Live Now and Forever - Isaiah 49:1 - 57:21 - November 26, 2006

Sunday school Lesson – Live Now and Forever – November 26, 2006

This is lesson four (4) in our series, “Living Life to the Max.”

Our background scripture is Isaiah 49:1 – 57:21.

Our focus scripture is Isaiah 55:1-13.

This to me has been an exciting series of study. As we studied last Sunday, GOD gave prophesy that the Israelites would be defeated, carried off to Babylon and later released. GOD gave this prophesy to Isaiah about 700 BC. All happened just as GOD said it would. In 539 BC GOD used Cyrus, King of Persia to release them from captivity and freed them to return to rebuild Jerusalem. GOD told the Israelites about 150 years ahead of time what was going to happen to them and even who would deliver them from captivity. HE did this so they would know that the true, living, eternal GOD of Israel had revealed this to them. They had been exposed to the worship of idols and they needed something solid from GOD for them to reaffirm their faith in HIM. This shows the love of GOD.

This message is just as relevant to us today as the day GOD revealed it to Isaiah. As we read it today, we also see what GOD revealed came true. GOD wants us to know that HE is trustworthy and we can have confidence in HIM to do what HE says HE will do. HE reaffirms these facts in the scriptures and in our hearts through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. GOD is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. HE does not change and neither does what HE can do change. The scriptures tell us of HIS care for HIS children. HE always reaches out to HIS children in love and compassion. We have to suffer the consequences of our sin but HE never forsakes us. GOD calls all to HIM, even the thorn bushes and briers of life but HE is the only ONE WHO can change them into something of beauty.

Today’s study is exciting. First let’s look at the book of Isaiah. Do you know that the Book of Isaiah is a foreshadow of the very Bible most of us use today?

How many books does our Bible have? 66.

How many chapters are in the book of Isaiah? 66.

The book of Isaiah has 39 chapters which deal with GOD’S judgment for sin. There are 39 books in the Old Testament.

The remaining 27 chapters of Isaiah deal with forgiveness, comfort and hope that only the Messiah can bring to earth. There are 27 books in the New Testament.

How about that! Guess who wrote the Bible. GOD did!

Isaiah 49:1 – 57:21 is called, “The Gospel of the Servant of the LORD.” These scriptures are encouraging prophesy to the Israelites while they were captured in Babylon. The prophesy gives them hope for their deliverance from exile through Cyrus, King of Persia. GOD anointed Cyrus to be their deliverer. This prophesy is equally encouraging to us today.

Take this prophesy of the deliverance of the Israelites and compare it to CHRIST, WHO is our deliver from the bondage of sin and death.

The following prophesy focuses on CHRIST:

Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12 focuses on the person of CHRIST for forgiveness.

Isaiah 54:1-17 is GOD’S announcement of forgiveness through the grace of GOD.

Isaiah 55:1-13 is GOD’S invitation to experience forgiveness now. (Our scripture for today’s lesson.)

Let’s read Isaiah 55:1-5:

1 “Come, everyone who is thirsty, come to the waters;[1] Rv 21:6; 22:17 and you without money, come, buy, and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost! 2 Why do you spend money on what is not food, and your wages on what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and you will enjoy the choicest of foods.[2] Lit enjoy fatness 3 Pay attention and come to Me; listen, so that you will live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, the promises assured to David. 4 Since I have made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander for the peoples, 5 so you will summon a nation you do not know, and nations who do not know you will run to you. For the Lord your God, even the Holy One of Israel, has glorified you.”

We could spend our entire lesson on this scripture alone.

JESUS told the Samaritan woman, also referred to as the woman at the well, that HE is the living water and those who drink of this water will never thirst again.

John 4:10-13:

10 Jesus answered, “If you knew the gift of God, and who is saying to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would ask Him, and He would give you living water.” 11 “Sir,” said the woman, “You don’t even have a bucket, and the well is deep. So where do you get this ‘living water’? 12 You aren’t greater than our father Jacob, are you? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and livestock.” 13 Jesus said, “Everyone who drinks from this water will get thirsty again. 14 But whoever drinks from the water that I will give him will never get thirsty again—ever! In fact, the water I will give him will become a well[7] Or spring of water springing up within him for eternal life.”
John 7:37-39: (The HOLY SPIRIT within each Christian provides streams of living water.)

37 On the last and most important day of the festival, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone is thirsty, he should come to Me[6] Other mss omit to Me and drink! 38 The one who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said,[7] Jesus may have had several OT passages in mind; Isaiah 58:11; Ezk 47:1–12; Zch 14:8 will have streams of living water flow from deep within him.” 39 He said this about the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were going to receive, for the Spirit[8] Other mss read Holy Spirit had not yet been received,[9] Other mss read had not yet been given [10] Lit the Spirit was not yet; the word received is implied from the previous clause. because Jesus had not yet been glorified.

The beauty of this living water is that it is free. It is a gift to all who will ask CHRIST to forgive them of their sins and for HIM to come into their lives.

Come buy wine and milk. Wine is used for healing and milk for nourishment. CHRIST heals the broken hearted and CHRIST in us nourishes our born-again spirit to grow and mature into what HE wants us to be.

Why do we spend our time, effort, money on the things of the world which are meaningless? Come to the FATHERS table to eat spiritual food that sustains us here upon earth and for all eternity.

I will make a new covenant with you. Can you trust ME? Can you believe what I promise you? YES!!! Because I have proven to you through the scriptures that I do what I say I will do.

Come to GOD and you will live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. When we ask CHRIST to come into our lives, it is a new everlasting covenant that GOD promises us.

Who is the nation you do not know? It is the Gentiles.

Who is GOD making this offer to? It is to all who are thirsty for spiritual truth and those who want to know GOD.

When CHRIST died, HE paid the penalty for sin and death. This obedient act of CHRIST opens the opportunity for each believer to go directly to GOD THE FATHER. It opens the opportunity for rebirth into GOD’S family and for each believer to call GOD, FATHER or even the most intimate Daddy!!!

What a heritage!!!

Let’s read Isaiah 55:6-7:

6 Seek the Lord while He may be found; call to Him while He is near. 7 Let the wicked one abandon his way, and the sinful one his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, so He may have compassion on him, and to our God, for He will freely forgive.

GOD is urging all to seek HIM while the opportunity exists.

