Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 25

Isaiah 25

 

-This chapter is a song of praise for the victory of the LORD over all His foes. He is exalted and thanks should be given to His holy Name. He has worked wonders and performed His perfect plan with unadulterated faithfulness in completing His promises (Isaiah 25:1). God is strongest and will subdue any who go against Him. Because of this a strong people will glorify Him and even the ruthless nations will be forced to revere the LORD. He has been a defense for the helpless, a refuge from the storm, and a shade from the heat (Isaiah 25:2-4a). The wicked are compared to rain against a strong wall and secure wall as the LORD protects His own. He silences the song of the ruthless like a cloud shadows and gives protection from the heat of the sun (Isaiah 25:4b-5). The inclusivity of the Great King is extolled in verse six as He prepares a lavish banquet for all peoples of faith on His holy mountain. His covering is for all the nations (Isaiah 25:6-7). He will swallow up death for all time and will wipe away every tear from all faces who know Him as their Savior and Deliverer (Hosea 13:14, I Corinthians 15:54, Revelation 21:4). He removes the reproach of sin from all the people of the earth who trust in His redemption by His Word (Isaiah 25:8). In that day it will be said that He is salvation that we have waited for. We will rejoice and be glad in His rescue operation (Isaiah 25:9). While Moab (a symbol of going against God and His plan in trickery and pride) will be trodden down and destroyed, the Hand of the LORD will rest on Mount Zion and His people of faith (Isaiah 25:10-12). *Application* We who are His people will rejoice and will be glad for He alone is worthy to purchase our redemption through His shed blood and atoning sacrifice. Don’t forget the awesome benefits of being a child of God. He is victorious and gives His faithful bride the Kingdom! His covering is sufficient!

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 25:8

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 24

Isaiah 24

 

-The four chapters from 24-27 can be called “Isaiah’s Apocalypse” as he prophecies the coming destruction of the earth and its evil. The earth is laid waste by the sins of its people against their Creator. God distorts the surface of it and scatters the people of the earth. Things are turned upside down and twisted into a new order. At God’s word, the world is completely despoiled (to spoil, plunder, prey upon, seize). The earth mourns and withers, it fades along with all its exalted people who went against the way of the Almighty. These are the ones who pollute God’s creation by going their own way transgressing His laws, violating His perfect statutes, and breaking the everlasting covenant in disobedience (Isaiah 24:1-6, Revelation 9:20-21; 11:18).

-In poetic form the descriptions of the cursed world is portrayed in the remainder of the chapter proceeding on into the next three chapters. The joy of the civilization ceases as terror, pit, and snare are unavoidable (Isaiah 24:17-18). The earth is described as broken asunder, split through, shaken violently, reeling to and fro like a drunkard, and tottering like a weak shack because of its heavy transgression. God wants glory from the east to the west and eventually punishes those who resist His goodness. “The LORD of hosts will reign on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem, and His glory will be before His elders (Isaiah 24:23).” *Application* We are at enmity with God and under His wrath unless we come to Him on His terms. His terms that He has chosen are on the basis of faith. There is no way we could ever pay for all of our sins and transgressions against Him in our own-limited strength. This is the beauty of the gospel. Jesus made a way back to the Father and His grace by His sacrificial atonement. Receive Him by faith and have God’s merciful-eternal pardon from the destruction that is on the way. You own way has no chance of winning in the end.

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 24:4

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 23

Isaiah 23

 

