on God's creative power. He is a living God unlike the created idols or things of created nature. Who can you compare God to? The first reason given for looking to God's power - is that though I fade, God does not. His word is true and does not fade over time. God won't grow weary and faint on you. He won't fail to help you. The second reason is that God sees what I'm going through. He is not absent from our planet. He sits above the circle of our planet (implying he's more like a satellite focused on our planet than space junk floating through space never to return to Earth). God is all-powerful and he is dependable. The third reason is that God can't be fully and totally experienced. He is eternally greater and wiser than me. I will always have something to learn. I can keep coming back to him day after day, and he will have fresh insights to teach me. Gospel The messenger is bringing good news. Imagine that moment when you're at war and the message arrives: “God is coming.” This is an exciting event that changes everything. When we talk about the good news of Jesus, this is what it means: God is stepping in and everything changes when he turns up. Jesus used this same language when he declared God's king is near - He was really pointing to His work to change not only individuals but the world. What does Isaiah 40 reveal to you about Jesus? Spend time meditating on who Jesus is and how he changes your life.
This is the third and final part of Hezekiah's story. Make sure to listen to chapters 36 and 37 before listening to this episode. Sickness and sign A sickness, a sign, a song, and a simple mistake. This is Hezekiah's last test - death. Will he trust or doubt God? Hezekiah wept bitterly realising his time was up. This was not at the end of his life, but in his prime. It also seems to be happening while the king of Assyria is knocking on his door. Isaiah returns saying God will show mercy and heal him. Later we realise it is a medicinal remedy that Isaiah gives him. Now Hezekiah is given a sign like Ahaz was given a sign - but the son is trusting and listens to God. Maybe symbolically the sun going back is like saying that Hezekiah's choice are rewriting the history of his father's sins. Application We are not determined by our ancestry. God calls us no matter where we come from or what we done. A song Hezekiah writes a song after his healing highlighting the importance of life. He feels life is being robbed from him. Life moves so quickly and we live constantly in anticipation looking to the next thing, before we know it, it's all over. Hezekiah discovers the blessing of more life and embraces it. He wants to give those years to God. Every day of his life will be spent praising God in the temple. He makes a point here of showing how death is not an advantage. Death is an absence of consciousness. The dead don't praise. Only the living praise. Application we must make the most of the life we live now. We can see how Hezekiah heard Isaiah's message and responded in faith. How will you respond? A simple and silly mistake Then we have a conclusion to the story that anticipates a bigger threat than Assyria. Babylon. Perhaps, God is looking forward to the next generations. Wanting them to have faithful trust in God. Yet, the same mistakes come to all people. Hezekiah naively shows them everything in the temple treasury thinking they are from a distant land. It seems not a big deal to him. Even Hezekiah plays it down. But it is silly move. Maybe it is slightly bordering on pride. Isaiah warns this will be the nation that will eventually destroy Jerusalem. Hezekiah only saw his present situation - and he didn't (like Isaiah) look at God's bigger plan. Application Hezekiah was a great king, but he was not the KING. This theme will carry us into the final 27 chapters of Isaiah. From here on out it is a book of encouragement and hope. It sees a people broken and falling apart but also a Saviour come to comfort them.
This is part two of a three-part story. Go back to Isaiah 36 to understand the context for this part of the story of King Hezekiah's test. Summary King Hezekiah is not like his father. Isaiah approached Ahaz offering him support and was rejected. Now Hezekiah is seeking support from Isaiah. This is a David and Goliath moment. Goliath, Assyria, has defied God and waged war on Jerusalem. David's son Hezekiah is concerned by this. They write letters to the king threatening him. God God's response is the same response all along. It is a repetition of a message that has been given to humanity for a long time. He assures: “I myself will move against him.” (Vs 7) Hezekiah is threatened by a letter from King Sennacherib detailing how he will crush him. Hezekiah takes that letter and places it in the temple before God. Hezekiah is the first reader of Isaiah. Everything we've been reading so far, Hezekiah read first and believed. You can see how he's been changed by Isaiah's message. He's totally different to his father Ahaz. He sees the threat, but he knows how empty it is. Hezekiah's God can't be thrown into the fire and destroyed forever. Gospel It is good news that God fights instead of us. God promises he will defend them (vs 35). God's response is that Hezekiah won't have to draw a sword or shield. No seige will take place. God himself will send Sennacherib home. Like at the time of the exodus when the angel of the Lord fought for them, here 185,000 Assyrian soldiers are defeated sending Sennacherib home. In the end his own sons killed him. The evil path is always self-destructive. King Hezekiah succeeds here by doing different to anyone who sat on the same throne - he went to God, and let God fight his battles. Conclusion Hezekiah succeeded here but this is not the end of the story. Assyria is fading away, but now a bigger test of faith is coming. The great enemy we all face. Hezekiah is dying.
