January 29, 2016 Bible Study – Isaiah 52:1-15

Today’s Bible study is Isaiah 52:1-15.  Last night, we watched GOP debate number seven.  As much as I personally like Mike Huckabee, Rick Santorum, and Carly Fiorina, I think they will finish their respective campaigns after Monday’s Iowa caucus.  I believe they may have opportunities for appointed positions should the Republicans secure the presidency.  As I compare Isaiah’s warnings to Israel, and the parallels between Israel then and America now, I think one candidate understands the hour we live in, and the fact America is becoming something the founders never intended.  Marco Rubio addressed the apocalyptic nature of ISIS and the leaders of Iran, the invasion of illegal immigrants, and the self-destructive behavior of European socialism.  These combined forces dictate doom for this nation.  Thankfully, they cannot touch the Kingdom of God.

1. What is the main point of this passage? In verses 1 through 6, God proclaims a time when His people will return to Israel and Jerusalem.  They will be released without a struggle as before from Egypt or from the Assyrians.  We know from history and the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, God moved upon king Cyrus and he ordered the children of Israel to return to their land fulfilling this portion of scripture.  However, it remains to be fulfilled completely because His people to not control 100% of the promised land nor of Jerusalem.  In verses 7 through 10, God declares good news to His people and Jerusalem to show them He alone is their salvation.  In verses 11 and 12, God tells them when He releases them from this next captivity; they will not have to leave in haste as they did from Egypt.  Finally, verses 13 through 15 describe a prophecy regarding the coming Messiah.  He will suffer but He will bring salvation to all peoples, even those who never heard of Him or knew they needed a Savior.
2. What does God reveal about Himself?  He alone is our salvation, restoration, comfort, and He reigns over all of His creation.  All kings and authorities are subject to Him.
3. What insights can I apply to my life? Just like Israel, America is being taken captive by forces, which care nothing for the survival of its Constitutional Republic.  Because the nation has rejected God, He is allowing invading illegal immigrants, Islamic Jihadists, and leftist Socialists to use our laws and civility against us.  Like Israel, we can see and hear the coming destruction, but we do nothing, and more importantly, we fail to repent and ask forgiveness by and from the offended LORD of glory.  I will continue to raise my voice and write warnings, but I believe Almighty God has closed eyes and hears to keep the people from repenting.  If God has done this, who is able to open blinded eyes and deafened ears.
4. How can I use this passage to honor God?  I have been asking God to grant me clarity regarding the GOP candidates.  Only one addressed the apocalyptic nature of ISIS and the leaders of Iran.  Only one raised warnings with the passion of an Old Testament prophet.  Marco Rubio distinguished himself and I believe God gave me the clarity I’ve sought, and who I must support in March during the Colorado caucus.  Throughout the process, I have supported Dr. Ben Carson.  Normally, I dismiss Senators and Representatives because they know how to deliberate.  We have seen how effective this has been for the past seven years.  The Ditherer-in-Chief has needlessly cost many American lives.  Both he and Hillary Rodham Clinton could have done something to help our people in Benghazi, but they chose to do nothing and blame a video, which was a fabricated lie.  I think God revealed His direction for me last night.  Marco Rubio recognizes that Islam will never assimilate into American culture.  Islam demands the subjugation of America.
5. Where is God working in my life today?  Today, our puppy, Lily, will be spayed.  We are praying that she'll come through the surgery okay.  On another practical matter, I have to do some home repairs.  Father, grant me wisdom regarding the repairs and reconstruction.  Amen.
   

Thanks for reading and praying.