God Waits to be Gracious
Labels:
Isaiah
29. An expository study of Isaiah, chapter 30
Please be sure to have your Bible open, as we begin,
so that you can directly refer to the Scripture throughout our study.
Symptoms
of rebellion
This chapter begins with a woe, pronounced against stubborn and rebellious children: “Woe to the rebellious children, says the
Lord” (v.1). I notice it is translated in my Spanish version, “children who separate themselves” and
the Hebrew word can be defined in that way. Here are the definitions: to turn away, be refractory, backsliding,
rebellious, revolter, stubborn, to withdraw.
I think, then, that we can judge a separation from God
as an important and sure sign that someone has turned rebellious. Therefore,
the first error of rebellion is a refusal to walk with God and consists in
making a decision to take an independent pathway. Independence sings a sweet
song and many are attracted by it, follow it and leave the heavenly highway.
You Turn Things Upside Down!
Labels:
Isaiah
28.
An Expository Study of Isaiah, Chapter 29
Let me summarize five general characteristics that we
have come to recognize in studying the book of Isaiah:
1. It is a book of repetition. God knows who He is
dealing with… that is, forgetful human beings… and therefore, He goes over the
same principles of truth again and again.
2. It is a poetical book, full of symbols, analogies,
axioms and even song, appealing to the inner man, as well as the intellect, in
order that the truth should penetrate deeper.
3. As in all Scripture, it is a book that reveals the
person and character of God. This book has a central theme, which concentrates
on the holiness of God. Therefore it promises judgment and retribution to the
nations for their sin, and punishment to Israel for its rebellion against Him.
4, It is a book about God’s salvation. In it, God
clearly demonstrates his unwavering and undying care for His people. He will defend
them against their enemies and bring about their deliverance. Again and again,
we also see Him reaching out to His enemies and offering them the opportunity
of a future with Him and His people. Ultimately, He promises eternal salvation.
5. It is a book of prophecy. Some of the prophecy will
shortly come to pass, especially that regarding Assyria. Others reach forward
to the rise and fall of Babylon. There is a wealth of Messianic prophecy
pointing to the advent, the birth, the ministry, the purpose, the death and the
reign of the Messiah. It prophecies of the mercy of God to the Gentile nations.
It points to the Tribulation and often to the Millennium, which follows.
And then it takes us on into eternity, telling of the total destruction of the
present world and the new heaven and earth.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
Recommended Books