Isaiah 36 is the beginning of a 3 part story. King Hezekiah's test. Recap In Isaiah 7, Isaiah confronted King Ahaz at the aqueducts of Jerusalem as they prepared for an attack from Israel and Syria. Ahaz failed to trust God, being more focused on his local attackers. He hoped to get help from Assyria. Isaiah said this is not a good idea. Now in King Hezekiah's day, Assyria is coming to siege and attack Jerusalem just as Isaiah warned. In the same spot Isaiah stood, the Assyrian king's chief meets with Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah. Summary Sennacherib's spokesperson tells them not to look to Egypt. While this sounds like what Isaiah said all along, it is actually a way to crush their spirits. Next, he says that God won't help them, but he misunderstands that Hezekiah's reforms of tearing down the altars was God's desire. He tries to show how their army is far superior to Judah's and says they have nothing to rely on. He ends finally by using the prophet's words against them: “The Lord has told us: ‘attack and destroy it.'” Everything this officer says is intended to threaten, dishearten and discourage King Hezekiah and Jerusalem. God Assyria saw weapons and armies as their gods. Gods of violence and war. Their taunts were the words of Isaiah mixed with religious taunts. It is easy to have a mistaken view of God. Maybe Eliakim and co would believe this Assyrian representative. Maybe he's right about Hezekiah failing them. He speaks in Hebrew (the language of Jerusalem) and bribes them with everything Isaiah has told them God would provide them should they be faithful to Him. Gospel At some point, the word of God needs to become part of our life. It can be easy for us to listen to the Bible and hear encouraging messages and say I believe. But will we live them too? When crisis comes, how will we respond? When we are doubting, will we give up, or renew our faith again? When Satan puts before us temptation, will we fall or rise again? “Do not answer him.” It was the command of Hezekiah to the people. Everyone remained silent. In this one thing, they are putting their trust in their king. How do we go when Jesus tells us to be silent and listen? Conclusion Ahaz failed in a similar test. Will Hezekiah repeat his parents' mistakes or will he follow God's word? Will this be a turning moment for Israel? Will Hezekiah exemplify what it looks like to be a true king?
Summary God judges the nations, beginning first with the heavens - a quick way of referring to the spiritual enemies that are behind the different nations waging war on God's people. Isaiah longs to see them removed completely. Edom is a nation focused on. They are a neighbouring nation to Israel that often waged war on them, even helping Babylon when they come to destroy Jerusalem 150 years after Isaiah's time. Such contentious and constant hatred of God is not forgotten. The destruction is total, describing the judgment using language from the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah - cities who were defiant against God. God What God does here is confronting to us as Australians. He is devoting Edom to judgment. Total removal. However, we are not talking about nice, honest individuals. We are talking about armies that are dedicated to totally wiping out other nations themselves. Isaiah is watching a gruesome enemy like the Assyrians wipe out entire nations. The Edomites are equally committed to this bloodshed. God responds, not in the way the Assyrians and their gods demand. I think of the king of Assyria who declared: "I will leave a terror behind that the world will never forget." So God responds against such evil. God is not a torturer like the kings of Assyria. He is swift and final. Once judgment happens on the gods, his work is to destroy the destroyer. We see that God's judgment is not eternal torment, but instant and final judgment. "The judgment that will never end" is a common phrased used from Genesis to Revelation to show the final and complete, irreversible judgment. Earlier in Isaiah, God's judgment is described as a strange and unusual deed. Why? God is not willing that any should perish. Torture doesn't even cross his mind. His goal is simply to restore balance and return the world back to its original glory. References to God using a book also imply not a vengeful and maniacal tendency in God, but one who is measured, he investigated and surveyed the land, and now he makes his move. Only coming in judgment because evil has become too much. God in doing this is careful and like the surgeon cutting out the disease - he is removing evil for the good of all creation. Gospel The end is of a land that has been restored to a time before humanity was in the picture. Only animals remain in the land. Why? They are not prone to the utter destruction humanity is. God takes charge and gives back the land to the innocent creatures. The images of Isaiah 35 take us to the point of judgment - to bring new life. From start to finish, God wants us to be free of suffering and pain. It is good news that the end of the story will be filled with joy and gladness. We are jumping ahead to the best part of any story - when the good guys win. The parched ground will become springs of water. "Be strong and do not fear. God is coming to destroy your enemies. He is coming to save you." (35:4)
