Isaiah

Isaiah Homework

1. Write one paragraph explaining the historical background and purpose of the book

In Isaiah 1:1, we’re told that this book is written by Isaiah the prophet (although this is debated by some) and took place during the reign of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah over Judah. During this time, the people were under many attacks from outside nations. The people were in sin and were continuing on their downward slope. In fact, we know that at this time, Judah had already fallen to the Assyrians, but were allowed to remain a nation and pay tribute to the king of Assyria. This was somewhat of a transition time between paying tribute to Assyria and being exiled into Babylon. 

Isaiah is speaking to the people of both judgement and redemption. We see this even in the chronology of the book as the first half is woes and judgments against nations and the back half promises hope. Isaiah even prophesies about Cyrus, giving the people very detailed hope for the future (Isaiah 45:1-8). God always leaves a remnant for his people, even in what seems to be the worst destruction imaginable. 

Isaiah is written as a warning of the fall that is on its way, as well as informing them of the cause of their destruction. Yet in this, there is a promise of redemption. The people are already under many prophesies that they have heard before and they’ve already seen Israel fall. They know that prophesies are fulfilled. So now they have prophesies to look forward to. Isaiah is challenging the people to know the prophesies and to walk forward in them.

2. What does this book show of the Character and Nature of God as well as His plan for redemption?

“I am the Lord and there is no other.” (Isaiah 44:8) This is read over and over through the book of Isaiah. God is sovereign and he will not stand for any other in his place. “To whom can you compare God? What image can you find to resemble him?” (Isaiah 40:18) he says. “To whom will you compare me? Who is my equal?” (Isaiah 40:25). “ I am the Lord: that is my name! I will not give my glory to anyone else, nor share my praise with carved idols!” (Isaiah 42:8) God is just and fights for the poor and oppressed. He is in control. Yet even in this great power and might, he is merciful and loyal to his people. (Isaiah 43-44)

Almost the entire book of Isaiah is God’s plan for redemption. We’ve been putting ourselves in the shoes of the Israelites for a month now. We’ve walked with them through the promise to Abraham, the exodus from Egypt, the beginning of the kings. But for the first time we’ve seen so far, we get a clear and perfect picture of a Messiah to come (Isaiah 7:13-17) . This is huge! There is prophesy after prophesy of the hope that is to come from the Redeemer. It is a glorious moment and something to look to and walk in. God is bringing hope and peace and comfort and power through the coming Messiah. (Isaiah 53, 9:6-7, Isaiah 11:1-5)

3. Application

I absolutely loved reading Isaiah. I feel like I’ve been on this journey with the Israelites for so long. I walked with them through every downfall and watched as they turned from the Lord. They are simply unable to keep the law. But through it all we see the Lord who SO longs to dwell among them! It is just heart wrenching. But then we get to this moment and we just see hope! In reading this, I really had moments that made me want to cry. God you’re so good to provide a way and it’s coming!

Father let me never forget my excitement over this promise! Let me always remember my need for the Messiah just as your people. Help me to keep this joy in my life always and look to the hope that I have coming!