Bible Pathways 08/01/2002

August 01

Read Isaiah 1 -- 4

In Today's Reading:

The nation's sin; Isaiah's appeal for repentance; restoration after judgment; future Kingdom of Christ.

Verses for Today:

I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against Me. The ox (instinctively) knoweth his owner, and the ass his master's crib: but Israel doth not know, My people. . . . are corrupters: they have forsaken the Lord, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger (1:2-4).

The Lord had chosen the Israelites to be the nation from which the Living Word (John 1:1), the Messiah (Savior), would come. But He also chose them to proclaim His Written Word (the Scriptures) to all nations. It must have been with deep sorrow in His heart that God led Isaiah to say that He called the Israelites children [who] are corrupters (Isaiah 1:4). He appealed to them to hear the Word of the Lord. . . . let us reason together . . . though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. . . . if [you] refuse and rebel, [you] shall be devoured with the sword (1:10,18,20); but sadly they ignored Him.

In a similar way, it must have been heartbreaking for the great prophet Samuel -- that his own rebellious children were evil and refused to obey the Word of God. This was also true of godly King Josiah of Judah as well as King David.

Many godly parents feel similar sorrow over children who are not serving the Lord, who are uncommitted to reading the Bible, and who no longer regularly worship in a local Church. In contrast, Christ . . . loved the Church, and gave Himself for it (Ephesians 5:25). Whether our children succeed or fail in their earthly goals, by comparison, it is of little consequence, for only spiritual achievements bring true success in life and are eternal.

Our Heavenly Father has graciously said: Let us reason together (Isaiah 1:18). It is of utmost importance that we recognize the blessings of obedience and the consequences of sin. The Lord has provided His Written Word through the guidance of the indwelling Holy Spirit to teach us how to experience the joy of forgiveness and deliverance from the guilt and condemnation of sin. Isaiah was called to comfort a very small remnant (group) (1:9) who were faithful to the Holy One of Israel (1:4). He assured them of a coming King Who would reign in righteousness and peace when, as the Messiah, He would reign and teach us of His ways, and we will walk in His paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the Law, and the Word of the Lord from Jerusalem (2:3).

The Bible is the Lord Himself speaking to us. Our priority must be to listen to Him. Apart from His Word, no one can discover "the truth" about himself or the secret to daily enjoying His peace that passeth all understanding (Philippians 4:7). His Word provides wholeness. You don't have to feel you are a victim of circumstances, events, or relationships. Jesus said that it is His Truth that sets man free. This means freedom from all fears of failure, nervousness, restlessness, fright, worry, suspicion, and feelings of impending danger. All these are the strongholds of Satan.

Jesus, the Living Word, said: These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world (John 16:33).

Christ Revealed:

As the One Who will judge the nations (Isaiah 2:2-4; compare Micah 4:1-3). Our Lord is the righteous Judge Who will reward those who obey His Word and look for His return (Romans 6:17-18; 2 Timothy 4:1-8). The Branch of the Lord (Isaiah 4:2) refers to Christ Himself as the descendant of David.

Word Studies:

1:13 vain oblations = sacrifices offered by hypocrites; 2:12 day of the Lord = the coming judgment upon the unfaithful as well as the time of rejoicing for the faithful; 3:18 cauls, and their round tires = headbands of sun jewels and moon ornaments; 3:22 crisping pins = handbags; 3:24 stomacher = rich robe; 4:4 blood of Jerusalem = killing innocent prophets.

NOTE: Definitions may not agree with present-day usage as given in your dictionary; we attempt to explain the thought expressed in the original language.

Prayer Needs:

Government Officials: Rep. Rick Boucher (VA) and Rep. Sue Myrick (NC) · Pray for one more person to read through the Bible · Country: Pakistan (138 million) in southern Asia · Major languages: Urdu and English · There is no freedom to convert Muslims to Christ. Pakistan is an Islamic republic · 97% Muslim; 2% Christian; 1% Hindu · Prayer Suggestion: Pray diligently with other believers and God will answer (Acts: 12:5-10).

Optional Reading: Hebrews 9

NOTE: Bible Pathway covers the Old Testament with devotional and commentary insights over a nine-month period, January through September. Each day during these months, an optional reading of one chapter a day from the New Testament will also be listed. The October, November, and December issues will provide a daily commentary on the New Testament readings. Thus, the reader goes through the New Testament twice each year using the Bible Pathway plan.

Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 3:24