Summary How do you respond to the challenges you face every day? What about when you hear of bad things happening around the world? Isaiah invites us not to take matters into our own hands or to live in a state of fear and anxiety. When problems build up, we need to pray. The king is in charge, and prayer is us going to consult with the King. Isaiah jumps back and forth between the threats of Assyria and the assurance of God's power and inevitable victory. God In the first line of the prayer Isaiah turns to the mercy of God. (Vs 2) His prayer is filled with the trust and patience that comes from knowing God will respond. As we pray, we are beginning to readjust our thinking in line with God's perspective.Patience produces a new perspective of our present circumstances. “Be our strong arm each day and our salvation in times of trouble.” (Vs 2). When you're feeling overwhelmed remember that God is your strength to endure each challenge. When we make declarations to God, our own heart is strengthened. What do I think when the enemy seeks to bring me down? When I pray, I can boldly in faith claim this promise: “the enemy runs at the sound of your voice.” (Vs 3) Faith commitments are not merely internal beliefs, but public proclamations of trust. What will shake others, will make the believer stronger. When we rely on God, we stand strong and are not swayed by circumstances. Prayer will also produce integrity. When we dwell with the One who is holy, we reflect his character. They refuse to listen to those who plan evil because they are too busy listening to God who is good. Character is a big part of confidence. Prayer doesn't only change your circumstance, but your character. Gospel Prayer also helps us see the King in all his splendour. When we are sick and helpless, it is good news that God forgives. We will only rely on prayer if we first realise that Jesus is our Saviour. As prayers ascend, assurance of salvation, and of God's forgiveness fills us. Prayer comes from knowing that he will save us and will look after us.
Summary From a desolate wasteland to a fertile field. A large harvest from pestilence and famine. How is it possible that God can bring life from the dead? God God's weakest is still stronger than humanity's greatest. Judah continues to go to Egypt. But God invites them to lift up battle flags to Him. God calls for us to trust in him. We don't need a thing. Gospel The righteous king is coming - King Jesus. A realisation of our nothing, and God's kingdom coming from Jesus calls for transformation. It also is significant that God aligns himself with the vulnerable and calls us to stand for the weak and disenfranchised. When God is working in our life, we live God's plan in daily life. Not giving into sin and corruption - but living a righteous life. As we individually are transformed by the Spirit, and as this is repeated in the world around us, we experience revival. Reflection What does it look like for you to experience Eden today?
Summary God shakes his head at Israel's stubbornness. They keep going after Egypt for security against Assyria. “Egypt can't help you. She's a toothless monster.” (30:7) Israel's unwillingness to recognise God's holiness has made her decay. Isaiah describes her as a wall that is cracking; decaying and about to fall. Defenceless because they have rejected God. Like when Moses went to the mountain to appeal on Israel's behalf, Isaiah does the same. “The Lord must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help.” (Isaiah 30:18) The coming of God in the final section (30:27-33) is full of hope. The Assyrians with their warrior gods were knocking on their doors. Instead, God will fight for them. The evil king that burned so many cities will meet his match (v33). God God is patient, he wants to show mercy. God wants the best for you. God is inviting you to come to him even if it's been a long time or you've never gone to him before. God does not look for good, God looks for willing. Gospel It is good news that prayers are not based on whether I am good enough. We call on the name of Jesus in prayer because we trust in his goodness instead of our own. God is gracious. Any other god we pray to will demand high results - but with Jesus, no one is measured before they are heard. No one is evaluated before they are embraced. They are listened to and accepted. Reflection What might it mean for you to return and rest on God today?