-Isaiah began his oracles (burdens) against the nations of his region in the east with Babylon (Isaiah 13), but now finishes with Tyre and Sidon (Phoenicia) in the west along the Mediterranean Coast to the north of the Holy Land. This was a proud and prosperous ancient city and area that was absolutely famous for its trade and early language development. They had an enormously large merchant center because of their huge seaport, which increased their wealth to the point of extravagance and the proliferation of evil (Isaiah 23:3, 8). Tyre is continually rebuked by the prophets of God for their luxurious and idolatrous lifestyles (Jeremiah 25:22, 27; 47:4, Ezekiel 26-28, Joel 3:4-8, Amos 1:9-10, Zechariah 9:3-4). Here we see that the context of the message is to draw Israel’s dependence from this worldly alliance back into trust in the Sovereign LORD. Tyre and Sidon will be shamed, and her wealth and colonizing power will disappear at the plan of the Almighty. He is the One who defiles the pride of all beauty set up against His Kingdom. He despises the honored of the earth (Isaiah 23:9). He will restrain His judgment no more. He will stretch out His Hand over the sea and make the kingdoms tremble at His will. There will be no more exultation in this west coast land even if they try to make their escape to the island of Cyprus. They will find no rest for themselves. Assyria is coming to make waste of them and appoint their fortunes for desert creatures as an instrument of the LORD. The strongholds will be destroyed, and their trading partners, like Egypt and Tarshish (possibly Spain), will anguish and wail for them without being able to give support (Isaiah 23:4-5, 14). In that day, which can be speculated on as literal prophecy (either 700-630 B.C. or 605-536 B.C. when they were conquered) or possibly symbolic (a longer period of time which will extend into the eschaton), Tyre will be forgotten for 70 years. At the end of this period of ambiguity, she will return, but she will again go back to her harlot’s wages with all the kingdoms of the earth, which are set up against God. At this time, the LORD will set apart her gain and increase for “sufficient food and choice attire for those who dwell in the presence of the LORD (Isaiah 23:15-18).” *Application* The things of this world are passing away, but the glory of the LORD will last forever. Be a part of His eternal Kingdom and quit thinking in the temporary (1 Corinthians 7:31, Hebrews 1:10-12, James 1:10, 2 Peter 3:10, 1 John 2:17). God will use everything, including the produce of His enemies, to benefit and bless His chosen people of faith.

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 23:9

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 22

Isaiah 22

 

-The oracle concerning the valley of vision (Jerusalem of Judah). The question is asked, “What is the matter with you now (Isaiah 22:1)? The time for overthrow is approaching and Isaiah prophetically sees it. The rulers have fled together and have been captured without weapons. They are to turn away and weep bitterly in this time with no comfort in sight. “For the Lord God of hosts has a day of panic, subjugation, and confusion in the valley of vision, a breaking down of walls and a crying to the mountain (Isaiah 22:5).” Their defenses have been removed, breaches in the wall and siege is predicted. In all of this they did not turn back to the LORD their God to depend and take consideration of Him (Isaiah 22:6-11). Instead, when they were called by God to weeping, wailing, shaving the head, and wearing sackcloth in repentance, they made merry in their despair and feasted like there was no tomorrow. Because of this the LORD says, “Surely this iniquity shall not be forgiven you until you die (Isaiah 22:12-14).” *Application* The root problem is that sometimes we do not trust God’s power or His promises (Isaiah 56:12, 1 Corinthians 15:32). Instead of despairing or turning to self-indulgence in times of crisis, turn to God and realize that this life is not all that there is. We have the hope of the resurrection and a future in paradise with the King of Glory, Jesus Christ. Our proper response is to always believe whole-heartedly in God and His promise to include us in the new world that He will create, which is perfect, righteous, just, and holy.

-The LORD then tells Isaiah to go to a steward, Shebna, who was in charge of the royal household in Jerusalem. The message is harsh for this one who does not deserve to be there anymore because of his disobedience. The LORD is about to hurl him headlong in a firm grip and a tightly wound ball into a vast foreign country where he will die (Isaiah 22:15-18). His office will be deposed, and he will be brought down from his lofty station (Isaiah 22:19). The reason for this judgment can be assumed materialism along with the citizens of Jerusalem, or possibly his favoring of aligning with foreigners ignoring Isaiah’s advice to trust in the LORD alone. He was replaced by God’s servant Eliakim the son of Hilkiah. He will get the clothes and sash, secure in authority to become the father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and the house of Judah. The key of the house of David will be set on his shoulder. What he opens no one will shut, and what he shuts no one will open. He will be driven like a peg into a firm place and become a throne of glory to his father’s house with offspring and issue and all the vessels of worship from the bowls to the jars. But, then in that day the LORD declares that Eliakim too will falter and give way to be broken off and fall. He will be cut off, for the LORD has spoken (Isaiah 22:20-25). *Application* God raises up leaders and tears them down according to His overarching-transcendent will (Romans 13:1). Since the kingdoms of this world are ultimately under His control, it is always our most secure position to rest in Him and not seek alliances with the world. Again this goes back to trust in the Almighty.

