God's purpose in Prophecy

 Read Isaiah 48.

Being conquered and captured by a foreign power, meant the people of Israel suffered the loss of everything.

Those events should not have come as any surprise to the nation.  Through His spokesmen, the prophets, God repeatedly warned them with specifics and called upon them to repent of their sin. But they would not listen.

In prophetic messages, God foretold of the 70 years of Babylonian captivity, Babylon's defeat by Cyrus, and of their return to the land.  Why did the LORD tell Israel about all these happenings in advance?
1. So, God alone would get the credit. (v.5)
The people had placed their trust for guidance and their future in other things.  When the prophecies became reality, the only explanation would be God's word.

2. So God could display His foreknowledge. (v.7-8)
He knows and controls the future.  No one else does.

3. So God alone would be praised. (v.9-11)
He reveals His truth and implements His plans for people to stand in awe of Him.  The reasonable response is to praise and worship the LORD.

The error the Jews made was to think that because of their heritage and because they used the right words they were in right standing with God.  God's view of them on the other hand is described with these words: hypocrites (v.1), obstinate and hardheaded (v.4), spiritually deaf (v.8a), rebel (v.8b).

How many people have held to the same erroneous thinking about their relationship with Christ?  Just because a person has parents who were believers in Jesus or because they went to church no more fits one for heaven than walking into a garage can turn someone into a car.  Reciting certain words does not make one right before the LORD.  He wants our exclusive, personal faith and trust in Him.

"Oh that you had paid attention to my commandments!  Then your peace would have been like a river and your righteousness live the waves of the sea." (v.18)

 

 

4 thoughts that will destroy your Life

 Read Isaiah 47.

This is an amazing prophecy regarding the end of the Babylonian Empire.  Dethroned and disgraced, the once powerful kingdom that ruled from India to Africa will be no more.  God had used the Babylonians to discipline the kingdom of Judah and take them captive for 70 years.

Babylon's demise happened quickly, as the LORD foretold in verse 9, "In a moment, in one day."  Daniel 5 needed only two verses at the end of the chapter to recount what took place.  Immediately, the Medes and Persians came to world power.

What was behind the downfall of this mighty empire?
"Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." (Proverbs 16:18)

Notice the quotes from God concerning the Babylonians.  This reminds us again that God hears our every word, knows the thoughts of our hearts, and watches our every action.
1. "You felt secure in your wickedness." (v.10a)
They thought they could sin and get away with it.

2. "You said, 'No one sees me.'" (v.10b) 
They thought, if there is a God in heaven, He is far removed and does not care about what I do.

3. "Your wisdom and your knowledge led you astray." (v.10c)
They thought they knew better than God about how to live and what guidance they should follow.

4. "You said in your heart, 'I am and there is no one besides me.'" (v.10d)
They thought that they arrived where they were by their own doing and they would be the masters of their fate.  False thinking led them to believe they could live with no accountability to the LORD.

So, God challenged them to go on and depend upon their own made up spiritualism (v.12) and their belief in astrology (v.13).  See if they can save you in the time of trouble and terror.  All of it will prove to be futile and a waste of time when real help is needed.

There is only One who can save. 
"'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'  Submit yourselves therefore to God.  Resist the devil and he will flee from you.  Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." (James 4:6b-8a)

 

Now, hear This!

 Read Isaiah 46.

Twice in this chapter, God says, "Listen to me."  In the middle of the chapter, He says, "Remember this."  What is it that the LORD wants His people to hear and remember?

The historical context has to do with encouraging Israel to look beyond the pending Babylonian captivity.  No matter what suffering and loss they may endure, there are some basics of the faith to which they must cling.  For them, locations will change, culture will change, leadership will change, but God does not!  He will be with them and deliver the nation.

Since the character of God does not change, the key statements may be equally applied to us for our hearing and reminders.

1. There is no other God. (vv.1-7)
Over and over again, the LORD claims that He is the only God there is.  All others are man-made illusions that are incapable of providing any help.  Believing in the power of the planets, like Bel the sun god, or carrying around idols, will prove to be a waste of time and money.

Instead of carrying around one's god, the LORD of the universe claims to carry us (v.4).  He superintends our lives from before our birth, while in the womb, into old age.  He has no equal.

2. He is sovereign over all. (vv.8-11)
As the eternal God, He has no beginning and no end.  The creation is not the result of chaos but purpose.  The LORD personally superintends His creation, including our lives, to fulfill all His plans.  "I will do it."

3. His righteousness is available. (vv.12-13)
He offer to us His power of forgiveness and making things right.  It is near us now.  Then, why do so many live alienated from God and carry their guilt and shame?  It is not because of a lack of provision from the LORD.  Verse 12 states the problem is a stubborn heart that refuses to acknowledge who God is and His claims upon them.  Once a person listens and responds their hearts open to receive His deliverance.

How near is this salvation?  The Apostle Paul wrote a similar application, quoting from Deuteronomy 30:14, "But what does it say?  'The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart' (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." (Romans 10:8-9)

 

Reading history in Advance

 Read Isaiah 45.

This prophecy concerns Cyrus, who became the head of the Medo-Persian Empire.  In short, the Assyrians would be defeated by the Babylonians.  The Babylonians would then take Judah captive for seventy years of exile.  Next, the Medes and Persians allied to conquer the Babylonians.  Cyrus not only assisted in helping the Jews return to their homeland from Babylon but he paid for the rebuilding of the destroyed Temple in Jerusalem.  Isaiah 45:13 is the prophecy and 2 Chronicles 36:22-23 is the historical record. 

The astounding value of this portion of Isaiah, with names and details, is that it was written about 100 years in advance!  When God states, as He indicated in chapter 44 that He controls the future, He means it.

God referred to Cyrus as "my Shepherd" (44:28) and "his anointed" (45:1), called and used by God to fulfill His plans, "though you do know me" (v.4).  The LORD can use anyone and anything for His purpose, even unbelievers, without them realizing it.  Some may object and question God doing this.  But in verses 9-10, the LORD warns against arguing with Him.  As the Creator, He can do as He wishes with His property.

The future of the restoration of Israel, however, would not be limited to their return to the land and the rebuilding of Jerusalem.  Of even more importance was the rebuilding of the nation spiritually.  The prophecy looks forward to a time when Israel will unitedly worship the LORD and experience the full blessings of God on earth.  In addition, all nations will acknowledge that He is the one true God and that there is no one else (v. 14).

His call in verse 22 is to "Turn to me and be saved, all the ends of the earth!"  We have the freedom to respond now.  But in that day, when Messiah rules and reigns from the throne of David, the response will be by both worship and command.  The Apostle Paul used verse 23 and applied it to Jesus in Philippians 2:10-11: "So that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."    

 

6 irrefutable claims by the God of the Bible

 Read Isaiah 44.

"There are none so blind as those who will not see."  According to the Random House Dictionary of Popular Proverbs and Sayings that quote may be traced back to John Heywood in 1546.  Many people choose to ignore the spiritual truth that they already know.  That is nothing less than willful ignorance.  A vast number of people, even when they see the truth in front of them, hear it in their own language, and have it explained to them just cannot process God's word.

Several times in the Bible the subject of spiritual blindness and deafness is discussed.  Sometimes it is willful and at other times it is God who has prevented them from responding "for he has shut their eyes" (v.18).

The result of such inability leaves people to their own imagination and devices to fill that spiritual void.  Isaiah details in verses 9-20 how some make up gods with their own hands.  It is insane to think that a piece of wood or metal, shaped and formed by a craftsman has some supernatural powers.  Others place their faith in philosophical schemes or depend on their own thoughts about eternity.  And, then they hope they are correct.

Here are six irrefutable claims of the Sovereign LORD God of the Bible.
1. "I am the first and the last; besides me there is no god." (v.6)

2. "I am the LORD, who made all things, who alone spread out the earth by myself..." (v.24)

3. "...who frustrates the signs of liars and makes fools of diviners, who turns wise men back and makes their knowledge foolish..." (v.25)

4. "...who confirms the word of his servant and fulfills the counsel of his messengers..." (v.26)

5. He controls the natural world. (v.27)

6. He controls the future. (v.28)

In addition, the LORD has claims on our individual lives and decisions.  Can you see it?  Can you hear it?  His invitation in verse 22 is "I have blotted out your transgressions like a cloud and your sins like mist; return to me, for I have redeemed you."  Will you come?