Now think with me on this for a minute. GOD is telling the Israelites you can have this relationship with ME now because the prophesy I am giving to you through Isaiah, although about 700 years in the future, is a fact. CHRIST will come into the world, live a sinless life, give HIS life for the forgiveness of sin, be resurrected, ascend into heaven and send the HOLY SPIRIT to dwell in each believer.

They were looking forward to the coming of CHRIST, whereas we are looking back 2000 years to HIS coming. Their faith to the coming of CHRIST is the same as us looking back to the fact.

GOD calls all to repentance and to receive the forgiveness of their sins. It is GOD WHO calls every human to repentance. Every human has an opportunity to make a decision to come to GOD for forgiveness or to reject HIM.

We may say, “How is this possible?” Our next scripture tells us.

Let’s read Isaiah55:8-13:

8 “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not My ways.” [This is]*The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the Lord’s declaration. 9 “For as heaven is higher than earth, so My ways are higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. 10 For just as rain and snow fall from heaven, and do not return there without saturating the earth, and making it germinate and sprout, and providing seed to sow and food to eat, 11 so My word that comes from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and will prosper in what I send it [to do]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. .” 12 You will indeed go out with joy and be peacefully guided; the mountains and the hills will break into singing before you, and all the trees of the field will clap [their]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. hands. 13 Instead of the thornbush, a cypress will come up, and instead of the brier, a myrtle will come up; it will make a name for the Lord as an everlasting sign that will not be destroyed.

GOD tells us HIS thoughts and ways are very different from ours. GOD is all knowing, all powerful and Omni-present. HIS vantage point and perspective is such that HE sees all existence and situations against the backdrop of HIS ultimate plan and purpose.

GOD is sovereign and it is very difficult for us as humans to accept this unless we have an intimate relationship with HIM. Even then we do not like the turn of events that come to us in life but HE is sovereign.

GOD then tells us about the miracle of rain and snow that produces a result which sustains life upon earth. HE compares this to HIS WORD that when it is presented to every human it will bring forth a result. GOD tells us it will never, not produce a result. HIS WORD will always accomplish what it is intended to accomplish. It will result in people being drawn to HIM and will be nourished by it. Some will reject it.

The next time you take a walk among the trees and nature, listen you may hear all of nature break into singing and the trees clapping their hands. All of nature waits for the day it too will be redeemed.

To me, this next statement is so special.

Only GOD can take a thorn bush or a brier and make it into something of beauty.

Are you a thorn bush or a brier? Give your life to our LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST and HE will transform your life from a thorn bush or brier into a life of beauty. Plus what HE does in us is eternal.

I hope each had a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends. The greatest Thanksgiving is CHRIST in us the hope of glory!

Rejoice if you know HIM as your SAVIOR and LORD. If you do not know CHRIST as your SAVIOR, ask HIM to come into your heart now.

JESUS tells us HE has come that we might have life more abundantly. Live life to the max now and for all eternity!!!

Live in Reality, Not Delusion - Isaiah 40 - 45 - November 19, 2006

Sunday school Lesson – Live in Reality, Not Delusion – November 19, 2006

This is lesson three (3) in our series “Living Life to the Max.”

Our background scripture is Isaiah 40:1-46:13.

Our focus scripture is Isaiah 40:18-23; 41:5-7; 44:9, 18-20; 45:20-22.

Our study will explore the absurdity of idol worship. Humans make idols of many things. Some try to craft something that captures their image or concept of god. Many of us try to recreate GOD in our image without making a physical idol but creating a mental idol. We try to make HIM fit our concept, philosophy, notions or doctrinal beliefs.

We as humans can become disillusioned about GOD because we have studied the scriptures with veiled eyes or studied them with a bias, we miss the true attributes, nature and character of GOD. The Bible tells us, GOD calls all people to Himself and when we reject HIM, we condemn ourselves to eternal separation from GOD. Our attitude can block us from seeing the truth and knowing the truth in the scriptures.

Any thing, anyone, any concept or any idea that we elevate above the true and living GOD is idolatry. This includes our own concepts of GOD that are not founded and based upon HIS WORD. GOD wants us to live in reality not in delusion.

We as humans try to envision what GOD looks like. The disciples of JESUS wanted to know what GOD, THE FATHER looked like. JESUS gave them a beautiful answer in John 14:8-11:

8 “Lord,” said Philip, “show us the Father, and that’s enough for us.” 9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been among you all this time without your knowing Me, Philip? The one who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me?[5] Jn 10:30,38 The words I speak to you I do not speak on My own. The Father who lives in Me does His works. 11 Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me. Otherwise, believe[6] Other mss read believe Me because of the works themselves.

Do we worship idols today? Absolutely!

Many people are willing to pay huge sums of money for a piece of toast with an image of JESUS or Mary. Others see an image of JESUS in a tree or on a piece of wood or in a cloud or etched in a stone and people flock to see it and some worship it.

Children have their favorite security blanket, doll, shirt or toy. Often, we as adults cling to items for our security – a rabbit’s foot, a four leaf clover, a cross, a St. Christopher, a favorite piece of clothing, Zodiac signs, etc.

Do you want to see the FATHER? Then behold the face of JESUS by becoming more like HIM through an intimate loving relationship with HIM and by yielding your life completely to HIM. Get to know HIM and the truth that is in HIM. Abandon all notions and concepts you have about HIM and seek the truth through the relationship with HIM by walking with HIM and spending time with HIM through prayer, studying HIS WORD and applying HIS WORD through obedient living.

This is not performance. This is not us deciding what we are going to do for GOD but it is being available to GOD in complete honesty and letting HIM build a healthy relationship with us and in turn letting HIM direct our lives. All notions and false ideas about GOD must go and we must embrace the truth as HE reveals it to us.

In the study of scripture in Isaiah, we need to keep in mind that GOD is revealing future events through Isaiah. GOD is doing this because HE knows when the Israelites are captured and taken into Babylon; they will be exposed to the worship of idols and will be enticed to worship them as well. Why? Because, those who are worshipping idols have defeated them and taken them captive to a foreign land. Therefore, their idol(s) must be more powerful than their GOD.

It is the same old story. Those who do bad things prosper and those of us who try to live a good life struggle. LORD why don’t YOU bless your children with things and stuff? GOD’S reply is always the same, “Seek the Kingdom of GOD first then all these things will be added to you.” Does this necessarily mean material blessings? NO!!! Which is better to be blessed with stuff or blessed with a loving intimate relationship with the living GOD of the universe? Some may say stuff will lead them to a more intimate relationship with GOD.

