The Future pt.2

(ISAIAH 34–35)

From the Commentary

Israel’s ancient enemy Edom is singled out in Isaiah 34:5–6, but this divine judgment will come upon the whole world. Edom is only one example of God’s judgment on the Gentile nations because of what they have done to His people Israel. “For the LORD has a day of vengeance, a year of retribution, to uphold Zion’s cause” (v. 8 NIV). In the day of the Lord, the Gentiles will be repaid for the way they have treated the Jews and exploited their land (Joel 3:1–17). “Zion’s cause” may not get much support among the nations today, but God will come to their defense and make their cause succeed.

1. What is your initial reaction to God’s vengeance as described in this passage? Why do you think the God of the Old Testament is prone to judgment and retribution? How does this line up with the role God plays in the New Testament story to come? How does God come to His people’s defense today?

From the Commentary

In Isaiah 34:5–8, the prophet moved from the battlefield to the temple and saw the worldwide judgment as a great sacrifice that God offers (see Jer. 46:10; 50:27; Ezek. 39:17–19). The practice was for the people to kill the sacrifices and offer them to God, but now it is God who offers the wicked as sacrifices.

2.What is significant about the distinction between people offering sacrifices on behalf of God and God Himself offering the sacrifices as noted in Isaiah 34:5–8? How does this contrast with the ultimate sacrifice God offers later in His Son?

From the Commentary

Isaiah used the promise of the coming kingdom (Isa. 35:1–10) to strengthen those in his day who were weak and afraid (vv. 3–4). In the kingdom, there will be no more blind or deaf, lame or mute; for all will be made whole to enjoy a glorious new world.

3. How does the promise of the coming kingdom in Isaiah compare to the promises in Revelation? How does such a promise give hope to those who are going through trials today? How does this promise help fearful people find peace about the future?

4. When have you felt like the “godly minority” in a situation? How did you deal with that feeling? What role has prayer played in those sorts of moments? How have God’s answers to your prayers in those circumstances helped you to understand God’s plan for your life?

5. What is your natural response when life gets difficult? How easy is it for you to trust God when challenges come your way?

6. How does Isaiah’s picture of the future kingdom inspire you? What are you most looking forward to in the life to come? How can that help you get through the difficult seasons of life?