 

11 reasons not to fear the Future

 Read Isaiah 43.

"Thus says the LORD."  Isaiah delivered God's messages primarily to the southern kingdom of Judah.  Increasingly, the warnings look beyond the Assyrian invasion to the Babylonian captivity.  The discipline of the nation was due to their sinful disobedience (vv.22-24).  But along with the predicted judgment came the promise of Israel being regathered, forgiven, and blessed.

The LORD wanted to remind them who He is, what He has done, and what He can do for them.  Twice in this chapter God said, "Fear not."  Here are the reasons why they did not need to fear the future.
1. I created you. (v.1a)
Man is not the result of some cosmic accident.  Creation is not just a Genesis issue.  God claims to have personally brought the universe and life into existence.  He is the Owner of all things (Psalm 24:1)

2. I formed you. (v.1b)
As a potter works the clay for His own design and purposes, so the LORD takes full responsibility for the shaping of this nation and its people.  The Apostle Paul wrote in Ephesian 2:10, "We are his workmanship."

3. I redeemed you. (v.1c)
Literally, He bought them out of slavery.  This is an obvious reference to the Exodus.  At great cost, through the shedding of blood during the Passover, the people were freed.  "Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed" for us (1 Corinthians 5:7).

4. I called you. (v.1d)
In Genesis 12, God called Abraham and subsequently made an unconditional covenant with his descendants.  He called the nation out of Egypt.  This calling of God was in order for them to fulfill His plan.  They were on an assigned mission.

5. You are mine. (v.1e)
Now, they are twice His-by creation and by redemption.

6. I will be with you. (v.2a)
Though they will face difficult days ahead, God's presence will never leave them.  He is and will be right there with them all the way.  "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5).

7. I will protect you. (v.2b)
There is no need to feel overwhelmed or give up.  He will bring His people through the toughest of circumstances.

8. I am your Savior. (v.3)
The LORD claims exclusivity.  There is no other Savior.  The Apostle Peter proclaimed, "There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)

9. I love you. (v.4)
The God of the Bible is not detached from His creation.  He is a loving God who desires a personal relationship with each of us.

10. I will provide for you. (vv.19-21)
He will make a way for His people when there does not seem to be a way.  He will take care of His own when no resources are in sight.

11. I am he who blots out your transgressions. (v.25)
His promise to forgive and "I will not remember your sins" does not mean God has a memory lapse.  But once we have confessed our sins and He has cleansed us, He will not bring up our past against us.

 

It is a great day for Singing!

 Read Isaiah 42.

The people of Israel, called "my servant" in verse 19, were to have shown the world what a nation under God looks like.  Their obedience to the LORD should have pointed others to Him.  They are His people by creation and covenant (vv.5-7).  That will not change.  However, two things will happen in response.  First, God will deal with their disobedience.  Second, He will send "my servant" (v.1), a person this time, to lead them and the entire world.

We could be at a loss as to this person's identity.  Some have tried to claim him as an historical leader who fulfilled this role.  However, Matthew 12:15-21 quotes these verses, stating that this is no one else but Jesus.  Notice that the details do not fit His earthly ministry 2000 years ago.  So, some try to spiritualize the passage by saying that Jesus is ruling the world from heaven.  But look closely at the details.

What will characterize this international servant-leader?  (vv.1-4)
1. He will be chosen by God.
This will not be a leader by human empowerment, but one sent from the Father on an earthly mission.  "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14)

2. He will be a delight to the Father.
At the baptism of Jesus, the Father spoke for all to hear.  "And a voice came from heaven, 'You are my beloved Son, with you I am well pleased.'" (Mark 1:11)

3. The Spirit of God upon Him.
On one occasion in the synagogue, Jesus read aloud Isaiah 61:1-2: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me."  Then, He said, "Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing."

4. He will judge all nations.
This certainly has not taken place yet.  One day, the LORD will exercise His power of ownership over His creation.  See verses 13-17.  Some count God's patience as silence (v.14).  There is coming a rude awakening, especially for those who have put their trust elsewhere (v.17).

5. He will be quiet and gentle.
Isaiah wrote in 40:11, "He will feed his flock like a shepherd.”  Jesus said in John 10:11, "I am the good shepherd."

6. He will be faithful.
In the depiction of the returning Christ in Revelation 19:11, He is called "Faithful and True."

7. He will establish His rule on earth.
The Bible contains more prophecies concerning the second coming of Christ than His first coming.  Revelation 20:1-6 describes the fulfillment of Jesus earthly reign for 1,000 years prior to making a new heaven and a new earth in Revelation 21.

Jesus is coming!  With this hope of the future secured, the instruction in verse 10 is to "Sing to the LORD a new song."  Today is a great day to sing as we await His return.

 

5 statements from God that will sustain You

 Read Isaiah 41.

God is sovereignly in control of nations to do His will, whether they know it or not.  He declared in these opening verses that it was not merely the notions of a great power to invade and conquer.  The LORD "stirred" or raised them up to fulfill His purposes.

Though Israel often failed in their obedience, God said that He would remain faithful to them.  In verses 8-9, He chose them as His own and will "not cast you off."  Though enemies will continue to endeavor to annihilate the Jews, the LORD repeatedly states that all their foes "shall perish" and amount to nothing (vv.11-12).

How have the Jews survived since the time of Abraham?  How are they sustained to this day in their national lack of spiritual awakening and obedience to the LORD?  Even more, how do we survive our personal challenges?  The answer is in verse 10.

1. I am with you.
"Fear not" is not whistling in the dark with positive thoughts.  Our peace comes from knowing that God is personally present with us.  We do not walk through trials alone.  There is no greater Friend.

2. I am your God.
We may become discouraged when our faith in other things or other people have disappointed us.  But God is ever faithful.  The Hebrew word here is Elohim.  He is the supreme ruler and in full control.

3. I will strengthen you.
In a time of Paul's own sense on inability, Jesus spoke to him.  "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9)

4. I will help you.
Sometimes God resolves issues without us to demonstrate His power and control.  Most often, He wants to show His grace as He enables us to face difficulties.  There is an old saying, "If He brings you to it, He will bring you through it."

5. I will uphold you.
Imagine, the Almighty God of the universe personally supplies His power to us as we have need.  There are no better hands in which we could trust our lives.

God's character does not change.  He cares for His own.  He cares for us.

How big is your God?

 Read Isaiah 40.

After all the pronouncements of coming judgments, the book turns to themes of great encouragement.  Terrible days are ahead.  Assyria will return and put enormous pressure on Judah in every way.  Babylonia will rise as the world power, conquer Judah and take them away captive for 70 years.  But there is hope.

God warned the people through Moses in Deuteronomy 28 that if they did not obey Him they would lose the blessing of being on the land He had given to them.  The national punishment for their sin had come.  In His faithfulness the LORD sent His spokespersons, the prophets.  Those messengers were preaching like voices crying out in the wilderness (v.3).  The people lived in a spiritually dry place, not much growth, and only a few listening to what God had to say.

The message of hope is the King is coming!  Prepare for Him now.  As with all the Old Testament prophets, they often blended the two comings of the Messiah and could not see the time distance between them.  Isaiah described His coming in great glory.  But when Jesus came the first time, all the Gospel writers attributed this passage to John, the Baptist.  He was preparing the nation for the Suffering Savior whom Isaiah describes in chapter 53.

Despite the challenges and rough days they will be facing, the focus of this message is on who God is.  The key question in verses 18 and 25: "To whom then will you liken God...?"
1. He is King of Kings (v.10)
When Jesus returns, as depicted in Revelation 19, He will rule the entire world.

2. He is like a Shepherd. (v.11)
Jesus called Himself the Good Shepherd who cares, and even lays down His life, for His sheep.

3. He is all knowing. (vv.12-14)
There are five questions that have to do with the origins of knowledge and information.  The God of the Bible is the source of all wisdom and knowledge.

4. He is a living Being. (vv.19-20)
Following Christ is not a religion.  It is a relationship with a real Person.  Every religion is based upon a dead hero and/or a made up system of good works.  As an alternative, people worship inanimate objects of nature or idols crafted by humans.  Our Savior is alive!