But as one who has sought stuff and never obtained enough stuff, I can tell you a loving intimate relationship with GOD is far richer and more satisfying than all the stuff or wealth the world has to offer. Seek HIM and you will find HIM. Wise men and wise women still seek HIM today.

So GOD is telling them, about 150 years ahead of time, what is going to happen to their ancestors, so they will know that HE is GOD. GOD knows all that HE is telling Isaiah will come true. It is given as if it has already happened. The Israelites will recall this scripture when the events recorded in the scripture happens and they will know that the true GOD had spoken about these things through Isaiah.

This scripture was given to Isaiah about 700 BC and Israel was delivered by Cyrus king of Persia in 539 BC. GOD even tells them that King Cyrus of Persia will deliver them. Once this took place the Israelites should see that GOD had told them what would happen about 150 years earlier. This should surely confirm to them that GOD is the true and living GOD they should worship. And not worship something crafted by man, using materials GOD has created. Any reasonably intelligent person should be able to see and understand that all idols are speechless, powerless and worthless. You need to examine your heart and realize your defeat and captivity is the result of sin and GOD is still WHO HE says HE is. Confess your sins to GOD, repent and GOD will restore.

Let’s read Isaiah 40:18-23:

18 Who will you compare God with? What likeness will you compare Him to? 19 To an idol?—[something that]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. a smelter casts, and a metalworker plates with gold and makes silver welds [for it]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. ? 20 To one who shapes a pedestal, choosing wood that does not rot?[9] Or who is too poor for such an offering, or who chooses mulberry wood as a votive gift; Hb obscure He looks for a skilled craftsman to set up an idol that will not fall over. 21 Do you not know? Have you not heard? Has it not been declared to you from the beginning? Have you not considered the foundations of the earth? 22 God is enthroned above the circle of the earth; its inhabitants are like grasshoppers. He stretches out the heavens like thin cloth and spreads them out like a tent to live in. 23 He reduces princes to nothing and makes the judges of the earth to be irrational.

GOD prompts Isaiah to ask the Israelites, who will you compare GOD with or to? Then HE says will you compare ME to an idol?

GOD then sets them straight about where idols come from. Idols are a product of man’s mind and creation. Idols are a figment of man’s imagination and are created from metal or wood that GOD has created. An idol is powerless. An idol cannot even stand up on its own power; man must craft a base, so it will not fall over.

Then GOD poses four questions HE wants them to consider, when they compare HIM to an idol:

Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
Has it not been declared to you from the beginning?
Have you not considered the foundations of the earth?

Have you people had your heads in the sand? I know that you have been told how I delivered your ancestors from Egypt, parted the Red Sea, fed them with quail and manna, provided them with water, parted the Jordan River, brought the walls of Jericho tumbling down and much, much more.

I have told you where an idol comes from but have you thought WHO made the earth from the beginning and where I reside? Don’t you know where wisdom comes from? You must focus your attention and place your faith in the only true, living, all powerful, all knowing, present everywhere at all times GOD of the universe, YAHWEH. There is nothing in the universe to compare HIM to! In fact GOD made the very materials used to craft idols.

Let’s read Isaiah 41:5-7:

5 The islands see and are afraid, the ends of the earth tremble. They approach and arrive. 6 Each one helps the other, and says to another, “Take courage!” 7 The craftsman encourages the metalworker; the one who flattens with the hammer [supports]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the one who strikes the anvil, saying of the soldering, “It is good.” He fastens it with nails so that it will not fall over.

Now we fast forward to the time when the Israelites are in captivity in Babylon. In Isaiah 44:28-45:1 GOD tells the Israelites:

28 who says to Cyrus: My shepherd, he will fulfill all My pleasure and say to Jerusalem: She will be rebuilt, and of the temple: Its foundation will be laid.

1 The Lord says this to Cyrus, His anointed, whose right hand I have grasped to subdue nations before him, to unloose the loins[1] To gird the loins is to prepare for battle (2 Sm 20:8), so to unloose them is to surrender. of kings, to open the doors before him and the gates will not be shut.

Cyrus was born in Iran and reigned from 550 BC to 530 BC. His army defeated many nations and they defeated Babylon in 539 BC.

GOD used Cyrus for HIS purposes to deliver the Israelites from captivity so they could return to Jerusalem and rebuild it.

Cyrus caused the nations surrounding that area to be afraid and tremble. This fear would drive those depending upon idols for protection to make more idols and even make new idols. They would sink deeper into their dependence upon useless idols rather than seeking the protection from the living true GOD of the universe.

How dumb can the people be? They seek the help of a useless idol that is powerless even to stand up. GOD is saying, “People think for just a brief moment, the idols you depend upon have to be fastened with nails so it will not fall over. It is powerless even to stand up. Think for just a quick moment, who made the material an idol is made from? GOD did! Shouldn’t you turn to GOD for your help? Instead the craftsman encourages the metalworker.”

Don’t we seek confirmation from fellow humans when things are not well in our lives? GOD wants us to come to HIM. HE is the ONE WHO has the power to come to our aid and to conquer our fears.

Let’s read Isaiah 44:9, 18-20:

9 All who make idols are nothing, and what they treasure does not profit. Their witnesses do not see or know [anything]*The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , so they will be put to shame.

18 Such people[7] Lit They do not comprehend and cannot understand, for He has shut their eyes[8] Or for their eyes are shut so they cannot see, and their minds so they cannot understand. 19 No one reflects, no one has the perception or insight to say, “I burned half of it in the fire, I also baked bread on its coals, I roasted meat and ate. I will make something detestable with the rest of it, and I will bow down to a block of wood.” 20 He feeds on[9] Or He shepherds ashes. [His]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. deceived mind has led him astray, and he cannot deliver himself, or say, “Isn’t there a lie in my right hand?”

When we humans embrace false ideas, notions or idols they lead us into deeper despair. We blind ourselves to the truth and block our ability to understand what is wrong, unless our attention is turned to GOD.

GOD is saying anyone in their right mind should be able to logically examine the facts and conclude that idol worship is just plain dumb. Their eyes have been shut to the truth.

“Shut” – This was an Eastern custom where the eyes of an offender were plastered or sealed shut.

We can seal our minds, the eyes of our heart, to prevent the truth from GOD or HIS WORD from changing our belief system. This is a form of rebellion or stubbornness. GOD’S WORD tells us that rebellion is like witchcraft and stubbornness is like sin or idolatry. Rebellion or stubbornness can rob us of an intimate loving relationship with GOD.