Summary God made a promise. He will keep it. Isaiah reminds us of the God who redeemed Abraham and who called him to fulfil the mission of being a blessing to the nations (vs 22). The promise still stands even if corruption has filled the house of Israel and the evil king of Assyria is laying waste to the nations. God promises that the enemies surrounding them will vanish like a dream - they may shake in fear now, but God will wake them and they will realise it was nothing. God God is the one guiding. Lumps of clay can be reformed. God is taking the time to remould Jerusalem. He is not the type to give up so quickly. As usual, the failures of Jerusalem do not determine the willingness of God to remain faithful. Gospel It is good news that God remembers his promises. God promised Abraham many children. This promise meant that God's family would one day spread across the entire world. God's kingdom would be universal. In Christ Jesus, the blessing of Abraham comes to the Gentiles (Gal. 3:14).
Summary (Isaiah 28-33) Isaiah 28 returns to the theme of distrusting human powers, rulers, or nations. Because though it seems like a good idea to build an alliance with Egypt now, things will change. They need to rely on God who won't change on them even when things change. We have fast forwarded past the time of King Ahaz who was facing conflict from local neighbouring nations. Now the big threat of Assyria, which Isaiah was talking about all along, is finally here. (Part 1 - vs 1-15) Posture of the heart. Once again, God's people are not cooperating and the leaders are acting like drunken fools. Ephraim, north of Jerusalem, is being offered God's rest, but they want to do it their own way. Jerusalem is worse acting cynical and acting like nothing bad will ever happen to them. (Part 2 - vs 16-22) To the instability of the leaders and the current world they find themselves in, Isaiah's solution is God's setting up a sure foundation where he will establish justice. Then when the storms come and everything is washed away, those who put their trust in God will be only ones remaining (a little like the ark story). God will not be rash - but will move at his pace. Something we, and Israel, are not always comfortable with. But if God is eternal, his pace will be longer, and bigger, than ours. (Part 3 - vs 23-29) Isaiah concludes with a parable about a farmer who has wisdom about all things horticulture. He understands the process. He has a time and plan. There is a progression in farming from cultivating, to preparing, sowing, and then planting. The farmer knows what he is doing and will grow crops. God is wise, has a plan, and knows what he is doing. God God has a plan. God is wise. God can be trusted. God offers rest. God is not rushing. God rules and calls people to be built on his kingdom of justice and righteousness. This shows that God is not corrupt or crooked. Gospel It is good news that we can build our lives on a more stable and secure foundation. God has laid the foundation for us by giving us Jesus. Instead of us needing to build our own foundation, or to make something of ourselves, God has offered us security and certainty. God built the foundations. God gave his revelation. God gave his law. God showed his plan of salvation through the temple. But God kept his promises and made it possible by giving us His Son. Reflection What might it mean for you to trust in Jesus today?
Summary Since Isaiah 24, we have seen the unfolding of God's response to the evil and sin of the world. God himself comes in judgment. This is a global and universal response. God deals with evil and sin, which removes the darkness and death. His ultimate goal is to deal with the wicked angels who have swayed the world into rebellion against God. This chapter shows the reversal concluding with the serpent being punished and killed. After this, the vision concludes with a gathering of all the world to worship. The nations in conflict currently, will then be united under God. From Assyria to Egypt, no longer doing evil things, but now gathering to a new garden of Eden planted on the Mountain of Jerusalem. God In Isaiah 5 we saw God prune the vineyard which grew wild. Now we see a new vineyard being planted. God himself gardens it and waters it. God plans for this garden to fully fruit and cover the entire earth with life. His original plan for humanity restored. We see the destructive nature of Assyria, we see the oppressive nature of Egypt, and in comparison, we see the gathering, creative, nurturing character of God. Where nations destroy, God creates. The serpent/leviathan is described as fleeing. It is weak, grovelling on the ground. God carries the sword of judgment to stop the serpent from inflicting any more pain. Gospel It is good news that this is the end goal of the universe. Jesus is coming soon. When he removes evil and sin from the universe, the world will be restored to its former glory. Evil and sin, the weeds of the universe, will be uprooted and a new garden will grow. John sees in vision "The tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations." (Rev 22:2) No longer will anything cursed be there because God's throne will be established there. All nations come together in worship of God. This is what Isaiah saw too.