5. He is the Creator of all things. (vv.21-26)
God is not an invention of man's ideas.  He not only owns the universe, but He superintends it as well.  Anyone reading this section would have known that the earth is not flat.

6. He is the eternal God. (vv.27-31)
With no beginning and no ending, the LORD is not a cultural whim or a belief of only a particular group. 
His endurance is unending.
His understanding is unsearchable.
His power is unlimited.
And, He freely offers His strength to us by His grace (v.31).

"The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever." (v.8)

 

Guarding personal character when under Pressure

 Read Isaiah 39.

Under threat from the Assyrians, any words of kindness would have been more than welcomed by Hezekiah.  History reports that the King of Babylon rebelled against Sennacherib and was actually deposed by him.  With the stated pretense of checking on Hezekiah's health, the Babylonians may have been looking for an ally.  Flattered by such attention, Hezekiah wanted to impress these visitors.  It is obvious that instead of giving God the glory for all His blessings, Hezekiah took credit.  Whatever the motive of the Babylonians, they now knew of all Judah's treasures.

The LORD sent Isaiah to confront Hezekiah concerning his pride and lack of discernment.  Indeed, the Babylonians later overthrew Assyria and then returned to conquer Judah.  One cannot read Hezekiah's response to the prophecy without sensing his self-focus.  

1. Beware of flattery.
This is especially so when it comes from those whom you do not know.  Receive the kind words at surface value with a "thank you" and then move on.  The admitted downfall of so many well-known people came when they began believing the flattering words others were saying about them.

2. Beware of a lust for kindness.
When people are under great pressure or in pain, there can be a lustful longing for any encouragement from nearly any source.  The emotions desire a pleasurable escape, even if temporary.  The devil knows how to provide the wrong sort of such escapes.

3. Beware of a lack of discretion.
At all times, we need to guard our thoughts and our words.  We need God's wisdom to discern daily interactions with other people.  Being prudent and careful about our behaviors is an indication of personal character.

 

6 insights on praying through Pain

 Read Isaiah 38.

In what he felt was the "middle" of his life (v.10), good King Hezekiah became severely ill.  The LORD sent Isaiah to inform the king that he would die.  It is obvious from the king's prayer that this sickness was not because he had done anything wrong.  Indeed, with quite a degree of confidence he was able to say to God that he had been faithful (v.3).

God heard his prayer and extended the king's life for fifteen more years.  The prophecy came with a miraculous sign (vv.7-8).  As it turned out, this episode was a test of Hezekiah's faith.  How would he respond under this threat?  Would he blame God or thank God?  Would he curse or pray?  Hezekiah made an A on the test.

What do we learn from this story?
1. Not all sickness is the result of sin or wrongdoing.
This was a faithful, godly man.  Passing this personal, life-threatening stress prepared him to trust God even more during the national threat.  God's tests are designed to strengthen us spiritually.

2. All healing is temporal.
Sooner or later, everyone will die.  Even Lazarus died again.  Hezekiah's healing simply gave him fifteen more years to serve the nation in a time of great need.  God answered his prayer in order for the LORD to fulfill His plan.  God was not through with him.  With 15 years of added life, history records that Hezekiah died in 686 B.C.  That places this stressful time in 701 B.C., the same year the Assyrians invaded.

3. It was for his welfare.
In verse 17, Hezekiah could see how this turned out for his benefit.  The Apostle Paul wrote: "All things work together for good" (Romans 8:28), but we have to look for and trust God for the purpose in pain.  This is a difficult task when it does not make sense to us.  The Psalmist wrote in Psalm 119:71: "It was good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes."

4. It is the mercy of God that we do not receive what we deserve.
High stress causes all our impurities to rise to the surface.  The king was grateful in verse 17 that the LORD "cast all my sins behind your back."  Acknowledging one's sins and receiving God’s forgiveness helps us understand His compassion on us.  It is also the basis for us to understand the sin of others and our ability to forgive them.  Those who know the mercy of God become merciful people.

5. Trust God and take your medicine.
Isaiah came with a treatment for the boil that cured the illness.  This was not a lack of faith on Hezekiah's part but thankfully receiving God's provision for him.

6. There is a promise for every pain.
God gave Hezekiah two promises in verses 5 and 6.  His life was extended, and his people would be protected from this enemy.  How crucial it is for our well-being and spiritual growth to know the word of God!  His written promises sustain us, come what may.

 

Will you trust Him when things get Worse?

 Read Isaiah 37.

The Assyrians surrounded Jerusalem with an overwhelming show of force.  They not only demanded immediate surrender, but they mocked the LORD saying that trust in Him was vain.  King Hezekiah said, "This is a day of distress, or rebuke, and of disgrace" (v.3).

The test of faith was on.  The question: Whom do you trust?  Judah did not have the resources to fight and win.  God had promised to protect them.  He even said through Isaiah that the Assyrians would be defeated and go home.  How could that possibly happen?  There was no answer but to cast their total dependence on the faithful LORD who had promised.

What did Hezekiah do?
1. He asked for prayer. (v.4)
The king first turned to his number one prayer warrior to ask for God's help.

2. He sought godly counsel. (vv.5-7)
In those days, the word of God was delivered through the prophets.  Isaiah provided advice straight from the LORD.  First, "Do not be afraid."  Fear is the opposite of faith.  Confidence in God pleases Him.  Second, God has a plan to fulfill His promise.  Most often He uses us in His plan, but, as in this case, He does not need us.  He is in total control

After those two major steps in the process, things became worse!  That is not an uncommon experience.  We think if we pray and do what is right, everything will be fine.  The reality is that the test of our faith may become harder.  When God acts in an impossible situation no one else can take the credit.  It also provides an unprecedented opportunity for personal spiritual growth.

What did Hezekiah do when things got worse?
3. He "spread it out before the LORD." (v.14)
Having received Sennacherib's threatening letter, the king physically laid the letter down in front of him as he prayed for God to intervene.  The Assyrians' biggest mistake was to assume that the God of Israel was just like all the man-made gods of other nations.  This had become a spiritual war.  The motive of Hezekiah's prayer was "that the kingdoms of the earth may know that you alone are the LORD." (v.20)

In verse 28, God said He heard every word.  God saw the complacency of some toward Him and the outright rage of others.  185,000 Assyrian soldiers died without one arrow having been shot from Jerusalem.  Sennacherib went home in disgrace and was assassinated by his own sons.

This actual, historically verified account cannot be dismissed by any naysayer.  Our God is all-powerful.  Our God is faithful to fulfill His every word.  Do not be afraid.  Spread it out before the LORD in prayer and trust Him.

 

Faith, when facing an overwhelming Situation

 Read Isaiah 36.

The fourteenth year of Hezekiah's reign places this event in 701 B.C.  Twenty-one years prior to this the Assyrians defeated the northern kingdom of Israel. They marched down the coast conquering city after city.   The last significant piece left standing in the land was Jerusalem.

Sennacherib sent thousands of troops to surround the city and demanded its surrender.  One of his field commanders, with the military rank of Rabshakeh, stood to negotiate the final terms.  King Hezekiah dispatched three of his most trusted men to the meeting.

 With enormous confidence and sarcasm, the Assyrian spokesman presented his case in no uncertain terms.
He began in verse 4 with the question that everyone must answer when facing an overwhelming situation.
"On what do you rest this trust of yours?"  Then, he made five pronouncements.  Some of these may sound familiar.

1. Hope is not a strategy. (v.5)
Positive thinking and words of affirmation about a crisis will not resolve the problem.  This is a war.  Just saying, "We will do the best we can and hope things will all work out" won't win the battle.

2. You cannot trust your neighbor to help you. (v.6)
In this case, Egypt was not the powerhouse of the past.  They could not be depended upon to come to Judah's rescue.  Isaiah had already said this in his messages.

3. You cannot rely on your own gods. (v.7)
Two things are at work in his point here.  One is that every city Assyria had systematically destroyed had their own faith systems.  None of them proved effective because they were false gods.  The big mistake by this spokesman was that he lumped the One true God along with all the others.  He, perhaps, thought that Hezekiah had lost his faith due to the removal of all the false altars to strange gods.  The truth was that the king had purged the land of all but worshiping the LORD.  (2 Kings 18)

4. You do not have enough resources to win. (v.8-9)
He even bet them that if they could come up with enough riders, he would give them 2000 horses.  But evidently, he knew Jerusalem did not have that many.  Even if they did, he sarcastically said that all of those could not win a fight with one of his captains.

