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PREPARING FOR THE SERMON

Isaiah 44:6-45:13

Context: Isaiah 44:6 begins a series that continue the theme introduced in 43:1 of God as Redeemer. Coupled to the redeemer motif is that God is the Lord of Armies. The specific message of this pericope centers on the uniqueness of God. People are cast in a disparaging light for their worthless pursuits and abilities. Even Cyrus the king is brought to understand his place in God's plan.

Structure:

The section is marked of by the introductory statement: the Lord, the King of Israel and its Redeemer, the Lord of Armies says." (44:6) It provides a link to previous sections with similar terminology. The section ends a counter, "says the Lord of Armies." (45:13) Within the major division there are several prophetic accounts:

  • 44:6-23 - the Lord, the King of Israel and its Redeemer, the Lord of Armies says
  • 44:24-28 - the Lord, your Redeemer who formed you from the womb says
  • 45:1-13 The Lord says this to Cyrus his anointed

Each subsection was probably delivered on separate occasions, but are tied together by the redeemer theme in final form of the book.

Theology: uniqueness of God; God's purposes

Some things to think about:

  • How do you know God is different from other religious deities?
  • How do you know what you are doing won't be regretted at the end of your life?

 

PREPARING FOR WORSHIP

Call to Worship

Psalm 150

Psalm 150

Begin your time of preparation for worship by reading and singing through the last Psalm in the Bible. Sing, "Hallelujah!" to our God. Sing in awe of who He is.

It Was Finished Upon That Cross

Jesus dying on the cross for your sins was crucial for your salvation. His sacrifice is the only means by which you can be saved. He understood the cost and saw that you were worth it. Believe in and worship Him alone.

Congregational Scripture Reading

Proverbs 3:5-8

Battle Belongs

Whatever you're going through in life, Jesus is the answer. He is enough. He is all you need. Surrender all to Him and trust that he will provide for your needs.

Be Thou My Vision

Some of us can't see well. Some need glasses as an aid. However well or not well you think you can see things around you, be reminded that God can see better. Therefore do not rely on your own understanding, but on God's will for your life.