God Comforts His People
December 5, 2010
Lesson: Isaiah 40:1-11
Key Verse: Isaiah 40:1
Introduction
“Comfort ye, comfort ye my people.” Isaiah speaks of this comfort to Israel and Gentiles, like a river and flowing stream: “As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem” (Isa. 66:12-13). It is not the comfort which we may give but the comfort which God gives. It is a comfort which delivers us from fear: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me” (Psa. 23:4). The redeemed of the Lord will sing the song of Comfort in the presence of God’s people. They will be like a “watered garden,” for God will turn “their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow” (Jer. 31:11-13).
The Congregations of whom Christ is Lord and Head, who find rest in Christ, who walk in the “fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 9:31). Paul reassures our faith in reminding us that those things which were written are for “our learning that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope” (Rom. 15:4). This is the comfort which walks alongside of us, encouraging and exhorting us, comforting us as an advocate, rightly counseling us in all things. It is this comfort with which we are to comfort others. For it is God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is “the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God” (2 Cor. 1:3-4).
God’s Glory –Isaiah 40:1-5
The command of the Lord to his prophet is that he is to be a preacher of comfort: “Comfort ye, comfort ye my people.” The Lord goes on to say that Isaiah is to speak “comfortably to Jerusalem.” The Prophet is to speak to “the heart of Jerusalem.” He is to speak to the very soul of Jerusalem that they may know that the God of all comfort and mercy is going to bring an end to their affliction. Isaiah is to cry out, proclaim loudly, to herald as from a mountain top, the good news of deliverance.
And what is the message? First that her terrible condition, which resembles that of a nation ravaged by war, is coming to an end; God’s punishment of his people comes to an end as the mercy of God is poured out from his throne of grace. Second that her “iniquity is pardoned;” that sin and guilt which have brought about her awful condition before God is forgiven. God is now satisfied because atonement has been made for their sins (the Son who went to the cross of Calvary made atonement, satisfying the justice of God for all whom the Father gave him). The justice of God is satisfied, Isaiah publishing the glad tidings of grace! For God’s people to receive double for her sins from the Lord’s hand is but an announcement that God’s grace is sufficient for her healing. Though the punishment was seemingly great, it was deserved, how much greater the grace that redeems.
Often the people of God, Israel of the Old Testament or the Church of today find themselves in a wilderness empty of the refreshing streams of grace. A voice cries out saying, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.” The Lord’s hand will not be hindered from saving his people. Whether it is the sin of the heart or the evil of Satan and his likenesses without, the salvation of the Lord will have a clear path. No valley or mountain of obstruction will be allowed to hinder the saving work of God. The King of kings will ride with victory along the path made smooth by his strength. Salvation will come, “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10).
This day of salvation will reveal “the glory of the Lord.” Glorious is the work of redemption that no one is able to say that it was not of the Lord. Not without much hypocrisy; for evil man denies the truth which is so many times clearly seen. The Lord redeems his people before the eyes of the nations. When the mouth of the Lord declares his salvation, it thunders and shakes the very foundation of the world.
Question: What two promises does the Lord give to his people for their comfort?
God’s Word –Isaiah 40:6-8
The Psalmist sings: “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes” (Psa. 19:7-8). The Word of the Lord is a life giving Word. The Scriptures were written by God, and are taught by God. It is of divine authority as its Author is the Creator and Savior of this world. Therefore, the Word of God is effectual in the heart of believer and unbeliever alike. For, as it goes forth from the heart of God it will not return void of effectiveness to him.
The voice of heaven calls upon his prophets to cry out. And what shall they cry out? The Lord will give his prophets those words which are of a divine nature and authority. The power, wisdom, and authority of the prophet is this, that they are to declare only what they are commanded to say by the Lord God Almighty. The message to those in the wilderness, those who need the redeeming love of God, is this truth: “All flesh is grass, and all the goodness thereof is as the flower of the field; the grass withereth, the flower fadeth; because the spirit of the Lord bloweth upon it; surely the people is grass.”
These verses sound very discouraging at first. Are we truly like that flower which may please the eye today and tomorrow fades away? Yes. Whatever beauty or goodness we possess as men and women cannot be held on to, for it too will fade and die. Man likes to say that our eternity is what we leave behind us. God declares that our “righteousness are as filthy rags” (Isa. 64:6), and so must be discarded. God, in declaring us as the grass of field, is uniting us to that which is life itself. By denying self as having any intrinsic value, we find life in Christ and his Word. Isaiah declares the word of the Lord: “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.” Man cannot offer life to man. Life comes only from the Creator.
Our comfort does not come from man but from God. The Lord does not give us words of discouragement but of hope. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is a light to those in darkness. Life flows from our Father in heaven through Christ Jesus our Savior. The Holy Comforter leads us into all truth, converting the soul and enlightening our eyes. We may have been like the grass that withers. But now our testimony, because the saving grace of our King, is that we have been “born again, not of corruptible seed, but incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. For all flesh is as grass …But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you” (1 Peter 1:23-25).
Question: What is the difference between the Word of God and the flower that withers?
God’s Flock –Isaiah 40:9-11
The Lord continually speaks words of comfort to the hearts of his people. Israel has been in the clutches of the enemy. They have been in captivity because of their disobedience. Their darkness has surrounded them. However, God’s saving arm has pierced the darkness with the light of his tender mercies. Deliverance has come and now the people of God are to herald the praises of their Savior: “Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy” (Psa. 107:2).
The Word of the Lord has come to Israel. Isaiah calls upon Zion to bring the glad tidings to all of the people. God is in the midst of his people. This is the good news! “O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God!” The Church today looks for the comfort of their Lord. There is no greater comfort than to know that our Lord and Savior is with us. If we do not have this comfort then we are unable to comfort others who need to the Christ who has risen, and is with us always.
Verses of the Bible sometimes divide thoughts and ideas which should not be divided. Verse ten is not another thought but must be read with the previous verse. Say to the cities, to the people, to the church, “Behold your God! Behold, the Lord God will come with a strong hand, and his arm shall rule for him.” The Lord God who can be known to be in the midst of his people is the One who is the King of kings, who with his strong hand and arm effectively accomplishes his purpose. He both saves his people and judges his enemy. He rewards his people as he is the Savior who has saved them.
