CONTENT OF THE TEACHER’S MANUAL

I. Appendix to Isaiah 2:1-21: A Consideration of Isaiah 2:1-4

At certain points in the appendices Hebrew or Greek words are incorporated into the text. In order to retrieve these words it is necessary to download Teknia Hebrew and Teknia Greek. The facilitator may contact MINTS for free downloads of these fonts by clicking Biblical Language Fonts.

Note: All Scripture texts will appear in Comic Sans MS font; all extended quotations from other authors will appear in Courier font.

II. ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS THAT ACCOMPANY THE LESSONS

III. FINAL EXAM (STUDENT AND FACILATOR COPIES)

IV. GUIDELINES FOR WRITING A BOOK REPORT AND AN ESSAY Appendix to Isaiah 2:1-21 A Consideration of Isaiah 2:1-4

This is what Isaiah the son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem (verse 1)

 Isaiah will now make known the vision from God concerning the future of Zion: the glorious work that God will do for Judah and through Judah

 note: in the midst of discipline and chastening (1:2-9) and impending judgment upon the nation (1:20,24-ff.), there is a word of hope for the people of God

The time of the fulfillment of this vision is designated as the last days (verse 2)

 according to the New Testament, the last days (or, the latter days) began with the birth of Christ and reach their climax with His return in glory

In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son… (Hebrews 1:1-2)

Christ was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. (1 Peter 1:20)

 thus, the attention of God’s people is focused on the future, …and this same perspective is continued in the New Testament (note Philippians 3:20)

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:20)

What will God do for Judah in the last days? (verse 2b):

the mountain of Jehovah’s temple will be established as chief among the mountains

 the kingdom of God shall be revealed to be permanent, durable, unshakable, and everlasting

 concerning the kingdom of God, it is said of Abraham that he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. (Hebrews 11:10)

… the God of heaven will establish a kingdom that shall never be destroyed, nor shall its sovereignty be passed on to another people. It will break all those kingdoms into pieces and consume them, and it will stand forever. (Daniel 2:44)

…it shall be exalted above the hills

 the kingdom of God shall have the pre-eminence: Christ has already been exalted to that position at the right hand of God, and at His coming God’s kingdom shall be revealed in all of its pre-eminent glory

…and all nations shall flow to it

 the picture presented here is that of the Gentile nations, like a mighty river, flowing up to the mountain of God

 the picture portrays the miraculous work of God in bringing the Gentiles to saving faith in Jesus the Messiah (note Revelation 5:9-10)

…they sing a new song, saying, “You are worthy to take the scroll and break the seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. 10You have made them into a kingdom and priests for our God, and they shall reign over the earth.” (Revelation 5:9-10) We are transported into the future to see and hear the miraculous work of God among the nations (verse 3a):

…many peoples will come and say, Come, let us go up to the mountain of Jehovah, to the house of the God of Jacob; …

 there is the desire to come to the Lord, and a desire to have others join with them

…he will teach us his ways, and we will walk in his paths.

 there is, furthermore, a desire for instruction, and the desire to know God, and a desire to walk with Him in obedience and fellowship

What is the cause of this great “migration” of the nations unto the Lord? (verse 3b):

…the law (or, the instruction, the Hebrew word, hr2wTo) will go out from Zion, and the word of Jehovah from Jerusalem

 here is a reference to the going forth of the gospel following Pentecost (note Luke 24:46-47)

following His resurrection, the Lord Jesus declared to His disciples, This is what is written, The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. (Luke 24:46-47)

Here is depicted the Lord’s peaceful rule over the nations (verse 4):

He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes among many peoples

 i.e.; the Lord is the Great King before whom the peoples come for arbitration and the settling of their disputes

they will beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks

 warfare will give way to peaceful co-existence among neighbors, each tending his own plot of land

nation shall not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war any more

 in light of Isaiah 2:12-21., which speaks of the final judgment of God, and many other such passages in both the Old and the New Testaments, this present verse cannot be taken as a reference to universal world peace

 rather, it is a pictorial description of the peace and unity that is found within the body of Christ and that shall be fully realized in the kingdom of God as the redeemed of every nation live together in the peace and blessing of God (note Ephesians 2:14-18)

Christ is our peace, he is the one who made the two (i.e.; believing Jew and believing Gentile) become one and who destroyed the dividing wall which served as a barrier. With his flesh he destroyed the source of enmity 15by abolishing the law that consisted of commandments in the form of regulations. He did so in order that in himself he might create the two into one new man, thereby making peace; 16and that he might reconcile the two—in one body—unto God by the cross, having put the enmity to death by it. 17When he came, “he preached the message of peace” to you “who were far away (i.e.; the Gentiles) and peace to those who were near (i.e.; the Jews),” 18for through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. (Ephesians 2:14-18) ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS THAT ACCOMPANY THE LESSONS

Background Information on Isaiah

1. Like any other historical book, the Book of Isaiah is written in strict chronological order, beginning with the prophet’s divine call to his ministry and culminating with a vision of the Lord’s eschatological kingdom. True or False

2. Chapters 1-39 predominantly, though not exclusively, deal with the period of Judah’s history during the eighth century B.C., the time in which Isaiah was carrying out his ministry. True or False

3. Which of the following topics is the primary focus of chapters 40-66?

a. The Conquest of Judah by the Babylonians b. The Fall of Babylon c. Judah’s Release from Their Babylonian Captivity d. The Presentation of the Messiah as the Servant of the Lord

4. Match the kings listed below with the statements that describe their reigns.

a. He reigned during Judah’s Silver Age of splendor. Uzziah b. His unbelief eventually brought judgment upon the nation of Judah. Ahaz c. His trust in the Lord spared Judah in a time of severe national crisis. Hezekiah

5. According to Isaiah 6:8-13, what was the purpose of Isaiah’s ministry?

a. Isaiah was called to deliver the people from the spiritual hardening of their hearts. b. Isaiah was called to caution the people against a self-hardening of their hearts. c. Isaiah was called to create a judicial hardening in the hearts of the people. Walk in the Light of the Lord Isaiah 2:1-21

1. In verses 2-4 (printed below) the Lord gives Isaiah a revelation of "the last days." (Note: According to the New Testament, "the last days" began with the birth of Christ (Hebrews 1:1-2) and culminate with His return in glory.) What does Isaiah see happening in this period known as "the last days" (i.e.; this period which is the New Testament era?)

In the last days the mountain of Jehovah's temple will be established as chief among the mountains and shall be exalted above the hills, and all nations shall flow to it. (3) Many peoples will come and say, Come, let us go up to the mountain of Jehovah, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, and we will walk in his paths—for the law will go out from Zion, and the word of Jehovah from Jerusalem. (4) He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes among many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation shall not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war any more. (Isaiah 2:2-4)

In the last days all nations shall flow to "the mountain of the Jehovah's temple." The Gentile nations, like a mighty river, are pictured as miraculously flowing upward to the mountain of God. Here is a picture of God's miraculous work of bringing the Gentile nations to faith in Christ and into the kingdom of God, which is especially the work of the Holy Spirit in this present New Testament era. In verse 3 we are transported from the time of the prophet Isaiah into the future to see and hear this miraculous work of God as it takes place among the Gentile nations: "Come, let us go up to...the house of the God of Jacob." Here is the desire to come to the Lord and to have others join with them in coming. "He will teach us His ways, and we will walk in His paths." Here is the desire to know the Lord and the commitment to walk with Him in fellowship and obedience.

2. As he witnesses this future scene of the Gentile nations coming to the Lord, what does Isaiah exhort Israel to do? Why is this ironic? See Isaiah 2:5 (printed below)

O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of Jehovah. (Isaiah 2:5)

In verse 5, as he witnesses this future scene of the Gentile nations coming to the Lord, Isaiah exhorts his own people, Israel, "Come, let us walk in the light of Jehovah!" Isaiah is calling upon his own people to imitate these new converts in their zeal to know God and serve Him! It is ironic that the people of God must be admonished to imitate the godly example of the heathen converts; and, as we shall see, be exhorted to stop imitating the ungodly example of their pagan neighbors (verses 6b-8).

3. List some of the sins Isaiah accuses Israel of practicing. See Isaiah 2:6 and 8 (printed below)

You have forsaken your people, the house of Jacob, because they are full of the customs of the East and practice divination like the Philistines. They clasp hands with the children of foreigners, making covenants with them...(8) And their land is full of idols. They bow down to the work of their own hands, they bow down to what their fingers have made. (Isaiah 2:6,8)

In verse 6a Israel is described as being filled with "the customs of the east"—a reference to the pagan customs and practices imported from the East; the very place Abraham had been called to forsake in order to follow the Lord into the Promised Land. The succeeding verses further describe the conduct, outlook and lifestyle of Judah. They "practice divination like the Philistines;" Israel had come to look to soothsayers for guidance instead of looking to the Lord their God and His Word (note Isaiah 8:19). "They clasp hands with the children of foreigners, making covenants with them;" they were forming binding relationships and covenants with those who were strangers to the Lord and His covenant. "Their land is full of idols;" rather than destroying the idols of the pagan nations who possessed the land before them, as they had been commanded to do (Exodus 34:12-14), Israel embraced the pagan religion of their neighbors.

4. What does verse 7 (printed below) tell us about Israel at this time in their history? (Note: The chapters of Isaiah do not follow a chronological sequence; some chapters, such as chapter two, describe the state of Israel prior to the Lord's judgment, other chapters describe their plight in the days of His righteous judgment.)

Their land is full of silver and gold, there is no end to their treasures. Their land also is full of war horses, neither is there any numbering of their chariots. (Isaiah 2:7)

Verse 7 tells us, "their land is full of silver and gold; there is no end to their treasures." At this particular time in its history, Israel was a nation that was experiencing a superabundance of prosperity, and that prosperity was turning them into materialists who loved the things of this present world and was suffocating their spiritual life. Furthermore, "their land also is full of war horses, neither is there any numbering of their chariots." These people had come to place their confidence in military might; what is described here is the ancient version of a vast build up of armaments. 5. In verses 10-21 (printed below) Isaiah describes the coming Day of the Lord. What are some of the characteristics of that great day? Note especially verses 11-12 and 17-18.

Go among the rocks, and hide yourself in the dust, from the terror of Jehovah and from the glory of his majesty. (11) The arrogant looks of man will be brought low, and the lofty pride of men will be humbled, and Jehovah alone will be exalted on that day. (12) Jehovah of hosts has a day in store for all that is proud and arrogant, for all that is exalted—and they will be humbled. (13) Jehovah of hosts has a day in store for all the cedars of Lebanon that are tall and lofty, and for all the oaks of Bashan; (14) for all the towering mountains, and all the high hills; (15) for every lofty tower, and every fortified wall; (16) for all the merchant ships that sail to Tarshish, and every stately vessel. (17) The arrogance of man shall be brought low, and the pride of man shall be humbled; and Jehovah alone shall be exalted on that day—(18) and the idols will totally disappear. (19) Men will flee to the caves in the rocks and to the holes in the ground from the terror of Jehovah and from the glory of his majesty, when he rises to mightily shake the earth. (20) On that day men will throw away to the rodents and to the bats their idols of silver and their idols of gold that they made to worship, (21) in order to flee to the caverns in the rocks and to the overhanging crags from the terror of Jehovah and from the glory of his majesty, when he rises to mightily shake the earth. (Isaiah 2:10-21)

Verse 12 foretells the coming Day of the Lord of hosts: a day of reckoning and a day of accountability. It is emphasized that on that Day the Lord of hosts will especially set Himself against the pride and arrogance of man: "Jehovah of hosts has a day in store for all that is proud and arrogant, for all that is exalted—and they will be humbled" (verse 12); "the arrogance of man shall be brought low, and the pride of man shall be humbled; and Jehovah alone shall be exalted on that day" (verse 17). This passage further describes the characteristics of that great Day as follows: on that Day "the idols will totally disappear" (verse 18); "men will throw away to the rodents and to the bats their idols of silver and their idols of gold" (verse 20). On that Day "Jehovah alone shall be exalted" (verse 17).

6. Isaiah chapter two alerts us to the sad fact that those who possess the great religious privilege of knowing the Lord and having access to His presence, are prone to neglect/disregard that privilege and depart from Him. Fill in the blank

7. Complete the sentences listed below that describe the scene Isaiah saw in the revelation recorded in verses 1-4.

a. The Gentile nations, like a mighty river, are miraculously flowing upward to the mountain of God. b. What is being portrayed here is God’s miraculous work of bringing the Gentile nations to faith in Christ and a place in the kingdom of God. c. These Gentile nations have the desire to come to the Lord and a willingness to walk with Him in fellowship and obedience. d. It is ironic that the Old Testament people of God must be exhorted to imitate the godly example of these Gentile converts and stop imitating the ungodly example of their pagan neighbors.

8. Match the sins of Old Testament Israel with their present day counterparts.

a. Present day Christians may be tempted to consult with psychics and astrological charts instead of looking for guidance in God’s Word, the Bible. Israel practiced divination. b. Present day Christians may be tempted to marry unbelieving spouses. Israel made covenants with foreigners. c. Present day Christians may be tempted to trust in their nation’s military power and armaments for their security. Israel possessed a multitude of horses and chariots.

9. Isaiah 2:13-16 describes the Day of the Lord’s judgment as a great storm/tornado/hurricane that shall sweep away everything that stands upon the earth and everything that is exalted as a rival to the Lord. Fill in the blank.

10. Which of the following statements accurately describe the characteristics of the Day of the Lord as it is revealed in Isaiah 2:10-21?

a. On that day all human pride and arrogance will be brought down and man will be humbled before the Lord of hosts. b. On that day the people of God will be delivered from their exile and return to the land of Israel. c. On that day the glory of the Lord will be revealed and the Lord alone will be exalted. What to Do in a Crisis Isaiah 7:1-25

1. What crisis did Judah face in the days of King Ahaz? See Isaiah 7:1-2 (printed below)

When Ahaz, son of Jotham, the son of Uzziah, was king of Judah, King Rezin of Syria and Pekah, son of Remaliah, the king of Israel, went up to Jerusalem to wage war against it—but they could not conquer it. (2) But then the house of David received the report, Syria is in alliance with Ephraim! King Ahaz's heart trembled—as did the heart of his people—like the trees of the forest are shaken by the wind. (Isaiah 7:1-2)

In the days when Ahaz was king of Judah, the nation of Syria (under king Rezin) began to wage war against the land of Judah. In the course of time, the nation of Israel (under Pekah) also began to wage their own war against Judah. Thus the nation of Judah found herself under attack from two separate enemies: Syria, attacking from the northeast; and Israel, attacking from the north (2 Chronicles 28:1,5-6,8). But despite their attacks, these two individual enemies could not prevail against Judah, they were unable to capture Jerusalem. But now as Isaiah 7:2 reports, word comes that these two enemy nations, Syria and Israel, have joined forces against Judah—this now produces a real crisis in the life of the nation for the people and for king Ahaz.