1 Samuel 15:23 – This is when GOD rejected Saul from being king.

23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, HE hath also rejected thee from being king. (KJV)

Let’s read Isaiah 45:20-22:

20 “Come, gather together, and draw near, you fugitives of the nations. Those who carry their wooden idols, and pray to a god who cannot save, have no knowledge. 21 Speak up and present [your case]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. [8] Lit and approach [9] Isa 41:21–22 — yes, let them take counsel together. Who predicted this long ago? Who announced it from ancient times? Was it not I, the Lord? There is no other God but Me, a righteous God and Savior; there is no one except Me. 22 Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth. For I am God, and there is no other.

This scripture portrays a court scene. GOD is saying I have presented MY case how idol worship is dumb, now this is your opportunity to present your side of the argument. In fact, I ask you to counsel with each other to build the best defense possible.

There is one thing I want you to think about. WHO told you over 150 years ago that all of this would happen to you? Was it one of your dumb, powerless idols? NO!!!

It was the true, all powerful, all knowing, everlasting, living GOD of the universe!!!!

Doesn’t this fact alone confirm WHO I AM!!!

So turn to ME, because I alone am the ONE AND ONLY true GOD of the world, WHO can deliver you, restore you, protect you and provide for you.

GOD does not want us to even think of trying to create an image of HIM. Any false notions we have about GOD do not make them an attribute of GOD just because we think they are true. False notions about GOD will lead us to disappointment with GOD. Let GOD Himself create in you a new mind and true understanding of HIM and HIS true attributes. Live in reality and not in delusion.

GOD’S WORD is just as relevant to us today. HE spoke to us through the Prophet Isaiah in 700 BC to tell us about the coming Messiah, so that we would know that the GOD of all creation has sent HIS SON JESUS WHO is the LIGHT of the world. HE says MY WORD is all you need to know that I AM GOD. Nothing has changed. I have sent MY ONLY SON to die for your sins and to conquer sin and death. HE died where you should die, but, if you will ask HIM to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life HE will. To prove that HE is WHO HE says HE is, HE was resurrected from the dead. GOD gives us the HOLY SPIRIT WHO indwells us and reveals truth to us. GOD gives each Christian the gift of HIS grace, HIS righteousness, rebirth into HIS family and eternal life through CHRIST.

CHRIST in you will reveal Himself to you, if you allow HIM. All HE wants to do is create in you a clean heart and a sound mind. HE wants to love you and have a loving intimate relationship with you. Meet HIM in the eyes of your heart and HE will reveal Himself to you. As you study HIS WORD, HE will reveal Himself to you. HE will reveal truth to you.

GOD wants us to live in reality and not in deception in a world of fantasy!

If GOD has not measured up to your concept of HIM, ask HIM to reveal to you why? Confess the situation or circumstance in your life or your journey to HIM and ask HIM to reveal to you where and why you were misled.

My prayer is that all will know HIM through a deeper and more intimate loving relationship. Praise HIM, worship HIM, walk with HIM, talk with HIM, fellowship with HIM, get to really know HIM through HIS WORD and be obedient to HIM.

Live in reality and not in deception or delusion! Live in truth that can only be revealed by GOD, through the HOLY SPIRIT.

CHRIST in us, the hope of glory!

Live in Light, Not Darkness - Isaiah 7, 8, 9 - November 12, 2006

Sunday school Lesson – Live in Light, Not Darkness – November 12, 2006

This is lesson two (2) in our series of study, “Maximum Living.”

The other day I was driving by the South Carolina School for the Deaf and the Blind. There was a lady walking along the side walk with her seeing-eye dog. This lesson immediately came to mind. A blind person is in total physical darkness but with the aid of another person, a cane or a trained dog, their keen instincts and intelligence, they function well in a world of darkness.

The blind person depends upon something to help them get about in the world. JESUS used the blind as an example to relate physical blindness to spiritual blindness.

Matthew 15:10-14:

10 Summoning the crowd, He told them, “Listen and understand: 11 It’s not what goes into the mouth that defiles a man, but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.” 12 Then the disciples came up and told Him, “Do You know that the Pharisees took offense when they heard this statement?” 13 He replied, “Every plant that My heavenly Father didn’t plant will be uprooted. 14 Leave them alone! They are blind guides.[9] Other mss add for the blind And if the blind guide the blind, both will fall into a pit.”

There is physical blindness and there is spiritual blindness. The physically blind know they are blind. However many spiritually blind do not know they are spiritually blind. Those born physically blind do not know the difference in being able to see and not. Those born sighted and loose their sight know the difference.

There was a young man born blind and JESUS healed him. Once the young man was healed and he could see no one could change his mind about receiving his sight. The Pharisees tried to tell the young man that this JESUS was a sinner and could not perform such a miracle. The following scripture captures his response to the Pharisees.

John 9:24-25:

24 So a second time they summoned the man who had been blind and told him, “Give glory to God.[4] Give glory to God was a solemn charge to tell the truth; Jos 7:19. We know that this man is a sinner!” 25 He answered, “Whether or not He’s a sinner, I don’t know. One thing I do know: I was blind, and now I can see!”

This is a beautiful example of the change in us when we diligently seek and grope about in our spiritual blindness. When we encounter JESUS and HE opens our spiritual eyes, for the first time we see truth. Our salvation is a knowing and revelation that we were in spiritual darkness and now we are in the light of HIS presence. CHRIST in us is our light and our hope.

The greatest gift is when our spiritual blindness is cured and we can see with the eyes of our heart the majesty of CHRIST in us. The beauty is that once we receive our spiritual sight it is eternal.

Most of us seek light when we are in the dark. Darkness has many uncertainties and pitfalls. Light keeps us for stumbling in the dark and dispels many things our minds can imagine.

I recall a time when my young son and I were spelunking in a cave in Alabama years ago. We had our lights mounted on our helmets and were carefully maneuvering around a high wall with about a twenty foot drop. We had to go around a sharp corner. When the person ahead of you turned the corner they disappeared. I thought this would not be a good place for your light to go out. Guess what? As soon as the person ahead turned the corner, my light went out. I was in total darkness and then in a few moments the person behind me, turned the corner and gave me enough light so I could see to continue and turn the corner ahead of me. Then I could see by the light of the person ahead of me. Finally, I got to a place I could work on my light to get it working again.