5. This is what God wants. (v.10)
The pagan who did not know God at all tried to bully them by claiming to speak for the LORD.  He was lying and using it as a manipulative tactic.  Beware when someone who does not profess a personal relationship with the LORD and who has never read and studied God's word endeavors to quote God. 

This encounter caused the three men to return in near despair.  Much of what the Assyrian had said was true.  What could they do?  How could they respond?  How could they survive?

But God in His faithfulness had already delivered His word through the Prophet Isaiah.  Jerusalem would not be conquered by the Assyrians.  Indeed, the Assyrians would be defeated and go home.  That required a ton of faith. 

Jeff and Sherri Easter sing a wonderful gospel song that says:
"Over and over, again and again, God is faithful.
Over and over, again and again, through it all He's made me able
To stand and survive, to come through alive, when it sure looked like I could not win.
But Jesus is with me, so I'll claim the victory, over and over again."

 

A picture of peace in the World

 Read Isaiah 35.

After all the prophesied devastation in chapter 34, the message continues with the rest of the story.  What a difference Jesus will make when He rules during the kingdom age!

1. The land. (vv.1-2, 6b-7)
In that day of Messiah's reign, the desert areas of Israel will flourish with abundant agriculture.  But notice that it is not the crops that will cause the rejoicing.  The glory of the LORD in all His majesty will be visible to everyone.  He will receive full credit due Him for these blessings.

2. The weak. (vv.3-4)
Those who endured the hard times and those who folded in fear, will be strengthened and encouraged.

3. The infirmed. (vv.5-6a)
All physical maladies will have been remedied by the Great Physician.

4. The redeemed. (vv.7-10)
The righteous will make their way to Jerusalem to worship the King.  Even the road will be called the Way of Holiness.  The pilgrims will journey safely, singing praises along the way.

Oh, how we look forward to this time of world peace.  Individually, those who know the Savior enjoy peace with God right now and can enjoy the promise of Jesus' personal peace.  "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.  Not as the world gives do I give to you.  Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." (John 14:27)

 

 

Is the God of the Old Testament different in the New Testament?

 Read Isaiah 34.

Years ago, a man tried to tell me that the God of the Old Testament was a God of hate, while the God of the New Testament was a God of love.  The error of that false statement is immediately evident to anyone who has ever actually read the Bible.  At the root of such heresy is the concept that God has changed His character over time.  "For I the LORD do not change." (Malachi 3:6)

When Jesus returns it will be a day of worldwide judgment upon the nations, especially on those who sought to annihilate Israel.  "For the LORD has a day of vengeance, a year of recompense for the cause of Zion" (v.8).  In this chapter, Edom is used as Exhibit A.  Israel's neighbor to the southeast was a constant enemy.

The descriptions in this chapter parallel with the Great Tribulation judgments as the seals are broken in Revelation.  These events then culminate in Revelation 19.  "From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron.  He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty." (Revelation 19:15)

Therefore, the time of earthly peace and blessing will only come after the returning Christ has decisively dealt with His enemies.

At the root of all current actions of man's inhumanity against others is sin.  It is not possible to negotiate that away.  There is only one cure in the universe for sin. 

For now, we look forward to the day when Messiah will right every wrong and bring true justice to this world.  The Apostle Paul wrote: "If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.  Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord."

 

Looking for stability in times of Trouble

 Read Isaiah 33.

God delivered a series of judgmental "woes" against those who rejected and ignored Him.  Judah knew better, but they chose to place their faith elsewhere.  In verse 1, the LORD called them traitors.  They betrayed the God who loved and cared for them.  The betrayer will be betrayed by those they trusted.  Placing one's faith in anyone or anything other than the LORD will ultimately prove to be in vain (vv.11-12).

All their efforts to negotiate alliances and bring peace to their land would not work.  When the Assyrians invade, they will make everything desolate.  But Jerusalem and the remnant of those who turn to God will be spared.

Like many of the prophetic passages, the message blends the historic happenings with future hope.  The prophets could not see the gaps between the two, unless God revealed to them an exact amount time. 

In trouble, there would some who will cry out for God's grace and deliverance (v.2).  When the LORD is exalted, "he will be the stability of your times" and provide the "salvation, wisdom, and knowledge" they so desperately needed.  However, it came with the stipulation that they respond in obedience to God's word.  Such holy fear, or respect, for the LORD is called "Zion's treasure" (v.6).

In that day when Messiah reigns, things will be different (vv.13-24).  The godless will be afraid.  The righteous will openly demonstrate their faith by what they do and do not do.  They will dwell securely and with abundance.   The focus will be on the Jesus.
"Your eyes will behold the king in his beauty..." (v.17)
"...there the LORD in majesty will be for us..." (v.21)
"For the LORD is our judge; the LORD is our lawgiver; the LORD is our king; he will save us." (v.22)

In the meantime, we are "looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:2)

 

8 characteristics of the Millennial Kingdom

 Read Isaiah 32.

Both Old and New Testaments look forward to the literal, earthly reign of Messiah.  The prophets often provide details of such a kingdom.  This chapter, like many others, is a message to Judah of that future time.  Part of the proof that this indeed still remains unfulfilled is the fact that there has been no Jewish kingdom over that land since 586 B.C.

Jesus will sit on the throne of David in Jerusalem.  What will be the characteristics of that kingdom?
1. Righteousness. (v.1a)
God's standard of what is right will be upheld absolutely.

2. Justice. (v.1b)
All wrongs will be made right.  The Righteous Judge will be on the throne and His decisions will be carried out perfectly.

3. Security. (v.2)
Those who govern with the King of Kings will provide genuine safety and shelter for those in need.

4. Truth. (v.3-4)
In a previous message the people were chastised because they had closed their eyes and stopped their ears from the truth.  But in that day all will all see, hear, and communicate God's word with clarity.

5.  Generosity. (vv.5-8)
No longer will foolish and sinful decisions be tolerated.  No longer will leaders be in power who lie, especially about the LORD, devising "wicked schemes", and taking advantage of others.  In that day, those with influence will be "noble" or known for being generous with their service to people.

6. The Holy Spirit. (v.15a)
Verses 9-14 warn against complacency about God’s announced judgment.  Most likely, this is a reference to the immediate crisis of the Assyrian invasion into Judah and ultimately the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians.  "For the palace is forsaken and the populous city deserted..." (v.14a).  "Until the Spirit is poured upon us from on high..."  This not a reference to what happened in Acts 2.  Several of the Prophets (Ezekiel 36-37; Joel 2; Zechariah 12) looked forward to a time when all of Israel would personally experience the indwelling of the Spirit of God.  He would be the One to give them the spiritual understanding and ability to live a godly life they lacked.

7. Productivity. (v.15b)
Many prophetic passages predict that even Israel's deserts will flourish with agriculture.

8. Peace. (vv.17-18)
Since the establishment of the political state of Israel in 1948, there has been no peace in that land.  Indeed, throughout history, some satanically energized leader and/or peoples have announced their intent to annihilate the Jews.  But in that day, with the Prince of Peace ruling over this world, genuine peace will come.

For those of us who have a personal relationship with Jesus, we will rule and reign with Him.  Given the current state of affairs around the world and in Israel today, we pray with the Apostle John, "Come, Lord Jesus!" (Revelation 22:20)

 

Do we need a powerful national Defense?

 Read Isaiah 31.

Everyone should know that might does not make right.  But might does not insure success either.  A powerful national defense is always desirable for the protection of a country.  However, if that is what the people and the leaders are depending upon for their future, their faith may be sadly misplaced.

God continued to give Isaiah messages for Judah.  They thought if they could amass a big enough allied force, the kingdom would be delivered from the Assyrians.  The problem was not military preparation but trust.  If Judah's national trust was in Egypt and their army, the plans would fail.  And, they did.

The LORD tried to teach them to "look to the Holy One of Israel or consult the LORD!" (v.1).  God's power and His plan always supersedes human efforts.  So, why not ask Him what He wants done?  Why not ask His help?  And, then living in obedience to what He wants done, why not trust Him for the outcome?