2. What message does the Lord give Isaiah to deliver to King Ahaz and the nation as they face this crisis? See Isaiah 7:3-6 (printed below)

Then Jehovah said to Isaiah, Go out, you and your son Shear-Jashub, to meet Ahaz at the end of the aqueduct of the upper pool, on the road to the Washerman's Field. (4) Say to him, Pay attention and keep calm. Do not be afraid. Do not become fainthearted because of these two smoking stubs of firewood—because of the fierce anger of Rezin and Syria and that of the son of Remaliah. (5) Do not become fainthearted because Syria, Ephraim, and the son of Remaliah have planned evil against you, saying, (6) Let us invade Judah; let us tear it apart and divide it among ourselves, and make the son of Tabeel king over it. (Isaiah 7:3-6)

In the midst of this crisis, the Lord sent Isaiah to king Ahaz with the following message. First, the Lord instructs Ahaz to get hold of himself: "Pay attention and keep calm." "Do not be afraid. Do not become fainthearted." The Lord informs Ahaz that Syria and Israel are enemies without strength; they are two pieces of charred wood, "two smoking stubs of firewood." Finally, the Lord assures Ahaz that Syria and Israel are enemies whose purpose shall fail: "Syria, Ephraim, and the son of Remaliah have planned evil against you, saying, (6) Let us invade Judah; let us tear it apart and divide it among ourselves, and make the son of Tabeel king over it. (7) This is what the Lord Jehovah says, Their plan will not be established, neither will it be accomplished."

3. What concluding word of counsel and warning does the Lord give King Ahaz? See Isaiah 7:9b (printed below)

If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all. (Isaiah 7:9b)

The Lord commands Ahaz to place his confidence in Him. But note that He states it in negative terms, "If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all." That is to say, if you trust in the Lord—but only if you trust in the Lord—He will uphold you in the midst of your trial and cause you to grow spiritually stronger by means of your trial. The reason the Lord states His counsel and warning in negative terms is because He knew Ahaz' heart; He knew Ahaz was determined to seek his own solution rather than put his confidence in the Lord his God.

4. What does the Lord invite King Ahaz to do (see verses 10-11 printed below?) How does Ahaz respond (see verse 12 printed below?) What was the real reason Ahaz declined the Lord's offer? See 2 Kings 16:7-8 (printed below)

Again Jehovah spoke to Ahaz, saying, (11) Ask for a sign from Jehovah your God. Ask for a sign to be given either in the depths below or in the heights above. (Isaiah 7:10-11)

But Ahaz replied, I will not ask for a sign; I will not test Jehovah. (Isaiah 7:12)

Ahaz sent messengers to say to Tiglath-Pileser king of Assyria, I am your servant and vassal. Come up and save me out of the hand of the king of Syria and of the king of Israel, who are attacking me. (8) And Ahaz took the silver and gold found in the temple of Jehovah and in the treasuries of the royal palace and sent it as a gift to the king of Assyria. (2 Kings 16:7-8)

The Lord not only calls upon Ahaz and Judah to place their confidence in Him, He graciously condescends to help them to believe. The Lord is willing to put Himself at their disposal: in order to strengthen their confidence in Him, the Lord offers to provide Ahaz with a sign. Ahaz is invited, "Ask for a sign from Jehovah your God. Ask for a sign to be given either in the depths below or in the heights above" (verse 11). But Ahaz spurns the Lord's gracious offer, using the guise of humility (verse 12) to conceal his determination to go his own way and seek his own "salvation." As 2 Kings 16:7-8 indicate, Ahaz had resolved to put his trust in the mighty nation of Assyria, rather than in the Lord Almighty.

5. What does the Lord tell Ahaz will be the result of his seeking help from Assyria rather than from the Lord his God? See Isaiah 7:17-19 (printed below) Note: The "flies" are a reference to the armies of Egypt and the "bees" are a reference to the armies of Assyria.

But Jehovah will bring upon you and upon your people, and upon your father's house, a time unlike any since Ephraim broke away from Judah—he will bring upon you the king of Assyria. (18) On that day Jehovah will whistle for the flies from the most distant part of the rivers of Egypt and for the bees that are in the land of Assyria. (19) They will come and settle in the steep ravines and in the crevices in the rocks, and in all the thorny bushes, and at all the watering holes. (Isaiah 7:17-19)

Assyria did, indeed, come to the "rescue" of Ahaz and Judah. But the mighty Assyrian "redeemer" did not stop with the conquest of Syria and Israel; it was also determined to control Judah. As the Assyrians proceeded to subject Judah under their control, the empire of Egypt to the south of Judah felt threatened. Consequently, the Egyptians made their advance to protect their own sovereignty at the expense of Judah's freedom and prosperity. So it happened just as the Lord foretold through the prophet Isaiah (verses 17-25): the Lord brought upon the land of Judah days of trouble unlike any she had seen since the time of the civil war when the northern tribes of Israel broke away from the southern tribes of Judah (verse 17). Like "flies" (representing the nation of Egypt with its fly-infested delta land) and "bees" (representing the land of Assyria with hills filled with honey bees), these two great powers would "settle" in the land of Judah, controlling Judah for their own purposes (verses 18-19).

6. What was the initial reaction of King Ahaz and the nation of Judah to the crisis they faced?

a. They trembled with fear like the trees of the forest shaken by the wind. b. They exhibited a firm and unshakable confidence in the Lord. c. They calmly analyzed the problem and followed the most reasonable course of action.

7. Complete the sentences listed below that describe the Lord’s message to Ahaz in his time of crisis. a. The first thing the Lord tells Ahaz is that he must calm down. b. The Lord then assures Ahaz that his enemies shall not prevail against him. c. But the Lord warns Ahaz that if he does not trust in the Lord he will not stand. d. The Lord shows His willingness to encourage Ahaz by allowing him to request a sign.

8. Why does Ahaz reject the Lord’s offer to give him a miraculous sign? a. He feels that he is unworthy to impose upon the Lord. b. He does not really believe that the Lord is able to perform a sign. c. He has decided to seek his own solution to the crisis.

9. By resorting to his own ingenuity Ahaz was able to deliver his nation from the crisis they faced and thereby demonstrated that he did not need the Lord’s divine provisions, although he was grateful to know they were graciously made available to him. True or False 10. Match the lessons to be learned from this incident about how to face a crisis with the passages of Scripture that reinforce those lessons. a. When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. (Psalm 56:3) We must place our confidence in the Lord. b. I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds. (Psalm 77:11-12) We must take comfort from the Lord’s past acts. c. This is what Jehovah says, Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who depends on flesh for his strength and whose heart turns away from Jehovah. (Jeremiah 17:5) We must not resort to our own devices. Wait Upon the Lord Isaiah 8:16-9:7

1. What lies ahead for the apostate nation of Judah? How will they react? See Isaiah 8:21-22 (printed below)

They will wander through the land distressed and hungry—and when they are famished, they will become enraged, and looking upward, they will curse their King and their God. (22) Then they will look toward the earth, but they shall see only distress and darkness and fearful gloom, and they will be driven into utter darkness. (Isaiah 8:21-22) The people will wander through the land distressed and hungry. When they are famished, they will not express sorrow and return to the Lord their God in repentance. On the contrary, they will become enraged and will curse their God even though He is the King.

2. What will Isaiah do during these dark days (see Isaiah 8:17 printed below) and what promise does the Lord provide for him and those like him (see Isaiah 9:1 printed below?)

I will wait for Jehovah, who is hiding his face from the house of Jacob, I will look to him. (Isaiah 8:17)

Nevertheless, in the future there will be no gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he treated the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali with contempt; but in the future he will bring glory to the way towards the sea, the region along the Jordan River—Galilee of the Gentiles. (Isaiah 9:1)

Even though Isaiah had personally remained faithful to the Lord, nevertheless—because he was living in the midst of this nation—he, too, would encounter those dark days. As Isaiah sees those "dark days" approaching, he gives this testimony: "I will wait for Jehovah, who is hiding his face from the house of Jacob, I will look to him" (8:17). Even in the darkest of times, Isaiah will wait for the Lord, confidently trusting in Him. Even when he must suffer, not for his own sins but because he finds himself dwelling in the midst of an apostate nation, Isaiah will patiently and steadfastly remain faithful to the Lord and wait upon Him. And the Lord gives this promise to those who wait for Him and continue to hope in Him, even in the midst of the darkest times: "there will be no gloom for those who were in distress" (9:1). Whereas those who abandon their God "will be driven into utter darkness," to those who wait upon the Lord comes the promise, "there will be no gloom for those who were in distress."

3. Contrast the past and future states of the land of Zebulun and Naphtali. See Isaiah 9:1-2 (printed below) and also Matthew 4:12-17 (printed below). Note: The land of Zebulun and Naphtali, located in the northern region of Galilee, were the first to experience the brunt of the Assyrian invasion.

In the past he treated the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali with contempt; but in the future he will bring glory to the way towards the sea, the region along the Jordan River—Galilee of the Gentiles. (2) The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; the light has dawned upon those living in the land of the shadow of death. (Isaiah 9:1-2)

When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he returned to Galilee. (13) Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the sea in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali—(14) to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah, (15) The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, along the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—(16) the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. (17) From that time on Jesus began to preach, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near. (Matthew 4:12-17)

Isaiah is standing among the people who are dwelling in thick darkness when suddenly he is transported into the future and made to see the darkness dispelled by a great light. Isaiah explains, "In the past he treated the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali with contempt." At the time of the Assyrian invasion, these two northern tribes of Israel were the first to succumb to the attacks and be subjected to deportation by the enemy armies (note 2 Kings 15:29). But, Isaiah continues, "in the future he will bring glory to the way towards the sea, the region along the Jordan River—Galilee of the Gentiles" (Isaiah 9:1b). This prophecy finds its fulfillment in the fact that Jesus the Messiah made this region to be His home (being raised in the village of Nazareth) and the base for His early ministry, as well as the place where He first proclaimed the good news of the gospel (note Matthew 4:12-17).

4. In Isaiah 9:5-6 (printed below) the prophet is speaking about the deliverance the Lord would give to those who had remained faithful to Him and those who returned to Him in repentance. What are some of the blessings for which Isaiah praises the Lord?

Every warrior's boot used in battle and every cloak rolled in blood will be consigned to the flames, they will be fuel for the fire—(6) because a child has been born for us, a son has been given to us, and the government will rest upon his shoulders. He will be called, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:5- 6)

Having been granted the privilege of seeing the blessing that the Lord has in store for His people, Isaiah now lifts up praise to the Lord for what he has seen: "You will enlarge the nation" (verse 3a). The nation that was conquered and led away into captivity is miraculously revived and multiplied. And, continues Isaiah, you will "increase their joy. They will rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as men rejoice when they divide the plunder" (verse 3b). Their joy is compared to that experienced by men when they gather in the harvest or when they divide the spoil of battle. But this joy is far superior to all such earthly joys, it transcends all earthly joy, it is a joy in the Lord: "they will rejoice before you (Jehovah)" (cp. Psalm 43:3-4). In verses 4-5 the future deliverance from the oppression of the enemy is compared to the great deliverance the Lord provided for His people in the day when He used Gideon to win a great victory over the Midianites who held Israel in terrible subjection in the days of the judges (Judges 7).

5. This passage closes with the assurance that "the zeal of Jehovah of hosts will accomplish this" (i.e.; the zeal of Jehovah will accomplish the redemption of His people and the coming of His kingdom). What does this statement tell us about the Lord (Jehovah?)

This closing declaration tells us that all of what has been promised and foretold will be fulfilled because of two things. The Lord has a burning zeal to take care of His people and complete the good work of grace He has begun in them (note Philippians 1:6). The Lord, as the Almighty God—the Lord of hosts—has the power to take care of His people and fulfill all of His promises (note Jeremiah 32:17).

6. The apostate nation of Judah was about to encounter very dark days. What would happen to Isaiah during this time?

a. Along with the apostate nation he would also experience hard times because he, too, was engaged in the same sinful lifestyle. b. Along with the apostate nation he would also experience hard times, but he would continue to trust in the Lord and wait upon Him. c. Along with the apostate nation he would also experience hard times and he would react to this by raising an angry protest to God.

7. Whereas those who forsake their God will be driven into utter darkness, those who wait upon the Lord will eventually experience the great light of His redemption and blessing. Fill in the blank

8. Isaiah is permitted to look into the future and see the coming of the Savior. Match his statements about this Savior with their meaning in the light of New Testament revelation. a. “A child has been born for us.” This is a reference to Christ’s incarnation (Matthew 1:23). b. “A son has been given to us.” This is a reference to Christ’s eternal deity (Hebrews 1:1-3). c. “The government shall rest upon his shoulders.” This is a reference to Christ’s kingly rule (Revelation 11:15).

9. Which of the sentences listed below best defines the concluding statement of this passage: “The zeal of Jehovah of hosts will accomplish this”? a. The Lord has an intense desire to take care of His people and complete the work of grace He has begun in them. b. The Lord, as the Almighty God, has the divine power to take care of His people and fulfill all His promises. c. The Lord is both determined and able to take care of His people and accomplish all of His plans for them.

10. According to the commentary, this passage gives us three reasons why we should wait upon the Lord. Match those reasons with the relevant passages of Scripture listed below. a. “Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5b) The Lord will replace trial with blessing. b. “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” (John 14:18) The Lord our Savior will not forsake us. c. “The Lord will rescue me out of evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen.” (2 Timothy 4:18) The Lord is committed to keep His word. Three Promises to Sustain You in Hard Times Isaiah 11:1-12:6

1. It appeared that the fierce empire of Assyria would totally annihilate the people of God—indeed, what little was left of the nation of Judah is viewed as a mere stump of a tree that has been chopped down to the ground. But the Lord declares that from this stump there shall spring new life (11:1). Great king David's royal line would not be extinguished; rather, it would produce a king (the Messiah) who will one day rule over all the earth. Describe the character and reign of this king who is none other than Jesus the Messiah. See Isaiah 11:3-5 (printed below)

He will delight in the fear of Jehovah. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, nor will he decide by what he hears with his ears; (4) rather, he will judge the needy with righteousness and render decisions with justice for the meek of the land. He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked. (5) Righteousness will be the belt around his waist and integrity will be the sash around his loins. (Isaiah 11:3-5)

Isaiah 11:3-5 describes the future reign of this king who is none other than Jesus the Messiah. "He will delight in the fear of Jehovah" (verse 3a). The Hebrew word has the root meaning "to smell," "to smell with pleasure," and hence, "to delight in.' Thus the Messiah is pictured as "breathing in the invigorating atmosphere' of the fear of the Lord; and being Himself governed by that holy fear, He shall carry out the rule assigned to Him by His heavenly Father. From verses 3b- 5 we learn that He will not base His judgments (decisions) upon superficial, outward appearances; rather, He will look upon the heart and judge with true righteousness. Consequently, the poor and the meek shall receive justice and the wicked shall be condemned. What is described here is the righteous reign of the Lord Jesus Christ when He returns at the end of the age (note 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10a).