This experience taught me a valuable lesson. As we journey through life there are times our spiritual light may grow dim or may seem to go out. Our brothers and sisters in CHRIST can come to our aid through prayer, encouragement, a helping hand, a listening ear, or a sympathetic heart. We can share the our light with them until their spiritual light is rekindled.

JESUS makes it clear that HE is the LIGHT of the world. When we follow HIM, we will never be in darkness. As stated in John 8:12.

Jn 8:12The Light of the World
12 Then Jesus spoke to them again: “I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows Me will never walk in the darkness but will have the light of life.”

We need to keep in mind that CHRIST in us is greater than all, but we have an adversary Satan. Satan is a liar, deceiver and can disguise himself as light.

2Co 11:14Paul and the False Apostles
14 And no wonder! For Satan himself is disguised as an angel of light.

Ephesians 6 makes it clear to us that we do not fight against flesh and blood but against powers and principalities, rulers and forces of evil

Let’s read what Ephesians 6:12-20 has to say about the world a Christian lives in:

10 Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by His vast strength. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics[10] Or schemes, or tricks of the Devil. 12 For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens.[11] Eph 1:3,20; 2:6; 3:10 13 This is why you must take up the full armor[12] 1 Th 5:8 of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. 14 Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, 15 and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace.[13] Ready to go tell others about the gospel 16 In every situation take the shield of faith, and with it you will be able to extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word. 18 With every prayer and request, pray at all times in the Spirit, and stay alert in this, with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints. 19 Pray also for me, that the message may be given to me when I open my mouth to make known with boldness the • mystery of the gospel. 20 For this I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I might be bold enough in Him to speak as I should.

Each Christian is to stay prepared to fight each moment.

Now to our scripture in Isaiah.

GOD’S timing is always perfect. HE is speaking to the Israelites through HIS prophet Isaiah. The nation is corrupt and unless they repent, they will be captured and carried off to a foreign land. History tells us that they did not repent and they were captured and carried off. GOD made them a promise that they would return and rebuild Jerusalem.

This same promise applies to us as Christians. When we are led off captive by sin and follow the desires of our flesh, GOD tells us HE is always ready to welcome us back home when we realize the error of our way. Our part is to confess and stop. HIS part is to cleanse and restore.

Our study today begins with GOD asking Ahaz (A haz) to ask HIM for a sign that GOD will be his strength even though two (2) other kings are out to defeat him.
Isaiah 7:10-14:
The Immanuel Prophecy
10 Then the Lord spoke again to Ahaz: 11 “Ask for a sign from the Lord your God—from the depths of • Sheol to the heights of heaven.” 12 But Ahaz replied, “I will not ask. I will not test the Lord.” 13 Isaiah said, “Listen, house of David! Is it not enough for you to try the patience of men? Will you also try the patience of my God? 14 Therefore, the Lord Himself will give you[3] The pronoun you is pl a sign: The virgin will conceive,[4] Or virgin is pregnant, will have a son, and name him Immanuel.[5] = God With Us; Isa 8:10

Ahaz refuses because he does not want to communicate with GOD but GOD says I will give you a sign anyway. Even though this is a sign for Ahaz, that GOD can perform miracles, it is prophesy for the coming of the Messiah. In verse 14, “The virgin will conceive, have a son, and name HIM Immanuel.”

In Isaiah 7:3-7 the LORD tells Isaiah to take his son Shear-jashub (shee ur JAY shuhb) to meet King Ahaz.

3 Then the Lord said to Isaiah, “Go out with your son Shear-jashub to meet Ahaz at the end of the conduit of the upper pool, by the road to the Fuller’s Field. 4 Say to him: Calm down and be quiet. Don’t be afraid or fainthearted because of these two smoldering stubs of firebrands, Rezin (REE zin) of Aram (A ram), and the son of Remaliah (rim uh LIE uh). 5 For Aram, along with Ephraim and the son of Remaliah, has plotted harm against you. They say: 6 Let us go up against Judah, terrorize it, and conquer it for ourselves. Then we can install Tabeel’s (TAB ih uhl) son as king in it.” 7 This is what the Lord God says: It will not happen; it will not occur.

Ahaz saw the fate of his kingdom in the hands of the two (2) kings. He failed to see that GOD has the power to change what appears to be imminent to man.

This to me is a foreshadow of the coming of CHRIST. As humans we have two powers that hold us hostage – sin and death. CHRIST came to earth as a human, lived as a human, was tempted in all ways as a human, was capable of sinning, died where each human should die for his or her own sins, was buried, was resurrected, showed Himself to over 500 people, ascended, sent the HOLY SPIRIT back to indwell each believer and will return back to earth one day. CHRIST conquered sin and death, the two great enemies no human can conquer. HE is our SAVIOR and HE wants each of us to make HIM LORD of our lives. HE wants to have a loving intimate relationship with each one of us but that requires us to yield our will to HIM.

Let’s read Isaiah 8:18-22:

18 Here I am with the children the Lord has given me to be signs and wonders in Israel from the Lord of Hosts who dwells on Mount Zion. 19 When they say to you, “Consult the spirits of the dead and the spiritists who chirp and mutter,” shouldn’t a people consult their God?[9] Or gods [Should they consult]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the dead on behalf of the living? 20 To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, there will be no dawn for them. 21 They will wander through the land, dejected and hungry. When they are famished, they will become enraged, and, looking upward, will curse their king and their God. 22 They will look toward the earth and see only distress, darkness, and the gloom of affliction, and they will be driven into thick darkness.

GOD has a message to King Ahaz in the very names of Isaiah and his two (2) sons. They are signs and wonders to King Ahaz.

Isaiah means “YAHWEH saves.”

Shear-jashub (shee ur JAY shuhb) means “a remnant will return.”

Maher-shalal-hash-baz (MAY her SHAL al HASH baz) means “quick to the plunder, swift to the spoil.”
Isaiah uses the words “LORD of HOSTS.” This is important for King Ahaz because the LORD of HOSTS indicates that GOD is the sovereign ruler of heaven and earth and of all nations.

This statement puts King Ahaz on alert regarding the next statement. Ahaz or some of his leadership may be tempted to consult the spirits of the dead and spiritualists to learn the fate of the nation. Isaiah tells him not to fall into that trap.

When bad times come into our lives, we are tempted to find answers to our questions from any source that will provide answers. Going to horoscopes, wee gee boards, consulting fortune tellers, tarot cards, spiritualists or mediums who are all getting information from Satan will lead to destruction.

