Unlocking The Old Testament

Isaiah 1

David Pawson shows the surprising parallel between the chapters of Isaiah and the composition of the entire Bible. Isaiah is the Bible in miniature. But parts of it are not well known. Jesus referred to Isaiah more than any other scripture, as did Paul. David provides insights from the historian Josephus and other Jewish tradition. Isaiah was the greatest prophet in word, as Moses and Elijah were great in deed. From the time of his encounter with God in the temple, Isaiah referred to the Lord as ‘the Holy One of Israel’. He had a difficult task because God had warned him that he was to preach but the people would not heed. His resultant book has been an inspiration to generations. He preached during the reign of 4 kings, and when the king was good, they won their battles as God was with them. Isaiah emphasized both justice and mercy. The first section of 39 chapters is national, looking at Israel and the small nations around her, and God is pictured as fire; part 2 is international, looking at Israel and all the nations of the world, and God is seen as Father. Whereas the first part majors on judgment, the second on comforting with good news.

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Isaiah 2

avid Pawson says Isaiah is a collection of prophecies made over 40 years and is not ordered, so he gives the ‘shape’ of the book to help with our understanding. Chapters 1-10 are a reproof for Judah; 13-23 deal with nations that God used to discipline Israel but who were too harsh - they will now be judged. 24-34 speak of judgment on the northern tribes and Judah. But there are 2 sections sandwiched that are good news. God gives his people a little glimpse of a brighter future. 36-39 are narrative of King Hezekiah’s illness and show how Assyria gave way to Babylon as the main threat. This first part is leading to the people’s exile from their land. Even so, there will be a remnant to return and there will be a King who will bring peace to the nations. The second section shows a wonderful picture of God all the way through. He’s the only God there is, he’s the Almighty Creator, the Holy One of Israel, the Kinsman Redeemer, the Saviour of the nations, and the God of history. Also, to the Jew there is a mysterious figure who has a faultless character, is a Man of sorrows, is killed for the sins of others and is raised from the dead and exalted. Believers recognise that this is a prophecy of Jesus.

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