2. What will conditions be like when Jesus the Messiah exercises His reign? See Isaiah 11:6-9 (printed below)

The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the young lion and the yearling will play together, and a little child will lead them. (7) The cow and the bear will graze together, their young will lie down together; and the lion will eat straw like the ox. (8) The infant will play near the cobra's den, and the young child will reach his hand into the viper's nest. (9) They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain; for, just as the waters cover the sea, so shall the earth be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah. (Isaiah 11:6-9)

Verses 6-9 describe the universal peace that shall permeate the Lord's great kingdom when He comes to establish a new heavens and a new earth. Verses 6-8 are describing the peaceful co-existence that shall prevail throughout nature and between man and nature; it will be Paradise. From verse 9 we learn that the entire world shall be transformed into the kingdom of God. Note: the kingdom of God, the earthly manifestation of which in Old Testament times was concentrated on holy Mount Zion, shall expand over the entire earth (note 2 Peter 3:13).

3. What promise does the Lord make with regard to His people in Isaiah 11:11-12 (printed below?)

On that day the Lord will reach out his hand a second time to reclaim the remnant that is left of his people from Assyria, from Lower Egypt, from Upper Egypt, from Cush, from Elam, from Babylonia, from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea. (12) He will give a signal for the nations and assemble the exiles of Israel; he will gather the scattered people of Judah from the four corners of the earth. (Isaiah 11:11-12)

Those who survived the onslaught of the Assyrian army were taken captive and deported from the land of Israel (note 2 Kings 17:5-6). They were removed from all the blessings of God that were once available to them in the Promised Land; above all, the temple of God that was His earthly dwelling place. But now in 11:11 we read that the Lord will reach out His hand to once again reclaim and re-gather His people. Just as the Lord had called His people out of Egypt, so the day is coming when He shall once again gather them unto Himself; on this second occasion He shall reclaim them from throughout all the earth (verse 11-12). Note: Romans 11:25-26 speaks of a great and final in-gathering of Israel to the Lord (see, also, Hosea 3:4-5).

4. With regard to His people, what further promises does the Lord make in Isaiah 11:13-14 (printed below?) Note: Edom, Moab, and the Ammonites were the archenemies of Old Testament Israel.

Ephraim's envy will disappear, and those who trouble Judah will be cut off; Ephraim will no longer envy Judah, and Judah will no longer trouble Ephraim. (14) They will swoop down on the slopes of Philistia to the west; together they will plunder the people of the East. They will lay hands on Edom and Moab, and the Ammonites will be subject to them. (Isaiah 11:13-14)

With reconciliation to the Lord by means of Jesus the Messiah, there also comes reconciliation to one another as brothers in the Messiah (verse 13). Furthermore, the redeemed of the Lord will share with the Messiah in His conquest and dominion over their enemies (verse 14). 5. In Isaiah 12:3 (printed below) what imagery is used to describe the salvation bestowed upon His people by Jesus the Messiah? What aspects of that salvation are emphasized?

Therefore, with joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. (Isaiah 12:3) Verse 3 speaks about the comfort and privilege given to the believer in Christ: "Therefore, with joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation." The imagery is that of an abundant supply of refreshing, life-giving water (very meaningful to people living in the arid Middle East). Thus are we reminded of the abundance of grace and divine blessing that is offered to us in Christ (note Ephesians 1:3). Here is a divine abundance that is presently ministered to us in measured portion, but that shall finally be poured out upon us in unlimited and eternal bounty in the kingdom of God.

6. When the people of God appear to be in jeopardy of being annihilated by the Assyrian armies, what does the Lord do to sustain and encourage them?

a. He reminds them of how He delivered their forefathers from their Egyptian bondage by means of the Exodus. b. He points them to the promise of deliverance contained in the name given to Isaiah’s newborn son. c. He reveals to them the future Messianic kingdom in its triumph and glory.

7. Complete the sentences listed below that describe the character and reign of Jesus the Messiah when He returns in glory. a. He will delight in the fear of Jehovah. b. He will judge the needy with righteousness. c. He will slay the wicked with the breath of his lips.

8. Isaiah 11:6-9 is describing what life will be like when Jesus the Messiah ushers in the new heavens and the new earth. Match the images Isaiah presents with the statements that define their significance.

a. There will be peaceful co-existence throughout the realm of nature. The wolf will live with the lamb. b. There will be peaceful co-existence between man and nature. The infant will play near the cobra’s den. c. The entire world will be transformed into the kingdom of God. The earth will be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah.

9. According to this passage of Isaiah that reveals the future kingdom of God, what will become of the enemies of God’s people?

a. They will be conquered by the Messiah and His people. b. They will live in peaceful co-existence with the people of God. c. They will be converted unto Jesus the Messiah and become united with His people.

10. According to the commentary, this passage supplies the Christian with three promises to sustain him in hard times. Match those promises with the following Scripture passages that reinforce those promises.

a. The kingdom of the world will … become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign forever and ever. (Revelation 11:15) The kingdom of God will come. b. God will also confirm you to the end, so that you may be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. (1 Corinthians 1:8-9) God will not forsake His people. c. Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why are you so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. (Psalm 43:5) God will give us reason to praise Him. Take a Good Look at Jesus Isaiah 42:1-17

1. How is the Lord's Servant characterized in Isaiah 42:2 (printed below?) What do you think this means?

He will not shout or cry or raise his voice in the streets. (Isaiah 42:2)

We are told that the Lord's Servant "will not shout or cry or raise his voice in the streets" (verse 2). That is to say, the Lord's Servant will not be a political activist or revolutionary who exerts His charismatic power to rouse the masses to violence. When you look at the Lord's Servant you see that true spiritual victory comes not by self-assertion and reliance upon human strength, but by His cross and submission to His Father's will.

2. What attribute of the Lord's Servant is being described in Isaiah 42:3 (printed below?)

He will not break a bruised reed, nor will he snuff out a smoldering wick. He will faithfully bring forth justice. (Isaiah 42:3)

It is further said of the Lord's Servant, "He will not break a bruised reed, nor will he snuff out a smoldering wick" (verse 3). In other words, the Lord's Servant is characterized by gentleness, tenderness, patience and compassion. When you look to the Lord's Servant you find Him to be merciful and compassionate.

3. What is another attribute of the Lord's Servant that is revealed in Isaiah 42:4 (printed below?)

He will not falter or be discouraged until he has established justice on the earth. Even the distant islands will wait expectantly for his law. (Isaiah 42:4)

The Lord's Servant "will not falter or be discouraged until he has established justice on the earth. Even the distant islands will wait expectantly for his law. (or, his teaching)"” (verse 4). The Lord's Servant will persevere in the work God gave Him to do (Luke 9:51-53) and He shall accomplish that work. Note: the fact that the islands shall wait for (or hope in) His law (or, his teaching) testifies to the fact that His redeeming work is not just for Israel and also testifies to the success of His mission: even the remote regions of the world shall hear His teaching (the gospel) and put their hope in Him (note Colossians 1:5b-6a).

4. How does the Lord describe His relationship to His servant? See Isaiah 42:6a (printed below)

I, Jehovah, have called you by my righteousness, and I will hold your hand. I will watch over you... (Isaiah 42:6a)

The Lord testifies to His Servant, "I, Jehovah, have called you"—it is God Himself who has given His Servant a divine commission and task to perform (note the testimony and the prayer of the Lord Jesus recorded in John 17:4). Furthermore, the Lord declares, "I, Jehovah, ... will hold your hand"—God assures His Servant that He will support him and sustain him so that he may carry out and accomplish his divine mission (again, note the testimony of our Lord Jesus Christ recorded in John 16:32). Finally, the Lord assures His Servant, "I, Jehovah... will watch over you"—the Lord assures His Servant that He will be faithful to him; He will not abandon him. The fulfillment of this promise is to be seen in the resurrection, the ascension, and finally Christ's return in glory.

5. What has the Lord appointed His Servant to be and to do? See Isaiah 42:6b-7 (printed below)

I will ... appoint you to be the covenant representative for the people of Israel and a light for the Gentiles. (7) I have appointed you to open the eyes of the blind, to free the captives from prison, and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness. (Isaiah 42:6b-7)

The Lord's Servant, Jesus Christ, will be the true covenant Representative of Israel: fulfilling the covenantal demand of obedience and taking upon Himself the covenantal curse for the disobedience of God's people, and thus enabling all those who trust in Him to inherit the covenantal blessing (note Galatians 3:13-14). The Lord's Servant shall also reveal the light (the truth and glory) of God to the nations, so that they might also be reconciled to God through faith in Him and come to share in the blessings of the covenant (note Acts 26:15-18).

6. In the light of New Testament revelation the servant of the Lord spoken of in Isaiah 42 is none other than Jesus/Christ. Fill in the blank

7. Compare the Old Testament description of the Lord’s servant with the New Testament passages that describe the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Answers continued on next page)

a. “Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword. 53Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? 54But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?” (“this way” meaning the way of the cross) (Matthew 26:52-54) He is not a political revolutionary b. And Jesus went about all the cities and the villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all types of disease and all kinds of sickness. 36But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion for them, because they were distressed and scattered, as sheep not having a shepherd. (Matthew 9:35-36) He is gentle and compassionate c. As the time approached for him to be received up, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. 52And he sent messengers on ahead, who went into a Samaritan village to get things ready for him; 53but the people there did not welcome him, because he was heading for Jerusalem. (literally, “his face was set for going to Jerusalem”) (Luke 9:51-53) He exhibits commitment and perseverance

8. When we consider the life and ministry of the Lord’s servant Jesus Christ we find that spiritual victory comes not by human might and self-assertion but by trust in God and submission to Him. Complete the sentences listed below that describe how this applies to our own lives.

a. Salvation is attained not by trying harder to become pleasing to God, but by trusting in the crucified Savior. b. Sanctification (the process of living out the life that is pleasing to God) is achieved not by resorting to our own strength in an effort to become holy, but by relying on the Holy Spirit. c. The kingdom of God is advanced and shall finally come in its fullness, not by means of political power or resorting to violence, but by resorting to prayer and laying down our lives in imitation of Christ our Savior.

9. Compare the Old Testament description of the Lord’s relationship to His servant (as presented in Isaiah 42:6) with the New Testament passages that describe the Father’s relationship with Jesus Christ His Son.

a. I glorified you on the earth by accomplishing the work you have given me to do. (John 17:4) The Lord has given His servant a divine commission. b. Listen, the hour is coming, in fact it has come, when you shall be scattered, each one to his own home, and shall forsake me. However, I am not forsaken, because the Father is with me. (John 16:32) The Lord promises to sustain His servant. c. God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. 25David said about him: … you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay. (Acts 2:24-25) The Lord will not abandon His servant.

10. When we take a good look at the Lord’s servant, Jesus Christ, what do we see?

a. We see that He asserts His sinless human might to combat evil for the sake of the kingdom of God. b. We see that He is gentle and compassionate. c. We see that He perseveres to accomplish the work His Father gave Him to do. You Are Not Forsaken Isaiah 49:1-26

1. What testimony does the servant of the Lord make in verses 1-3 (printed below?)

Listen to me, you islands; hear this, you distant nations: Jehovah called me before I was born; while I was still in my mother's womb, he made mention of my name. (2) He has made my mouth like a sharp sword—he has hidden me in the hallow of his hand; he has made me like a polished arrow—he has concealed me in his quiver. (3) He said to me, You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified. (Isaiah 49:1-3)

In verses 1-3 we find the servant of the Lord announcing his divine calling to the world. He calls upon the distant islands and the Gentile nations to listen to him—his divine calling is of universal significance, it does not just relate to the nation of Israel, it has bearing upon all the nations of the world (verse 1a). He declares that the Lord has sovereignly chosen him and called him to be his servant (verse 1b). He reports the Lord's testimony to Him: "You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified" (verse 3). Note: here Israel is once again reduced back to one individual, but it is not the great forefather, Jacob; rather, it is his one great descendant, Jesus Christ—here is the One who proves Himself to be a true and faithful servant of the Lord.

2. What complaint does the servant raise in verse 4 (printed below?)

But I said, I have labored in vain, I have spent my strength for nothing and to no purpose. But surely the justice I deserve is with Jehovah, and my reward is with my God. (Isaiah 49:4)

In verse 4 the Lord's servant raises the complaint: "The Lord said to me, You are my servant (acknowledging his faithfulness)...I will be glorified in you" (the promise that his work will be successful and wholly acceptable to the Lord, with the result of bringing glory to the Lord.) "But I said, I have labored in vain." He has faithfully fulfilled his calling, but there appears to have been no results, he sees no fruit. He has served the Lord faithfully, but far from being rewarded with an abundance of faithful disciples, he has been forsaken and crucified (note Matthew 26:56b). Nevertheless, despite the bitter things he has experienced, he places his trust in the Lord: "But surely the justice I deserve is with Jehovah, and my reward is with my God." (verse 4b)

3. How does the Lord respond to His servant's complaint? See Isaiah 49:7-8 (printed below)

This is what Jehovah, the Redeemer of Israel and his Holy One, says to the one whom men despised, to the one whom the nation abhorred, to the one who was a servant of rulers: Kings will see you and stand up; princes will see you and bow down, because of Jehovah, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you. (8) This is what Jehovah says, In my appointed time I will answer you, and in the day of salvation I will help you. I will preserve you and make you to be the covenant representative for the people, to restore the land and to cause them to inherit their heritage that has lain desolate (Isaiah 49:7-8)

The Lord Himself pledges to honor His servant who has been despised by the world (verse 7). The Lord speaks as "the Redeemer of Israel" and "his Holy One"—in His righteousness He must honor and reward His righteous servant (note Acts 2:24-25a, 27). The faithful servant of the Lord, the one who was despised by man and a servant of tyrants, shall finally be recognized and honored by the kings and princes of the world (note Philippians 2:9-11). As verse 7d indicates, the promises of the Lord are sure "because of Jehovah, who is faithful." The Lord pledges to fulfill His promises to His servant in His "appointed time"—and until the time of fulfillment He shall preserve Him (verse 8).

4. What complaint do God's people (i.e.; Zion) raise? See Isaiah 49:14 (printed below)

But Zion said, Jehovah has forsaken me, the Lord has forgotten me. (Isaiah 49:14)

Verse 14 voices Zion's complaint, "Jehovah has forsaken me, the Lord has forgotten me." Here is the accusation that Jehovah, the covenant God, has broken His covenantal vows of commitment to His people; note Deuteronomy 7:6, "You are a people holy to Jehovah your God. Jehovah your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession." But now the people God feel that they have been forsaken: the Lord has sent them away and consigned them to captivity in the land of Babylon.