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 22:5

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 21

Isaiah 21

 

-The oracles (burdens) of the three areas are covered quickly in this section. Babylon (the “wilderness by the sea”), Edom, and Arabia are prophesied over by the Word of the LORD for difficult times and overtaking by their enemies. These are harsh visions for “the treacherous one still deals treacherously and the destroyer still destroys (Isaiah 21:2).” Elam and Media are predicted to come up against Babylon and make an end to all the torment that she had caused. There would be anguish, pain like child birth labor, bewilderment, and terror. It makes the prophet’s mind reel and horror overwhelms him. His hope is dashed and he trembles at the scene. He, in prophetic language, is made a watchman and reporter paying very close attention to what will be coming. For “Fallen, fallen is Babylon; and all the images of her gods are shattered on the ground. God has made it known (Isaiah 21:1-10). I believe this is the prophecy of what happened in 539 B.C. as the Medes and the Persians invaded and can be cross referenced with Daniel 5. Babylon was a great and powerful city that fell because of her idolatry, witchcraft, and sexual immorality. They defied the Living God and opposed Him in their cultural practices. This is the reason for their destruction and judgment. There was no help for them because they would not realize the truth of the LORD’s way, even though He had sent them men like Daniel to help them turn. *Application* Do you allow the people in your life who are called by God to correct you a voice or not? Listen to prophetic warnings and turn your heart to God.

-Edom is denounced for not coming back to the LORD as well. God’s grace wants them to inquire and repent, but sadly they resist (Isaiah 21:11-12). The prophet Obadiah also foretells of this people’s destruction in far greater detail.

-Arabia is portrayed as a fleeing-frightened fugitive. Her might and splendor has vanished and will be terminated. Arabia’s militant and mighty remainder will be few in number, for the LORD God of Israel has spoken (Isaiah 21:13-17). *Application* Those who do not fear the LORD initially will eventually run scared from their enemies.

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 21:9

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 20

Isaiah 20

 

-Isaiah is asked of the LORD to go barefoot and naked as a sign and token against Egypt and Cush (Ethiopia). This happens in the year that the commander of Sargon II, the king of Assyria, was sent to fight against and capture Ashdod (711 B.C.). The prophecy is meant to reveal that the king of Assyria would lead away the captives of Egypt and the exiles of Cush, both young and old, naked and barefoot with buttocks uncovered to their shame. These two nations will be dismayed and ashamed because they hoped in themselves and did not seek after God. There will be no escape for them. This message was really intended to make Judah realize that they could not trust in foreign governments to save them either. *Application* God asked Isaiah to something that must have seemed ridiculously shameful and illogical. The LORD may also ask us to do some things that will indeed stretch us and evade our limited understanding. Will we obey God in complete faith at these times trusting that He is never wrong and will in the end uphold and make us His kind of success? God will never make you do something that is wrong to your long-term detriment, and He will always justify His actions in the final analysis. Trust Him in the meantime.

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 20:3

Kaleo Sermon Notes- Relationship Day 4

Shadow Casting

Our shadows are a direct reflection of who we are as light shines on us. There is no denying who we are in light of our shadow. God has a way of exposing us in His radiance. In other words, what is truly in us, in our heart, will come out as the fruits of our lives (Matthew 7:20, Luke 6:43-45).

What this means is that we have a great need to build relationships for the purpose of accountability in our lives. True friends will bring out the best in us because they can evaluate the fruit that is coming out of us in community. If we are willing to let them help us with our inevitable blind spots of weakness, we can grow and become more like Christ together as a family.

*Life Point* Don't be afraid of relationships in your life. Even though you may have been hurt in the past and realizing God's people aren't perfect, we do actually need each other for spiritual growth and progress in our faith. We are richer when we connect, build community, and show compassion!

Kaleo Sermon Notes- Relationship Day 3

Compassion

We must remember that we may be the only Bible someone ever reads. Our lifestyle matters to those around us. We must make the conscious decision to serve Christ in the way we live. It's all about meeting people at their point of need in Christ. Take a stand for Christ, fulfill His mission. Someone around you today needs His love, joy, and hope. Decide to be a vessel that will reflect His glory to those around you. Your attitude matters.

*Life Point* Lord take my life and let it be fully devoted to Your will, plan, and purpose for those around me who need You. Be selfless with total love!