Gloom leads to darkness. It is a downward spiral that ends in despair.

What can get us out of despair? Hope brings us up out of despair.

CHRIST is our hope. Colossians 1: 25-27 - 25 I have become its minister, according to God’s administration that was given to me for you, to make God’s message fully known, 26 the • mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to His saints. 27 God wanted to make known to those among the Gentiles the glorious wealth of this • mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory

When we encounter dark times in our lives, we must practice in the dark what we have learned in the light.

Let’s read Isaiah 9:1-5:

1 [1] Isa 8:23 in Hb Nevertheless, the gloom of the distressed land will not be like that of the former times when He humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali. But in the future He will bring honor to the Way of the Sea, to the land east of the Jordan, and to Galilee of the nations. 2 [2] Isa 9:1 in Hb The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of darkness, a light has dawned. 3 You have enlarged the nation and increased its joy.[3] Alt Hb tradition reads have not increased joy [The people]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. have rejoiced before You as they rejoice at harvest time and as they rejoice when dividing spoils. 4 For You have shattered their burdensome yoke and the rod on their shoulders, the staff of their oppressor, just as [You did]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. on the day of Midian. 5 For the trampling boot of battle and the bloodied garments of war will be burned as fuel for the fire.

Verses 2-4 are written in the present even though they are prophesy for the future. They are written in the present because they are sure of it coming about. This is prophesy of the coming of JESUS. JESUS is the great light that is captured in Matthew 4:12-16:

12 When He heard that John had been arrested, He withdrew into Galilee. 13 He left Nazareth behind and went to live in Capernaum by the sea, in the region of Zebulun (ZEBB you lun) and Naphtali (NAF tuh lie). 14 This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: 15 Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, along the sea road, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles! 16 The people who live in darkness have seen a great light, and for those living in the shadowland of death, light has dawned.[8] Lit dawned on them [9] Isaiah 9:1–2

Luke 1:78-79:
78 Because of our God’s merciful compassion, the Dawn[33] Jr 23:5; Zch 3:8; 6:12 LXX from on high[34] Lk 24:49; Isaiah 58:8; Eph 4:8 will visit us 79 to shine on those who live in darkness and the shadow of death,[35] Isaiah 9:2; 60:2–3 to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Verse 3, Enlarge the nation I believe is including the gentiles into the covenant with GOD through CHRIST.

Verse 4 – releasing from the burdensome yoke is JESUS releasing us from the bondage of the law and giving us the gift of grace.

Let’s read Isaiah 9:6-7:

6 For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on His shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. 7 The dominion will be vast, and its prosperity will never end. He will reign on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish and sustain it with justice and righteousness from now on and forever. The zeal of the Lord of • Hosts will accomplish this.

They were looking forward to the hope which the Messiah brings to those in darkness and we are looking back to the hope that CHRIST, the Messiah brought to us through HIS birth, HIS sinless life, death, resurrection and ascension. This hope is not the rule of a political leader but the fact that HE conquered sin and death for every human, who will acknowledge HIM as the Messiah. HE confirms this hope in each Christian with the gift of the HOLY SPIRIT.

v GOD is telling through Isaiah that HIS deliverer will come as a child and not as a military warrior.

This prophesy is fulfilled in JESUS.

Luke 1:31-33:

31 Now listen: You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will call His name JESUS. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David.[13] 2 Sm 7:12–13 33 He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.[14] Isaiah 9:6 LXX; Dn 7:14
Matthew 1:23

23 See, the virgin will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and they will name Him Immanuel,[10] Isaiah 7:14

GOD became flesh and lived as 100% human, yet 100% divine.

John 1:1, 14:

1 In the beginning[1] Gn 1:1 was the Word,[2] The Word (Gk Logos) is a title for Jesus as the communication and the revealer of God the Father; Jn 1:14,18; Rv 19:13. and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
14 The Word became flesh[13] The eternally existent Word (vv. 1–2) took on full humanity, but without sin; Heb 4:15. and took up residence[14] Lit and tabernacled, or and dwelt in a tent; this word occurs only here in John. A related word, referring to the Festival of Tabernacles, occurs only in 7:2; Ex 40:34–38. among us. We observed His glory, the glory as the • One and Only Son[15] Son is implied from the reference to the Father and from Gk usage. from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Why did GOD do this for us? The next scripture captures GOD’S purpose.

John 3:16-18:

16 “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His • One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.[10] 1 Jn 4:9–10 17 For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the • One and Only Son of God.

John 5:24: (Every Christian has the gift of eternal life, now!)

24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.
Government will be on His shoulders – This child will be the ruler, signifying HIS authority.

He will be named:

Wonderful Counselor – Extraordinary and surpassing all others in advice and counsel. HE is the ideal ruler WHOSE advice is the truth of GOD

Mighty God – HE would have 100% of the power of GOD to accomplish HIS work on earth. If this were me in human form, I would have been tempted to use my power to show those trying to do me harm, who I really am. But CHRIST did not. HE stayed on mission for our sake.

Eternal Father – This is the FATHER – child relationship that GOD wants to have with those born into HIS Kingdom. This is what rebirth is all about. GOD becomes our FATHER. We become HIS child. GOD is eternal and we become eternal through that relationship. FATHER also suggests the care that father’s have for their children – to provide, train and protect.

Prince of Peace – HE will rule as Prince in a kingdom of peace. CHRIST has defeated sin and death and that brings peace to our hearts and lives as Christians.

HIS reign will be vast. HE not only rules over Israel but rules over all who call upon HIS name for salvation.

Prosperity will never end. This is spiritual prosperity. CHRIST conquered sin and death with HIS life and all who believes in HIM will live in the prosperity of this fact. We, as Christians, no longer have to be bound by the fear of death.

In 2 Samuel 7:12-17, GOD made King David a promise that is fulfilled in CHRIST.

“ ‘The Lord declares to you: The Lord Himself will make a house for you. 12 When your time comes and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up after you your descendant, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He will build a house for My name,[8] 1 Kg 5:2–5; 6:12; 8:18–19 and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be a father to him, and he will be a son to Me.[9] Ps 2:9 When he does wrong, I will discipline him with a human rod and with blows from others. 15 But My faithful love will never leave him[10] Ps 89:21,28,33 as I removed it from Saul; I removed him from your way.[11] 1 Sm 15:24–28 16 Your house and kingdom will endure before Me[12] Some Hb mss, LXX, Syr; other Hb mss read you forever, and your throne will be established forever.’ ”[13] Ps 89:29,36 17 Nathan spoke all these words and this entire vision to David.[14] 1 Ch 17:3–15

CHRIST will rule with justice and righteousness.