Who is he that has redeemed his people, and how does he present himself as our Savior? He is the good Shepherd who has laid down his life for his sheep. He is the Shepherd who came to seek and save the lost lambs of his flock. He is the Shepherd who laid down his own life as a lamb slain, a sacrifice for the sins of his people. Therefore, the Lord will “feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.” He is the Shepherd who knows his own, and his own know him. He holds us in His arms and will never let us go.
There is great gentleness in the Lord who has reached down to cradle us in his arms. There is great comfort to know the Shepherd who has come, first to the manger of Bethlehem, and then to his cross on Calvary’s hill. From there he chose to embrace us with forgiving love. And in his resurrection he chose to feed us, eternally and abundantly.
Question: What does it mean to belong to the flock of the Good Shepherd?
The Lord will keep You
December 12, 2010
Lesson: Isaiah 42:1-8
Key Verse: Isaiah 42:6
Introduction
The Servant of the Lord is the Messiah, the Son of God. He is the Redeemer of his people, Israel. He will also “bring forth judgment upon the Gentiles” (Isa. 42:1), and he will be “for a light of the Gentiles” (42:6). In other words, Christ came as an appointed Servant to the nations of this world. The Father says to the Son, “Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possessions” (Psa. 2:8). In judgment the Lord shall “break them with a rod of iron” (2:9). In grace and mercy he will gather from every nation those for whom he would give his life as a ransom: “Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon my altar; mine house shall be called a house of prayer for all people. The Lord God which gathereth the outcasts of Israel saith, Yet will I gather others to him, besides those that are gathered unto him” (Is. 56:7-8).
This Servant belongs to the Lord. His obedience and loyalty belongs to the Father. The Servant-King is present in this world because he has faithfully obeyed the Father in accomplishing the salvation for his people in his life, death, and resurrection. He continues to be the Mediator-King of all nations, fulfilling the will and counsel of the Triune Godhead, of which he is the ‘Second Person.’ His eternal Dominion over all nations is declared in Revelation 11:15, as the great voices of heaven, the divine proclamation of God, saying, “The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign forever and ever.” Christ is the Head of the Church, His Body. As Head of the Church he is also Supreme Ruler of all nations.
Christ Shall Not Fail –Isaiah 42:1-4
The Lord gives Israel a chance to state their cause (Isa. 41:21). Has the Lord dealt unjustly with his people? Then set your case before him. However, they could not find a voice, a counselor that would stand in their stead (41:28). God’s justice was true, “Behold, they are all vanity; their works are nothing; their molten images are wind and confusion” (29). Who will lift up God’s elect (from every tongue and nation) that they may receive justice and mercy?
The gods of this world offer no hope. The governments of this world desire unquestionable service without the hope of redemption from their greed and self-indulgences. The Lord himself sends a Servant who will not fail: “Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my Spirit upon him; he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.”
Christ is God’s preeminent servant, majestic in character and works. He is called God’s servant because he alone is capable and able to carry out the will of the Father in the redemption of his people. He alone was able to take upon himself, “the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a men, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross” (Phil. 2:7-8). Christ is the appointed Servant in whom his soul delights. When Jesus spoke to John the Baptist, saying, “Suffer it to be so now; for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness,” He was faithfully carrying out the counsel of God. Thus the Father spoke from heaven, saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matt. 3:15-17). His endearing pleasure with the Son was again voiced at the time of Christ’s transfiguration, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him” (Matt. 17:5). Christ Jesus is called a ‘Servant,’ “because God the Father not only enjoined him to teach or to do some particular thing, but called him to a singular and incomparable work which has nothing in common with other works” (Calvin).
The attributes or character of God’s Servant is revealed as one who unresistingly carries out the will of the Father; for “He shall not cry, not lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street.” He does not need the applause of the crowd, only the delight of His Father in heaven. Would that we would so serve our Lord, worshiping and proclaiming that we might please only him whom we serve. Our Lord will not break a bruised reed. He will “bring forth judgment unto truth.” He seeks not to harm the weak but to lift them up in his strength. In justice and truth He brings forth refreshment to those who are His. His voice comforts us as He calls us to His side (Matt. 11:28-30).
The Servant will not be discouraged, nor will he fail. Discouragement is a sign of weakness. Perseverance in obedience and hope does not fail. He shall “set judgment in the earth; and the isles shall wait for his law.” The Lord will discharge his employment as a Servant. All creation waits for his doctrine, his law to take effect. Christ’s ministry will be fruitful.
Discussion: Why is God the Father pleased with His Servant?
The Servant’s Service –Isaiah 42:5-8
Who is he that has called the Son into such a service as His Servant? He is Creator of the heavens and earth. He is the one who has breathed out life “unto the people upon it, and spirit to them walk therein.” The Lord gives us “clear proofs of the power of God, that all may be aroused by the mention of them, and may be convinced that he who created all things out of nothing, who spread out the heavens, who produced vegetation, who gave life to animals, and who upholds and defends all things by his power, will easily perform what he promises concerning the reign of Christ” (Calvin).
Our Father in heaven is the Lord who has called his Servant “in righteousness.” He will do that which is right and honorable, truthful and pure. He is able to redeem his people. He “will hold thing hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles; to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.” He takes us by his hand, to hold us close that we might persevere to the end. He will never let us go, nor forsake us. All “the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen” (2 Cor. 1:20). Christ is the Deliverer of the blind and the prisoner. Those who walk in darkness need his light. Those who are trapped in the prison of this world’s transgressions need his salvation. It is Christ who has “delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son” (Col. 1:13).
The foundation of our deliverance, our escape from the guilt and punishment of our transgressions, is found in Christ alone. We are not saved by works but by him who is able to save. Our salvation is in the person of our Lord. The Rock of our salvation is seen in this declaration, “I am the Lord; that is my name; and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.” There is no other person under heaven whereby we are saved. He will not give his attributes, his character, his glory and praise, to any other. Only the Lord, as he has revealed himself in Holy Scripture. His Word is able to deliver. Our Lord is singularly jealous of his being (Ex. 20:5). For anyone or thing to take his place of worship and praise is an abomination to him. The Lord is not deceitful in his promises as the world is. Therefore, to commit one to the ways and thoughts of the world is more than mere foolishness. It is an act of disobedience and transgression against the Word of God.