5. What assurance does the Lord give to His people? See Isaiah 49:15-16 (printed below)

Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion for the child to whom she has given birth? Yes, they might forget; but I will not forget you. (16) Look! I have engraved you on the palms of my hands—your walls are continually before me! (Isaiah 49:15-16)

In verses 15-16 the Lord tenderly assures His people that He cannot forget us nor forsake us. His compassion and care is greater than that of a mother for her infant child (verse 15). He cannot forget His children, redeemed by the blood of Christ, because we are engraved on the palm of His hand (verse 16). 6. Like the Old Testament people of God, there may be times in our lives when we feel that we have been forsaken by the Lord; but Isaiah 49 assures us that such is not the case because the Lord is faithful. Fill in the blank

7. In Isaiah 49:1-3 we hear the servant of the Lord testifying to the divine calling he has received from the Lord. Who is this individual?

a. Jacob, the father of the nation b. Isaiah, the faithful prophet of the Lord c. Jesus, the Messiah

8. Match the Old Testament promises with their New Testament fulfillment that show the Lord’s faithfulness to His servant.

a. Jesus told His disciples, Listen, the hour is coming, in fact it has come, when you shall be scattered, each one to his own home, and shall forsake me. However, I am not forsaken, because the Father is with me. (John 16:32) The Lord will sustain His servant. b. God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. 25 David said about him: … 27you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay. (Acts 2:24-25a, 27) The Lord will preserve His servant c. God exalted him to the highest position and bestowed upon him the name that is above every name; 10so that before the name Jesus now possesses “every knee should bow”—in heaven and on earth and under the earth—11“and every tongue confess” that Jesus Christ is Lord unto the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11) The Lord will honor His servant.

9. Which of the sentences listed below accurately describe Israel’s captivity in Babylon and the Lord’s faithfulness as presented in Isaiah 49:24-26?

a. Israel recognizes that they are being held captive by a mighty nation. b. In order to deliver His people from their captivity, the Lord makes a deal with the Babylonians, allowing them to plunder many other nations in exchange for the release of God’s people. c. Israel acknowledges that they are lawful captives; they have been consigned to captivity because of their sins. d. The Lord declares that He is fully capable of rescuing His people from their strong captors because He is the Mighty One. e. Even though His people are lawful captives, the Lord is able to be their Savior because He will provide the atonement to satisfy His justice.

10. Complete the sentences listed below that present the assurances this passage of Isaiah 49 offers to the Lord’s people in Christ.

a. The Lord is faithful to remember your name. b. The Lord is faithful to redeem your soul. c. The Lord is faithful to reward your labor. Rely upon the Lord Your God Isaiah 50:1-11

1. What questions does the Lord ask Israel in verse 1a (printed below?)

This is what Jehovah says, Where is the certificate of divorce by which I sent your mother away? Or to which of my creditors did I sell you? (Isaiah 50:1a)

In verse 1 the Lord asks His people Israel, "Where is the certificate of divorce by which I sent your mother away?" According to Old Testament law, a husband could divorce his wife and give her a certificate of divorce if he found just cause (note Deuteronomy 24:1)—but the Lord has not done so to Israel. The Lord further inquires, "To which of my creditors did I sell you?" Again, under Old Testament law, a father had the authority to sell his son into servitude if he deemed it necessary to do so (note 2 Kings 4:1)—but the Lord has not dealt so with Israel.

2. By means of these questions the Lord is responding to Israel's unexpressed accusation that the Lord has abandoned His people. But in the latter part of verse 1 (printed below) the Lord confronts Israel with the truth. What does He tell Israel?

You were sold because of your iniquities, and because of your transgressions your mother was sent away. (Isaiah 50:1b)

In the latter part of verse 1 the Lord confronts Israel with the truth: "You were sold because of your iniquities, and because of your transgressions your mother was sent away." That is to say, the people of Israel themselves are responsible for their present plight. It is not a matter that the Lord has capriciously abandoned them; on the contrary, Israel's present state of banishment is not due to the Lord's unfaithfulness, it is due to their own unfaithfulness.

3. In verse 6 the servant of the Lord—our Lord Jesus Christ—describes Himself as willingly submitting to the suffering divinely appointed for Him. What enabled Him to undergo such suffering and endure such trials? See verse 7 (printed below)

Because the Lord Jehovah will help me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore I have set my face like a flint; I know that I will not be put to shame. (Isaiah 50:7)

In verse 7 our Lord reveals to us what enabled Him to undergo such suffering and what enabled Him to endure such trials: "Because the Lord Jehovah will help me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore I have set my face like a flint; I know that I will not be put to shame." Christ put His confidence in God His Father as His Source of help. Consequently, He would not be disgraced nor put to shame. That is to say, He would not experience ultimate defeat and despair; on the contrary, He would be raised to glory and honor upon the faithful completion of His ministry. Being assured of this, He would set His face like a flint; with the enabling power and blessing of the Holy Spirit, He would resolutely determine to fulfill the ministry He received from His Father (note Luke 9:51).

4. What counsel is offered to us in verse 10 (printed below?)

Who among you fears Jehovah? Who among you obeys the voice of his servant? He who walks in darkness, without a ray of light, let him trust in the name of Jehovah and rely upon his God. (Isaiah 50:10)

Verse 10 offers us this counsel: "He who walks in darkness, without a ray of light, let him trust in the name of Jehovah and rely upon his God." The Lord our God is the One who supplies us with wisdom and understanding: "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." (Jeremiah 33:3); "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." (James 1:5)

5. Conversely, what warning are we given in verse 11 (printed below?)

Listen, all of you who kindle fires and provide yourselves with flaming torches: walk by the light of your fires and with the torches you have set ablaze! But this is what you shall receive from my hand: you shall lie down in torment. (Isaiah 50:11)

Verse 11 confronts us with the warning: "Listen, all of you who kindle fires and provide yourselves with flaming torches: walk by the light of your fires and with the torches you have set ablaze! But this is what you shall receive from my hand: you shall lie down in torment." The picture here is of men rejecting the Lord as their source of wisdom and light in favor of pursuing their own wisdom—they will not walk in the light the Lord provides, rather they will provide for themselves their own 'flaming torches' to light their way. The Lord exhorts such people to go their own way, if that is what they insist upon doing; but He warns them of what their final end will be: "this is what you shall receive from my hand: you shall lie down in torment."

6. As a Christian it is your privilege and your obligation to rely upon the Lord your God, knowing that He is fully able to meet your needs. Fill in the blank 7. The following illustration provides an accurate and biblical description of the Christian life: By means of a “divine helicopter” from heaven, Christ has delivered us from the shark-infested waters of sin; only to drop us down on a wild and foreboding island, informing us that we are now left to our own resources until He someday comes back for us. True or False

8. At times we are prone to make the same false accusation against the Lord as did His Old Testament people, charging that He has forsaken us. But what assurance does He give us? Match the passages listed below with the assurances they provide for the Christian.

a. Jesus assures us, “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” (John 14:18) We are not abandoned. b. Jesus promises, “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— 17the Spirit of truth. (John 14:16-17) We are not left to fend for ourselves. c. Jesus informs us, “I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him, he is the one who bears much fruit; for apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5) We are not left to our own resources.

9. One of the reasons we at times feel abandoned by God is because we have a faulty view of the Christian life. Match the passages listed below with the lessons they teach us about the role of trials in the Christian life.

a. In the world you have tribulation. But have courage; I have conquered the world. (John 16:33) We are not exempt from trials. b. They (Paul and Barnabas) returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, 22confirming the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and teaching that through many tribulations we must enter into the kingdom of God. (Acts 14:21-22) We are often led through trials, not around them. c. The word of Jehovah came to me: 6“O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter does?” declares Jehovah. “Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel….”. (Jeremiah 18:5-6) It is the Lord’s right to test us by trials. d. The Lord stood by me and strengthened me; …and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. The Lord will deliver me out of every evil work and will save me for his heavenly kingdom, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen. (2 Timothy 4:17-18) The Lord will be with us in our trials.

10. Match the lessons contained in Isaiah 50 with the situations to which they pertain.

a. When we feel a sense of defeat in our Christian life we need to rely upon the Lord our God, knowing that He has not abandoned us. b. When we feel a sense of weariness, or even disillusionment, in our Christian life we need to rely upon the Lord our God, knowing that He will uphold us. c. When we feel a sense of confusion in our Christian life we need to rely upon the Lord our God, knowing that He is able to counsel us. Serve the Lord Faithfully Isaiah 52:13-53:12

1. How is the Lord's servant described in Isaiah 53:2 (printed below?) Note: The Lord's servant is none other than Jesus the Messiah.

...he grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of parched ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him; and when we looked at him, there was nothing in his appearance that would cause us to desire him. (Isaiah 53:2)

In Isaiah 53:2 the Lord's servant is figuratively compared to a feeble little shoot sprouting up out of the parched ground: "he grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of parched ground." One certainly does not expect great things from such a plant; one does not even expect such a plant to survive, let alone grow into a mighty tree or a beautiful flower of the field. The Lord's servant is further described as having neither an attractive form nor physical beauty, indeed, "He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him; and when we looked at him, there was nothing in his appearance that would cause us to desire him." There was nothing to be seen in our Lord's physical appearance and demeanor that would make Him naturally appealing to us.

2. How was the Lord's servant treated by men? See Isaiah 53:3 (printed below)

He was despised and rejected by men; he was a man of sorrows and acquainted with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we did not hold him in esteem. (Isaiah 53:3)

From the description given of the Lord's servant in verse 2 it is no wonder that in verse 3 come these words: "he was despised and rejected by men." The point is that our Lord in His physical appearance and demeanor (note Matthew 11:29 for a further revelation of His demeanor) came far short of what pagan men envision their gods and super heroes would be if they were to assume human form—He did not match up to what natural men look for and admire in a leader. Consequently, men looked upon Him with contempt and totally dismissed Him as a potential leader or as a threat to their rule. Note: when our Lord displayed His divine and miraculous power the crowd was attracted by that power, but when it became clear that He would not employ that power as would a conquering general, they forsook Him.

3. How did the Lord Himself treat His servant? See Isaiah 53:4 (printed below)

Surely he has borne our afflictions and carried our sorrows; but we regarded him as one who was stricken by God, smitten by him and afflicted as an evildoer. (Isaiah 53:4)

Isaiah 53:4 testifies, "we regarded him as one who was stricken by God, smitten by him and afflicted as an evildoer." That is to say, we saw Him as one upon whom the full brunt of the wrath of God was administered: "stricken, smitten, afflicted." We witnessed Him being executed as the vilest criminal (Deuteronomy 21:22-23), we heard Him cry out that He was forsaken by God (Mark 15:33-34).

4. Why did the Lord treat His faithful servant in this way? See Isaiah 53:5-6 (printed below)

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment was laid upon him for our peace, and by his wounds we are healed. (6) We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; but Jehovah has laid upon him the iniquity of us all. (Isaiah 53:5-6)

We regarded the Lord's servant as a man rejected by God, cursed by God; but we came to understand that He was made to be a curse for us in order to procure our salvation. He was identifying Himself with us in our state of sin and misery, taking upon Himself the plagues of body and soul that are part of the consequence of sin, part of life in this present sinful world which is under the righteous curse of God (verse 4). According to verse 5, the righteous judgment of God and the awesome justice of God were enacted against Him in full measure on behalf of all those who put their faith in Him (note 2 Corinthians 5:21 and Galatians 3:13). Verse 6 is the statement of universal guilt and the offer of all-sufficient atonement for all who receive Christ (note 1 Peter 3:18).

5. What promise does the Lord make to His faithful servant in Isaiah 52:13 (printed below?)

See, my servant will be successful; he will become high and lifted up, he will be greatly exalted. (Isaiah 52:13)

In Isaiah 52:13 the Lord pledges that His faithful servant shall be wonderfully exalted: "my servant will be successful; he will become high and lifted up, he will be greatly exalted." Despite His suffering and humiliation and death by crucifixion, indeed, precisely because of His faithful acceptance of such suffering, the Lord declares that His servant shall be glorified and highly exalted (note Philippians 2:8-11). These promises began to attain their fulfillment with Christ's resurrection and ascension, and they will yet achieve their ultimate fulfillment with His return in glory (note 2 Thessalonians 1:7,10). 6. In the life of the servant of the Lord—Jesus the Messiah—we witness a life of commitment to the heavenly Father, and we are made to see how greatly God honors those who are faithful. Fill in the blank

7. In His capacity as the servant of the Lord, Jesus remained faithful to His heavenly Father despite all He had to endure from the world. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss what the Messiah endured.

a. The servant of the Lord did not measure up to what the world looks for and admires in a leader; therefore, he was despised and rejected by men. b. The servant of the Lord experienced a life of ridicule, rejection and isolation; consequently, he was a man of sorrows and acquainted with suffering. c. The servant of the Lord quietly endured the unjust treatment he suffered; He remained faithful to his heavenly Father even though he was oppressed and afflicted.

8. Which of the following statements accurately describe the divine affliction that was administered to His servant by the Lord Himself?

a. He was stricken and smitten by God as though he were an evildoer. b. He was pierced for our transgressions and crushed for our iniquities. c. He was cut off from the land of the living. d. He was associated with a rich man in his death. e. All of the above

9. Contrast His former humiliation with the exaltation the Lord bestows upon His servant as a reward for His steadfast faithfulness.

a. He was assigned his burial with wicked men. He was with a rich man in his death. b. He was despised and rejected by men; we did not hold him in high esteem. He will be greatly exalted. c. Many were appalled at him—he was so disfigured that his appearance was unlike that of any other man. Many nations shall be shocked by his glory.

10. What lessons are to be learned from this present passage of Isaiah 52:13-53:12?

a. In the life of the Lord’s servant, Jesus the Messiah, we see that the Lord is faithful to spare from trials the one who is faithful to Him. b. In the life of the Lord’s servant, Jesus the Messiah, we see a life of steadfast faithfulness to the Lord. c. In the life of the Lord’s servant, Jesus the Messiah, we see how greatly God rewards the one who serves Him faithfully. Three Reasons Why You Can Live in Hope Isaiah 60:1-22

1. What command does the Lord give to Jerusalem (see verse 1 printed below?) Contrast the state of Jerusalem with that of the world (see verse 2 printed below).

Arise, shine, for your light has dawned; indeed, the glory of Jehovah has risen upon you. (Isaiah 60:1)

Look, darkness covers the earth, and thick darkness is over the people; but Jehovah rises upon you, and his glory appears over you. (Isaiah 60:2)

Looking forward to the conclusion of the long seventy-year "night" of the Babylonian captivity—and all the way forward to the end of this present age of spiritual darkness—the Lord commands Jerusalem, "Arise, shine" (verse 1). The city of God is commanded to become like the morning sun: to arise and shine with a brightness that is seen throughout the world. The city of God is enabled to heed the Lord's command because "your light has dawned; indeed, the glory of Jehovah has risen upon you" (verse 1b). Like the morning sun dispelling the darkness of the night, so the Lord Himself shines forth in His glory; He shines upon His people, awakening us by that glory and causing us to participate in it. Verse 2 describes the state of the world as being comparable to the night: all is enveloped in moral and spiritual darkness—but the Lord shines upon His people like the morning sun and that divine glory shines forth like a beacon to the dark world.

2. According to Isaiah 60:3 (printed below), what is the result of the Lord shining upon His people and causing them to share in His divine light?

