Theory question 104
Punishment and Hope(a) What was God's message to the people of Israel through Isaiah when they offended Him? (b) In which two ways are these issues still prevalent in your society?
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(a) Sons God reared have rebelled; the ox knows its owner but Israel does not know God (Isaiah 1:2-3).
They are a sinful nation laden with iniquity who have forsaken the Lord (Isaiah 1:4).
The land is desolate and cities burnt as punishment (Isaiah 1:7-9).
He called the rulers "rulers of Sodom" and the people "people of Gomorrah" (Isaiah 1:10).
God has had enough of their sacrifices, burnt offerings, new moons and assemblies; their incense is an abomination (Isaiah 1:11-14).
He will not listen to their prayers, for their hands are full of blood (Isaiah 1:15).
Wash yourselves; cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression, defend the fatherless, plead for the widow (Isaiah 1:16-17).
"Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow" — if willing and obedient they will eat the good of the land; if they refuse they will be devoured (Isaiah 1:18-20).
Their rulers loved bribes and did not defend the orphan or widow (Isaiah 1:23).
(b) Any two: corruption and bribery; injustice to the poor, widows and orphans; religious worship without righteous living; violence and bloodshed; rebellion against God.
Summarise Isaiah 1, then two present-day examples.