Therefore, come to God’s Servant, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Come, and he will give you refreshment. You, who are weary and burdened with sin, come to him who is calling you to himself. He who took upon himself your sins and guilt will lead you to repentance and faith. In Christ you will not be disappointed. “For wherever you seek you will be disappointed, but if you do but seek unto the Lord Jesus Christ, there you will find a fullness of everything which your weary soul wants” (Whitfield).
Discussion: What does it mean to receive Christ as your Lord and Savior?
The Kingdom of our Lord
December 19, 2010
Lesson: Isaiah 11:1-9
Key Verse: Isaiah 11:5
Introduction
Boaz took Ruth as his wife and she bore him a son. The women of the town said to Ruth’s mother-in-law, Naomi, “Blessed be the Lord, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel” (Ruth 4:14). They called his name Obed, who became the father of Jesse, the father of David. Boaz became Naomi’s kinsman-redeemer. He purchased or ransomed back her inheritance. Christ is our Kinsman-Redeemer. He has ransomed our souls and given us an inheritance. Christ speaks of himself, saying, “For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and give his life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Therefore we are to give thanks to our Father in heaven who “hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light; who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son; in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins” (Col. 1:12-14).
The Righteous King –Isaiah 11:1-5
From the royal family of Jesse and of the house of David there has come, according to promise, “a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots.” The Lord gathers his remnant, and he has raised “unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In his days Judah will be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely; and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” (Jer. 23:5-6). Though Assyria would be a rod, or tool of God’s indignation (Isa. 10:5), He would raise a rod of his own, His Son, “The Lord our Righteousness.” Though God would cut down Israel for their sins, he would raise up a Righteous Branch for their redemption.
His judgment is righteous when he states that “your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear” (Is. 59:2). However, His hand is not shortened, “that it cannot save” (59:1), for “the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the Lord” (59:20). When we look upon Christ as he is revealed we will testify with David, “As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness; I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness” (Psa. 17:15). Righteousness declares the honesty, justice, and integrity of Christ. He is able to save because he is able to carry out the will of God for the redemption of his people. He is able to fulfill the moral character of God’s people in their stead. He is able to obey the moral law for us.
Christ is the Divine King. He is of the Father and of the Spirit, the second person in the Godhead. Thus it is recorded that the “Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him.” He is the Divine Messiah in who is the “Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.” Therefore his delight (quick understanding) will be in the fear of the Lord. The Christ will receive strength, authority, knowledge, and understanding. For he will take upon himself our flesh, and by the Spirit “the Word was made flesh, and dwelt upon us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth” (John 1:14).
Christ Divine in nature, truly man as well, shall with righteousness “judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth; and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked. And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.” Christ reigns, clothed in righteousness, truth, and faithfulness. Christ calls to himself those who are poor in spirit that they may see God, the meek that they may have a glorious inheritance.
Discussion: What are some of the characteristics of Christ our King?
The Righteous Kingdom –Isaiah 11:6-9
The Lord gathers together his people into a righteous kingdom. The character of Christ’s Kingdom is revealed in that the wolf shall dwell with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the goat, the calf and young lion will graze together. This peaceful fellowship is complimented by the picture of a child leading them. Disorder and cruelty shall be absent from the Kingdom of our Savior. The world shall be reconciled to God and to one another. This is both the peculiarity and the promulgation of the Kingdom that we bear and broadcast the reconciling work of Christ our King. For “all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; to wit, that God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself not imputing their trespasses unto them, and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation” (2 Cor. 5:18-19).
Out of corruption will come righteousness; out of disorder will come order. The peace that passes all our understanding is seen in the picture of a child leading the wild beasts, or playing in the nest of the wildest snake without fear. When we are in a state of peace or favor with God, then we are being made after the image of Christ, worthy of living in his Kingdom. This state of acceptance begins here and is perfected in the new heavens and earth. It is a peace brought about by the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus. Christ gives us this new reconciliation with the Father, saying, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). Jesus promises his disciples strength and victory in a world of sin and hopelessness. Speaking about his teachings about himself, Jesus said, “These things I have spoken unto you that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
The nature of our Lord’s Kingdom is seen in our new life. For we “shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain.” We are no longer servants of our transgressions, but servants of Christ’s righteousness. The moral law of God is written upon our souls, not the immoral codes of men. We either obey that sin which is “unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness” (Rom. 6:16). We must thank God, that being once servants of sin, we now “obey from the heart that forms of doctrine which was delivered (to us). Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness” (16:17-18).
We pray “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” We look for the earth to be full of His goodness; “for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.” Calvin speaks of those who are of God’s holy mountain, that those who “follow righteousness have a settled residence in the temple of God, that they may dwell there for ever. It is, therefore, a distinguishing mark of the genuine Congregations of Christ, that they are free from all desire of doing injury to others. Hence, also, we infer, that it is a remarkable gift of the Spirit of Christ, that men abstain from being evil-doers; for by nature, ambition, pride, cruelty, and avarice, always prompt them freely and voluntarily to commit acts of injustice.”
This nature of Christ’s Kingdom should be revealed through his Church today. He has said we are not to be afraid. We are to reveal righteousness, truth, and justice in our relationship with our Lord, and with one another. Thus, we become light and salt on this earth. Our gospel preaching centers upon the righteousness of Christ, who gave his life that we might have life.
Discussion: What does it mean to call God’s Kingdom a righteous Kingdom?
The Prince of Peace
December 26, 2010
Lesson: Isaiah 9:1-7
Key Verse: Isaiah 9:6
Introduction
Isaiah 9:1-7 has been fulfilled in these words of the Son which was given to us by the Father: “And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:13-16).