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 19

Isaiah 19

 

-The oracle (burden) concerning Egypt. “The LORD will strike Egypt, striking but healing; so they will return to the LORD, and He will respond to them and heal them (Isaiah 19:22).” This section spans history with some coming promises of unification around the Savior (Messiah). First, Egypt will be melted with dread and fear because of the idols they have erected. Civil war will ensue and the spirit of the Egyptians will be demoralized within them. God will confound their strategy as they resort to their idols, ghosts of the dead, mediums, and spiritists. As a result and further, God will deliver the Egyptians into the hand of a cruel master, and a mighty king will rule over them. This will create an intense time of suffering and mourning from the Egyptians with scarcity and terrible grief (Isaiah 19:1-10).

-The wisdom of the Egyptian princes and advisers becomes foolish and stupid in light of the LORD and His purposes. Delusion overtakes the rebellious house of Egypt, and the LORD mixes within her a spirit of distortion that leads them astray in all that it does. Egypt becomes like a drunken man staggering in his vomit (Isaiah 19:11-14). God’s Hand will wave over them to bring a ceasing to their labor, and in that time Judah will become a terror to Egypt causing them dread and panic. This is the LORD’s purpose, and He will work it for good at the coming of His Kingdom (Isaiah 19:15-17).

-In that day, which is repeated over and over and over again for futuristic emphasis, five cities in the land of Egypt will be found speaking the language of Canaan and swearing allegiance to the LORD of hosts. One of these cities will be called the City of Destruction (some ancient manuscripts read City of the Sun). At that time there will be an altar to the LORD in Egypt and a pillar to the LORD near its border; for they will cry to the LORD because of their oppressors and create a sign and a witness to the true God. Then God “will send them a Savior and a Champion, and He will deliver them (Isaiah 19:20).” In that day as the LORD makes Himself known to Egypt, the Egyptians will relationally know the LORD and worship Him with sacrifice, offering, and vow. Not only this, but there will be a holy alliance now formed between the Children of God from Assyria, Israel, and Egypt. There will be a two-way highway from Egypt to Assyria, and they will worship God together. This triumvirate will be a blessing in the midst of the earth. The LORD calls them saying, “Blessed is Egypt My people, and Assyria the work of My Hands, and Israel My inheritance (Isaiah 19:18-25).” *Application* God’s desire is to redeem all situations and bless. Look to Him who is the LORD of all the earth. Cry out to Him who can save and deliver. He is waiting to show you that you too are a special blessing, a work of His Hands, and a receiver of His eternal inheritance.

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 19:22

Kaleo Sermon Notes- Relationship Day 2

Community

Discipleship is born in the context of relationship. Jesus spent quality time with His most trusted disciples and helped them understand who He was and what His Kingdom was about. Out of that came their testimony, which is recorded in Scripture. Their lives were deep because of their intimacy with the Savior. You don't love who you don't trust. You love who you trust, and you trust who you really know.

*Life Point* Get to know Christ and the people in His community, the Church. It will do you good!

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 18

Isaiah 18

 

-A message from the LORD is given to the land that lies beyond the rivers of Cush (Ethiopia). This is the repeated description of these people, “a people tall and smooth, a people feared far and wide, a powerful and oppressive nation, whose land the rivers divide (Isaiah 18:2, 7). The LORD will look from His dwelling place quietly like dazzling heat in the sunshine and a cloud of dew in the heat of harvest. Before the harvest He will cut off their sprigs with pruning knives to remove and cut away their spreading branches. Mountain birds of prey and the beasts of the earth will spend their summer feeding time and harvest time on these people as they are left slaughtered. At that time, a gift of homage will be brought to the LORD of host in Mount Zion. Ethiopia will side with God’s people (Isaiah 18:7). *Application* God calls out to you in the same way when you’ve been ravaged by the enemy. Will you bring Him His due honor, respect, and glory in your time of need. God allows suffering to draw you to His grace and salvation.

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 18:7

Kaleo Sermon Notes- Relationship Day 1

Connect

We are richer when we connect. The world seeks to divide and isolate us. Satan knows that when we come together unified in the Spirit of God, we are unstoppable. Realize the maneuvers of the devil to disconnect you from the Body of Christ. He will use anything he can to put you on an island of offense, jealousy, disagreement, and bitterness. Don't let it happen. Work through the events and issues that seek to separate you from the people you love. See their side, yield your selfish pride, and reconnect!

*Life Point* If their is disunity in any relationship, someone is not hearing or obeying God correctly. There is unity in the Holy Spirit.

