Friday November 26, 2010

Read Isaiah 7

Most of us read the verse about the virgin being with child and jump immediately to the birth of Jesus.  But it’s fascinating to look at the original context to see how and why the prophecy arose. It’s always a blessing to read back in the Old Testament as to the circumstance and context of the original prophesy. Such a discipline helps us to understand the Bible more fully and more deeply. Such a discipline helps us to have a well rounded and more complete understanding of the history and theology of salvation. Such an approach helps us to know God better and more intimately.

As you read Isaiah 7, what do you see happening in and around the nation? Take some time to jot down your thoughts.

Ahaz the evil king was ruling over Israel. He had no regard for the Lord and was worshipping false gods, effectively leading the people astray.  Because of this rebellion, the  nation was under attack. The city was under siege.  The prophet Isaiah came to the king and offered him a word from the Lord,  ‘Ask the Lord for a sight, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights’ to prove that the attack would not succeed.  Ahaz puts on a false face of piety. He replies, ‘I will not ask; I will not put the Lord to the test.’ It’s a false piety because when God offers you something it’s not a test to accept it. If God says ask for something, it’s arrogant and sinful not to ask for something!  The sign of the virgin is a sign against Ahab and Israel refusing to believe, trust or even turn to God in the hour of need. God Himself will provide a sign that shows His faithfulness, even in the face of sin and unbelief.

The sign of the child is one of many child-signs that the king of the nation is given by the prophet Isaiah. In this sign, the name of the child is Immanuel which translates ‘God with us’.  Even in unbelief, even with a facade of holiness, even in rejection God is with us because he is a faithful God who keeps his covenant with his people.

What can we do but cry out, ‘Hallelujah! Thank you Lord’?

Prayer:-

> Pray that you and all in your church would have open doors to preach the coming of God into the world to save sinners.

> Pray that many people would repent and believe in Christ this Christmas season.

> Pray that churches across the nation would be preparing to preach Jesus unashamedly. Pray that those churches that wish to hide the Christmas truth would be silenced.