When Jesus was born of the virgin Mary the angel of the Lord said to the Shepherds, as the glory of the Lord shone round about them, “Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:9-11). When the angel of the Lord came to Mary to tell her that she found favor with God, and that she would conceive a Son and his name would be Jesus (Heb, Joshua: for he shall saved his people from their sins), the angel spoke of him, saying, “He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end” (Luke 1:30-33).
Only the Word of God can tell us about Christ, about the Good Shepherd who has come to lay down his life for his sheep. Men may write books about Jesus, some even to ridicule and deny the truth of his being, but none can reveal the glory of him in whom the fullness of the Godhead dwells. For only the Holy Spirit who breathed the words of Scripture through his servants can reveal the majesty of the King of kings and Lord of lords. We have in our new birth seen the glory of our heavenly Father, who has made us acceptable in his beloved Son, “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches his grace.”
The Great Light –Isaiah 9:1-2
Our Scripture lesson begins with these words: “Nevertheless the dimness shall not be such as was in her vexation, when at first he lightly afflicted the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, and afterward did nor grievously afflict her by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, in Galilee of the nations.” The immediate picture that Isaiah paints for us is the darkness of the world brought about by the invading Assyrians. Disobedience had come upon Israel the hand of the Lord God Almighty.
However, “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.” Who can restore light to a people who have loved darkness, who have no hope in their disobedience? Christ Jesus came that this prophecy should be fulfilled: “The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up” (Matt. 4:16). The true meaning of the passage is seen in Christ and His message, “Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt. 4:17).
David speaks the words of the Lord in song, praising God for his marvelous light, “And the afflicted people thou wilt save: but thine eyes are upon the haughty that thou mayest bring them down. For thou art my lamp, O Lord: and the Lord will lighten my darkness” (2 Sam. 22:28-29). Those wrapped in the darkness of sin need the saving grace of the Light of the world. This darkness is “the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and iron,” (Psalm 107:10-11) brought upon by rebellion against the Lord and his Word. We who have been redeemed by the blood of Christ are to bring forth from our lips and lives “the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:6-10).
The deliverance of Israel from the bondage of Babylon is a glorious picture of the deliverance of God’s people from darkness, of the salvation of their souls. The Bible teaches us that all are dead in sins, unable to save themselves, forever living in the land of the shadow of death. It is the Lord Jesus, the Prophet, Priest, and King, who calls upon the dry bones to rise to life. For the Lord God is our resurrection and the life. As the Lord our God has said, “Behold, O my people, I will open your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel. And you shall know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves, O my people, and brought you up out of your graves, and shall put my Spirit in you, and you shall live” (Ezekiel 37:12-14).
Discussion: How is Christ Jesus our light?
The Broken Yoke –Isaiah 9:3-5
Isaiah continues to proclaim the glory of God in the salvation of his people, saying to the Lord, “Thou hast multiplied the nation, and not increased the joy: they joy before thee according to the joy in harvest, and as men rejoice when they divide the spoil.” The KJV rendering of this passage seems to indicate a negative joy because of God’s blessing upon the people. Keil and Delitzsch translated this verse, “Thou multipliest the nation, preparest it great joy; they rejoice before Thee like the joy in harvest, as men rejoice when they share the spoil.” The NKJV reads, “You have multiplied the nation / And increased its joy; / They rejoice before You / According to the joy of harvest, / As men rejoice when they divide the spoil.” The KJV, in light of the blessing and joy of the Lord, should be understood in this spirit, “The Lord has multiplied the nation, therefore, would he not also increase their joy?”
Keil and Delitzsch comments, “It would be a joy over blessing received, as the figure of the harvest indicates; and joy over evil averted, as the figure of dividing the spoil presupposes: for the division of booty is the business of conquerors. This second figure is not merely a figure: the people that are so joyous are really victorious and triumphant” (Prophecies of Isaiah).
The cause of such a joy is explained by Isaiah. He speaks to the Lord, saying, “For thou hast broken the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, as in the day of Midian. For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. The people of God are to remember the burden and affliction that were theirs in the darkness of the oppressor. It was by the awesome sword of the Lord that the Midianites were conquered in the time of Gideon. By broken pitchers the enemy was driven away, to show the glory of God and his mighty works.
The Lord God Almighty is the soul author of our faith, and therefore the only Savior who can deliver us from our sins. It is in Christ alone that we have life, for “In him was life; and the life was the light of men … the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world” (John 1:4, 9). Therefore, we come to Christ to drink of the water whereby we shall never thirst again. “But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life” (Jesus, John 4:14).
Discussion: As Christians, why is there much joy in our lives?
The Mighty God Isaiah 9:6-7
A royal throne is placed in the midst of God’s people, a throne upon which sits the Father’s anointed and beloved Son. When the risen Lord chose Paul to be his apostle to the Gentiles, he gave him this commission: “To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me” (Acts 26:18). With his commission from the King of kings, Paul went about “Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence” (Acts 28:31).
This is the King of whom we speak when we proclaim the gospel of Christ from the hill of Zion, the Church and Body of Jesus Christ. This is the Christ of whom Isaiah speaks: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of peace.”
Not only have the people of God been delivered from the oppressor, but they have been given a new Sovereign. He is a Sovereign who not only saves but who cares and provides for them as a Sovereign should. We have a King who has delivered us from the darkness of hell and from the power of Satan. Our King is also our High Priest, who offered himself as a sacrifice on the Cross for the forgiveness of sins. Our King has also guaranteed an inheritance which is holy and eternal.
The prophet has listed a number of titles by which this Sovereign shall be called. To call Him by these names means that we recognize and pay homage to him as the Sovereign King and Savior of our lives. He is wonderful! As our Counselor our King advises and admonishes us according to his wisdom and knowledge, which is eternal and not of this world. As our God, it is in his might and strength that we have victory. As our Everlasting God we have the assurance of an eternal life that he will never let us go, that his work of righteousness endures eternally. As our Father we acknowledge that in him alone we have life that in him we are adopted into the Family of God. As our Prince or Great High Priest we can depend that what he has accomplished upon the cross of Calvary what no one else could. He made peace between us and the Father. Therefore, in the Spirit, we are able to cry out, “Abba, Father.”
Discussion: How do these titles of Christ teach us about the Son in whom dwells the glory of the Godhead?