Summary Whenever there is celebration, singing is bound to happen. This song comes at the end of a time of difficulty and trial. When God intervenes and brings judgment - things get better. The song is a reflection on the peace that comes with relying on God. With the coming of judgment is a time of restoration and renewal. God So far in this section which started in chapter 24 we have seen God judging the spiritual forces which were influencing the world toward evil. He has stood against the kings which have done evil in the world. God judges. This is the great stabilising balance in the universe. Without it, evil goes on forever. Knowing this creates 3 things in the believer's life: 1. Peace. “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you” (vs 3). As we trust in God he is our rock. 2. Purpose. The world is not senseless. There is accountability and there is a God who sees. He humbles the proud. He lifts up the oppressed. 3. Presence. God is present. Where God is, there is life. The evil that is done in this world is immediately reversed with the coming of the Creator God. Death is reversed and gives way to life. Gospel It is good news that God judges. It is good news that God judges in history. It is not put off til later. He now sits on his throne. It is good news that God is coming again. It brings joy to the deflated and lifts them up. It brings life to the dead and raises them up. The book of revelation says that the everlasting good news is when God's hour of judgment begins. John believes with Jesus it has already begun. All nations hear this message (like in Isaiah) and all are called to return to God. He sits now at the right hand of the Father in heaven. Reflection
Summary Have you ever felt like you were sinking and spiralling into darkness? Isaiah stood on the mountain that Jerusalem is built upon and beheld conflict on every side - Isaiah was spiralling. Yet something is pulling him out - a light breaking the darkness - he saw death being devoured - deleted from the universe. He saw darkness being dispelled. He saw tears wiped away. How can he honestly respond with stubborn and persistent hope in a hopeless time? God “He will swallow up death forever; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth, Behold, this is our God; we have waited for him, that he might save us. This is the Lord; we have waited for him; let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.” (Isaiah 25:8-9) The coming of God is always one that results in gladness and rejoicing. God is the Saviour. God is a healer. God is the comforter. Gospel It is good news that Jesus on that very mountain defeated death. He was nailed to the cross and laid in a tomb. Apparently, death swallowed up another righteous man. However, we see Jesus rising on the third day. This event is the indicator that Isaiah's hope is now a reality. Jesus took away the depressing cloud of doom and despair. He promises to wipe away every tear from our eyes. Imagine the moment when God's new creation is complete. Sin is no more. No more Satan. No more tears. Just peace and harmony. Which is by the way how the book of Revelation ends too. John saw what Isaiah saw too. What both were waiting for was when the rightful king sat on the throne again. When Jesus rules, everyone rejoices. Then all voices in the universe will be united in cheering: “This is our God! We trusted in him, and he saved us! This is the Lord, in whom we trusted. Let us rejoice in the salvation he brings!” (Isaiah 25:9).
Summary Though Isaiah has observed the failure of Israel, he zooms out and sees the same flaws in the worldwide scene. Now he looks and sees the entire earth has sinned. “The earth suffers for the sins of its people, for they have twisted God's instructions, violated his laws, and broken his everlasting covenant" (Isaiah 24:5 NLT). Like the time of Noah, Isaiah sees the world falling apart because of human evil so God must respond. God We would like to point the finger in blame and think we have progressed - but the human condition remains. God sees how all the evil is spreading and God can see where all the problems lie. God's ultimate plan is to delete evil from the universe. When judgment comes God is dealing with the problem of evil. The gods/angels in the heavens, the sun, and the moon - worshipped by many as deities and described here as the competition against God - will be punished. This is significant - the real origin of evil is not God, but Satan. Gospel It is good news that God responds to evil. Jesus looked forward also to his return when he would remove evil once and for all. He also used Noah's day as an example of what he is doing: "As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be at the coming of the Son of Man." Jesus sitting on His throne and coming to establish his kingdom at his return is good news. It is when he removes the evil of this world. It is first about fighting against the evil opposition of the universe - the forces of Darkness. Reflection How does hope in Jesus change your present struggles?