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 17

Isaiah 17

 

-The oracle (burden) concerning Damascus, which was the capital of Aram who partnered together with the Northern Kingdom of Israel to resist the Assyrians in the time around 730 B.C.. Isaiah prophecies that this city will fall and be removed from being a city (Isaiah 17:1). This occurs with the taking of the city under Tiglath-pilneser in 2 Kings 16:9. Later the city was rebuilt, and remains to this day. Other cities of Aroer will also be forsaken by people leaving animals to live there, and the fortified city will disappear from Ephraim of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. God is declaring judgment on these idolatrous areas at the hand of the Assyrians (Isaiah 17:2-4).

-Now the prophet’s attention turns to Judah as their glory too is fading. Only a few olives will be left on the tree. “In that day man will have regard for his Maker and his eyes will look to the Holy One of Israel (Isaiah 17:7).” This is the remnant, which God leaves to restore His plan and purpose. These will disregard the idols of their own fleshly hands and look to their Creator. These will be broken and humble because their strong cities are forsaken and desolate. The reason for the judgment is because they had forgotten the God of their salvation and had not remembered the rock of their refuge. The people had erected alternatives to the true God with strange gods and idols, which they worshipped. This caused their harvest to be a ruinous heap and caused the days of sickness and incurable pain (Isaiah 17:5-11).

-In the last and brief section of this chapter, the LORD pronounces His disdain with the Assyrians themselves, who is the uproar of many peoples like the roaring of the seas and the rumbling of nations that rush in like mighty waters. God will rebuke them and they will flee away. “At evening time, behold, there is terror! Before morning they are no more.” This will be their portion and lot for the plunderers and pillagers from the north (Isaiah 17:12-14).” This prophecy parallels the narrative in 2 Kings 19:14-37 during the time of Hezekiah, when the Assyrians were threatening Jerusalem, but God struck them down in the night with His angel (2 Kings 19:35). *Application* Just when things may seem at their worst, God can immediately come through in ways you could never dream of, think, or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). Look constantly and expectantly to Him who is ultimately in control of your personal situation and the whole-wide world.

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 17:7

Kaleo Sermon Notes: Colossians 1:23

[Colossians 1:23 ESV] 23 if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.

The security of the believer is the perseverance of the believer. If the Holy Spirit indwells us with His saving work we will continue and abide in Christ Jesus throughout the journey of life (John 8:31, 15:5). God is faithful to those who believe and place their whole-hearted trust in the Savior's death, burial, and resurrection (Hebrews 10:23). In fact He remains faithful even when aren't (2 Timothy 2:13). This is a different state than those who have "tasted" and "partaken" of the Holy Spirit for a temporary experience and then fall away (Hebrews 6:4-6). These are the seeds who go into shallow-rocky soil and never are truly saved by God's grace (Matthew 13:5-6, 20-21). They only receive it with joy for a little while, but are not stable and steadfast in their devotion to the Lord and His gospel.

This plan of salvation has been "proclaimed" in various ways Paul says here "in all creation under heaven." God's plan is not hidden. He wants all to know Him and accept Him as Lord and Savior. Paul, because he knows the Lord in relationship, recognizes that because of the gift he received from Jesus he is now a minister, a servant, of the Living God. He spreads the good news and helps people come to the Savior. We should be about this same type of business if we have received Christ.

*Life Point* Don't ever shift from the hope of the gospel that you have heard. Be stable and steadfast in your relationship with Christ, the Savior.

Kaleo Sermon Notes: Colossians 1:22

[Colossians 1:22 ESV] 22 he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him,

What is reconciliation? How would you draw a picture of it or tell a story about it? Have you ever greatly needed to reunify with anyone in your life? Christ saves us and brings us back into God's good favor through a physical demonstration of His love for us on the cross of Calvary. He laid down His body for our benefit to purchase us back from eternal doom and destruction in hell. Because of His sacrifice we, through our faith in Him, can be presented saints, faultless, and without moral blemish in the coming judgment before our Heavenly Father (Hebrews 9:27-28).

*Life Point* I am perfect in the righteousness of Jesus Christ, my Redeemer!

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 16

Isaiah 16

 

-The oracle concerning Moab continues and is completed in this section of Isaiah. They are told wise advice by the LORD through the mouth of the prophet to send the tribute lamb to the ruler of the land of Zion for refuge and hiding from the enemy that is coming to destroy. This was the LORD’s mercy and provision at work if they would listen and obey (Isaiah 16:1-4).

