This week we are focusing on Isaiah 50:4-51:8. Words are extremely important! God spoke and all creation came into being. The longest chapter in the Bible speaks about His Word: Psalm 119. “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, [i.e. Jesus]…full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). Keep this in mind as you study Isaiah this week. The following are some study suggestions to help you get started.
LIMITED TIME:
- Read through Isaiah 50:4-51:8.
- Meditate on and/or journal the answers to the following questions.
- What does this passage teach me about God and His character?
- How does this aspect of God’s character change my view of myself?
- What should I do in response?
MORE TIME:
- Read Isaiah 50:4-11, the third Servant song.
- Jot down all of the things you learn about the Servant. In what ways do you see Christ in these verses? (Here are a few cross references to get you thinking- Matt. 27:26-31; Phil. 2:8-11; Luke 9:51; 2 Thes. 1:6-9; Romans 8:31-35)
- According to Verses 10-11, in what ways do people respond to Christ, the Servant, and His message? (Note: It would be worth looking up the meaning of the word “darkness” (v.10) in a commentary. It should give you encouragement during times in your life when the light (God) doesn’t seem to be present!)
- Read Isaiah 51:1-8.
- Three times God calls His people to “listen” or “give attention” to Him. In each case, whom is God speaking to, and what is His message to them?
- Reminder! Jesus is the Word (John 1:1-5,14), and Jesus is the Truth (John 14:6)! Take some time to listen to Him today. If time permits, write out a prayer of thanksgiving for the many promises that God has fulfilled in Christ on your behalf.
GOING DEEPER (optional): For further teaching and application, do one or more of the following:
- Read chapter 37, “Why Do We Have Ears on the Outside of Our Heads? (50:4-51:8) in Isaiah: God Saves Sinners or listen to Ray Ortlund’s sermon series on line. (Most of the sermons correspond to the chapters in his book.)
- Listen to the sermon(s) from Pastor Liam Goligher’s sermon series on Isaiah that go along with this week’s reading.