God had already announced through Isaiah that He would protect Judah against this enemy.  So, what should they be doing?

1. Turn to him. (v.6a)
The people of Judah had rebelled against the LORD and His expectations of them.  Their sin had brought the pending punishment on themselves.  God proves His mercy and His grace to us by faithfully calling the wayward to change directions.  By coming to Him, they would find forgiveness, peace, and the protection they desired.

2. Cast away false beliefs. (v.6b)
In their rebellion against God, the people had turned to other sources for direction and decisions.  They even placed their faith in inanimate objects they had made with their own hands and prayed to them for help.  Such thinking borderlines on insanity.  Instead, why not trust the One who created the elements and controls the universe?

"And yet he is wise and brings disaster; he does not call back his words." (v.2a)
No human is a match for God's wisdom.  His word is absolute.  Trust Him and see.

 

What are you waiting For?

 Read Isaiah 30.

Living in fear as they awaited the Assyrian invasion, the southern kingdom of Judah looked to Egypt for help and protection.  But Egypt was no longer a strong world power.  Representatives of Judah were dispatched anyway to secure an alliance.  The result would be "shame and disgrace" (v.5).

God had already made it clear that the northern kingdom of Israel would be conquered and the people scattered.  However, God also promised to use the Assyrians to punish Judah, but not conquer them.

How did they get into this mess?  They decided that they knew better how to run their lives and their nation than the God who created them and brought them this far.  "Stubborn children," He called them, making their own plans, seeking alliances and protection from everyone and everything except Him.  In doing so, they "add sin to sin" (v.1).

The people did not want to hear what was right.  They wanted someone to flatter them and help them feel good about themselves.  In other words, they deliberately sought to believe in fantasies instead of the truth (v.10).  None of those false ways dealt with the root issue of their sin and guilt.

God's gracious offer to them remained.  "In returning (repentance) and rest you shall be saved: in quietness and in trust shall be your strength" (v.15).  Making a U-turn toward the LORD, accepting His forgiveness, and trusting Him alone would bring them peace and the provision they needed.  All along, the LORD wanted to be their Teacher, showing them how to live (v.21).  One day Israel will listen to Him.  At that point, they will get rid of all the false ways they used to trust with a simple "Be gone!" (v.22).

In the middle of the chapter is the invitation.  "The LORD waits to be gracious to you and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you.  For the Lord is a God of justice;"  But there is more.  "Blessed are all those who wait for him" (v.18).  Who are you trusting today to meet your real needs?  God is waiting.  What are you waiting for?

 

Why can't they see the Truth?

 Read Isaiah 29.

This chapter could be labeled as bad news- good news.  First, the "woe".  Ariel is a direct reference to Jerusalem, the city of David (v.1).  The city would come under siege by the Assyrians.  Indeed, Sennacherib surrounded Jerusalem in 701 B.C. but was unable to conquer it.  Notice in verse 3, that God takes personal credit for putting the city under such pressure.  And, He will protect the city this time.  Like a person with a bad dream when awakened, the frightening thing was not there.  The whole reason for God's judgment was to motivate them to repent.  But they did not.

Why could they not see what God was doing?  Why could they not hear the prophet's message and change their ways?

Their sin had caused them to become spiritually insensitive to the things of God.  They had blinded their eyes from seeing the truth and stopped their ears hearing what God was saying to them.  Their so-called spiritual leaders could not make sense of God's word.  Even reading the messages did not make sense to them.  They were religious (v.13) but their words of worship were empty because "their hearts are far from me."

Believing they had no accountability to the LORD, they took full credit for their lives.  Their thoughts toward the Creator included: "He did not make me" (v.16).

And now the good news.  What a change, "in that day," when the Messiah will return to rule the world from the city of Jerusalem.  "In that day" the Jews will hear the message and see the truth.  Justice will come to the oppressed and upon the "ruthless."  As a nation of God's people, they will acknowledge who Jesus is and give Him full credit for their lives.  

As the Apostle Paul looked forward to the day of Israel's national repentance, in Romans 9 he wrote of the same potter and clay comparison.  In Romans 11, he wrote of Israel's spiritual blindness and deafness.  His point was that this opened wide the door for the Gentiles to be "grafted" into God's plan of redemption.  As individuals, he wrote in Romans 10:12-13- "For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him.  For 'everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'"  

 

Is the message too simple for You?

 Read Isaiah 28.

Woe to the northern kingdom of Israel! 
The people prided themselves in their prosperity.  But having rejected God, they became like a fading flower.  The LORD would use the Assyrians to trample upon them without mercy.  Meanwhile, the people and their leaders were depicted as drunkards, staggering, confused, and unable to make right decisions.

They even mocked Isaiah's clear message from the LORD as being too simple, formulaic, and rote.  They rejected what God was saying to them as being childish, like teaching the ABC's (vv.9-10).  But when a person will not listen to God's word, He will send a stronger messenger to teach them.  If they refused to repent of their sin, then He would have an ungodly, foreign power instruct them about accountability and judgment.  They will "be broken, and snared, and taken" (vv.11-13)

In great contrast to the fading glory of Israel, there will come a day when the LORD will sit on the throne and be a "crown of glory" to His people (v.5).

Woe to the southern kingdom of Judah!
The leaders of the south were no better.  They, too, had rejected God and His word.  Openly, they had committed their lives to false gods, to lies, and trusted in them to protect them (vv.14-15).  In short, they tried to build their lives and the nation on a foundation of sinking sand. 

In great contrast, the LORD said, "Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation: 'Whoever believes will not be in haste.'" (v.16)

New Testament believers cannot read verse 16 without thinking of Jesus.  The Apostle Peter quoted Isaiah in 1 Peter 2:6 and applied it to Jesus.  The Apostle Paul wrote: "So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone." (Ephesians 2:20)

There are only two ways to build a life: trust in the shifting false beliefs of this world, or trust in the sure foundation of Jesus.

 

Israel's future and Ours

 Read Isaiah 27.

True prophecy tells history in advance.  After the death of Solomon, the land divided into two kingdoms: Israel in the north and Judah in the south.  In Isaiah's day, the Assyrians were cruelly conquering every nation in their path.  The LORD told Isaiah to prophesy that Assyria would crush Israel.  As a result, Judah would experience great pressure but God would protect them a while longer.  Later, the Babylonians conquered Assyria and then captured Judah to take them away in exile (v.8). 

Not since the time of Solomon had there been a single nation of Jews on that land under its own rule until 1948; roughly, 3000 years.  Still, the world has yet to see what God told Isaiah would ultimately happen.

Four times the phase "in that day" or "in the days to come" appear.  Most often, that is a trigger phrase concerning the time of Christ's return and events that will follow.  Here is some history in advance.

1. The LORD will slay his enemies. (v.1)
This is the exact picture of Jesus in Revelation 19:11-16.  The sword of the LORD is the word of God.  As we are told in Genesis 1, He spoke creation into existence.  So, in His return at His command, all the enemies of God will be defeated.

2. The LORD will restore Israel spiritually. (vv.2-6)
The spiritual picture of God's relationship with the Jews is one of taking care of His vineyard.  Previously, the message to Isaiah was that the vineyard produced only wild grapes, so God would remove His protection of His people.  But these verses look forward to a day when the Jews will "blossom" "and fill the whole world with fruit." 

3. The LORD will forgive the sin of Israel. (vv.7-11)
God had to deal with their sin of unbelief and blatant false worship.  The exile of Judah that took place in 586 B.C. as predicted.  To this day, the world has not seen the fulfillment of this national removal of sin and restoration.  There is only one solution to sin and that is the forgiveness God alone offers through the shed blood of Jesus, the Messiah.  By faith the godly of the Old Testament looked forward to the day of ultimate atonement.  We look back to the cross in faith for our complete and final atonement.  One day, the Jews will embrace Jesus as the Messiah and know this forgiveness personally and nationally.  The Apostle Paul wrote clearly concerning this in Romans 9-11 and even quotes Isaiah several times to prove his case.  He then concluded, "And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written..." (Romans 11:26)

4. The LORD will be worshiped in Jerusalem. (vv.12-13)
The entire region that is in such turmoil and terror today will "in that day" be sacred territory.  Jesus will reign for 1,000 years from Jerusalem and the world will come to bow before Him.