The “Zeal” of the LORD of Hosts” will accomplish this. Remember the LORD of Hosts means GOD is the sovereign ruler over heaven and earth. HIS zeal means “glowing fire.”

Bottom line, it means it will be done.

GOD knows that we must have the light of HOPE in a world of darkness. That HOPE is in HIS ONLY SON JESUS.

If you are in a world of darkness, ask CHRIST to forgive you and to be the light of your life.

As Christians we must keep in mind that we have the light of the world in us, CHRIST. We are not to hide our light but to allow CHRIST to shine through us to others who are in spiritual darkness. You and I may be the only light others may see.

May the light of CHRSIT in us never grow dim.

Live in Relationship, Not Rebellion - Isaiah 1 - November 5, 2006

Sunday school Lesson – Live in Relationship, Not Rebellion – November 5, 2006

This Sunday begins a new series of study on selected scripture from the Book of Isaiah. The series is entitled, “Invitation to Maximum Living: Isaiah Speaks Today.”

November 5 – Exploring what it means to live in right relationship to GOD; discovering barriers to having a right relationship with GOD. Isaiah 1:1-30.

November 12 – Our struggle against dark spiritual forces and JESUS WHO is the Light of the world. Isaiah 7 – 9:7.

November 19 – Idolatry and its consequences in building our relationship with GOD. Isaiah 40:1 – 46:13.

November 26 – Barriers to experiencing life to the max through an intimate loving relationship with GOD. Isaiah 52:13-55:13.

Our background scripture is Isaiah 1:1-31.

Our focus scripture is Isaiah 1:2-4, 10-20.

Every Christian wants to live life to the max. I know when I first committed my life to CHRIST, I wanted to experience HIM to the max. I thought having the power as manifested through the gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT was the answer. I soon discovered that I was seeking the gifts more than I was the giver. Experiencing GOD is yielding our will to HIM. This has been the number one hardest thing for me to do. Why? Because, I want to be in control of my life. I have had to confess trust and confidence issues to the LORD, which we are working on.

When I was preparing to teach “Experiencing God” over a year and one half ago, GOD revealed to me a number of barriers I had that prevented me from experiencing HIM. My prayer is that through this series of study GOD will reveal Himself to each of you. And HE will reveal Himself in such a way that everyone will see, through the eyes of their heart, the joy of living life to the max through a loving and intimate relationship with HIM.

It is all about choices. Whom shall we serve, self or GOD?

In recent studies of the Old Testament, GOD revealed how the journey of the Israelites reflects our journey as a Christian. We journey from the bondage of sin and death to the miracle of the rebirth through CHRIST. Then we journey toward the Promised Land either serving our LORD and entering the Promised Land or serving self and wandering in the wilderness.

In the Book of Isaiah, GOD is revealing through Isaiah prophesy concerning the Israelites. The Israelites know GOD but they refuse to repent. Their worship is empty. GOD will bring judgment upon them unless they repent. They will be captured and taken away. But a remnant will be salvaged and made into a righteous people. Isaiah is replete with prophesy regarding the coming of the Messiah. CHRIST “in us” the hope of glory. Let’s begin our journey. GOD’S nature is to seek and save the lost. We see HIS nature reflected in HIS pursuit of Israel. HE pursues the lost today. Just as Isaiah was GOD’S representative to the people of Israel, we as Christians are HIS representatives to the lost and wayward people today.

But we have to be prepared to be spiritually available for GOD to speak through us.

Let’s review some of the history. Most Bible scholars believe that the Prophet Isaiah’s ministry was likely between 740 and 690 BC.

Israel was united under the leadership of King David and his son King Solomon but in 930 BC Israel was divided into the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the Southern Kingdom of Judah.

GOD’S focus, in the opening verses of Isaiah, are primarily on the Southern Kingdom of Judah. Judah was ruled by a succession of kings, some Godly and others wicked. Isaiah predicted a time when the Babylonians (Baghdad/Iraq) would destroy Judah and capture the Israelites. This happened in 586 BC. GOD revealed through Isaiah the prophesies that after a time of exile, Cyrus the King of Persia would permit the Israelites to return to Canaan and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem and the wall. The prophecies in Isaiah covered the fall of both the Southern and the Northern Kingdoms and the rebuilding of Jerusalem.

GOD had warned the Israelites to stop worshiping idols and to find hope in the true, living GOD. When I think of Israel during these times, I think of a wheel. They would rebel against GOD, GOD would punish them, the Israelites would repent and return to the true worship GOD. Then the cycle would be repeated.

Does this remind us of America? What happened after 911? America returned to the LORD and returned to the church for a brief period. Now we have slipped away, again.

Our scripture begins with the Prophet Isaiah whose remarks are being directed to the Southern Kingdom of Judah. These prophecies were given about 700 BC.

Let’s read Isaiah 1:2-4:

2 Listen, heavens, and pay attention, earth, for the Lord has spoken: “I have raised children[3] Or sons and brought them up, but they have rebelled against Me. 3 The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its master’s feeding–trough, [but]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. Israel does not know; My people do not understand.” 4 Oh—sinful nation, people weighed down with iniquity, brood of evildoers, depraved children![4] Or sons They have abandoned the Lord; they have despised the Holy One of Israel; they have turned their backs [on Him]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. .

The opening remarks are like the opening for a court of law. The heavens and the earth have been summoned as witnesses. Do you recall in our pervious lessons in the Old Testament scripture the stones of remembrance? GOD is calling the heavens and earth as witnesses for HIS accusations against the Israelites.
The opening is the judge’s opening statement reviewing GOD’S gracious acts toward HIS people and the specific charge.

Verse 2 – GOD called the heavens and earth to listen and pay attention. GOD puts into perspective the relationship between HIM and the Israelites. It is a relationship where GOD views Himself as the FATHER and Israel as the child. It is a loving intimate personal relationship but Israel has rebelled against this relationship.

It reminds me of the teenage years, most of us or our children go through.

Verse 3 – GOD uses an example that even dumb animals like the ox and donkey know who takes care of them. But Israel you do not even acknowledge the ONE WHO has cared for you and performed mighty acts to deliver you. Intelligent people like you should know WHO takes care of you.