Nations will come to your light, and kings will come to the brightness of your dawn. (Isaiah 60:3)

Verse 3 relates the results of the Lord's shining upon His people: "“nations will come to your light"—Gentile peoples are converted to God through the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ (note Isaiah 42:6-7; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10). Furthermore, "kings will come to the brightness of your dawn"—a reference to the powers and the rulers of the world submitting to the Lord and His Christ—and to His people as they are united to their Savior and share in His glory.

3. What kind of scene is being described in verse 4 (printed below?) When was this prophecy fulfilled in Israel's history? What will be the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy?

Lift up your eyes and look around: they all assemble themselves, they come to you—your sons shall come from a distance and your daughters shall be carried in the arms. (Isaiah 60:4)

Verse 4 is describing a great re-gathering of God's people, a great "homecoming," a joyful "family reunion." Jerusalem is commanded to lift up her eyes, look around, and see what the Lord is doing. As Jerusalem responds to God's command, she sees a great re-gathering of her exiled sons and daughters as they are brought back home to their city and their land. Just as surely as the Lord brought His people out of the Babylonian captivity and back home to Israel, so He will bring all His redeemed into His heavenly home and eternal kingdom.

4. What blessing is promised to Jerusalem (as the city represents God’s people) in Isaiah 60:5-7 (printed below?) When will this prophecy have its ultimate fulfillment?

Then you will see this and be radiant with joy, your heart will throb and swell with happiness; because the riches of the earth will be brought to you over the sea, the wealth of the nations will come to you. (6) Herds of camels will cover your land, the young camels of Midian and Ephah. All the men of Sheba shall come to you, bringing gold and frankincense, and they shall proclaim the praises of Jehovah. (7) All the flocks of Kedar will be gathered for you, the rams of Nebaioth will be at your service; they will be accepted as offerings on my altar, and I will glorify my temple with my glory. (Isaiah 60:5-7)

Jerusalem shall be "radiant with joy, her heart will throb and swell with happiness" —i.e.; Jerusalem shall beam with delight when she beholds the wealth of the world being brought to her (verse 5). The merchant vessels are portrayed as sailing to her ports on the Mediterranean, filled with their cargo (verse 5b). As she looks to the east, Jerusalem sees the caravans crossing the desert to bring her their treasures; the camels are loaded down with gold and frankincense (verse 6a). All the flocks of Kedar and the rams of Nebaioth are gathered to Jerusalem where they are offered up as a great and acceptable sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving to the Lord (verse 7a). What this passage is poetically portraying is the abundance of wealth/blessing that the Lord will finally bestow upon His people at the end of this present age, as well as their expression of praise and thanksgiving to the Lord their God, and the acceptance of their person and worship by the Lord as they finally dwell with Him when heaven and earth are united in the renewed creation. 5. Having made all the promises contained throughout this chapter, what word of assurance does the Lord give at the conclusion (see verse 22 printed below?)

The least of you will become a thousand, and the smallest of you will become a mighty nation. At the appointed time, I, Jehovah, will cause it to happen suddenly. (Isaiah 60:22)

The passage closes with these words: "At the appointed time, I, Jehovah, will cause it to happen suddenly." The point being made is that there is an appointed day for the fulfillment of all these things; and the Lord will see to it that nothing prevents the coming of that day. Indeed, the Lord is causing history to speed on to that great day.

6. The message conveyed to us from Isaiah 60 is that, because of the great and sure promises of the Lord, we as Christians can live our lives in hope. Fill in the blank

7. Isaiah 60:1 declares, “Arise, shine, for your light has dawned; indeed, the glory of Jehovah has risen upon you.” According to the commentary, what is the fulfillment of this prophecy?

a. This prophecy is referring to the Lord’s coming to redeem His people from the “night” of their Babylonian captivity. b. This prophecy is referring to the Lord’s coming to redeem His people from the bondage of their sins by His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. c. This prophecy is referring to the Lord’s coming in glory to bring His people into His eternal kingdom there to fully and eternally share in His own divine glory. d. All of the above

8. Isaiah 60:10-14 prophesy a great reversal in the fortune of God’s people because He will redeem them and cause them to share in His own glory and honor. Contrast their previous state with the promises contained in these verses. a. The conquering Babylonian armies destroyed the city and burned it to the ground. Foreigners will rebuild your walls. b. The Babylonians ransacked the city, looting its treasures and taking its wealth for themselves. The wealth of the nations shall be presented to you. c. The residents of Jerusalem were subjected to every form of humiliation and led away into captivity by the Babylonians. Those who despised you will bow down at your feet.

9. Isaiah 60:17-18 enumerate some of the blessings the Lord’s people shall enjoy to the fullest extent in His everlasting kingdom. Match the passages with the blessings of which they speak. a. Instead of brass I will bring gold, and instead of iron I will bring silver, and instead of wood I will bring brass, and instead of stones I will bring iron. (Isaiah 60:17a) The Lord’s people shall enjoy a prosperity of the finest quality. b. Violence will no longer be heard of in your land, nor will there be any reports of ruin or destruction within your borders. (Isaiah 60:18a) The Lord’s people shall enjoy a state of peaceful tranquility. c. The sun shall no longer be your light by day, neither shall the brightness of the moon be your source of light in the night; Jehovah will be your everlasting light, and your God shall be your brightness. (Isaiah 60:19) The Lord’s people shall enjoy the Lord’s glorious presence.

10. Complete the sentences listed below that enumerate the reasons why we as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ can live a life of hope. a. We can live in hope because we shall inherit the blessings of God. b. We can live in hope because we shall share in the honor of Christ. c. We can live in hope because we shall see the glory of the Lord. Two Reasons to Rejoice Isaiah 61:1-11

1. In Isaiah 61 a mysterious messenger suddenly appears, very abruptly and without introduction. What claim does he make in verse 1 (printed below?)

The Spirit of the Lord Jehovah is upon me, because Jehovah has anointed me to preach good news to those who are afflicted. He has sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and freedom to the prisoners. (Isaiah 61:1)

In Isaiah 61 a messenger from the Lord suddenly appears and announces his divine calling: "The Spirit of the Lord Jehovah is upon me." Here is someone anointed and empowered by the Holy Spirit in order to carry out the divine calling entrusted to him. In the remainder of verse 1 and continuing through verse 3, this messenger proceeds to describe his calling.

2. Who is this mysterious messenger whom we meet in Isaiah 61? Note Luke 4:16-21 (printed below)

(Jesus) went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. And he stood up to read. (17) The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: (18) The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, (19) to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor. (20) Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him, 21and he began by saying to them, Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing. (Luke 4:16-21)

In the gospel of Luke our Lord Jesus reveals that the prophecy recorded in Isaiah 61 is referring to Him and His ministry as the Messiah, the servant of the Lord.

3. How does Isaiah describe the results of the Messiah's redeeming work and the effect it has upon God’s people? See Isaiah 61:3b (printed below)

Then they will be called Oaks of Righteousness, planted by Jehovah, so that he may be glorified. (Isaiah 61:3b)

The results of the Messiah's redeeming work, and the effect it has upon God's people, is described as follows: "they will be called Oaks of Righteousness, planted by Jehovah, so that he may be glorified" (verse 3b). With their God-given righteousness the redeemed will resemble mighty oaks. They shall be planted by the Lord in His land, rooted into the life of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. These stately oaks of righteousness shall adorn the kingdom of God and shall be for His own glory—redeemed by Him, planted by Him, reflecting His glory by their fruit and in their stature.

4. What causes Isaiah to rejoice in the Lord (Jehovah?) See Isaiah 61:10 (printed below)

I rejoice greatly in Jehovah, my soul exults in my God; because he has clothed me with the garments of salvation, he has wrapped me in a robe of righteousness—like a bridegroom adorns his head with a turban like a priest and like a bride adorns herself with her jewels. (Isaiah 61:10)

Isaiah greatly rejoices in the Lord, indeed, his soul exults in his God, because the Lord has clothed him with "the garments of salvation." Isaiah goes on to explain that the Lord has wrapped around him a robe of righteousness, thereby enabling him to stand before the Holy One and be accepted. Previously, when Isaiah saw the Lord in His majesty and heard the seraphim proclaim His holiness, Isaiah trembled with fear, for he was acutely aware of his sinful condition (Isaiah 6:1-5). But now he can rejoice because the Lord has placed upon him the robe of righteousness. As believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, let us rejoice in the fact that the Lord has clothed us with His own perfect righteousness.

5. What assurance does the Lord give us in Isaiah 61:11 (printed below?)

As the soil makes the sprouts to come up and a garden causes the seeds sown in it to grow, so will the Lord Jehovah cause righteousness and praise to spring up before all nations. (Isaiah 61:11)

The Lord gives us the assurance that He will cause His righteousness to triumph. Just as the sprouts spring up out of the soil, so shall the Lord cause righteousness to spring up before all nations. As Christians, when we consider the present state of the world we may become discouraged, even to the point of despair, due to the prevalence and apparent dominance of evil. Such was the case with Isaiah himself (note Isaiah 24:16b). But as Christians we can be encouraged and rejoice when we consider the final destiny God has appointed for His renewed creation as it is defined for us in Isaiah 61. What Isaiah speaks of here is the same thing the apostle Peter presents in 2 Peter 3:13, "According to his promise, we look for new heavens and a new earth, the home of righteousness." 6. Who is the person speaking in the opening verses of Isaiah 61?

a. Isaiah the Prophet b. John the Baptist c. Jesus the Messiah

7. In Isaiah 61:1-3 the Messiah informs us about His ministry. Match the statements with the appropriate descriptions.

a. He announces the date has arrived at which time the Lord will show mercy to His people and minister His redeeming grace to them. He proclaims the year of Jehovah’s favor. b. He will announce the time when the Lord will carry out His righteous judgment and retribution against those who have opposed Him and His people. He proclaims the day of our God’s vengeance. c. He will bestow comfort and assurance to those who grieve over their sins and their estrangement from God. He will minister to those who mourn. d. He will take away from the Lord’s people their humiliation and sorrow, replacing such with honor and gladness and praise for the Lord. He will bestow a crown of beauty in place of ashes.

8. Throughout the ages men have sought to conceal their sinful condition from the sight of God. Match the passages listed below with the futile efforts they describe.

a. There are those who are pure in their own eyes and yet are not cleansed of their filth (Proverbs 30:12) Men seek to conceal their sins by denying them. b. And Jehovah God said to the woman, What is this you have done? And the woman said, The serpent deceived me, and I ate. (Genesis 3:13) Men seek to conceal their sins by excusing them. c. The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men— robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. 12I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’ (Luke 18:11-12) Men seek to conceal their sins by minimizing them.

9. Previously Isaiah trembled in fear before God, being acutely aware of his sinful condition. But now he rejoices. Why?

a. Because the Lord has wrapped him in a robe of divine righteousness. b. Because he himself has produced a robe of righteousness that makes him acceptable to God. c. Because the angels have bestowed upon him their own righteousness which now covers him like a robe.

10. Isaiah 61:11 promises the final triumph of righteousness. But why does the Lord presently withhold the final judgment that, when it comes, will overthrow evil and usher in the reign of divine righteousness? Match the passages listed below with the reasons they supply.

a. The Lord is not negligent in keeping his promise … He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9) God is giving men opportunity to repent. b. How great are your works, O Jehovah, how profound are your thoughts. 6The brutish man does not know, fools do not understand, 7that when the wicked spring up like grass and all evildoers flourish, it is in order that they may be destroyed forever. (Psalm 92:5-7) God is allowing evil to become ripe for judgment. c. This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. (Matthew 24:14) God desires the gospel to be heard world-wide. Pray for the Coming of God's Kingdom Isaiah 62:1-12

1. What pledge does the Lord make in Isaiah 62:1 (printed below?)

For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not remain quiet, until her righteousness shines out like the dawn, and her salvation like a blazing torch. (Isaiah 62:1)

The Lord pledges that for Zion's sake He will not keep silent and for Jerusalem's sake He will not remain quiet. The Lord pledges that He will neither hold His peace nor rest until He has accomplished His purpose, namely, to cause the righteousness of His people and His kingdom to shine forth like the rising sun at dawn. Note: The Lord's promise that His people's righteousness shall shine out like the sun at dawn is not referring to any inherent personal righteousness that His people possess in themselves; it is referring to the divine righteousness they possess by faith in Christ (see Philippians 3:9). What is anticipated here in Isaiah 62:1 is the day when the divine righteousness of Christ shall radiate from our lives with the brilliance of the noonday sun and like a blazing lantern illuminating a pitch dark cave. This will occur on the day the Lord brings forth His kingdom in all of its glory.

2. What other promises of God should inspire and motivate us to persistently pray for the coming of His kingdom? See Isaiah 62:2b-4 (printed below)

...you will be called by a new name that the mouth of Jehovah will bestow upon you. (3) Furthermore, you will be a beautiful crown in the hand of Jehovah, a royal diadem in the hand of our God. (40 You shall no longer be called Forsaken, neither shall your land any longer be called Desolate. On the contrary, you shall be called Hephzibah, and your land shall be called Beulah; for Jehovah will take delight in you, and your land will be married. (Isaiah 62:2b-4)

In verse 2 the Lord promises that His people shall be identified by a new name; the old name, "Forsaken," shall be put away (verse 4). The new name is "'Hephzibah—my delight is in her' ... for Jehovah will take delight in you." This is the very name by which the Father addresses His beloved Son, our Lord Jesus Christ (note Matthew 3:17). In verse 3 the Lord promises that we shall be a crown of beauty in His hand—here is the blessing of being totally possessed by God; being held in the Lord's hand as His precious jewel and treasured possession. At the same time, here is the blessing of being a royal honor and glory to the Lord of glory Himself—a crown of glory and a royal diadem for the Lord.

3. Whom has the Lord stationed atop the walls of Jerusalem (see verse 6a printed below?) What else are they called (see verse 6b printed below?)

I have posted watchmen upon your walls, O Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who are Jehovah's palace recorders, give yourselves no rest (Isaiah 62:6a)

You who are Jehovah's palace recorders, give yourselves no rest (Isaiah 62:6b)

In verse 6a the Lord declares that He has set watchmen upon the walls of Jerusalem. In verse 6b these watchmen are identified as "Jehovah's palace recorders." The palace recorder, or remembrancer, was an official position in the ancient Middle Eastern court whose responsibility was to remind the king of his appointments and commitments—the remembrancer was a type of royal secretary.

4. What is the task of these watchmen whom the Lord has stationed atop the walls of Jerusalem? See Isaiah 62:6-7 (printed below)

I have posted watchmen upon your walls, O Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who are Jehovah's palace recorders, give yourselves no rest, (7) and give him no rest, until he establishes Jerusalem and makes her the praise of all the earth. (Isaiah 62:6-7)

The Lord declares that these watchmen are never to hold their peace day or night. Their duty is to be found constantly crying out to God for the fulfillment of His promises to bring His kingdom to its full fruition. These divinely appointed "palace recorders" are given the charge, "Give yourselves no rest, and give him no rest, until he establishes Jerusalem and makes her the praise of all the earth." The Lord's remembrancers are to take no rest and give the Lord no rest until He has fulfilled His promises and brought His kingdom to the earth in all of its eternal glory.