December 5, 2010
Lesson: Isaiah 40:1-11
Key Verse: Isaiah 40:1
Introduction
“Comfort ye, comfort ye my people.” Isaiah speaks of this comfort to Israel and Gentiles, like a river and flowing stream: “As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem” (Isa. 66:12-13). It is not the comfort which we may give but the comfort which God gives. It is a comfort which delivers us from fear: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me” (Psa. 23:4). The redeemed of the Lord will sing the song of Comfort in the presence of God’s people. They will be like a “watered garden,” for God will turn “their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow” (Jer. 31:11-13).
The Congregations of whom Christ is Lord and Head, who find rest in Christ, who walk in the “fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 9:31). Paul reassures our faith in reminding us that those things which were written are for “our learning that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope” (Rom. 15:4). This is the comfort which walks alongside of us, encouraging and exhorting us, comforting us as an advocate, rightly counseling us in all things. It is this comfort with which we are to comfort others. For it is God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is “the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God” (2 Cor. 1:3-4).
God’s Glory –Isaiah 40:1-5
The command of the Lord to his prophet is that he is to be a preacher of comfort: “Comfort ye, comfort ye my people.” The Lord goes on to say that Isaiah is to speak “comfortably to Jerusalem.” The Prophet is to speak to “the heart of Jerusalem.” He is to speak to the very soul of Jerusalem that they may know that the God of all comfort and mercy is going to bring an end to their affliction. Isaiah is to cry out, proclaim loudly, to herald as from a mountain top, the good news of deliverance.
And what is the message? First that her terrible condition, which resembles that of a nation ravaged by war, is coming to an end; God’s punishment of his people comes to an end as the mercy of God is poured out from his throne of grace. Second that her “iniquity is pardoned;” that sin and guilt which have brought about her awful condition before God is forgiven. God is now satisfied because atonement has been made for their sins (the Son who went to the cross of Calvary made atonement, satisfying the justice of God for all whom the Father gave him). The justice of God is satisfied, Isaiah publishing the glad tidings of grace! For God’s people to receive double for her sins from the Lord’s hand is but an announcement that God’s grace is sufficient for her healing. Though the punishment was seemingly great, it was deserved, how much greater the grace that redeems.
Often the people of God, Israel of the Old Testament or the Church of today find themselves in a wilderness empty of the refreshing streams of grace. A voice cries out saying, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.” The Lord’s hand will not be hindered from saving his people. Whether it is the sin of the heart or the evil of Satan and his likenesses without, the salvation of the Lord will have a clear path. No valley or mountain of obstruction will be allowed to hinder the saving work of God. The King of kings will ride with victory along the path made smooth by his strength. Salvation will come, “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10).
This day of salvation will reveal “the glory of the Lord.” Glorious is the work of redemption that no one is able to say that it was not of the Lord. Not without much hypocrisy; for evil man denies the truth which is so many times clearly seen. The Lord redeems his people before the eyes of the nations. When the mouth of the Lord declares his salvation, it thunders and shakes the very foundation of the world.
Question: What two promises does the Lord give to his people for their comfort?
God’s Word –Isaiah 40:6-8
The Psalmist sings: “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes” (Psa. 19:7-8). The Word of the Lord is a life giving Word. The Scriptures were written by God, and are taught by God. It is of divine authority as its Author is the Creator and Savior of this world. Therefore, the Word of God is effectual in the heart of believer and unbeliever alike. For, as it goes forth from the heart of God it will not return void of effectiveness to him.
The voice of heaven calls upon his prophets to cry out. And what shall they cry out? The Lord will give his prophets those words which are of a divine nature and authority. The power, wisdom, and authority of the prophet is this, that they are to declare only what they are commanded to say by the Lord God Almighty. The message to those in the wilderness, those who need the redeeming love of God, is this truth: “All flesh is grass, and all the goodness thereof is as the flower of the field; the grass withereth, the flower fadeth; because the spirit of the Lord bloweth upon it; surely the people is grass.”
These verses sound very discouraging at first. Are we truly like that flower which may please the eye today and tomorrow fades away? Yes. Whatever beauty or goodness we possess as men and women cannot be held on to, for it too will fade and die. Man likes to say that our eternity is what we leave behind us. God declares that our “righteousness are as filthy rags” (Isa. 64:6), and so must be discarded. God, in declaring us as the grass of field, is uniting us to that which is life itself. By denying self as having any intrinsic value, we find life in Christ and his Word. Isaiah declares the word of the Lord: “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.” Man cannot offer life to man. Life comes only from the Creator.
Our comfort does not come from man but from God. The Lord does not give us words of discouragement but of hope. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is a light to those in darkness. Life flows from our Father in heaven through Christ Jesus our Savior. The Holy Comforter leads us into all truth, converting the soul and enlightening our eyes. We may have been like the grass that withers. But now our testimony, because the saving grace of our King, is that we have been “born again, not of corruptible seed, but incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. For all flesh is as grass …But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you” (1 Peter 1:23-25).
Question: What is the difference between the Word of God and the flower that withers?
God’s Flock –Isaiah 40:9-11
The Lord continually speaks words of comfort to the hearts of his people. Israel has been in the clutches of the enemy. They have been in captivity because of their disobedience. Their darkness has surrounded them. However, God’s saving arm has pierced the darkness with the light of his tender mercies. Deliverance has come and now the people of God are to herald the praises of their Savior: “Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy” (Psa. 107:2).
The Word of the Lord has come to Israel. Isaiah calls upon Zion to bring the glad tidings to all of the people. God is in the midst of his people. This is the good news! “O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God!” The Church today looks for the comfort of their Lord. There is no greater comfort than to know that our Lord and Savior is with us. If we do not have this comfort then we are unable to comfort others who need to the Christ who has risen, and is with us always.
Verses of the Bible sometimes divide thoughts and ideas which should not be divided. Verse ten is not another thought but must be read with the previous verse. Say to the cities, to the people, to the church, “Behold your God! Behold, the Lord God will come with a strong hand, and his arm shall rule for him.” The Lord God who can be known to be in the midst of his people is the One who is the King of kings, who with his strong hand and arm effectively accomplishes his purpose. He both saves his people and judges his enemy. He rewards his people as he is the Savior who has saved them.