The good news is that anyone may experience God's personal forgiveness and life-restoration right now by calling on Jesus.

 

A promised peace with a Price

 Read Isaiah 26.

In the last chapter, Isaiah wrote prophetically what believers in Jesus will say "in that day."  Here, now, is the song we will sing when Messiah rules and reigns.

Notice all the benefits of the redeemed.
1. A perfect peace because our trust is in the unchanging and sovereign LORD. . (v.3)

2. A clear and smooth path for life because God takes care of the consequences of our obedience. (v.7)

3. A living Savior. (vv.13-14)

4. A joyful resurrection. (v.19)

In the meantime, the Apostle Paul encouraged:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." ( Philippians 4:7)

"The price tag of renewing the mind with Scripture is time and discipline, but the benefits are always disproportionate to the expenditures.  If we are shallow in the Word, we will be superficial in our knowledge of God and less effective in our relationship with others."-Ken Boa

A hope worth the Wait

Read Isaiah 25.

Knowing the truth about God's judgment against unbelievers may cause distress.  In the previous chapter, Isaiah felt the weight of the message and cried out, "I waste away, I waste away.  Woe is me!"  But for those who have placed their eternal faith in the LORD, there is hope and joy in our future.

Isaiah wrote this beautiful song to praise the LORD as he looked forward to that day when God would once and for all deliver His people.

There is no mistaking the fact that this speaks of an earthly kingdom where Messiah will rule and reign.  That will be when the Prince of Peace will rule and all the nations will glorify Him.  Don't miss all the descriptors of how the LORD will protect those who love Him.  It will be a time of great celebration.

From the prophet's view, all of the future events blended into one picture.  The New Testament provides many details, filling in some of the gaps the prophets could not see and did not know.  It is always best when we have the Scriptures commenting on other Scripture, enlightening our understanding.  For instance, the same wording of verse 8 appears in Revelation 21:4.  After the Millennial kingdom on earth, Revelation 22 explains that there will be a new heaven and a new earth.  In that eternal place, there will be no tears and no such thing as death.  We will never say good-bye to our love ones who are with us because of our mutual faith in Christ.

Like us, how Isaiah longed for that day!  In verse 9, he even wrote what we will be saying: "It will be said in that day, '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.'"

Worldwide judgment is Coming

 Read Isaiah 24.

There is decided shift in Isaiah's messages from the LORD, beginning here and continuing into the next several chapters.  No longer is the predicted judgment directed against individual neighboring nations and the obvious threat is no longer the immediate Assyrian invasion.  The subject now is a worldwide devastation from God Himself.

During this unprecedented time, everyone on earth will suffer loss and devastation. Why?  Verse 5 explains that the earth is defiled by human sinfulness.  God's laws, statutes, and His eternal covenant have been violated.

This will be followed by a period of time when the nations from the ends of the earth will "sing for joy; over the majesty of the LORD" and "give glory to the LORD" (vv.15-16).  But then, there will come a time of final judgment.

Since sin entered the Garden of Eden, God has always been implementing His plans of redemption, judgment and cleansing the earth of its corruption.  In Noah's day, He sent a worldwide flood to cleanse the earth.  "But by the same word the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly." (2 Peter 3:7) 

These descriptions and their sequencing fit perfectly with the Biblical understanding of the Great Tribulation (Revelation 6-19), then the 1,000 year reign of Christ on earth (Revelation 20:1-10), followed by the Great White Throne judgment (Revelation 20:11-15). 

It should be remembered that God's wrath is not aimed at believers.  Just as in Noah's day, He provides protection and escape from such judgment for those who turn to Him.  Jesus said, "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him." (John 3:36)

 

Pride and God's Purpose

 Read Isaiah 23.

Tyre and Sidon were two of the most important trading centers in the Mediterranean at the time.  Buying and selling with nations from Egypt to Spain, these merchants of Phoenicia became extremely wealthy.  The people deemed themselves self-sufficient and sensed no need of God.  Like many port cities, they had also become places known for carousing and open sin.  But their "pompous pride" and self-glorification were to come to an end.

To be sure, the Assyrians were marching in their direction.  The trade fell to the control of the Assyrian Empire for the 70 years, exactly as prophesied here, from 700 B.C. to 630 B.C.  However, behind the visible threat was the power of the invisible God.  There is a question in verse 8 with the answer in verse 9.  "Who has purposed this" destruction of these great cities?  "The LORD of hosts has purposed it."

A heart full of pride, the sense of self-sufficiency, and the actions of living life the way one wants are the very reasons Jesus was nailed to the cross.  Those form one of the key Biblical definitions of sin.

Isaiah later wrote, "Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.  But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.  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 53:4-6)

Though we are not told how, at the end of the chapter there will be a brief time of restoration of commerce.  But this time the prosperity will be dedicated, or holy, to the LORD.  And, isn't that what God is after all along?  His desire is for everything and everyone in His creation to bring Him glory.

 

Facing an impossible Situation

 Read Isaiah 22.

God used the Assyrians to put pressure on Judah to repent.  But instead, they fortified Jerusalem's defenses.  They armed themselves with weapons (v.8).  Those who tried to flee were captured.  Judah was helpless to save themselves.  The LORD called to them to repent and turn to Him.  Instead of mourning and repenting, they feasted.

Shebna evidently was one who could have been in a position to negotiate with the Assyrians.  However, it seems he wanted to use this opportunity to make a lasting name for himself.  Therefore, God rejected him as an unfaithful "steward" and replaced him with Eliakim.  Eliakim served as a father figure to Judah, with the full royal authority that God place upon him.  In verse 14, he had God-given power to make things happen on behalf of his people.  But as secure as Eliakim's leadership was even it would one day come to an end.

At the heart of the problem was their unbelief that God could deliver them and that He wanted to deliver them.  That sin of unbelief "will not be atoned for..." (v.14). 

The writer of Hebrews stated, "Without faith it is impossible to please him." (Hebrews 11:6)  When facing impossible situations, we first and foremost gladly cast our full dependence upon the God of the impossible.  He alone can forgive sin.  He alone can deliver us. 

"Faith, mighty faith, the promise sees and looks to God alone;

Laughs at impossibilities, and cries it shall be done." -Charles Wesley

Protection from pending Disaster

 Read Isaiah 21.

Judah looked to any nation that could possibly stay the invasion of Assyria.  In His faithfulness, God told Isaiah what was about to happen and then the prophet delivered the word of God.

Looking to the east, there were the desert peoples of Dumah (Elam), Media, and the city of Babylon.  Surely, one of these could help.

A rebellion against Assyria did take place from the area of the desert sea, now known as the Persian Gulf.  But while Isaiah emotionally and physically felt the awfulness of the coming battle, some sat down to feast as if nothing was going to happen.  Then, the prophecy stated the news would come that Babylon had been "shattered to the ground."  Isaiah described Judah's dashed hopes as grain that had been threshed.

The message from the LORD even included the time.  The rout of the region would happen within one year.

Though a similar wording is used concerning Babylon in Revelation 14 and 18, these are two distinct events.  Isaiah wrote concerning the Assyrians' defeat of Babylon.  Later, in Daniel's time, the demise of the Babylonian Empire took place at the hands of the Medes and Persians.  Then, prior to the return of Christ the new Babylon will be destroyed.

God will be faithful to Judah and protect them from the cruelty of the Assyrians.  The lesson here is that they needed to stop looking to other sources of help and turn to the only One who can truly protect them.  That is a good word for all of us today.

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.  I will say to the LORD, 'My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" (Psalm 91:1-2)

 

The awesome consequences of Neglect

 Read Isaiah 20.

In a graphic display, God instructed the prophet to deliver His message.  Assyria would cruelly conquer and humiliate the nations.  With hopes dashed for any regional alliance, Judah would have to stop and take stock about their future.  There is an evaluative statement and then a question that applies to everyone who ever lived.

1. The statement. (v.6a)
"This is what happens to those who ignore the LORD and put their hope in something else." 
In predicting the demise of Cush and Egypt, God declared that they will evaluate what happened to them and why.  There proved to be no one to come alongside them to help.  They put their trust in the wrong place and in the wrong people.  They were sincere but sincerely wrong. 