5. What public proclamation does the Lord make in Isaiah 62:11 (printed below?)

Listen! Jehovah has made a proclamation to the ends of the earth, Say to the daughter of Zion, Look! Your Savior is coming! Look, he is bringing his reward with him, and his recompense accompanies him. (Isaiah 62:11) In verse 11 the Lord publicly proclaims in the hearing of all the nations that His kingdom shall surely come. The Lord shall personally come to redeem His people and bestow upon them the eternal rewards that His Son has merited for them and that they have "earned" by their faithfulness to Him—a faithfulness enabled by His grace. The Lord has gone on public record, He has publicly committed Himself, (and He has put it in writing in the Bible), and for His own honor He will certainly fulfill His promise: His kingdom will surely come. Thus, the Lord's public proclamation becomes a further incentive for His people to diligently pray for the fulfillment of His promises and the coming of His kingdom in the fullness of its divine glory.

6. The Introduction to this lesson mentions a survey that was taken on the subject of prayer. According to the commentary, what did that survey reveal?

a. The content of the Christian’s prayers is strikingly similar to that of the non-Christian. b. The content of the Christian’s prayers is strikingly different from that of the non-Christian. c. In the Christian’s prayers there is the startling omission of any petition for the coming of God’s kingdom.

7. Compete the sentences listed below that enumerate the promises the Lord makes that should inspire and motivate us to pray for the coming of His kingdom.

a. The Lord promises that our lives will radiate with His divine righteousness. b. The Lord promises that we will be addressed in the same terms as His beloved Son. c. The Lord promises that we shall be cherished as His treasured possession.

8. What is the duty of the watchmen whom the Lord has stationed atop the walls of Jerusalem?

a. These watchmen are to be constantly on the look out for signs of an approaching enemy. b. These watchmen are to be expectantly looking for the coming of the Lord and His kingdom. c. These watchmen are to be constantly crying out a warning to the citizens of an approaching enemy. d. These watchmen are to be constantly crying out to God for the coming of His eternal kingdom.

9. What commitment has the Lord made that should motivate us to pray for the coming of His kingdom?

a. He has taken a solemn oath that He will bestow His kingdom blessings upon His people. b. He has personally overseen the construction of a highway so that His people may gain entrance into His kingdom. c. He has gone on record with a public proclamation that He will come to save His people and bestow upon them eternal rewards. d. He has made a covenant with stipulations guaranteeing the fulfillment of His promise to establish His kingdom in all of its glory.

10. Compete the sentences listed below that re-iterate the three reasons why we as Christians should pray for the coming of God’s kingdom.

a. We should pray for the coming of God’s kingdom because we are commanded to do so by God’s sacred Word. b. We should pray for the coming of God’s kingdom because we are inspired to do so by God’s great promises. c. We should pray for the coming of God’s kingdom because we are motivated to do so by God’s own commitment. Three Assurances Concerning God's Judgment Isaiah 63:1-6

1. Who were the people of Edom, what was their relationship to Israel? Note Ezekiel 35:1-3, 5, 11 (printed below)

The word of Jehovah came to me: (2) Son of man, set your face against Mount Seir (a reference to Edom); prophesy against it (3) and say: This is what the Lord Jehovah says: I am against you, Mount Seir, and I will stretch out my hand against you and make you a desolate waste ...(5) because you harbored an ancient hostility and delivered the Israelites over to the sword at the time of their calamity, the time their punishment reached its climax...(11) Therefore, as surely as I live, declares the Lord Jehovah, I will treat you in accordance with the anger and jealousy you showed in your hatred of them and I will make myself known among them when I judge you. (Ezekiel 35:1-3,5,11)

The nation of Edom was the archenemy of Israel. As the prophecy of Ezekiel indicates, Edom was characterized by a perpetual enmity against Israel and the ambition to take Israel's land. When Israel was invaded by the Babylonians, Edom rejoiced in their defeat and captivity (note Psalm 137:7). At an earlier date Edom had refused to allow Israel to pass through their land when the Israelites were on the way to the Promised Land of Canaan (Numbers 20:14-18).

2. Is the prophecy of Isaiah 63 only referring to the nation of Edom or does it also extend beyond that individual nation? Note Isaiah 63:6 (printed below)

I trampled down the peoples in my anger; in my wrath I made them drunk with their spilt blood, then I poured their blood on the ground. (Isaiah 63:6)

Edom is here presented as the representative of all the enemies of God's people. Whereas Isaiah 63:1 refers to Edom, verse 6 refers to God's judgment upon "the peoples." Note John 15:18-19, a passage that refers to the universal hostility against Christ and His church, an unholy hostility that was epitomized by the Old Testament nation of Edom, a hostility that resides in the heart of unregenerate men in their rebellion against the Lord. Note, also, Psalm 2:1-3, "Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? (2) The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against Jehovah and against his Anointed One. (3) Let us break their chains, they say, and throw off their fetters."

3. How does the Lord describe Himself in Isaiah 63:1 (printed below?) What does this tell us about the judgment He carries out against Edom?

Who is this who comes from Edom, from Bozrah, with his garments stained crimson? Who is this, this one who is clothed with majesty, striding in the greatness of his strength? It is I, the one whose speech is righteous, the one who is powerfully able to save. (Isaiah 63:1)

In Isaiah 63:1 the Lord describes Himself as "the one whose speech is righteous, the one who is powerfully able to save." This tells us that the Lord pronounces a righteous judgment, and He is powerfully able to perform both an act of judgment as well as salvation. We may be assured that the Lord will execute a righteous judgment; His act of judgment is not capricious or without just cause.

4. Does the Lord have any assistance when He carries out His judgment against Edom? What does the answer to this question tell us? See Isaiah 63:3,5 (printed below)

I have stomped in the wine press alone; of all the peoples there was no one with me. Indeed, I stomped upon them in my anger and I trampled upon them in my wrath. Their blood splattered my garments, and I have stained all my clothing... (5) I looked, but there was no one to help; I was astonished that no one could give support; so my own arm procured salvation for me and my wrath sustained me. (Isaiah 63:3,5)

In verse 3 the Lord declares, "I have stomped in the wine press alone," and in verse 5 He states, "I looked, but there was no one to help" (note, also, Isaiah 59:15-16). The point being made is that the Lord alone executes His justice because it is His sole prerogative to do so (note Romans 12:19). He alone is truly righteous and worthy to carry out a righteous judgment (note Psalm 96:13).

5. Is the Lord nonchalant as to when He will actually carry out His divine judgment? See Isaiah 63:4 (printed below)

I trampled upon them because the day of vengeance was in my heart, and the year of my redemption has come. (Isaiah 63:4) In verse 4 the Lord declares, "the day of vengeance was in my heart, and the year of my redemption has come." Note: it appears that here the focus has shifted from Edom to Babylon and the fact that the Lord had a day appointed at which time He would carry out His righteous judgment against that empire that set itself in defiance of God and made itself an oppressor of God's people. The New Testament informs us that in the same manner the Lord has an appointed day when He will execute His final judgment against the whole world of sinful mankind. The apostle Paul testified at Athens, "God ... commands all men everywhere to repent; (31) because he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed (the Lord Jesus Christ). He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead" (Acts 17:30-31).

6. Because the Lord is the faithful God, of what can the Christian be assured?

a. We can be assured that there will be a day of final deliverance. b. We can be assured that there will be a day of just retribution. c. Both of the above

7. Match the passages listed below with the reasons they present as to why the redemption of God’s people and the coming of God’s kingdom inevitably involves the judgment of His and our enemies.

a. Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? 2The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against Jehovah and against his Anointed One. 3Let us break their chains, they say, and throw off their fetters. (Psalm 2:1-3) Because they stand in opposition to God’s rule b. True and just are his judgments. He has judged the great prostitute who corrupted the earth by her adulteries. He has avenged on her the blood of his servants. (Revelation 19:2) In order to execute God’s justice c. I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed. Wicked men will not oppress them anymore… (1 Chronicles 17:9) In order to provide perfect security for God’s people

8. Why does the Lord carry out His judgment against Edom all by Himself without any assistance?

d. Because the Lord alone takes offense at sin and only He is adversely affected by the sinful conduct of the wicked. e. Because it is the Lord’s sole prerogative to carry out judgment in His capacity as the Judge of all the earth. f. Because the Lord alone is worthy to carry out judgment since He alone is truly righteous.

9. The apostle Paul informs us that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is the proof that God has, indeed, set a date on which He will carry out His righteous judgment. Fill in the blank 10. Complete the sentences listed below that re-iterate the assurance given to the Christian with regard to the Lord’s act of divine judgment. a. We may be assured that the Lord will judge His enemies. b. We may be assured that the Lord will execute a righteous judgment. c. We may be assured that the Lord has appointed a day of judgment. Why You Must Prepare to Meet Your God Isaiah 65:1-25

1. What is being described in Isaiah 65:1 (printed below?)

I have revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I allowed myself to be found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call upon my name, I said, Here I am! Here I am! (Isaiah 65:1)

Verse 1 is describing an unexpected, but inevitable, encounter with God: the Lord has granted an audience to a people who did not request an audience with Him; the Lord suddenly revealed Himself to a people who were not looking for Him; the Lord presented Himself to a people who were not calling for Him. The Scriptures assure us that each one of us shall finally and inevitably stand before God when He reveals Himself to us face to face—we each will have the kind of inevitable encounter with the Lord God as did the Old Testament people of Israel described in Isaiah 65 (note Revelation 1:7).

2. How does God describe these people to whom He has expectantly revealed Himself? See Isaiah 65:2-4 (printed below)

All day long I have held out my hands to a rebellious people, a people who walk in a way that is not good, following their own thoughts. (3) A people who provoke me to my face continually, offering pagan sacrifices in gardens and burning incense upon altars of bricks. (4) A people who sit among the graves and spend the night in caves, who eat the meat of pigs, and the broth of unclean meat is in their pots. (Isaiah 65:2-4)

God suddenly and inescapably reveals Himself to a thoroughly unresponsive people (verses 1b-2). The Lord declares, "All day long I have held out my hands" (as a loving father) "to a rebellious people" (a people who turn their backs and walk away). Here are a people who "walk in a way that is not good, following their own thoughts"—they will not listen to the Word of God; they stubbornly walk in the way that is appealing to them and appears to them to be wise and profitable. God reveals Himself to a people who provoke Him to His face continually (verses 3-4). The Lord has continuously demonstrated lovingkindness, patience, and a desire for these people; but they constantly provoke Him with their idolatry.

3. According to verses 6-7 (printed below), what will God do?

See, their conduct has been recorded in my presence; therefore, I will not remain silent, but will pay them what is just; indeed, I will deliver their recompense into their bosom—(7) both for your own iniquities as well as for the iniquities of your fathers, declares Jehovah—into the bosom of those who have burned incense on the mountains and scorned me on the hills. Therefore I will first measure their recompense into their bosom. (Isaiah 65:6-7)

God declares, "I will not remain silent" (verse 6b). The Lord will not remain passive forever and let the sinful, insolent conduct of the people pass by without comment and without judgment. On the contrary, the Lord "will pay them what is just; indeed, I will deliver their recompense into their bosom—(7) both for your own iniquities as well as for the iniquities of your fathers, declares Jehovah" (verse 6c-7). The sins of one generation have been passed on to the next. Whereas formerly the Lord abstained from bringing about a totally devastating act of judgment upon the nation, giving the people warning and time to repent, He will now abstain no longer.

4. What illustration does the Lord use in verse 8 (printed below?) What is He teaching?

This is what Jehovah says, As when juice is still found in a cluster of grapes, and men say, Do not destroy it, for there is still some good in it, so will I do for the sake of my servants, so that I will not destroy them all. (Isaiah 65:8)

Using the illustration of harvesting grapes from the vineyard, the Lord shows us the distinction He makes between those who are spiritually alive and fruitful and those who are not. When the harvesters come upon a juicy cluster of grapes in the midst of clusters that have rotted or are shriveled, they spare that good cluster before chopping down the unproductive vine. Let us carefully consider such passages as the following that emphasize the Lord's demand for spiritual fruit: "I am the true vine and my Father is the gardener. (2) He removes every branch in me that does not bear fruit. But he prunes every branch that does bear fruit, so that it may bear more fruit" (John 15:1-2).

5. How does the Lord describe the respective fate and rewards of those whom He identifies as "my servants" in distinction from those whom He has identified as "a rebellious people?" See Isaiah 65:13-15 (printed below)

Therefore, this is what the Lord Jehovah says, My servants will eat, but you will be hungry. My servants will drink, but you will be thirsty. My servants will rejoice, but you will be put to shame. (14) My servants will sing with a joyful heart, but you will cry out with a sorrowful heart and will wail with a broken spirit. (15) You will leave your name to my chosen ones to be used for the pronouncing of a curse, and the Lord Jehovah will put you to death; then he will bestow upon his servants another name. (Isaiah 65:13-15) In verses 13-15 the Lord Himself reveals the respective fate and rewards of those whom He identifies as "my servants" in distinction to those whom He identifies as "a rebellious people." The Lord declares, "my servants shall eat"—they shall be provided for and be satisfied, "but you will be hungry"—those who have lived for themselves and in opposition to the Lord shall at the end be denied His blessing and given over to His judgment (verse 13a). The Lord continues, "My servants will rejoice, but you will be put to shame. (14) My servants will sing with a joyful heart, but you will cry out with a sorrowful heart and will wail with a broken spirit" (verses 13b-14). The servants of the Lord shall experience the joy of the divine promises being fulfilled, the joy of discovering that their investment in Christ reaps eternal dividends of blessing. But shame and suffering shall be the consequence of bad, ungodly life choices, the consequences that await those who have lived for themselves instead of for their Lord and God.

6. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss the Lord’s appearance to His people as it is described in Isaiah 65:1. a. The Lord revealed Himself to those who did not ask for Him. b. The Lord appeared to those who did not seek Him. c. The Lord presented Himself to those who did not call for Him.

7. In addition to being thoroughly unresponsive to the Lord and constantly provoking Him with their idolatry, the people of whom Isaiah speaks were also characterized by an incredible self-righteousness. Fill in the blank

8. What terms does the Lord use in this passage of Isaiah 65 in describing the people who enjoy the blessing of His favor? a. My servants b. A rebellious people c. My people who seek me d. My chosen ones e. A people who provoke me

9. In Isaiah 65:18-25 the life and blessing of God’s new creation are described in terms of this present creation that would be familiar and especially meaningful to the Lord’s Old Testament people. Match the earthly imagery with the future blessing. a. There will be no infant mortality or pre-mature death; God’s people shall live to an extraordinary old age. The blessing of eternal life b. God’s people will build houses and live in them; they will plant vineyards and eat the fruit of them. The blessing of being free from futility and oppression c. The wolf and the lamb will graze together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox. The blessing of perfect peace and tranquility.