Who is he that has redeemed his people, and how does he present himself as our Savior? He is the good Shepherd who has laid down his life for his sheep. He is the Shepherd who came to seek and save the lost lambs of his flock. He is the Shepherd who laid down his own life as a lamb slain, a sacrifice for the sins of his people. Therefore, the Lord will “feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.” He is the Shepherd who knows his own, and his own know him. He holds us in His arms and will never let us go.
There is great gentleness in the Lord who has reached down to cradle us in his arms. There is great comfort to know the Shepherd who has come, first to the manger of Bethlehem, and then to his cross on Calvary’s hill. From there he chose to embrace us with forgiving love. And in his resurrection he chose to feed us, eternally and abundantly.
Question: What does it mean to belong to the flock of the Good Shepherd?
The Lord will keep You
December 12, 2010
Lesson: Isaiah 42:1-8
Key Verse: Isaiah 42:6
Introduction
The Servant of the Lord is the Messiah, the Son of God. He is the Redeemer of his people, Israel. He will also “bring forth judgment upon the Gentiles” (Isa. 42:1), and he will be “for a light of the Gentiles” (42:6). In other words, Christ came as an appointed Servant to the nations of this world. The Father says to the Son, “Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possessions” (Psa. 2:8). In judgment the Lord shall “break them with a rod of iron” (2:9). In grace and mercy he will gather from every nation those for whom he would give his life as a ransom: “Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon my altar; mine house shall be called a house of prayer for all people. The Lord God which gathereth the outcasts of Israel saith, Yet will I gather others to him, besides those that are gathered unto him” (Is. 56:7-8).
This Servant belongs to the Lord. His obedience and loyalty belongs to the Father. The Servant-King is present in this world because he has faithfully obeyed the Father in accomplishing the salvation for his people in his life, death, and resurrection. He continues to be the Mediator-King of all nations, fulfilling the will and counsel of the Triune Godhead, of which he is the ‘Second Person.’ His eternal Dominion over all nations is declared in Revelation 11:15, as the great voices of heaven, the divine proclamation of God, saying, “The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign forever and ever.” Christ is the Head of the Church, His Body. As Head of the Church he is also Supreme Ruler of all nations.
Christ Shall Not Fail –Isaiah 42:1-4
The Lord gives Israel a chance to state their cause (Isa. 41:21). Has the Lord dealt unjustly with his people? Then set your case before him. However, they could not find a voice, a counselor that would stand in their stead (41:28). God’s justice was true, “Behold, they are all vanity; their works are nothing; their molten images are wind and confusion” (29). Who will lift up God’s elect (from every tongue and nation) that they may receive justice and mercy?
The gods of this world offer no hope. The governments of this world desire unquestionable service without the hope of redemption from their greed and self-indulgences. The Lord himself sends a Servant who will not fail: “Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my Spirit upon him; he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.”
Christ is God’s preeminent servant, majestic in character and works. He is called God’s servant because he alone is capable and able to carry out the will of the Father in the redemption of his people. He alone was able to take upon himself, “the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a men, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross” (Phil. 2:7-8). Christ is the appointed Servant in whom his soul delights. When Jesus spoke to John the Baptist, saying, “Suffer it to be so now; for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness,” He was faithfully carrying out the counsel of God. Thus the Father spoke from heaven, saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matt. 3:15-17). His endearing pleasure with the Son was again voiced at the time of Christ’s transfiguration, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him” (Matt. 17:5). Christ Jesus is called a ‘Servant,’ “because God the Father not only enjoined him to teach or to do some particular thing, but called him to a singular and incomparable work which has nothing in common with other works” (Calvin).
The attributes or character of God’s Servant is revealed as one who unresistingly carries out the will of the Father; for “He shall not cry, not lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street.” He does not need the applause of the crowd, only the delight of His Father in heaven. Would that we would so serve our Lord, worshiping and proclaiming that we might please only him whom we serve. Our Lord will not break a bruised reed. He will “bring forth judgment unto truth.” He seeks not to harm the weak but to lift them up in his strength. In justice and truth He brings forth refreshment to those who are His. His voice comforts us as He calls us to His side (Matt. 11:28-30).
The Servant will not be discouraged, nor will he fail. Discouragement is a sign of weakness. Perseverance in obedience and hope does not fail. He shall “set judgment in the earth; and the isles shall wait for his law.” The Lord will discharge his employment as a Servant. All creation waits for his doctrine, his law to take effect. Christ’s ministry will be fruitful.
Discussion: Why is God the Father pleased with His Servant?
The Servant’s Service –Isaiah 42:5-8
Who is he that has called the Son into such a service as His Servant? He is Creator of the heavens and earth. He is the one who has breathed out life “unto the people upon it, and spirit to them walk therein.” The Lord gives us “clear proofs of the power of God, that all may be aroused by the mention of them, and may be convinced that he who created all things out of nothing, who spread out the heavens, who produced vegetation, who gave life to animals, and who upholds and defends all things by his power, will easily perform what he promises concerning the reign of Christ” (Calvin).
Our Father in heaven is the Lord who has called his Servant “in righteousness.” He will do that which is right and honorable, truthful and pure. He is able to redeem his people. He “will hold thing hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles; to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.” He takes us by his hand, to hold us close that we might persevere to the end. He will never let us go, nor forsake us. All “the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen” (2 Cor. 1:20). Christ is the Deliverer of the blind and the prisoner. Those who walk in darkness need his light. Those who are trapped in the prison of this world’s transgressions need his salvation. It is Christ who has “delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son” (Col. 1:13).
The foundation of our deliverance, our escape from the guilt and punishment of our transgressions, is found in Christ alone. We are not saved by works but by him who is able to save. Our salvation is in the person of our Lord. The Rock of our salvation is seen in this declaration, “I am the Lord; that is my name; and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.” There is no other person under heaven whereby we are saved. He will not give his attributes, his character, his glory and praise, to any other. Only the Lord, as he has revealed himself in Holy Scripture. His Word is able to deliver. Our Lord is singularly jealous of his being (Ex. 20:5). For anyone or thing to take his place of worship and praise is an abomination to him. The Lord is not deceitful in his promises as the world is. Therefore, to commit one to the ways and thoughts of the world is more than mere foolishness. It is an act of disobedience and transgression against the Word of God.
