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PREPARING FOR THE SERMON 

Isaiah 43:1-44:5 

Context: Chapter 43 begins a series of messages that relate “this is what the Lord says.” The phrase occurs with varying degree of frequency throughout the rest of the book. The formula changes slightly in different accounts both as to the designation of God and the audience. The prophetic message in the current pericope does not contain a firm date it was delivered, but the fulfillment of the prophecy ends with Cyrus who is mentioned by name. The content of the prophetic message centers around the deliverance from captivity. The divided kingdom is treated as one people. The names of Israel and Jacob are both used, not as two distinct people, but as a way a way of referring to God’s covenant people.  

Structure:  

  • 43:1-13 – ‘ Do not fear, for I have redeemed you’ (43:1) 
  • 43:14-44:5 – ‘I am about to do something new’ (43:19) 

  

Theology: redemption; covenant; identity in God 

 

Some things to think about:  

  • How do you identify yourself? 
  • In what ways has God purchased your life? What does it mean? How does it impact the way in which you live? 
  • How does it work that an all knowing God says He remembers your sins no more? 

PREPARING FOR WORSHIP

Call to Worship

Hebrews 12:1-2

Every Step

Pray in preparation for worship this week that God would enable you to run this race with endurance. Commit to take every step, trusting in Christ. Be sure that the steps you take in this way won’t be in vain.

In Christ Alone

Continue in worship by being reminded of the sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross for your sins. It is in Him alone that your hope is found.

Congregational Scripture Reading

Romans 5:20-21

Grace Greater Than Our Sin

Read these verses in context in Romans 5. Paul made clear that, although we are dead in sin through the original sin of Adam, when we put our faith in Christ, we are alive through the death of Jesus Christ on the cross. Even though our sin is indeed great, his grace is greater!

Trust in God

Because of the scripture that we’ve read and affirmed through singing, we can continue in worship by declaring our trust in God alone!