10. Complete the sentences listed below that instruct us as to how we are to prepare to meet our God. a. Receive Christ as your Savior if you have never done so. b. Return to Christ if you have strayed away from Him. c. Remain in Christ and, by His grace, continue to be faithful to Him. What Kind of Life Are You Building? Isaiah 66:1-24

1. Isaiah 66 is addressing the people of Israel at the time when they were repairing the temple in the days of King Hezekiah. In the midst of this re-construction work the Lord addresses His people by His prophet Isaiah. Of what does He remind the people? What question does He ask? See Isaiah 66:1-2 (printed below) What do you think He wants them to understand?

This is what Jehovah says, Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Therefore, what kind of house will you build for me, and where will be my resting place? (2) My hand has made all these things, so it was that all these things came into being, declares Jehovah. But this is the man I will regard, namely, he who is humble and who has a contrite spirit, he who trembles at my word. (Isaiah 66:1-2)

The Lord reminds the people of His great majesty: heaven is His throne, the earth is His footstool, He has made the whole creation with His own hands. The Lord then proceeds to ask the question, What kind of house will you build for Me? He is urging them to realize that there is nothing they can make that could even begin to contain the greatness of His presence or begin to do justice to the greatness of His glory.

2. What kind of a person does the Lord regard with favor? See Isaiah 66:2b (printed below)

...this is the man I will regard, namely, he who is humble and who has a contrite spirit, he who trembles at my word. (Isaiah 66:2b)

The Lord is not impressed by any temple or cathedral that men may build for Him; but He does look with favor upon the man whom He describes as "he who is humble and who has a contrite spirit." The reference here is to the man who is aware of his spiritual need, is humble before the Lord his God, and exhibits sorrow for sin and a repentant spirit. The man upon whom the Lord looks with favor is further described as the one "who trembles at my word." Holy fear is a right and proper response for a man to make to the Person of God; as the prophet Jeremiah testifies, "There is none like you, O Jehovah; you are great, and your name is mighty in power. (7) Who should not fear you, O King of the nations? for to you it appertain" (Jeremiah 10:6-7a).

3. What kind of worship is being described in verse 3 (printed below?) (Note the Lord's comments about the people who are offering this worship) How does the Lord regard such "worship?" See verses 3-4 (printed below)

Whoever sacrifices a bull is like one who kills a man; and whoever offers a lamb is like one who breaks a dog's neck. Whoever presents a grain offering is like one who offers swine's blood; whoever burns frankincense is like one who blesses an idol. Indeed, they have chosen their own ways, and their soul delights in their abominations; (4) so I will choose their afflictions and I will bring upon them the things they dread—because when I called, none of them answered; when I spoke, they did not listen. On the contrary, they did what was evil in my sight, and chose those things in which I have no delight. (Isaiah 66:3-4)

Verse 3 is describing worship that merely consists of the offering of the prescribed acts of religious devotion without the offering a life of devotion to the Lord. As verse 3a indicates, the Lord has no respect for those who only offer Him the mere formalities of worship. Worship may be offered to the Lord in strict accordance with the guidelines of Scripture, but if the worshiper lacks the qualities outlined in verse 2, his worship is considered by the Lord to be in the same class as idolatry.

4. In verses 5-6 (printed below) the Lord turns from those whose worship merely consists of religious formalities to once again address those who are truly devoted to Him. What assurance does He give them? Why does He find it necessary to offer such assurance?

Hear the word of Jehovah, you who tremble at his word: Your brothers who hate you, who thrust you away because of my name, they have said, May Jehovah be glorified, so that we may see your joy! But they are the ones who shall be put to shame. (6) Hear the sound of an uproar in the city, a noise from the temple—it is the sound of Jehovah repaying his enemies what they deserve. (Isaiah 66:5-6)

To those who are devoted to Him, the Lord gives the assurance that there shall be a day of justice in which His servants shall be vindicated and those who have persecuted them shall receive their just compensation of divine retribution. The devout presently suffer persecution at the hands of their countrymen: they are hated, they are ostracized; they are mocked for their devotion to the Lord and their continued confidence in His promises. But there is coming a great reversal: those who presently engage in mocking the Lord and His servants shall themselves be put to shame. 5. Verses 18-21 (printed below) speak of a great gathering before the Lord. How is that gathering described? What do you think is the fulfillment of this prophecy?

Because of their works and their thoughts I will come to gather all nations and languages; and they will come, and they will see my glory. (19) But I will work a miracle among them, and those who are delivered from my judgment I will send to the nations—to Tarshish, to Put, and to the famous archers of Lud, to Tubal and Greece, and to the distant islands that have neither heard of my fame nor seen my glory. Those who have been delivered shall proclaim my glory to the nations. (20) And these messengers will bring all your brothers from out of all the nations as an offering to Jehovah, conveying them on horses and in chariots and in wagons and upon mules and upon camels to Jerusalem my holy mountain, declares Jehovah, just as the children of Israel bring their grain offering in a clean vessel to the house of Jehovah. (21) And I will also select some of them to be priests and Levites, declares Jehovah. (Isaiah 66:18-21)

The Lord has set a date for all the world to stand before Him: to behold His glory and to be confronted with the truth that He alone is God (verse 18). Verse 19 indicates that prior to that appointed day the Lord will "work a miracle among them," and will send to the nations "those who are delivered from my judgment," and they shall declare the Lord's glory among the nations. In the light of New Testament revelation, this appears to be a reference to the day of Pentecost at which time Jews, (who had been dispersed among the nations,) being gathered together in Jerusalem at the time of the Passover, heard the gospel and carried the good news of salvation through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ back with them to the distant reaches of the Gentile world. Verses 20-21 appear to be a reference (couched in Old Testament terminology) to the in-gathering of all the Lord's redeemed (believing Jew and believing Gentile alike) by means of the universal preaching of the gospel—and they shall all serve the Lord in the same capacity that was once reserved for only the Levites of the Old Testament nation of Israel.

6. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss the background for the prophecy recorded in Isaiah 66.

a. The people of Israel were repairing the temple in the days of King Hezekiah. b. In the midst of the re-construction project the Lord came to them by the Prophet Isaiah. c. The Lord informed His people that He is not pleased with the offering of religious formalities. d. What is pleasing to the Lord is the offering of obedience.

7. Why does the Lord take exception to the worship of the people who are described in Isaiah 66:3-4? a. They were presenting sacrifices divorced from a life of devotion to the Lord. b. They were offering their sacrifices to pagan idols instead of offering them to the Lord. c. They were failing to offer the sacrifices prescribed by the Lord in His Law.

8. The Lord is not impressed by any temple or cathedral made by men; but He does look with favor upon what kind of person? a. The person who is humble. b. The person who is diligent to attend every worship service. c. The person who has a contrite heart. d. The person who trembles at His Word.

9. According to the commentary, based upon this passage of Isaiah 66, what kind of life should we strive to build? a. We should strive to build a life that will make us worthy before the Lord. b. We should strive to build a life that is characterized by a God-pleasing spirit. c. We should strive to build a life that will receive the Lord’s blessing. d. We should strive to build a life that is worthy of the Lord.

10. Complete the sentences listed below that describe what is necessary if we are to build a life that is worthy of the Lord. a. We must be aware that the Lord is the majestic God. b. We must appreciate the fact that the Lord desires a consecrated life. c. We must rely upon the transforming power that the Lord supplies by the Holy Spirit. FINAL EXAM (STUDENT AND FACILATOR COPIES)

FINAL EXAM ON ISAIAH (STUDENT COPY)

1. Match the sins of the people of Israel in the days of Isaiah with their modern day equivalents.

a. A person may be very religious. He may attend all the worship services and church functions. But his life is devoid of obedience. This is the modern day equivalent of Israel ___. b. A person solemnly sings the hymns that speak of love for Christ and devotion to Him, but he does not give his heart and life to Christ. This is the modern day equivalent of Israel ___. c. A person may offer pious prayers to the Lord, expressing his praise and even acknowledging the Lord’s holiness. But he continues to harbor sin in his heart and practice sin in his life. This is the modern day equivalent of Israel ___.

1. offering incense that was detestable to the Lord 2. offering a multitude of sacrifices to the Lord 3. presenting burnt offerings to the Lord

2. Complete the sentences listed below that describe the Lord’s message to Ahaz in his time of crisis.

a. The first thing the Lord tells Ahaz is that he must ___. b. The Lord then assures Ahaz that his enemies shall ___ against him. c. But the Lord warns Ahaz that if he does not trust in the Lord he will ___. d. The Lord shows His willingness to encourage Ahaz by allowing him to ___.

1. request a sign 2. calm down 3. not stand 4. not prevail

3. Isaiah is permitted to look into the future and see the coming of the Savior. Match his statements about this Savior with their meaning in the light of New Testament revelation.

a. “A child has been born for us.” This is a reference to ___ (Matthew 1:23). b. “A son has been given to us.” This is a reference to ___ (Hebrews 1:1-3). c. “The government shall rest upon his shoulders.” This is a reference to ___ (Revelation 11:15)

1. Christ’s incarnation 2. Christ’s kingly rule 3. Christ’s eternal deity

4. Isaiah 11:6-9 is describing what life will be like when Jesus the Messiah ushers in the new heavens and the new earth. Match the images Isaiah presents with the statements that define their significance.

a. There will be peaceful co-existence throughout the realm of nature. ___ b. There will be peaceful co-existence between man and nature. ___ c. The entire world will be transformed into the kingdom of God. ___

1. The wolf will live with the lamb. 2. The earth will be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah. 3. The infant will play near the cobra’s den.

5. Compare the Old Testament description of the Lord’s servant as it is given in Isaiah 42 with the New Testament passages that describe the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Answers continued on next page) a. “Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword. 53Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? 54But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?” (“this way” meaning the way of the cross) (Matthew 26:52-54) ___ b. And Jesus went about all the cities and the villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all types of disease and all kinds of sickness. 36But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion for them, because they were distressed and scattered, as sheep not having a shepherd. (Matthew 9:35-36) ___ c. As the time approached for him to be received up, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. 52And he sent messengers on ahead, who went into a Samaritan village to get things ready for him; 53but the people there did not welcome him, because he was heading for Jerusalem. (literally, “his face was set for going to Jerusalem”) (Luke 9:51-53) ___

1. He is gentle and compassionate 2. He is not a political revolutionary 3. He exhibits commitment and perseverance

6. Complete the sentences listed below that present the assurances the passage of Isaiah 49 offers to the Lord’s people in Christ.

a. The Lord is faithful to remember your ___. b. The Lord is faithful to redeem your ___. c. The Lord is faithful to reward your ___.

1. labor 2. name 3. soul

7. The following illustration provides an accurate and biblical description of the Christian life: By means of a “divine helicopter” from heaven, Christ has delivered us from the shark-infested waters of sin; only to drop us down on a wild and foreboding island, informing us that we are now left to our own resources until He someday comes back for us. True or False

8. What lessons are to be learned from Isaiah 52:13-53:12?

a. In the life of the Lord’s servant, Jesus the Messiah, we see that the Lord is faithful to spare from trials the one who is faithful to Him. b. In the life of the Lord’s servant, Jesus the Messiah, we see a life of steadfast faithfulness to the Lord. c. In the life of the Lord’s servant, Jesus the Messiah, we see how greatly God rewards the one who serves Him faithfully.

9. Complete the sentences listed below that enumerate the reasons why we as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ can live a life of hope.

a. We can live in hope because we shall inherit the ___. b. We can live in hope because we shall share in the ___. c. We can live in hope because we shall see the ___.

1. glory of the Lord 2. blessings of God 3. honor of Christ

10. Previously Isaiah trembled in fear before God, being acutely aware of his sinful condition. But now he rejoices. Why?

a. Because the Lord has wrapped him in a robe of divine righteousness. b. Because he himself has produced a robe of righteousness that makes him acceptable to God. c. Because the angels have bestowed upon him their own righteousness which now covers him like a robe.

11. Complete the sentences listed below that enumerate the promises the Lord makes that should inspire and motivate us to pray for the coming of His kingdom.

a. The Lord promises that our lives will radiate with His ___. b. The Lord promises that we will be addressed in the same terms as His ___. c. The Lord promises that we shall be cherished as His ___.

1. treasured possession 2. divine righteousness 3. beloved Son 12. Because the Lord is the faithful God, of what can the Christian be assured?

a. We can be assured that there will be a day of final deliverance. b. We can be assured that there will be a day of just retribution. c. Both of the above

13. Complete the sentences listed below that instruct us as to how we are to prepare to meet our God.

a. ___ as your Savior if you have never done so. b. ___ if you have strayed away from Him. c. ___ and, by His grace, continue to be faithful to Him.

1. Return to Christ 2. Receive Christ 3. Remain in Christ

14. Complete the sentences listed below that describe what is necessary if we are to build a life that is worthy of the Lord.

a. We must be aware that the Lord is the ___. b. We must appreciate the fact that the Lord desires a ___. c. We must rely upon the transforming power that the Lord supplies by the ___.

1. Holy Spirit 2. consecrated life 3. majestic God FINAL EXAM ON ISAIAH (FACILITATOR’S COPY WITH ANSWERS)

1. Complete the sentences listed below that describe the scene Isaiah saw in the revelation recorded in verses 1-4 of Isaiah chapter 2.

a. The Gentile nations, like a mighty river, are miraculously flowing upward to the mountain of God. b. What is being portrayed here is God’s miraculous work of bringing the Gentile nations to faith in Christ and a place in the kingdom of God. c. These Gentile nations have the desire to come to the Lord and a willingness to walk with Him in fellowship and obedience. d. It is ironic that the Old Testament people of God must be exhorted to imitate the godly example of these Gentile converts and stop imitating the ungodly example of their pagan neighbors.

2. Complete the sentences listed below that describe the Lord’s message to Ahaz in his time of crisis.

a. The first thing the Lord tells Ahaz is that he must calm down. b. The Lord then assures Ahaz that his enemies shall not prevail against him. c. But the Lord warns Ahaz that if he does not trust in the Lord he will not stand. d. The Lord shows His willingness to encourage Ahaz by allowing him to request a sign.

3. Isaiah is permitted to look into the future and see the coming of the Savior. Match his statements about this Savior with their meaning in the light of New Testament revelation.

a. “A child has been born for us.” This is a reference to Christ’s incarnation (Matthew 1:23). b. “A son has been given to us.” This is a reference to Christ’s eternal deity (Hebrews 1:1-3). c. “The government shall rest upon his shoulders.” This is a reference to Christ’s kingly rule (Revelation 11:15).

4. Isaiah 11:6-9 is describing what life will be like when Jesus the Messiah ushers in the new heavens and the new earth. Match the images Isaiah presents with the statements that define their significance.

a. There will be peaceful co-existence throughout the realm of nature. The wolf will live with the lamb. b. There will be peaceful co-existence between man and nature. The infant will play near the cobra’s den. c. The entire world will be transformed into the kingdom of God. The earth will be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah.

