Let the Prophets Speak

The righteous, once obscure and downtrodden, finally have their day. God's justice reigns supreme, the people if Jerusalem are holy. They are written for life, their sins are cleansed, and now the people reside under the protection of God alone. The symbolism of this chapter is relived every year during the high holiday season.

God laments how the leaders of the people have taken advantage of the poor, and Isaiah turns his attention to the women of Judah.

Isaiah turns his attention to the corrupt leadership, and criticizes their self indulgence and oppression of the masses. No system isbeyond reproach; the military, economic, political, judicial, academic, and religious leadership, none are spared the harsh rebuke.

Why be afraid of mankind, who is nothing before God. Humble yourselves before God, and salvation will come.

Isaiah explains the connection between arrogance and idol worship, and how that differs from the humble service of God.

Isaiah's tells the people of God's vision for the future end of times, and exhorts the people to show God that they will carry this message into the future.

How have we sunk to this level? Asks the prophet. It is because the leaders and the people were arrogant, they sought their own pleasure and profit, and forgot the less fortunate. But God promises us that there is hope. True justice and righteousness will one day be restored, and the arrogant will one day be brought down.

The people have turned to God in prayer, they have been scrupulously keeping the commandments, but still they suffer! What could they be doing wrong? Isaiah tells the people how they are missing the main point. God doesn't want prayer and worship if we are unjust, unkind, and lack compassion.

The land is ravaged by the invading Assyrian Army, and the refugees huddle behind the walls of Jerusalem for safety. They turn to God and His temple in prayer, but the war continues to rage. Isaiah rebukes the people for they have turned their backs on God.

An introduction to the book of Isaiah