Theory question 104
Punishment and Hope(a) Highlight the message of Isaiah to the people of Judah. (b) In what two ways can Christians ensure God's holiness in their country?
Show the model answer
(a) Israel has rebelled and does not know God; they are a sinful nation who have forsaken the Lord (Isaiah 1:2-4).
Their land is desolate as a result (Isaiah 1:7).
He called them rulers of Sodom and people of Gomorrah (Isaiah 1:10).
God hates their many sacrifices, new moons and assemblies (Isaiah 1:11-14).
He will not hear their prayers, for their hands are full of blood (Isaiah 1:15).
Wash yourselves; cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice; defend the fatherless and widow (Isaiah 1:16-17).
"Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow" (Isaiah 1:18).
If willing and obedient they will eat the good of the land; if they rebel they will be devoured (Isaiah 1:19-20).
God is holy: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts" (Isaiah 6:3).
(b) Any two: living holy and honest lives; fighting corruption and injustice; sincere worship; praying for the nation; preaching repentance; caring for the poor.
Summarise Isaiah 1 (and 6), then two ways.