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The book of Isaiah is one of the four 'major' prophets and
contains 66 chapters. In this lovely book we learn of the
holiness of God and of His promise of a Saviour and King for
all nations in the future age when Jerusalem will be His capital
city.
Isaiah prophesied during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz
and Hezekiah, Kings of Judah, from about 740-700 BC. Judah
was opposed by Syria and Israel (Northern Kingdom) as well
as being a buffer state between Egypt and Assyria (which was
growing in power at the time).
Isaiah told Judah that their safety lay in serving God, not
relying on human forces or alliances (30:15). He also had
to deliver God's judgements ("burdens") upon nearby nations
(chapters 13-23).
In the centre of the book is an historical section dealing
with the time of the Assyrian invasion of Judah and God's
deliverance of Jerusalem. Despite this deliverance, God knew
that Judah would again rebel against Him. So Isaiah prophesies
troubles yet to come on the Jews, both from Babylon and the
other nations.
However, God's great plan (11:9) would be carried out. He
would first send the Messiah to save His people from their
sins and to eventually be their King - and King of the whole
world.
God's Servant:
From chapters 49-53, we read about God's servant. Isaiah
himself worked for God, as also should the people of Judah
and all Israel have done (49:3). But the ideal Servant was
still to come (49:5-6). He would, however, be rejected by
the people but would yet be their Saviour (53:11-12) and their
King (42:1-4).
God's Kingdom:
In chapter 2 Isaiah describes the time when Jesus will be
King in Jerusalem and over the whole world. It will be a time
of peace and joy (11:1-9). Christ will sit on David's throne
(9:6-7), Israel will be comforted and forgiven (40:1-5) and
the whole world will be renewed (65:17).
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