-What I take as a Messianic reference comes in verse five. “A throne will even be established in lovingkindness, and a Judge will sit on it in faithfulness in the tent of David; moreover, He will seek justice and be prompt in righteousness (Isaiah 16:5).”

-This is compared to the excessive pride, arrogance, and fury of Moab, whose idle boasts are completely false. Moab will wail and be utterly stricken as their gladness and joy are taken away. Their fruitful field has been devoured by the enemy. There will be no more cries of joy or jubilant shouting when these things occur. They have wearied themselves upon the high places of false gods when they came in to pray to these idols. This heresy of religion will not prevail. Within three years from Isaiah’s writing, “as a hired man would count them, the glory of Moab will be degraded along with all his great population, and his remnant will be very small and impotent (Isaiah 16:6-14).” *Application* The LORD always gives the best advice. Listen and give heed to His Word confirmed by the Holy Spirit which indwells if you have believed and are a child of the King. This will give wisdom to guide, protect, and keep you during the course of your life. Rely on your own pride and arrogance and you will be destroyed eventually. The enemy wants to chew you up and spit you out with no joy or fruit. God gives you the choice. Please follow Him in humility and complete dependence. His way is the best! His way ends with victory!

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 16:5

Kaleo Sermon Notes: Colossians 1:21

[Col 1:21 ESV] 21 And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds,

Jesus said that everything we are about as human beings starts in the heart (Matthew 5:19). This is the seat of moral decision making, which is vitally connected to our minds and the way that we think. Before Christ comes in and gives us His heart and righteousness as a new creation in Him (2 Corinthians 5:17), we are alienated (we don't belong to God) and hostile (unfriendly, antagonistic, opposed) in our natural way of thinking and living. It is no wonder the lost do what they do. It is the normal state of existence in separation from the love of Christ and His new way to live.

We have to realize that we were all at one time in this state. We must be amazed by the fact that God's grace and mercy is sufficient to clear us from a guilty verdict in the case of our hostility and separation from His holiness. When we turn to Him in faith, what was ugly becomes beautiful and we gain His presence, which changes us from the inside-out.

*Life Point* "Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost, but now I'm found, was blind but now I see." - John Newton

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 15

Isaiah 15

 

-An oracle concerning Moab, which was Lot’s incestuous son’s people who settled east of the Dead Sea, is begun in this section of Scripture. Several names of fortified cities are listed to receive sudden and utter devastation. Weeping and sorrow will be the end result for this people who worshipped their idols Chemosh and Baal and made things hard for the children of Israel as they moved through their territory on their way to the Promised Land, and later antagonizing them (Numbers 22-24, Judges 3:13-14, Jeremiah 48). They will be overthrown violently and ruthlessly (Isaiah 15:1-9). *Application* We will always reap what we sow. Sow righteousness before the LORD your God and don’t turn to idols in your life. Follow Him all your days that it may go well with you (Deuteronomy 4:40; 6:18, Jeremiah 38:20; 42:6).

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 15:8

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 14

Isaiah 14

 

-This chapter, known as Israel’s taunt, declares the LORD’s salvation as He will have compassion on Jacob and again choose Israel settling them in their own land with strangers joining them in attachment. Israel will take their captors captive and will rule over their oppressors. The LORD will give them rest from their pain, turmoil, and harsh service from their punishing enslavement. They will take up a taunt against the king of Babylon declaring their victory from oppression and fury since the LORD has broken the staff of the wicked. The whole earth will be at rest and will be quiet and break forth into shouts of joy (Isaiah 14:1-7).

-The king of Babylon can be interpreted as literal with some implications to Satan himself as we observe the chapter especially in verses 12-14. God is shown as bringing this tyrant down in His supreme authority. The oppressor is depicted as falling from heaven as a once bright morning star of the dawn. This one has been cut down to the earth in the LORD’s chastisement. This evil one has weaken the nations and lied in his heart about ascending back to heaven and raising his throne above God’s. This one seeks to make himself like the Most High. All of this wrecks of satanic descriptions and can be taken as the evil one himself, who is the power and influence of Babylon in biblical symbolism, history, and prophecy.

