Today’s passage: Isaiah 27
Helpful thoughts:
- Verse 1 could be the conclusion of what transpires in chapter 26. God defeating the enemy of His people.
- God will one day have no more reason or cause of wrath. Even if someone would look for thorns, there would be none to find…God will have judged and removed all sin.
- Verse 9 gives a great example of conversion.
- Israel was in sin.
- Through God’s (temporary) judgment, people see their need of repentance.
- When they turn to God, their sins are atoned for. (Ultimately by the blood of Jesus!)
- Then there is fruit of their conversion. They change!
- The fruit seen in these specific people was the destruction of their idolatrous stones, poles, and altars. They destroyed everything that had been used to worship false gods.
- Those who remained in and trusted in their fortified cities will not enjoy the same end.
Questions to consider:
- How does this passage encourage the use of discipline? What was the result of those who God removed from man-made fortification? What was the result of those who continued to trust in their man-made fortification? (Hebrews 12:5-6)
- How does the “Vine” come to be without thorns and briers? Who deserves the glory for your salvation? (Ephesians 2:8-9)
- What does a person progressively become after they repent and their sins are forgiven? (Ephesians 2:10)