Purpose

To call Judah to repentance and reveal God's plan of salvation through the coming Messiah.

Author

Isaiah, son of Amoz, was a prophet to the southern kingdom of Judah for over 60 years. He was highly educated, had access to the royal court, and is considered the greatest of the Old Testament prophets.

Historical Context

Written: 740-680 BC. Prophecies during the reigns of four kings of Judah, including the Assyrian crisis.

Significance

Contains more prophecies about Jesus than any other Old Testament book and is quoted most in the New Testament.

Key Themes

God's Holiness, Messiah, Salvation, Judgment, Restoration

Interesting Facts

• Isaiah is quoted in the New Testament more than any other Old Testament book (over 65 times)
• Contains the clearest prophecy of Jesus' virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14)
• Isaiah 53 describes Jesus' crucifixion 700 years before it happened

Prophecies

• The virgin birth of Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14) Fulfilled: Jesus born of the virgin Mary (Matthew 1:23) (700 years later)
• The suffering servant who would die for our sins (Isaiah 53) Fulfilled: Jesus' crucifixion and atonement (700 years later)

Isaiah 65 presents a powerful juxtaposition between God's judgment on the rebellious people of Israel and His promise of restoration for those who seek Him. The chapter opens with God lamenting that He was ready to be sought by those who did not ask for Him, indicating a deep sense of longing for His people’s return. The rebellious nature of Israel is highlighted as they engage in idolatrous practices, such as sacrificing in gardens and consuming unclean foods, which provokes God’s anger. Despite their persistent disobedience, God reveals His intention to preserve a remnant of His faithful servants. He assures them that they will experience blessings, including sustenance and joy, while the unfaithful will face dire consequences, symbolized by hunger and shame. The contrasting fates of the servants of God and the disobedient are starkly drawn, emphasizing the seriousness of their choices. The latter part of the chapter shifts to a profound promise of a new creation, where God declares He will create new heavens and a new earth, erasing the pain of the past. This vision encompasses a transformed Jerusalem, filled with joy and devoid of sorrow. The imagery of longevity and stability in life is presented, illustrating a time when death will be rare and all will be well. Thus, Isaiah 65 encapsulates themes of judgment, hope, and divine restoration, encouraging the faithful to remain steadfast in their devotion to God amid a world rife with rebellion and unfaithfulness.

The first part of the Bible, written before Jesus came to earth, containing 39 books that tell the story of God's relationship with humanity from the very beginning.

Purpose

To reveal God's character, establish His covenant with humanity, and prepare the way for the coming Messiah.

Significance

Shows God's faithfulness to His promises and sets up everything we need to understand about Jesus in the New Testament. Everything in the Old Testament points forward to Jesus - He's the fulfillment of every promise and prophecy!

Books containing God's messages delivered through His prophets, including calls to repentance, warnings of judgment, and promises of hope.

Purpose

To call people back to God, warn of consequences for sin, provide hope for the future, and reveal God's ultimate plan of redemption.

Significance

These books show God's heart for His people, His justice in dealing with sin, and His ultimate plan of salvation. Many prophecies point forward to Christ and His kingdom.