Isaiah - Intro 2

Literary Context

Poetry

Poetry

Difficulties

Hebrew Poetry

Instead of focusing on rhyming, it uses repetition to emphasize

Ex.

Sandwich patten

It can be hard to catch the emphasis in translation

Contrasts

Seeming opposite concepts are right next to each other

Isaiah uses this masterfully

Ex.

Intro & Themes

Rhymes, alliteration, nuanced meanings of words get lost

This much more than I will be able to touch on, we will only scratch the surface

Repetition

Hebrew poetry uses repetition of a concept instead of rhyming to emphasize a concept

Ex. v15 - God ignoring his people described twice followed by why

Contrasts

One of the most confusing aspects is how logical opposites are right next to each

You will see judgement and salvation of God’s people right next to each, intertwined together

Which is it? Will God destroy or save his people?

Isaiah uses this to masterful effect

It brings out deeper concepts

this world is not cut and dry, God’s plan is not simple

Will judgment or hope win out? Answer - God will use judgment to give his people hope

It leaves open questions for us to wrestle with

It sets us up for the ultimate answer - God on the cross bearing the judgment for His people

Text/Major Concepts

The first five chapters are a preface

Hits all the major themes discussed later in the book

But leaves unanswered questions

Sin

God charges his people

Religious formalism

God’s character in His response

Judgment

Salvation

Destiny

God is able to break the cycle of sin and consequences

Immediate (this life/sanctification)

The ending (next life/glorification)