Summary Tyre, an island nation, was prolific for its international trade and its navy. They were situated on an island off the coast of the Mediterranean and controlled 2 important harbours. Yet, here we see the common problem of wealthy nations or people - when profits are a priority over people. Isaiah shows again how another god - wealth, consumerism, and production - is weak compared to God. God As long as Tyre prioritises maximising profits and amassing wealth - it will not be as strong as it could be. Isaiah pictures a ship returning from trade to discover the island destroyed. What will it do then? It will be a boat without a place to dock - out at sea with no goal and no hope. Without God, this is what we experience. However, God sees a hope for Tyre. God's hope is for all people and nations. He sees her wealth now being used for good and even building up God's kingdom. The vision for Tyre is not to become nothing, but for Tyre to be part of using their wealth for God. Gospel It is good news that wealth and status are not a priority for Jesus. Jesus chose to have no home, and no wealth himself. When Jesus visited Tyre, a woman came to him seeking the healing of her daughter and had great faith in Jesus (Matthew 15:21-28). Jesus considered Tyre a place where he was better received than in Jerusalem (Matthew 11:20-22). What is interesting is that though they were so wealthy, they could not escape the realities and problems of life. Only in Jesus is there hope for us. Money doesn't satisfy, business comes and goes, and success will not make us happy. Reflection How does following Jesus redefine your relationship with money?
Summary Isaiah now looks to his own city. They are no different to the other nations described so far. Though they were called to be a light, they have become focused on themselves. Assyria's coming will bring heartache and destruction. At a time when Jerusalem should be seeking the Lord, they are instead acting spiritually immature. What is true of the city, is true of individuals. The second half of the chapter details an immature leader more interested in his own wealth and status than the King's. Isaiah warns that his job will be taken from him and given to another named Eliakim. God God wants real, heart-level commitment. Jerusalem spent more time focused on building up fortifications, armies, and weaponry. Shebna, a leader in Israel, is a big reason for this. Isaiah is in tears as he writes this chapter. God wanted Israel to be so much more. God longs for repentance and change, but Jerusalem is only thinking about Jerusalem. They have an excuse - "tomorrow we die" so why bother taking God seriously? So they begin to feast and drink. The sin that can't be forgiven is the sin you are unwilling to give to God. Repentance is not about being miserable, it's about being self-aware. Do I take seriously God's word? I'm not talking about being miserable and joyless. That's not Isaiah' point. What I'm talking about is commitment, earnestness, sincerity. We can take things seriously while still being joyful. Gospel Jesus encountered a similar experience with Jerusalem when he stood on the Mount of Olives. We see him weeping over her, longing for her change. Jesus encounters similar stubbornness when he comes to Jerusalem. He longs for their transformation and their welcome of him - but they fight him, argue with him, and reject him over and over again. They nail and crucify him to the cross. Yet human failure does not determine God's plan. That's a theme Isaiah returns to repeatedly. In the book of Revelation, Jesus has the keys to the house of David. He takes control, and he is worthy of doing that. He has not become proud or self-focused. Jesus deserves to take control and have the highest position. Reflection What does it look like for you to make a heart commitment to Jesus today?
Summary The Assyrian conquest is a massive threat throughout the book of Isaiah. Nations are in negotiations with each other, but the Assyrians are coming. A threat from the east. In Isaiah's time in the 8th century BC, this was an international catastrophe. The Assyrians saw it as their calling to vanquish and subjugate all other nations. This is on the same level as the Nazis conquest of Europe during World War 2. Edom is referenced as seeing the war coming. Arabia is encouraged to take in refugees and care for these people. This is an international crisis. God Isaiah sees the international scene. The Bible writers do not have a narrow view of the world. Israel was intended to lift up the one God and be an international influence. That's why the prophet Isaiah doesn't just write regarding Israel, but the entire world. Assyria believed they were the only humans, and all other nations were inferior. This resulted in their conquest of the nations. However, God will not be conquered. This is why Isaiah says that though it will be catastrophic, they will not be successful. 100 million people today are forcibly displaced from their home around the world. Gospel God is not a bystander here. God is working through this catastrophe to bring about his plans to the nations. Through this event, Israel will interact with the nations. Assyria won't be successful, but Israel will continue to be an influence in the world. God is at work in the world even when the days are evil. Reflection How do we relate to those currently experiencing war and who are forcibly displaced?
