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PREPARING FOR THE SERMON

Isaiah 45:14-47:15

Context: The pericope under consideration this week at face value is not directed to the nation of Israel (until in chapter 46 Israel is told to listen), but Israel is the beneficiary in the message. The content of the section is significant to other nations. In chapter 47, the message speaks directly to Babylon and Chaldea. Chapter 48 will return to a directed message to Israel. The message is not dated but precedes the fall of Babylon. Historical failures of Israel provide the backdrop for not only the passage, but the historical events of the passage. Idolatry or the pursuit of other gods as well as God's execution of judgment through the exile influence content of the prophecy.

Structure:

  • 45:14-17 Israel will be saved by the Lord
  • 45:18-25 turn to Me and be saved
  1. 1-13 I am God, and there is no other
  2. 1-15 you did not take these things to heart or think about their outcomes

Theology: theology, providence, consequences

Some things to think about:

  • How do you know God is the one true God among all the self-proclaimed gods?
  • In what ways have you misread events when it comes to the big picture of what God is doing?
  • Upon what do you stand? What are some ways that standing on God and His word looks like on a practical level?

PREPARING FOR WORSHIP

Call to Worship

Psalm 8

How Great Thou Art/Praise You Anywhere

After you’ve read of the magnificence of God, what He’s done and how he perceives you, respond in worship by singing this familiar hymn combined with this new song.

Divine Exchange

Jesus took your place on the cross. The sin that you’ve committed would result in death, but the hope that you have in Christ results in life! Turn from you sin and believe in Jesus. 

Congregational Scripture Reading

Proverbs 3:5-8

Only Trust Him

After reading in scripture where we’re told to put our trust, respond in singing these next two songs.

Trust in God

This song flows well from the well-known hymn that you’ve sung leading up to this. We trust in God because He has proven himself to be faithful. Rely on Him in every area of your life. End your time of worship in prayer.