The Vision

We all come to a place in our lives when we realize we can’t save ourselves. We are forced to ask who will save us and how? Isaiah proclaims The Holy One of Israel’s justice against sin and rebellion, and The Holy One of Israel’s hope as the saving Messiah. Isaiah’s message is simple. Yahweh, The Holy One of Israel, is Judge and Savior; of His people (1-12), of the nations (13-27), of Jerusalem (28-39), while in exile, (40-48), as the suffering Messiah (49-55), and as LORD forever and ever (56-66).

Starter

Tell about a time in your life when someone’s anger was not removed and their hand seemed raised to strike at any time. What was/has been your response?

Pray

Lord we thank you that you are The Holy One of Israel. You are Holy perfect in all you do and worthy of our worship and obedience. We like Israel are the ones who wrestle with you, fight to see you, know that you always win, and understand you bless those you chose to bless. Thank you for for loving us, for forgiving us, and for restoring us. We are grateful that through you, our Messiah, your anger can be removed and we do not need to fear your hand that will someday strike. May we know how to live and speak with mercy and justice in the midst of the reality that your anger is not removed yet and your hand is raised to strike. Amen

Study Questions

READ: Isaiah 9:6-17

  1. What should you expect to happen if you refuse to submit to the King, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace, and Zealous Lord of Armies (Hosts)?
  2. Why has it become so hard for people today, just like in Isaiah’s day, to accept the coming reality that God’s anger is not removed, and His hand is still raised to strike?
  3. The Northern Kingdom after being raided and plundered were still claiming in pride and arrogance that THEY would build it all back better than before. How do we see this same message today being spoken in pride and arrogance by people who claim to know God*?*
    1. What would a surrendered and humble message sound like in these circumstances?

Read these verses and notice what real “brotherly” and family love (Greek=phileo) looks like. READ: Isaiah 9:18-19, 1 Thessalonians 4:3, 7-9, Hebrews 13:1-9, Romans 12:1-19

  1. Do you tend to argue for more mercy or truth in being “loving” toward people? Why?
  2. Which of the things we read are more difficult for you to practice…more natural for you to practice? Any you refuse to practice? Why?

READ: Isaiah 10:1-4, John 3:16-21, 1 Thessalonians 1:8-10, Colossians 3:1-7

  1. What

READ: Isaiah 10:5-23, Matthew 7:13-16

  1. Who is I

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