Summary Egypt - the land of kings and gods. Israel and Judah felt the threat of Assyria coming from the north, so they turned south to Egypt for help. They were relying on them for protection (20:6). The Nile River was the source of life for Egyptians. The Pharaoh was the source of wisdom and power. The idols were the source of courage and will of the gods. Isaiah says all are coming to nothing. Isaiah shows the difference between God and the gods of Egypt by walking around naked. Without God, it is like we have no cover, protection, or security. God “There is no such thing as not worshipping. Everybody worships. The only choice we get is what to worship.” David Foster Wallace We worship whatever we look to for security, protection and hope. Egypt worshipped many things but all failed them. Eventually, Egypt would be attacked and destroyed by Assyria. If only they had discovered the one Creator God. Isaiah sees a future where the Egyptians worship God also. And like Israel, they too discover the same gifts and life. Instead of war, alliance, peace, and blessing would flow on all the nations. Gospel It is good news that in Christ is all wisdom and knowledge. Again we see that Christ is for the nations. The gods of this world are futile and pointless in comparison to Christ. Paul writes that the world offers only emptiness and meaningless living. But in Christ is the fullness of God. Again if Egypt had discovered this, they would have discovered real life and blessings. Yet it was to a sinful world like Egypt that Christ came to bring life. Reflection Reflect again on Isaiah's message to Egypt. What was one thing that stood out to you today from Isaiah 19-20?
Summary Syria and Israel were the nations north of Judah while Ethiopia (modern day Sudan) is the southern kingdom. Israel worships idols while these kingdoms around them are plotting war and politics. Isaiah reminds everyone that they are like kids playing in the playground and God is the teacher watching silently but he will put them in their place soon. Since Isaiah 13 we have seen different nations the focus of Isaiah's writing. Nations far and wide come into view. Chapter 18 turns its attention to Ethiopia. This is the empire that spanned the North of Africa near the Nile River. A nation which sent envoys far and wide. They wanted to spread their kingdom far and set up a worldwide kingdom. It was a strong and mighty nation. God When God sets up his kingdom, all the nations are included within God's plan. It is not one kingdom taking over and subsuming all kingdoms, but one kingdom including all kingdoms within it. A time of transformation and change is visualised. Gospel It is good news that God doesn't select one nation above all others. God is the God of all the universe. God's plan always included all the nations. Jesus sent the church out further than Israel. Phillip even encountered an Ethiopian and spoke about the book of Isaiah to this man. “There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:28 NLT Reflection What do you hear God saying new to you today in Isaiah's prophecy against forgetful Israel?
Summary The two chapters look at Moab being attacked and destroyed. Isaiah is discouraged and watching with sadness. Tears roll down his face as he sees the kingdom brought down overnight. There is yearning and longing in Isaiah's words. Why would anyone want such senseless destruction? God God is heartbroken over the lost. God not willing that any should perish. We can sense the heart of God as we listen to the words of Isaiah. God sees them going to the gods they worship and it's pointless. They are trusting in idols that are dead. No one is coming to save them. What is our response to those who reject God and who suffer and wander? Gospel Jesus weeps over those who would not turn back. His heart was always filled with compassion for the sheep that wander. He wants none to perish but all to come to repentance. Jesus gives his life for sinners. Jesus prays for his enemies as they crucify him. He longs for the one sinner to come home. Reflection Read Isaiah 15-16. What does it mean for you to demonstrate Christ-like love to others today?
Summary Behind all the nations warring and the conflicts is a bigger spiritual war. Satan is the originator of evil. The cause of this spiritual conflict is the aspiration of created beings to be like God. This story is repeated throughout the Bible and in our own lives. God The source of evil is Satan, not God. Behind the works of the different empires is a spiritual war. God is a good and just God. God's character is of humility and lowering himself. Satan is the opposite. We have the chance here to see what Satan stands for and what God stands for. As we face our own challenges and temptations then, we must be clear on what is happening around us. God calls us to arm ourselves and protect ourselves with the armour of God. The fight we have is spiritual. Gospel It is good news that though many failed, Jesus the true king did not fall into temptation. When in the wilderness he resisted the temptation of all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. Jesus is victorious because he does not fall into the common trap of exalting himself. Even though he deserves to sit on the throne and to rule - he chooses to humble himself. Jesus both shows us what God is like and why he deserves to be our Ruler. Reflection Read Isaiah 14. What might it mean for you to live a more selfless life today?