Therefore, come to God’s Servant, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Come, and he will give you refreshment. You, who are weary and burdened with sin, come to him who is calling you to himself. He who took upon himself your sins and guilt will lead you to repentance and faith. In Christ you will not be disappointed. “For wherever you seek you will be disappointed, but if you do but seek unto the Lord Jesus Christ, there you will find a fullness of everything which your weary soul wants” (Whitfield).
Discussion: What does it mean to receive Christ as your Lord and Savior?
The Kingdom of our Lord
December 19, 2010
Lesson: Isaiah 11:1-9
Key Verse: Isaiah 11:5
Introduction
Boaz took Ruth as his wife and she bore him a son. The women of the town said to Ruth’s mother-in-law, Naomi, “Blessed be the Lord, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel” (Ruth 4:14). They called his name Obed, who became the father of Jesse, the father of David. Boaz became Naomi’s kinsman-redeemer. He purchased or ransomed back her inheritance. Christ is our Kinsman-Redeemer. He has ransomed our souls and given us an inheritance. Christ speaks of himself, saying, “For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and give his life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Therefore we are to give thanks to our Father in heaven who “hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light; who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son; in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins” (Col. 1:12-14).
The Righteous King –Isaiah 11:1-5
From the royal family of Jesse and of the house of David there has come, according to promise, “a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots.” The Lord gathers his remnant, and he has raised “unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In his days Judah will be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely; and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” (Jer. 23:5-6). Though Assyria would be a rod, or tool of God’s indignation (Isa. 10:5), He would raise a rod of his own, His Son, “The Lord our Righteousness.” Though God would cut down Israel for their sins, he would raise up a Righteous Branch for their redemption.
His judgment is righteous when he states that “your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear” (Is. 59:2). However, His hand is not shortened, “that it cannot save” (59:1), for “the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the Lord” (59:20). When we look upon Christ as he is revealed we will testify with David, “As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness; I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness” (Psa. 17:15). Righteousness declares the honesty, justice, and integrity of Christ. He is able to save because he is able to carry out the will of God for the redemption of his people. He is able to fulfill the moral character of God’s people in their stead. He is able to obey the moral law for us.
Christ is the Divine King. He is of the Father and of the Spirit, the second person in the Godhead. Thus it is recorded that the “Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him.” He is the Divine Messiah in who is the “Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.” Therefore his delight (quick understanding) will be in the fear of the Lord. The Christ will receive strength, authority, knowledge, and understanding. For he will take upon himself our flesh, and by the Spirit “the Word was made flesh, and dwelt upon us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth” (John 1:14).
Christ Divine in nature, truly man as well, shall with righteousness “judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth; and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked. And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.” Christ reigns, clothed in righteousness, truth, and faithfulness. Christ calls to himself those who are poor in spirit that they may see God, the meek that they may have a glorious inheritance.
Discussion: What are some of the characteristics of Christ our King?
The Righteous Kingdom –Isaiah 11:6-9
The Lord gathers together his people into a righteous kingdom. The character of Christ’s Kingdom is revealed in that the wolf shall dwell with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the goat, the calf and young lion will graze together. This peaceful fellowship is complimented by the picture of a child leading them. Disorder and cruelty shall be absent from the Kingdom of our Savior. The world shall be reconciled to God and to one another. This is both the peculiarity and the promulgation of the Kingdom that we bear and broadcast the reconciling work of Christ our King. For “all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; to wit, that God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself not imputing their trespasses unto them, and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation” (2 Cor. 5:18-19).
Out of corruption will come righteousness; out of disorder will come order. The peace that passes all our understanding is seen in the picture of a child leading the wild beasts, or playing in the nest of the wildest snake without fear. When we are in a state of peace or favor with God, then we are being made after the image of Christ, worthy of living in his Kingdom. This state of acceptance begins here and is perfected in the new heavens and earth. It is a peace brought about by the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus. Christ gives us this new reconciliation with the Father, saying, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). Jesus promises his disciples strength and victory in a world of sin and hopelessness. Speaking about his teachings about himself, Jesus said, “These things I have spoken unto you that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
The nature of our Lord’s Kingdom is seen in our new life. For we “shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain.” We are no longer servants of our transgressions, but servants of Christ’s righteousness. The moral law of God is written upon our souls, not the immoral codes of men. We either obey that sin which is “unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness” (Rom. 6:16). We must thank God, that being once servants of sin, we now “obey from the heart that forms of doctrine which was delivered (to us). Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness” (16:17-18).
We pray “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” We look for the earth to be full of His goodness; “for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.” Calvin speaks of those who are of God’s holy mountain, that those who “follow righteousness have a settled residence in the temple of God, that they may dwell there for ever. It is, therefore, a distinguishing mark of the genuine Congregations of Christ, that they are free from all desire of doing injury to others. Hence, also, we infer, that it is a remarkable gift of the Spirit of Christ, that men abstain from being evil-doers; for by nature, ambition, pride, cruelty, and avarice, always prompt them freely and voluntarily to commit acts of injustice.”
This nature of Christ’s Kingdom should be revealed through his Church today. He has said we are not to be afraid. We are to reveal righteousness, truth, and justice in our relationship with our Lord, and with one another. Thus, we become light and salt on this earth. Our gospel preaching centers upon the righteousness of Christ, who gave his life that we might have life.
Discussion: What does it mean to call God’s Kingdom a righteous Kingdom?
The Prince of Peace
December 26, 2010
Lesson: Isaiah 9:1-7
Key Verse: Isaiah 9:6
Introduction
Isaiah 9:1-7 has been fulfilled in these words of the Son which was given to us by the Father: “And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:13-16).