God provided all they needed for forgiveness, restoration and protection.  But His plans were not accepted.  They thought they knew better than God.  Therefore, they suffered the consequences.

2. The question. (v.6b)
"How shall we escape?"
Some will trust that there is no such eternal accountability.  They will not escape eternal punishment.
Some will trust in other beliefs.  They will not escape eternal punishment.
Some will trust in their own good works.  They will not escape eternal punishment.

There are not two answers to that question.  There is only one.  It is not a sectarian belief, but the gracious offer of the living God.  Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) 

In a different context, the writer of Hebrews included the same question: "For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?" (Hebrews 2:2-3)

 

 

God's peace plan for Egypt

 Read Isaiah 19.

The LORD continued to reveal His prophetic messages for the nations through Isaiah.  With Assyria threatening the entire region, it would have been natural to look to neighboring countries for defensive alliances.  If all the north will be overrun by the Assyrians, what about Egypt in the south?  They, too, will be conquered by the same cruel invaders.

God will use this enemy attack as His instrument.  In addition, He will withhold blessings so as to bring about Egypt’s total economic collapse.  Why?  Because the Egyptians had put their trust in false gods.  At its root, the battle is always spiritual.  Verse 3 gives some detail.  The nation prayed to idols they had made with their own hands out of resources God created and provided.  They turned to shysters who claimed to be able to interpret the stars or other omens.  Then, there were satanically aligned wizards and conjurers who offered demonic counsel.  But when the LORD intervened, they all proved be of no use whatsoever.  This was accomplished by Esarhaddon, king of Assyria, in 671 B.C.

The second half of the chapter looks beyond the immediate threat to a distant time.  Five times the phrase "in that day" appears, giving a glimpse of Egypt's spiritual future.  One day…

1. Egypt will fear Judah. (vv.16-17)
When the Messiah rules the world from David's throne in Jerusalem, all the nations, including Egypt, will demonstrate respect and respond accordingly.

2. Egypt will worship the LORD. (v.18)
The prediction is that there will be five key cities.  The nation will abandon all false gods and be fully committed followers of Jesus, the Messiah.

3. Egypt will have its own altar. (vv.19-22)
With its own altar to worship the LORD and a public monument of testimony, the nation will openly declare to the world its embrace of the Messiah.

4. Egypt will be at peace. (v.23)
Given the current internal strife of that nation, it is hard to imagine them being at peace among themselves, let alone with their historic enemies.  But when the Prince of Peace comes, these three-Assyria, Israel, and Egypt-will freely travel back and forth in peace.

5. Egypt will be blessed and be a blessing. (v.24)
One cannot read these words in verse 24 without remembering God's promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:3- “I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed."

Why is God waiting?

 Read Isaiah 18.

When God acts on behalf of a nation or in judgment, it affects all the surrounding nations as well.  The same is true with individuals.  With infinite wisdom, He works in everyone's lives simultaneously, in His time, to fulfill His plans.

Chapter 18 is a "woe" aimed at Ethiopia.  Apparently, there was a quick effort to align themselves with Israel to fight against the Assyrians.  Isaiah wrote a terse response in verse 2: "Go home."  All the alliances in the world would not thwart the invasion.  God wanted to use Assyria as a penalty against the sin of Israel.  Later, He would deal with the Assyrians and their sin.

In the meantime, the LORD told Isaiah in verse 4, "I will quietly look from my dwelling..."  Quietly?  Waiting? 

Isaiah knew what was going to happen, all the pieces seemed to be in place, but the LORD had not implemented the plan yet.  Indeed, the prophecy here looks even beyond Isaiah's day to the events that are still future to us.  In verses 7 and 8, all the nations including Ethiopia will make their way to Jerusalem to bring gifts the LORD.  The government will be upon His shoulders and the Prince of Peace will reign. 

What is God waiting on?  All of us have asked that question at one time or another.  If He is control and knows what He is going to do, why does He not act now?
1. He waits to judge sin.
In Genesis 15:12-16, the LORD told Abraham that his descendants would be slaves in Egypt for 400 years.  The astounding fact is that he told him 500 years in advance!  What was God waiting on?  The sin of the Amorites.  To us, it seems that there is no connection.  But if God was going to move millions of Jews into Canaan, He needed to first deal with the nation living in the north.  Like falling dominoes, one movement in the plan affects everyone else.

2. He waits for individuals to repent.
2 Peter 3:9-10, "The Lord is  not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance."  In His grace, He waits to allow every opportunity for people to change their minds about Him and His offer of forgiveness.  When He does bring judgment, there will be no excuse.

3. He waits to reveal things yet unseen by us.
Whether it is the eternal change of a life, the movement upon a person's heart to respond in a certain way, or the supply of a need, I believe God delights in surprising us with His goodness.  Even when we are certain what God wants done, it is a walk of faith to wait upon how and when He will act.  But each time, the wait will be worth it and our faith stronger.

 

When blessed people Forget

 Read Isaiah 17.

The northern kingdom of Israel had turned to the Arameans, their neighbor, in an alliance to war against the invading Assyrians.  Damascus was the capital city of Aram, a region in central Syria.  But just as the prophecy against Israel predicted their destruction and scattering, so it was to be with Arameans.

Three times the phrase "in that day" appears in this chapter.  This is most often a trigger wording pointing to the future time of God's wrath and His ushering in unprecedented time of blessing and peace.  But the descriptions here are events that would have taken place in Isaiah's day. 

God's dealings with people, as His character is, have not changed.  These are good warnings and reminders to all of us.

1. Humility in that day. (vv.4-6)
Israel will be brought low.  The first description is one of weight loss.  The war will bring a food shortage and starvation.  The second pictures Israel as crops after the harvest with little left.   No longer will they enjoy abundance.  What they had was from the hand of God, but they gave Him no honor or credit.  When one does not humble themselves before the LORD, God will eventually intervene.

2. Repentance in that day. (vv.7-8)
Someone said that when things go well, people play.  And, when things go bad, people pray.  When Israel would experience the terror of the Assyrians, they would turn to God.  In the crisis they would realize their man-made religion offered no help.  They would indeed return to their "Maker".  When a person gets a fresh glimpse of the Holy One, feelings of personal sin jump to the surface.  He alone could forgive them, deliver them, and give them hope for the future.

3. Judgment in that day. (vv.9-11)
Once the ruthless Assyrians were through, the entire region would be devastated, destroyed, and deserted.  Why?  Israel had become a godless nation.  They forgot the God of their fathers who promised the land to them and delivered them from slavery in Egypt.  They chose not to remember the miracles of God's protection of them and His countless provisions to them.

For us, let today be a day of remembering the goodness of the LORD and humbly living for Him.

 

God's word stands Forever

 Read Isaiah 16.

Moab had been attacked by Assyria in the previous chapter.  The people scattered and ran for their lives.  However, the reference to Sela in verse 1 seems to indicate they ran further south.  Judah would have been a safe haven for them.

1. Why did this happen to Moab?  (vv.6-7, 12)
As in each case of judgment, its root focus is spiritual and on the surface is arrogance.  Moab worshiped Baal and rejected the true and living God.  When the pressure was on, instead running to the safety of Judah, they ran in the opposite direction geographically and spiritually.  There was only silence in their vain attempts to pray to their man-made Baal (v.12).  The Moabites prided themselves in not needing God.  They had their own beliefs.  Selfishly and smugly they went their own way, deeper into sin.  They actually boasted about it.  The LORD dealt decisively with their insolence.

2. Where is justice against the oppressor? (vv.4-5)
In previous chapters, Isaiah prophesied the destruction of Assyria.  Notice how quickly in this context Isaiah mentions ultimate justice by the ultimate Judge.  One day, Messiah Himself will sit on the throne of David in Jerusalem.  His judgment will be characterized by love, faithfulness, and righteousness.

But that is not all.  God gave Isaiah an exact prophecy in verse 14 that what happened to Moab and their nation is only the first part.  "In three years" more destruction will come.  Isaiah served a very long time as a prophet.  If anyone wanted to, or could, discredit the veracity and reliability of God's word and using Isaiah to deliver His messages, this could have done it.  Three years later, God's word and Isaiah's ministry continued to be totally reliable.

"Forever, O LORD, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens." (Psalm 119:89)

A lesson learned the hard Way

 Read Isaiah 15.

