Three & One

Isaiah prays a passionate and penitent prayer asking God to relent in bringing judgement. But, God answers Isaiah saying, “Too little. Too late.” God was absolutely righteous in bringing His judgment. And, Paul tells Timothy, “Do not rebuke an older man.”

God gives the good news of salvation. God gives good assurance of salvation to Zion. The Lord describes the part He will play in judgment even on the day of salvation. And, the Apostle Paul teaches young Timothy how to take heed to his true ministry.

God speaks of true and false fasts. Ritual and religion versus reality and relationships. God uses physical pictures to teach spiritual truths. God looks forward to the joy of the millennial kingdom. And, we learn what to look for in elders and deacons.

Isaiah opens his mouth and the word of God goes forth in the power of God to the people of God to accomplish the purposes of God, as we see preaching and proclamation as wonder-full mysteries. And, Paul exhorts Timothy to pray for authorities.

The Sin-Bearing Servant is revealed in beautifully tragic and triumphant, poetic prose, a prophecy of the coming Christ, the Lamb of God Who would take away the sin of the world. And, Paul the Apostle writes a letter to his young protege, Timothy.

Isaiah is exhausted, feeling as though his strength was spent and his work was worthless. God encourages Isaiah from another perspective with another prophecy. And, even Paul the apostle warns against weariness.

4-189 - Isaiah 46-48 and 2 Thessalonians 2

He who formed Israel says, “Fear not.” over and over and over again. Idolatry is outlined as futile, foolish and kind of embarrassing. Israel is not forgotten. Judah will be restored. Cyrus is called by name. And Paul writes his second letter to the Thessalonians.

God comforts His people and reassures them that HE is for them, HE will help them and HE will strengthen them. Reminding them and warning them about the futility of idols. And, the Apostle Paul reminds the Thessalonians about the return of the Lord Jesus.

The Rabshakeh returns with lies and intimidation. Hezekiah seeks the Lord. The Lord answers in power with one angel and the Assyrians are defeated. Hezekiah prays a dangerous and destructive prayer. And, Paul gives direction on life and hope for the next.

God fast forwards to look at the destruction of these heavens and this earth. Then backs up to look at the destruction of Edom and the return of the remnant. We are also reintroduced to the Rabshakeh. And, Paul continues to communicate his affection for the Thessalonians.

The Assyrians have conquered the North. The Assyrians are threatening to conquer the south. Jerusalem and Judah are tempted to turn to Egypt instead of the Lord. God is waiting and wanting to help. And, Paul pours out his heart for the Thessalonians.

God desires to feed and strengthen His people with the Word of God, line upon line, precept upon precept. But, arrogance and apathy interrupted God’s people from receiving His word and so they suffered the consequences. And, we begin the book of 1 Thessalonians.

Isaiah praises God for judgement and for salvation, singing a song of praise. Can God be glorified in the destruction of a wicked city, or even a wicked country? Isaiah seems to think so. And Paul give his final instructions and encouragements to the Colossians.

A prophecy against Jerusalem. A prophecy against Tyre. A prophecy against the whole Earth. And, Paul teaches us how our identity determines our actions, as wives, as husbands, as children, as Fathers, as employees and as employers.

A proclamation against Egypt, presently. A prophecy for Egypt’s future when the Savior comes. An interesting sign against Egypt and Ethiopia. The fall of Babylon proclaimed. Prophecies against Edom and Arabia. And, Paul contrasts religion with relationship.

A message about Moab. A prophecy and proclamation against Damascus. A prophecy and proclamation against Ethiopia. And, Paul writes to the Colossians concerning being reconciled by Christ and responding to Christ in faith.

A Proclamation against Babylon. Mercy on Jacob. The fall of Lucifer. Babylon destroyed. Assyria destroyed. Philistia destroyed. Proclamation against Moab. And Paul encourages the Philippians to find peace in prayer, praise and practice.

Arrogant Assyria will be judged. The remnant of Israel will return. Out of the roots of Jesse, One will reign. Salvation will come from God and we will sing a hymn of praise. And here, now, we forget what’s behind and press on to what’s ahead.