WAEC Christian Religious Studies 2003 Theory question 104

Theory question 104

Punishment and Hope

Explain Isaiah's prophecy to the rulers and people of Israel on the worthlessness of empty rituals

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Model answer

Isaiah addressed them as "rulers of Sodom" and "people of Gomorrah" because of their sin (Isaiah 1:10).
God asked what the multitude of their sacrifices meant to Him; He had had enough of burnt offerings of rams and fat of fed beasts (Isaiah 1:11).
He took no delight in the blood of bulls, lambs or goats (Isaiah 1:11).
Who required them to trample His courts? (Isaiah 1:12).
Their offerings were vain and their incense an abomination (Isaiah 1:13).
He could not endure their new moons, sabbaths and assemblies mixed with iniquity; His soul hated their feasts (Isaiah 1:13-14).
When they spread out their hands He would hide His eyes; He would not listen to their many prayers, for their hands were full of blood (Isaiah 1:15).
Instead: wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; cease to do evil, learn to do good (Isaiah 1:16-17).
Seek justice, correct oppression, defend the fatherless, plead for the widow (Isaiah 1:17).
"Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow"; if willing and obedient they would eat the good of the land, if they refused they would be devoured (Isaiah 1:18-20).

Explanation

Explain Isaiah 1:10-20 point by point.