Summary This is the first of eleven prophecies against different nations surrounding Judah. Likely none were read by those neighbouring nations except those living in Judah. Babylon is first, and at the time of writing was yet to be a world superpower. The City of Babylon was actually destroyed by the Assyrians during Isaiah's life. Isaiah is told of the rise and fall of Babylon. Eventually the Medes will come and remove Babylon. God While this oracle is about Babylon it also reminds us about who is really in charge. Daniel was told a similar thing about Babylon in a vision. “He controls the course of world events; he removes kings and sets up other kings.” (Daniel 2:21) It is easy to look at politics and world events, but it is not wise to. Assyria will give way to Babylon, and Babylon to Media and Persia, and to Greece, and to Rome. These kingdoms appear eternal and all-powerful - but no kingdom other than God's is our hope. Gospel It is good news that Babylon is not eternal. Neither is any kingdom. Babylon offers an eternal life but it fails. Only in Jesus can we experience eternal life. Jesus' kingdom is opposite to the world's kingdom. Instead of the proud and arrogant Babylon, Jesus' kingdom is a kingdom based on being poor in spirit (Matthew 5:3). This is the kingdom that won't be changed or destroyed. Reflection How has this passage challenged you to adjust your priorities?
Summary Chapter 11 concludes the King Ahaz story and leaves us with hope. God cuts down the trees that have been growing wild, but he cuts down so that new growth will appear. David's family tree may be challenged but it will not be ended because a Promised Child is coming who will set up a new kingdom. God is bringing salvation to Israel again. God wants to do what he did for Moses in his generation for Ahaz and his generation. Ahaz do you believe it? God Why does God get involved with the conflicts on the world stage like this? Salvation. God wants to bring peace not to Israel only but to the entire world. His vision is for a new era where peace reigns. No more predators hunting the prey - violent predator animals are now peacefully resting with the gentle animals and children. Gospel Isaiah visualizes a new exodus. In every generation God stands against the evil oppressors wanting to destroy and do evil. Reflection Think about your experience with God so far. What has God done in your life to save you?
Summary The plans of the mighty Assyrian army are exposed. They will descend on Israel and the surrounding nations with a pride and arrogance that comes with corrupt power. As a result, they will be cut down. Even though there are tumultuous times ahead for Israel, there is still hope on the horizon. This message is shouted across the whole empire, with 26 places mentioned, spanning the breadth of Assyria's vast empire. A small group of people will remain faithful to God, who alone is the trustworthy ruler. God God is sovereign over the nations. Though kings and kingdoms rise and fall, He rules over them all with justice. Pride and arrogance are not His way. In vs 33, Isaiah speaks about Assyria and says “he will cut down the proud. That lofty tree (of Assyria) will be brought down”. With geo-politics in a seemingly endless cycle of aggression and retaliation, Isaiah pulls back the curtain on who is truly in control. God. Even when things seem out of control, God is still in control. Gospel The good news is that not only God has authority over the nations, but he has given that over to Jesus, and with it Jesus sets up a new kind of kingdom. One that will never end. He is the perfect ruler. His kingdom is one for all people. Question: What area of your life would you like to hand over to God to control?
Summary Continuing the story of King Ahaz, Isaiah anticipates a new king who will rule on the throne. It will be like the sun dawning, bringing in a new day. War will be displaced by joy. Reality again is mixed with God's ideal future as the rest of the chapter outlines the downward spiral of Israel. The stump is pictured to be sprouting a new branch. The failed kings of Israel will be revived by a new king who deserves to sit on the throne. God Life without hope leaves us vulnerable and empty. God wants to give evidence to Ahaz about God's saving, protective care. God doesn't need many to bring victory. God brings victory out of hopelessness. So why does God spend so much time communicating the dark and depressing reality of Israel's story? Speak reality to spark realisation. Trust in God because look how everything else is failing you. Gospel It is good news that Jesus sits on the throne. Jesus is the king of justice and righteousness. Jesus is so different to Ahaz. Jesus was willing to empty himself to bring peace and fairness to this world. Those who sat on the throne before Jesus stuffed up and were power hungry. Jesus is the true king who deserves the throne. Reflection What might be holding you back from putting your hope in Jesus today?
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