passionate service in a discouraging world. isaiah began his work in 740 b.c. prophesied for 40...
TRANSCRIPT
Isaiah began his work in 740 B.C.
Prophesied for 40 years
During the reign of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezikiah
Uzziah “did right in the sight of the Lord” (2Chron 26:4 )
As he became more and more successful he relied less upon God (vs. 7) and more upon himself (vs. 15)
He was struck with leprosy all the rest of his days
Jotham “did right in the sight of the Lord” (2Chron 27:2)
“but the people continued acting corruptly.”
Ahaz “walked in the way of the kings of Israel; he also made molten images for the Baals. Moreover, he burned incense in the valley of Ben-hinnom and burned his sons in fire, according to the abominations of the nations...He sacrificed and burned incense on the high places, on the hills and under every green tree” (2Chron 28:2-4).
He also made a covenant with Assyria, gave them utensils from the house of God, and closed the doors of the temple (2Chron 28:24)
Hezekiah was a great reformer but…
He became filled with pride later in life and “gave no return for the benefit he received, because his heart was proud” 2Chron 32:25
Seemingly set the stage for the wickedness of Mannasseh
“…sinful nation, people weighed down with iniquity, offspring of evil doers, sons
who act corruptly...” Isaiah 1:4
“the Lord God of hosts is going to remove from
Jerusalem and Judah both supply and support, the
whole supply of bread and the whole supply of water...”
Isaiah 3:1
“Whom shall I send and who will go for Us?”
Why would anyone answer this call?
Isaiah saw God’s greatness
Isaiah had a proper appreciation for the gift which God offered.
Isaiah saw his own responsibility
Recognizing the Greatness of God
Isaiah was able gain insight into the spiritual realm
God was depicted as on His throne (in control) despite the chaos on earth
The transcendence of God fills the vision
Recognizing the Greatness of God
The Seraphim demonstrated shame and respect at His very presence
“Holy, Holy, Holy” the repetition serves as a superlative
The shaking of the foundation symbolizes coming judgment
Recognizing the Greatness of God
We should be awed by the witnesses to God’s greatness
God’s creation (Psalm 19:1).
God’s word (Psalm 19:7-9).
God’s love and grace (Psalm 130:3-4).
God’s Judgment (2 Cor 5:10-11).
Recognizing the Greatness of God
How do we reverence God?
Obedience to His will(Matthew 7:21-23)
Worship with reverence (Psalm 89:7)
Respect God’s Word (Nehemiah 8:1-8)
Appreciating what God Alone can Offer
Isaiah saw his failings in God’s perfect Holiness
His response to this realization is immediate repentance and confession of his sins
The result of Isaiah’s plea was forgiveness of his sins
Seeing our own Responsibility
The holiness of God and the demonstration of grace left Isaiah humbled and grateful
These events caused Isaiah to renew his commitment and recognize his responsibility
The details could not diminish his resolve to serve