5. Compare the Old Testament description of the Lord’s servant as it is given in Isaiah 42 with the New Testament passages that describe the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ.

a. “Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword. 53Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? 54But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?” (“this way” meaning the way of the cross) (Matthew 26:52-54) He is not a political revolutionary b. And Jesus went about all the cities and the villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all types of disease and all kinds of sickness. 36But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion for them, because they were distressed and scattered, as sheep not having a shepherd. (Matthew 9:35-36) He is gentle and compassionate c. As the time approached for him to be received up, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. 52And he sent messengers on ahead, who went into a Samaritan village to get things ready for him; 53but the people there did not welcome him, because he was heading for Jerusalem. (literally, “his face was set for going to Jerusalem”) (Luke 9:51-53) He exhibits commitment and perseverance 6. Complete the sentences listed below that present the assurances the passage of Isaiah 49 offers to the Lord’s people in Christ.

a. The Lord is faithful to remember your name. b. The Lord is faithful to redeem your soul. c. The Lord is faithful to reward your labor.

7. The following illustration provides an accurate and biblical description of the Christian life: By means of a “divine helicopter” from heaven, Christ has delivered us from the shark-infested waters of sin; only to drop us down on a wild and foreboding island, informing us that we are now left to our own resources until He someday comes back for us. True or False

8. What lessons are to be learned from Isaiah 52:13-53:12?

a. In the life of the Lord’s servant, Jesus the Messiah, we see that the Lord is faithful to spare from trials the one who is faithful to Him. b. In the life of the Lord’s servant, Jesus the Messiah, we see a life of steadfast faithfulness to the Lord. c. In the life of the Lord’s servant, Jesus the Messiah, we see how greatly God rewards the one who serves Him faithfully.

9. Complete the sentences listed below that enumerate the reasons why we as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ can live a life of hope.

a. We can live in hope because we shall inherit the blessings of God. b. We can live in hope because we shall share in the honor of Christ. c. We can live in hope because we shall see the glory of the Lord.

10. Previously Isaiah trembled in fear before God, being acutely aware of his sinful condition. But now he rejoices. Why?

a. Because the Lord has wrapped him in a robe of divine righteousness. b. Because he himself has produced a robe of righteousness that makes him acceptable to God. c. Because the angels have bestowed upon him their own righteousness which now covers him like a robe.

11. Compete the sentences listed below that enumerate the promises the Lord makes that should inspire and motivate us to pray for the coming of His kingdom.

a. The Lord promises that our lives will radiate with His divine righteousness. b. The Lord promises that we will be addressed in the same terms as His beloved Son. c. The Lord promises that we shall be cherished as His treasured possession.

12. Because the Lord is the faithful God, of what can the Christian be assured?

a. We can be assured that there will be a day of final deliverance. b. We can be assured that there will be a day of just retribution. c. Both of the above

13. Complete the sentences listed below that instruct us as to how we are to prepare to meet our God.

a. Receive Christ as your Savior if you have never done so. b. Return to Christ if you have strayed away from Him. c. Remain in Christ and, by His grace, continue to be faithful to Him.

14. Complete the sentences listed below that describe what is necessary if we are to build a life that is worthy of the Lord.

a. We must be aware that the Lord is the majestic God. b. We must appreciate the fact that the Lord desires a consecrated life. c. We must rely upon the transforming power that the Lord supplies by the Holy Spirit. GUIDELINES FOR WRITING A BOOK REPORT AND AN ESSAY

A. GUIDELINES FOR WRITING A BOOK REPORT

Write a separate report for each book or article. The reports for each book or article should not be more than two or three pages long each.

BIBLIOGRAPHICAL DATA

Title: Author: Pages read: Editor: City of publisher: Year of publication:

REPORT

1. Outline of contents 2. Brief Summary (Write a summary of what the author says, without your own comments) 3. Critical Evaluation (Express your opinion about what the author says. Is it clear,precise, confusing, well- documented, out of context, too simple, too complicated, biblical, too technical? Did you like it? Defend your opinion.) 4. Personal Application to Your Life and Ministry (What impact did this reading have on your life and ministry? Was it helpful? How did it help? Be specific.) 5. Personal questions that come from the reading

B. Guidelines for Writing an Essay

By Dr. Richard B. Ramsay

Introduction

An essay is a literary form that analyzes a specific topic in order to inform, explain, persuade, defend an opinion, or to stir interest. It is a more serious style, formal and academic. It is not fiction or comedy. Neither is it poetry, but prose. It should make a contribution to the reader in terms of new concepts or information.

The following guidelines will help you edit an essay:

1. Decide on a unique and specific idea

An essay should express the idea of you, the author, instead of simply repeating the ideas of others. It is not simply a research report, but personal reflection. Of course, you may take into account the ideas of others, but you should utilize these ideas to support your own point, or maybe to make a contrast with your view.

The author should have something in mind that he wants to communicate and focus on one main point. For example, the essay could have the purpose of convincing the reader that Christ is sufficient for our salvation, or that Augustine was the most important theologian of his time, or that Genesis 3 explains all the problems of humanity. The different parts of the essay present evidence or arguments that either support the central idea, illustrate the idea, or show contrasting views. However, the content of the different parts of the essay should not stray away from the main point of the essay as a whole.

2. Do careful research The student should reflect on the topic that he or she wishes to study, and begin reading and collecting information and quotes. He should write down the bibliographical data for the quote or idea, including author, title, place of publication, publishing company, and year. Use cards, a notebook, or even better, write notes in a computer word processor. Afterwards, organize the notes into groups according to topic. You should begin focusing on what you consider important and discard things that are not related to your topic, even though they may be interesting. Concentrate on a few ideas that are related to the central theme of the essay.

3. Write an appropriate title

The title of the essay should clearly communicate the main theme. It should not be too general, but rather point to a specific topic. For example, if you want to write about the physical consequences of the Fall in Genesis 3, the title should not be, “Man’s Problem,” or “Genesis 3,” but “The Physical Consequences of the Fall According to Genesis 3.” Neither should the title be too specific, pointing only to one aspect of the essay. For example, if the author wishes to write about all the physical consequences of the Fall, the title should not be “Why Women Give Birth in Pain” but rather as mentioned before, “The Physical Consequences of the Fall According to Genesis 3.”

4. Organize your ideas in a good outline

An essay should have at least three main sections: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. The introduction stirs interest in the essay and explains what it is about. The body is the main development of the theme, and normally has several subdivisions. The conclusion summarizes the argument of the essay and shows what the author considers to be most important.

If the essay is well organized, the ideas are easy to follow. The writer should imagine that he is dialoguing with the reader, anticipating his questions and presenting answers. The reader should be able to follow the thread of thought even with a quick glance at the introduction, the titles of the sections, and the conclusion.

There are various ways to organize an essay. 1) If the purpose of the essay is to inform about something historical, it may be organized in chronological order. 2) If the purpose is to analyze a philosophical concept, the writer may want to first give the historical background, then explain how the concept is expressed in our day, then give a biblical analysis of the thought. 3) If the author wishes to persuade the reader of his point of view of some issue, he may use logical order, first presenting a premise, then a second premise, and the logical conclusion. 4) If the purpose is to arouse interest in a cause, he may present different dimensions of the problem in order of increasing seriousness. 5) Some people like to use illustrations to demonstrate a truth, organizing them to point toward the central idea, like the hands of a clock that meet in the center. 6) If the author wants to present a new idea, he may first show how it is similar to other ideas, then show how it is different from those ideas. 7) One might analyze a event, showing first the causes, then the effects. 8) New information may be presented by giving definitions and classifications. There are many ways to organize an essay, but the writer should decide how to organize it and be consistent with the plan.

Make a good outline to assure good organization. The body of the essay (all but the introduction and conclusion) normally has at least two main divisions, each with at least two subdivisions. If there is only one subdivision, it is not really a subdivision but the main point. The main divisions should contain ideas that are equal in importance, but distinct in content. The subdivisions should contain ideas that are subordinate to the main division, and equal in importance among each other.

The traditional system of numbering is to use roman numbers for the main divisions, capital letters for the subdivisions, numbers for the next subdivisions, and small letters for the next, as follows:

The Letter to the Romans

I. Doctrine

A. Sin

1. The wrath of God against sin

2. All men are sinners

B. Justification by faith

C. Sanctification by faith D. Eternal security

II. Practical exhortations

A. Love

B. Submission to authorities

etc.

The introduction of the essay does not have a number or letter. Neither does the conclusion.

Introduction

I.

A.

1.

2.

B.

II.

III.

Conclusion

Alternative classification systems are acceptable. The student needs to be consistent and not mix classifications systems. For example, the numerical system is also acceptable.

INTRODUCTION

1. 1.1. 1.2 2. 2.1. 2.2. 3. 3.1. 3.1.1. 3.1.2 3.2

CONCLUSION BIBLIOGRAPHY

5. Write coherent paragraphs

A paragraph is the key unit of the essay. Review each paragraph to make sure that:

1) All the sentences of the paragraph deal with the same subject.

2) The paragraph has normally from 3-10 sentences. If there is only one sentence, it should become part of another paragraph, or maybe other sentences can be added to complete the paragraph. 3) The central idea of the paragraph is expressed in the first or last sentence (normally).

4) The other sentences contribute to the point of the paragraph, supporting, showing contrast, or giving illustrations.

5) The paragraph is well organized. The paragraphs may follow any of the same organization styles that were mentioned in point 4 regarding the essay as whole.

6) The sentences are clearly readable. Long sentences should be divided into two or more sentences. Avoid incomplete sentences without a main verb.

7) Transition words and phrases are included when there is a change in thought (such as “however,” “furthermore,” and “on the other hand.”) The reader needs to see the relationship between different points. Try reading the paragraph out loud. If it is not smooth, you probably need to modify it.

Do not hesitate to eliminate sentences that are not related to the main theme of the paragraph. They might belong better in another paragraph, they might be material for a whole new paragraph, or they might be completely unnecessary.

6. Use footnotes properly

You must indicate all sources of ideas with footnotes, even if it is not a direct quote. You may use one of the two possible formats. However, you must be consistent within the essay, always using the same format.

A. MLA Style (Modern Language Association)

NOTE: This is the preferred style of MINTS.

This style puts the minimum information in parentheses, and takes advantage of the full information given in the bibliography at the back of the book, article, or essay.

For example, if the book in the bibliography is the following, …

Marcuse, Sybyl. A Survey of Musical Instruments. New York: Harper, 1975.

…then within the text, only the author’s name and the page number are necessary. For example, if the quote is taken from page 197, after the quote within the essay there should be a parenthesis as follows:

(Marcuse 197)

If there is more than one book by the same author, a short version of the title should be included, as follows:

(Marcuse, Survey 197)

If the author’s name is mentioned within the essay, only the page number is necessary:

(197)

B. Chicago Manual of Style

This style gives more information in the notes. You should put a number in the text, after the quote or information used, in superscript, as seen here8. Then at the bottom of the page, put the footnote. (The footnotes may also be put at the end of each chapter, or at the end of the book, but we prefer them at the bottom of the page.)

If you do not have full information in the bibliography, use the following pattern:

8 Author [first name, then last name], Title of the book [in italics] (city of publication: publishing company, year) [between parentheses, with a colon between city and publisher, then a coma before the year, just as it appears here], page or pages cited. Here is an example:

8 Federico García Lorca, Bodas de Sangre (Barcelona: Ayma, S.A., 1971), 95.

On the other hand, if you do have full information in the bibliography, you may simply put the author, title, and page number. The reader can find the rest of the information in the bibliography at the back.

Here is an example:

8 Federico García Lorca, Bodas de Sangre, 95.

7. Include a bibliography

At the end of the essay, you should include a bibliography, listing all the books, articles, and web sites that you used for the essay. The format for the bibliography is slightly different from the footnote. The last name goes first in this case. There are no parentheses and no page number. The author’s last name should not be indented, but if the entry uses more than one line, the other lines are all indented. Look at the following examples.

The list must be in alphabetical order, according to the last names of the authors.

García Lorca, Federico. Bodas de Sangre. Barcelona: Ayma, S.A., 1971.

Marcuse, Sybyl. A Survey of Musical Instruments. New York: Harper, 1975.

8. Resources

Use the following sources for other help with editing and style:

1. Joseph Gibaldi, ed., MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers. New York: Modern Language Association of America, 1999. (Currently the 6th edition is the latest.) NOTE: This is the official guideline for MINTS.

Some web sites contain portions of the MLS standards: http://www.bedfordstmartins.com/online/cite5.html http://www.dianahacker.com/resdoc/p04_c08_o.html

2. The Chicago Manual of Style. (Chicago: University of Chicago Press.)

See online Manual: http://www.chicagomanualofstyle.org/home.html

See the following web site for information about this book and about electronic resources: http://www.docstyles.com/cmsguide.htm

See also the following web site for exercises to improve your grammar and writing style. http://go.hrw.com/hhb/

You may also use the following books for reference:

Kate L. Turabian, A Manual for Writers. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, latest edition.

Kirszner, Laurie G., and Mandell, Stephen, The Holt Handbook. Philadelphia: Harcourt Brace.

9. Essay Evaluation (This section gives guidelines for MINTS directors or professors who grade essays.)

Include the following aspects in the evaluation of an essay. 1. CONTENT Identification of theme/thesis Development of theme/thesis Conclusion to theme/thesis Educational content Theological content 1. STYLE Title page Index Titles References General presentation

2. GRAMMAR Grammar in general Vocabulary Paragraph structure Sentence structure Punctuation

3. VERIFICATION Argumentation Use of resources Quotations Footnotes Bibliography

4. APPLICATION Faithfulness to the Biblical revelation Helpful for obeying the Great Commission Identification of spiritual needs Presentation of Biblical solutions to the spiritual needs that were presented Motivation for future studies

10. Style of Title Page and Table of Contents

TITLE PAGE

TITLE OF THE ESSAY

NAME OF THE AUTHOR

NAME AND CODE OF THE COURSE Name of the Professor

Name of the Educational Institution

Date

TABLE OF CONTENTS (Classical style)

TITLE OF THE ESSAY INTRODUCTION I. A. 1. 2. B. 1. 2. II. A. B.

CONCLUSION BIBLIOGRAPHY

TABLE OF CONTENTS (Numerical style)

TITLE OF THE ESSAY

INTRODUCTION

1. 1.1. 1.2 2. 2.1. 2.1.1. 2.1.2. 2.2. 3. 3.1. 3.2.

CONCLUSION BIBLIOGRAPHY

A Final Word

There are many ways to write a good essay, and creativity is welcome. However, there are certain guidelines that help you communicate better. Probably the greatest challenge is to make your writing clear and easy to understand. It should be pleasant to read, and not hard work. Read your essay over and over until you are satisfied. The more you work on it, the easier it will be to understand. Have a friend or family member read your essay before you send it in. Also, read the essay aloud to see if the sentences communicate what you want to say and how you want to say it. Your essay should be so good that others want to publish it!