God Is Holy, and Hope Is Coming
A Study Guide for When a Nation Forgets God
1. Introduction: The Prophet of Judgment and Hope
Isaiah prophesied to Judah around 740–680 BC, during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah.
His message was twofold: confront sin and declare the coming of salvation.
The name Isaiah means “The Lord is salvation”—a fitting summary of the book.
Reflection: Isaiah speaks to every generation—calling people to repentance while pointing them to a coming Savior.
2. God Confronts a Corrupt People (Isaiah 1–12)
Judah had the appearance of religion but was spiritually sick (Isaiah 1:11–17).
God warned that judgment was coming through foreign nations like Assyria.
Isaiah’s call in chapter 6 is a vision of God’s holiness that leaves him undone.
A promise emerges: a child will be born (Isaiah 7:14; 9:6)—a light in the darkness.
Takeaway: God always confronts sin—but He also offers a way back through the promise of a Savior.
3. Judgment Against the Nations (Isaiah 13–27)
Prophecies against Babylon, Moab, Damascus, Egypt, and others reveal God’s global authority.
Even powerful empires are no match for the justice of God.
These chapters reveal that sin brings ruin—personally and nationally.
Lesson: God doesn’t just deal with individual sin; He holds nations accountable for pride, violence, and injustice.
4. God Is Still in Control (Isaiah 28–39)
Judah makes poor alliances (like turning to Egypt for help).
Hezekiah faces threats from Assyria but trusts in the Lord and sees deliverance (Isaiah 36–37).
In a moment of pride, he shows off his treasures to Babylon—setting the stage for future exile (Isaiah 39).
Truth: Trust in human strength always falls short. God alone is our deliverer.
5. The Comfort of a Coming Savior (Isaiah 40–55)
A dramatic shift: “Comfort, comfort my people…” (Isaiah 40:1).
God promises forgiveness, strength, and the coming Servant of the Lord.
The Servant will suffer, be rejected, and yet bring salvation (Isaiah 53).
Encouragement: Jesus is the Servant. He came not to conquer by force—but to redeem through sacrifice.
6. A Future of Restoration and Glory (Isaiah 56–66)
God’s salvation is for the outsider, the broken, the faithful.
Promises of a new heaven and new earth where justice, peace, and worship will never end (Isaiah 65–66).
A closing reminder: God’s plan ends in restoration—not just of Israel, but of all creation.
Hope: The same God who judges also rebuilds. He never abandons His promises.
7. Key Verses to Memorize or Meditate On
Isaiah 1:18 – “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow…”
Isaiah 6:8 – “Here I am! Send me.”
Isaiah 9:6 – “For to us a child is born… and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God…”
Isaiah 40:31 – “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength…”
Isaiah 53:5 – “He was pierced for our transgressions… and by his wounds we are healed.”
Isaiah 55:6 – “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near…”
8. Questions for Discussion or Journaling
What does Isaiah’s vision of God in chapter 6 teach us about holiness and calling?
How does Isaiah’s message of judgment apply to our nation today?
What emotions do you feel when reading about the Suffering Servant in Isaiah 53?
How does Isaiah challenge you to trust God over your own plans or alliances?
Which of God’s promises in Isaiah brings you the most comfort today?
What would it look like for you to say, “Here I am—send me” in your own life?