Isaiah's Prophecies: Condemnation, History, and Hope in Biblical Context

What was the political context during the rise and fall of kingdoms mentioned in the notes?

Empires were vying for control of the 'neck of the world', with Assyria as the world power.

What was the capital of Assyria?

Nineveh.

Which kingdoms rebelled against Assyria?

Syria (Damascus) and Israel (Samaria).

What modern-day countries correspond to ancient Babylon?

Present-day Iraq and Iran.

What happened to Syria and Israel as a result of their rebellion?

They fell and were led into captivity.

What are the 'lost tribes' referenced in the notes?

The tribes of Israel that never returned after captivity.

What is the focus of Isaiah's prophecies?

The southern kingdom of Judah and the city of Jerusalem.

What does Isaiah prophesy about Judah?

The invasion, conquest, and captivity of Judah, as well as the return of the 'remnant'.

What are the two main sections of Isaiah's outline?

1-39 focuses on the threat of Assyria; 40-66 focuses on the threat of Babylon.

What is a key relevance of Isaiah's messages today?

Human nature has not changed; Israel's infidelity to God and oppression of the remnant continues.

What does God promise according to Isaiah's prophecies?

God still saves, delivers, and keeps His promises.

What are the three major sections of Isaiah's prophecies?

1. Prophecies of Condemnation (1-35), 2. Historical Parenthesis (36-39), 3. Prophecies of Restoration.

What is the opening statement of Isaiah's prophecies?

An indictment of Judah, including a call to the created world to listen to Yahweh's complaint.