When Jesus was born of the virgin Mary the angel of the Lord said to the Shepherds, as the glory of the Lord shone round about them, “Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:9-11). When the angel of the Lord came to Mary to tell her that she found favor with God, and that she would conceive a Son and his name would be Jesus (Heb, Joshua: for he shall saved his people from their sins), the angel spoke of him, saying, “He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end” (Luke 1:30-33).
Only the Word of God can tell us about Christ, about the Good Shepherd who has come to lay down his life for his sheep. Men may write books about Jesus, some even to ridicule and deny the truth of his being, but none can reveal the glory of him in whom the fullness of the Godhead dwells. For only the Holy Spirit who breathed the words of Scripture through his servants can reveal the majesty of the King of kings and Lord of lords. We have in our new birth seen the glory of our heavenly Father, who has made us acceptable in his beloved Son, “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches his grace.”
The Great Light –Isaiah 9:1-2
Our Scripture lesson begins with these words: “Nevertheless the dimness shall not be such as was in her vexation, when at first he lightly afflicted the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, and afterward did nor grievously afflict her by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, in Galilee of the nations.” The immediate picture that Isaiah paints for us is the darkness of the world brought about by the invading Assyrians. Disobedience had come upon Israel the hand of the Lord God Almighty.
However, “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.” Who can restore light to a people who have loved darkness, who have no hope in their disobedience? Christ Jesus came that this prophecy should be fulfilled: “The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up” (Matt. 4:16). The true meaning of the passage is seen in Christ and His message, “Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt. 4:17).
David speaks the words of the Lord in song, praising God for his marvelous light, “And the afflicted people thou wilt save: but thine eyes are upon the haughty that thou mayest bring them down. For thou art my lamp, O Lord: and the Lord will lighten my darkness” (2 Sam. 22:28-29). Those wrapped in the darkness of sin need the saving grace of the Light of the world. This darkness is “the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and iron,” (Psalm 107:10-11) brought upon by rebellion against the Lord and his Word. We who have been redeemed by the blood of Christ are to bring forth from our lips and lives “the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:6-10).
The deliverance of Israel from the bondage of Babylon is a glorious picture of the deliverance of God’s people from darkness, of the salvation of their souls. The Bible teaches us that all are dead in sins, unable to save themselves, forever living in the land of the shadow of death. It is the Lord Jesus, the Prophet, Priest, and King, who calls upon the dry bones to rise to life. For the Lord God is our resurrection and the life. As the Lord our God has said, “Behold, O my people, I will open your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel. And you shall know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves, O my people, and brought you up out of your graves, and shall put my Spirit in you, and you shall live” (Ezekiel 37:12-14).
Discussion: How is Christ Jesus our light?
The Broken Yoke –Isaiah 9:3-5
Isaiah continues to proclaim the glory of God in the salvation of his people, saying to the Lord, “Thou hast multiplied the nation, and not increased the joy: they joy before thee according to the joy in harvest, and as men rejoice when they divide the spoil.” The KJV rendering of this passage seems to indicate a negative joy because of God’s blessing upon the people. Keil and Delitzsch translated this verse, “Thou multipliest the nation, preparest it great joy; they rejoice before Thee like the joy in harvest, as men rejoice when they share the spoil.” The NKJV reads, “You have multiplied the nation / And increased its joy; / They rejoice before You / According to the joy of harvest, / As men rejoice when they divide the spoil.” The KJV, in light of the blessing and joy of the Lord, should be understood in this spirit, “The Lord has multiplied the nation, therefore, would he not also increase their joy?”
Keil and Delitzsch comments, “It would be a joy over blessing received, as the figure of the harvest indicates; and joy over evil averted, as the figure of dividing the spoil presupposes: for the division of booty is the business of conquerors. This second figure is not merely a figure: the people that are so joyous are really victorious and triumphant” (Prophecies of Isaiah).
The cause of such a joy is explained by Isaiah. He speaks to the Lord, saying, “For thou hast broken the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, as in the day of Midian. For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. The people of God are to remember the burden and affliction that were theirs in the darkness of the oppressor. It was by the awesome sword of the Lord that the Midianites were conquered in the time of Gideon. By broken pitchers the enemy was driven away, to show the glory of God and his mighty works.
The Lord God Almighty is the soul author of our faith, and therefore the only Savior who can deliver us from our sins. It is in Christ alone that we have life, for “In him was life; and the life was the light of men … the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world” (John 1:4, 9). Therefore, we come to Christ to drink of the water whereby we shall never thirst again. “But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life” (Jesus, John 4:14).
Discussion: As Christians, why is there much joy in our lives?
The Mighty God Isaiah 9:6-7
A royal throne is placed in the midst of God’s people, a throne upon which sits the Father’s anointed and beloved Son. When the risen Lord chose Paul to be his apostle to the Gentiles, he gave him this commission: “To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me” (Acts 26:18). With his commission from the King of kings, Paul went about “Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence” (Acts 28:31).
This is the King of whom we speak when we proclaim the gospel of Christ from the hill of Zion, the Church and Body of Jesus Christ. This is the Christ of whom Isaiah speaks: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of peace.”
Not only have the people of God been delivered from the oppressor, but they have been given a new Sovereign. He is a Sovereign who not only saves but who cares and provides for them as a Sovereign should. We have a King who has delivered us from the darkness of hell and from the power of Satan. Our King is also our High Priest, who offered himself as a sacrifice on the Cross for the forgiveness of sins. Our King has also guaranteed an inheritance which is holy and eternal.
The prophet has listed a number of titles by which this Sovereign shall be called. To call Him by these names means that we recognize and pay homage to him as the Sovereign King and Savior of our lives. He is wonderful! As our Counselor our King advises and admonishes us according to his wisdom and knowledge, which is eternal and not of this world. As our God, it is in his might and strength that we have victory. As our Everlasting God we have the assurance of an eternal life that he will never let us go, that his work of righteousness endures eternally. As our Father we acknowledge that in him alone we have life that in him we are adopted into the Family of God. As our Prince or Great High Priest we can depend that what he has accomplished upon the cross of Calvary what no one else could. He made peace between us and the Father. Therefore, in the Spirit, we are able to cry out, “Abba, Father.”
Discussion: How do these titles of Christ teach us about the Son in whom dwells the glory of the Godhead?