Moab was the son of Lot (Genesis 19), the result of incest with one of his daughters.  The Moabites settled on the southeast side of the Dead Sea.  Spiritually, they worshiped Baal, not the God of Abraham. 

During the Exodus, the Moabites refused passage to the traveling Jews.  The LORD prevented Moses from attacking them.  Ruth was a Moabite.  She married into a family from Bethlehem.  When her husband died, she moved to Israel and embraced the true and living God.  She then became the great-grandmother of King David.  Saul and David warred against the Moabites and defeated them.

At the time of Isaiah's writing some of Moab's key cities had already been destroyed.  Those not killed fled in humiliation looking for a place of safety.  Even Isaiah was impacted emotionally (v.5) by what had happened.

The rest of this story continues into chapter 16.

There is an old saying, "The wheels of justice turn slowly, but grind exceedingly fine."

Because the LORD chooses not to immediately strike a person dead over their sin, some believe they got away with it.  Or, worse, they come to believe there is no God who is holding them accountable.  Moab learned this lesson the hard way.

The beauty of God's grace is that He has taken the initiative to deliver us.  "For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." (Romans 3:23-24)

 

 

What prophecy reveals about God's Character

 Read Isaiah 14.

This is a power packed series of prophecies for five different target audiences.

To Israel (vv.1-2)
The northern kingdom would be invaded and taken by the Assyrians.  However, all is not lost.  There is a future and a hope.  The LORD said that He will again "choose" them, place them on the land of promise, and other nations will "attach" themselves with the Jews.

To Babylon (vv.3-23)
This was written as a song that the Jews will tauntingly sing at the destruction of Babylon.  Even the greatest of leaders are human and eventually die.  But the king referred to here will get God's special attention due to his arrogance and attempt to deify himself. 

To Assyrian (vv.24-27)
God has a purpose in using them for a time to carry out His judgment.  But they too will come to an end.

To Philistia (vv.28-31)
The coastal kingdoms of the Philistines had been a thorn in the side of God's people ever since Joshua led the people into the land.  God's judgment will break them.

To Judah (v.32)
The message for Philistia is not so much for the Philistines as it is for the southern kingdom of Judah.  The LORD will watch over Jerusalem and protect them.

In the midst of all these prophesied judgments, there are three lessons to learn regarding the character of God. 
1. He is the God of compassion. (v.1)
Though Israel sinned and indeed had become godless in their culture, "the LORD will have compassion on Jacob."  He is a God of mercy and His motive in judgment is to deal with sin.  It is out of His grace that He extends forgiveness, cleansing, and "again" decides to use people.

2. He is the God in control. (v.24)
The earth belongs to Him.  He is the Owner of all things.  As sovereign LORD, He has detailed purposes and plans for each life.  What He declares will be done.  "As I have planned, so shall it be, and as I have purposed, so shall it stand."  He is ever faithful.  We may rely on His word absolutely.  When He offers to deliver us from the penalty of sin and home in heaven, we can stake our eternity on it!

3. He is the God of comfort. (v.32)
While kingdoms and empires will be falling, Judah need not fear.  The Jews did not conquer the land and found the city of Jerusalem.  God did.  These people belong to Him.  Will they experience affliction?  Yes.  But the LORD already planned to be their refuge and to comfort them in their affliction.  And, He is the same for us this very day.

 

He is God of the present and the Future

 Read Isaiah 13.

From Genesis to the Prophets to Revelation, the Bible condemns the city of Babylon as a center of hatred against God.  It is referred to as the source of astrology and other satanically inspired alternatives designed to distract people from trusting in God's word.  Here, the Holy Spirit revealed to Isaiah the destruction of the Babylonian Empire.

Perhaps, the most significant element of Isaiah's message is that Babylon would not become a world empire for another 200 years.  But such is the nature of prophecy, that is, telling the future in advance.  No one but the sovereign LORD Himself could know and control this plan.  The events described here were fulfilled in Daniel 5 with the famous handwriting on the wall.  Babylon's end came with the sandwiched attack by the Medes and Persians. 

But there is more.  A similar description of a revived Babylon is found in Revelation 16-18.  This will be the ultimate fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy.

Notice in the chapter that though empires fall and another is raised up, it is God who planned it all and takes full credit for using them to do His work.
v.3-"I myself have commanded...to execute my anger..."
v.4-"The LORD of hosts is mustering a host for battle."
v.5-"...the LORD and the weapons of his indignation,..."
v.11-"I will punish...I will put an end..."
v.12-"I will make people more rare..."
v.13-"I will make the heavens tremble..."
v.17-"I am stirring up the Medes against them..."

The LORD had called Judah to repent and experience forgiveness of their sins in chapter one.  It came with this warning, “If you refuse and rebel, you shall be eaten with the sword; for the mouth of the LORD has spoken.” (1:19)  While the God of the universe has such plans and power of justice for Jew and Gentile alike, He knows and cares for every individual life.  “Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD; though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” (1:18) Our response begins with a willingness to “come” to Him. 

 

The words of a new Song

 Read Isaiah 12.

What a difference!  "In that day" God will literally change Israel's tune.

As the messages in the previous chapters have described, there is coming a day when all the earthly covenant promises of God will be fulfilled.  The Jews will gather on their land as one; not two kingdoms.  Jesus, the Messiah, will rule the world as He sits on the throne of David in Jerusalem. 

It will be a time to celebrate and rejoice.  It will be a time of comfort from the LORD Himself.

This is a song in two stanzas.  The wording of much of this chapter is right from the book of Psalms.  After all that had been predicted against the people in Isaiah's day, what would take place against the Jews over nearly 3,000 years since, and what will happen to them in the coming times, God has never changed His plans for the future of His chosen people.  Indeed, He is the God of their ultimate deliverance.  That is a day in the future for the Jews.  But for now, we grab on to the unchanging character of our LORD and rejoice today in our personal relationship with Him!

Verse 2 is worthy of memorizing.

1. He is my strength.
No matter how hard the circumstances are that we face, His grace is available to us.  As the old saying goes, "If He brings you to it, He will bring you through it."  Paul quoted Jesus as saying, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9)

2. He is my song.
The world's music maybe catchy.  But when a person comes to personal faith in Christ, He gives us something far better.  "He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.  Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the LORD." (Psalm 40:3)

3. He is my salvation.
Every day, we experience the deliverance of God.  Sometimes, we notice.  He protects us from temptations, dangers, and losses that we did not even see.  He safely brings us through another day.  Even more, He has provided eternal deliverance from sin and its penalty.  He loved us so much that Jesus died in order that we could experience His wonderful salvation.  "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life…" (John 3:36a)

 

A look at world Peace

 Read Isaiah 11.

One of the most important rules of interpreting the Scriptures is context.  It is the habit of many to only quote phrases from the Bible they like and not read the rest.  This chapter is one of those portions.

"A little child shall lead them" is a phrase, part of a sentence, in a chapter full of detail.  The prophetic descriptions foretell of a unique time on earth that has never happened.  Some have tried to explain these verses away as having taken place in Isaiah's time.  Others endeavor to discredit an earthly fulfillment of this prophecy, choosing to spiritualize the words as taking place in heaven.  But even a cursory reading reveals those two attempts are without merit. 

Here is why.

1. The King. (v.1)
Who is he?  He will rise up as a branch from the family tree of Jesse, the royal lineage of King David.  That is why Matthew 1 is so important.  It is a legal statement that Jesus has a right to that throne.

2. The King's rule. (vv.2-3)
He will rule in the full power of the Holy Spirit.  He will be the Wonderful Counselor (Isaiah 9:6) to the nations on earth.  He will do what pleases the Father (John 8:29). 

3. The effects of the King's rule. (vv.4-9)
When Jesus comes again, He will be the King of Kings, judging and ruling this world by the Word of God (Revelation 19).  As the Prince of Peace, the Messiah will usher in a time of absolute peace.  Sin brought death, disobedience, and division.  Jesus will bring unity, right behavior, and life.  So-called natural fears and threats will be gone.  "...the earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD."

In Isaiah's time, reconciliation of Israel and Judah seemed unthinkable.  But "in that day" (v.10), Messiah will regather and unify His people.  Note that God’s plan is not only for the Jews, but all the families of the earth will be blessed (Genesis 12).