This is GOD’S attempt to wake the people up and get them to see the error of their way and repent.

Verse 4 – The sin of the people is a national sin. All of the people are caught up in sin and they are teaching their children to sin as well. The nation has deteriorated into a brood of evildoers.

They have abandoned the LORD, despised the Holy ONE of Israel and turned their backs on HIM.

The people are determined not to worship the covenant GOD of Israel.

Let’s read Isaiah 1:10-15:

10 Hear the word of the Lord, you rulers of Sodom! Listen to the instruction of our God, you people of Gomorrah! 11 “What are all your sacrifices to Me?” asks the Lord. “I have had enough of • burnt offerings and rams and the fat of well–fed cattle; I have no desire for the blood of bulls, lambs, or male goats. 12 When you come to appear before Me, who requires this from you— [this]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. trampling of My courts? 13 Stop bringing useless offerings. I despise [your]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. incense. New Moons and Sabbaths, and the calling of solemn assemblies— I cannot stand iniquity with a festival. 14 I hate your New Moons and prescribed festivals. They have become a burden to Me; I am tired of putting up with [them]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. . 15 When you lift up your hands [in prayer]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , I will refuse to look at you; even if you offer countless prayers, I will not listen. Your hands are covered with blood.

WOW!!! GOD is really angry with the people of Israel. HE compares them to Sodom and Gomorrah. The Israelites knew what happened to Sodom and Gomorrah. GOD was making a desperate effort to get their attention.

Don’t we, as loving and caring parents, make the same plea when we see our children going astray? We know the consequences of their actions. We try to prevent them from having to be hurt because we love them. But what happens? Often they must experience the pain of their actions, before they will repent and decide to turn their life around.

This takes a decision. GOD never overrides our right to choose.

Let’s see what disgusts GOD and makes HIM sick.

The Israelites were going through their worship activities. They were offering burnt offerings, they were observing all the rituals of worship yet GOD was not pleased. Why?

They were going through the motions of worship and their hearts were not in worshiping GOD.

WOW!!! Is this relevant today? You bet it is.

This opened my eyes to worshiping GOD with the wrong attitude and heart. How often do we go to church and sing hymns, give our money, take the LORD’S supper, pray, even lift up our hands to the LORD but our hearts are cold. We are going through the motions. It is the expected thing to do. We are putting on a show for our friends and GOD is getting sick.

This lesson is so vital to us today. If we harbor any ill will toward GOD that prevents us from worshiping HIM in spirit and truth, we need to confess it right now. If we harbor ill will toward a brother or sister, we need to confess it now. If we have unconfessed sin in our lives, we need to confess it now. Do not let a moment go by without laying all of our cares, concerns, questions and problems before the LORD. HE wants us to come to HIM with a pure heart. When we have a broken heart, HE wants to be the ONE to help us repair it.

When we worship our LORD this Sunday, let’s come to HIM with nothing hidden from HIM. HE will restore our joy of fellowship and worship of HIM.

Let’s read Isaiah 1: 16-20:

16 “Wash yourselves. Cleanse yourselves. Remove your evil deeds from My sight. Stop doing evil. 17 Learn to do what is good. Seek justice. Correct the oppressor.[6] Or Aid the oppressed Defend the rights of the fatherless. Plead the widow’s cause. 18 “Come, let us discuss this,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are as red as crimson, they will be like wool. 19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land. 20 But if you refuse and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.” For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.

GOD is telling the Israelites that nothing is impossible with HIM. Though your sins are like scarlet, they will be white as snow.

I did not realize until preparing for this lesson that the term “scarlet” means double dyed. Being an old textile man who worked in the dye house at one time, I know about dying cloth and fibers. When they double dyed cloth in bible times it meant the dye would penetrate to the core of the fiber. This meant the dye or the color would remain until the cloth wore out. In order to remove the color, you would destroy the fabric. However, GOD is saying HE is the only ONE WHO can take a double dyed fabric and bleach it white with out destroying the fabric. HE is the only ONE WHO can restore a life that has been changed by the things of the world to its original state.

GOD is telling the people of Israel to make a choice; repent of their evil doing and embrace HIM. As evidence of a change in their hearts put into action the things that please HIM. However, if you refuse, the consequence will be punishment.

So what is the message to us today?

Don’t sing songs, praise HIS name or lift your hands to HIM unless you mean it. Empty worship makes HIM sick.

Revelation 3:15-16:

15 I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish that you were cold or hot.
16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit[14] Or spit you out of My mouth.

If your worship is empty, then stop, confess it to GOD, repent and decide to let GOD control your life.

Verse 18 is a precious verse. It is a key verse, if you want to have an intimate loving relationship with GOD, through CHRIST. GOD is saying “Come let us discuss.” This is step one in building any relationship. Let’s sit together and discuss our relationship. Is there anything that we need to resolve or get into the open to remove any barriers, before we begin or continue building our relationship? We cannot harbor ill feelings and have a healthy relationship.

Who do we need to go to first? GOD! Do not hold back anything. Lay it all on the table. Give GOD the opportunity to help build the relationship with you.

The people of the Old Testament had GOD “with them” but we have GOD “in us”, through the saving grace of the LORD JESUS CHRIST. The people of the Old Testament were looking forward to the coming of CHRIST. Christians are enjoying the fact that JESUS has come and sent the HOLY SPIRIT to indwell each Christian. We have the joy of living in the light of this knowledge. We are anticipating and are looking forward to HIS return. But until HIS return, we are to be about HIS business.

GOD has equipped us with the HOLY SPIRIT to be HIS people and to obediently serve HIM. Christians are equipped; better than any people ever before, to serve HIM. Christians have no excuse not to serve HIM. Let’s be about HIS business!

GOD spoke through the Prophet Isaiah in the Old Testament. Through whom does GOD speak today?

GOD reveals HIS message through the pastors, evangelists, teachers and each Christian today. Since all Christians have the HOLY SPIRIT, what is GOD revealing through the living body of CHRIST the true church? This is why we must have a loving intimate relationship with GOD. GOD is speaking through HIS children all over the world today. What is HIS message through each Christian? When we listen to our brothers and sisters in CHRIST, what do we hear them say about what the LORD is revealing to them or teaching them or the work HE is leading them to join HIM in?

Do you want to live life to the max? Then begin by asking GOD to search your heart and reveal anything that is a barrier to worshiping HIM in spirit and truth and serving HIM.