-It is gratifying to see in the passage that the LORD will thrust this terrible one down to Sheol, to the recesses of the pit (Isaiah 14:15, Revelation 20:1-3). Those who see this event will gaze at this one and ponder over him, saying, “Is this the man who made the earth tremble, who shook kingdoms, who made the world a wilderness and overthrew its cities, who did not allow his prisoners to go home (Isaiah 14:16-17)?” While the kings of the earth lie peacefully in their tombs with glory, this one will be “cast out of his tomb like a rejected branch clothed with the slain who are pierced with a sword, who go down to the stones of the pit like a trampled corpse (Isaiah 14:19).” This one will be divided from his fellow kings in the grave because he ruined his country and left his people slain. God has risen up against Babylon and the offspring of these evildoers are not to be mentioned forevermore. These will not arise and take possession of the earth, but be destroyed by the Almighty (Isaiah 14:20-23).

-Vengeance against Assyria, Philistia, and all the nations completes the oracle in this chapter. God will allow no one to frustrate His plans or intentions. He will help the helpless and make a way for His people. “The LORD has founded Zion, and the afflicted of His people will seek refuge in it (Isaiah 14:24-32). *Application* We must realize the power of God over His creation and that all events are under His authority. Don’t be weighed down by the evil, which is in this world. He has and will overcome all that comes against Him and His people. Rest child of God, rest and be secure in Him. Fear Him and take courage.

 

Verses to Memorize: Isaiah 14:12-15

Kaleo Sermon Notes: Colossians 1:18-20

[Colossians 1:18-20 ESV] 18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.

The text makes a move to the spiritual realm here in verse 18 as we see Jesus as the spiritual and authoritative Head of His Church. He controls the body, supreme, or having first place, in everything. Just like the head in our body, which controls and dictates what will happen in our thinking and actions, Jesus takes responsibility to direct His followers in the Church. He will present us spotless before the Father because of His righteousness that we can partake of by faith (Philippians 3:9, Colossians 1:22, Jude 1:24). He is the original resurrection and the life (John 11:25).

Again we see in verse 19 that Jesus is God and possesses all the fullness of the Father in His incarnation (the embodiment of God the Son in human flesh). In other words, He shows us who the Father is on our level.

Finally we see that Jesus is in the reconciling business in verse 20. He makes peace with all of us who have sinned against God through His sacrificially shed blood. Heaven and earth now have the unique opportunity to "connect" through the cross of Jesus Christ!

*Life Point* Christ is God who leads us into perfect union with Himself bringing the glory of Heaven to earth.

Kaleo Sermon Notes: Colossians 1:15-17

[Colossians 1:15-17 ESV] 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.

Jesus is the visible, tangible, physical manifestation of God on this earth. This is what incarnation means. He came out of eternity into our natural realm just over 2,000 years ago, lived among us taking on limitations and empting Himself of certain Divine qualities while still maintaining His Deity (Philippians 2:5-8). The present active verb shows us that He is the great "I AM" as the preeminent (above all) One in all the universe.

Not only this, but we see Jesus as the Creator of everything. In other words, He is truly God in every sense. He has all dominion, authority, and control over His creation. All has been created through His power and for His glory.

Finally, Jesus, the God-man, holds all things together. He is the sustainer. Think about what we now know about the splitting of the atom and the catastrophic-explosive consequences this breaking apart causes. God's perfect order is maintained by His strength here on the earth and in the universe. Thank Jesus for His ability to keep everything together.

*Life Point* Jesus, You are God. Keep my life together with Your strength and take complete control of me. I give you my life because I can trust in You.

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 13

Isaiah 13

 

-The prophecies now turn from Judah, and to a lesser extent the Northern Kingdom of Israel, to the kingdom of Babylon as an oracle that basically goes from chapter 13 to chapter 23 is expressed. Isaiah really sees this vision coming in a future time before anyone else humanly speaking. God’s anger will burn against this pagan nation who has set itself up against Him after having no regard for Him even though they were used as His instrument of discipline upon His people. He will gather the nations to them for uproar and fury in judgment as His new instruments of indignation to destroy the whole land of Babylon [present day Iraq] (Isaiah 13:1-5). This event is described as “the day of the LORD,” which is repeated throughout Scripture with diverse implications. This will indeed be a time when Babylon knows that its strength has failed them. Their hands will fall limp, their hearts will melt, they will be terrified, pains and anguish will take hold of them, they will writhe like a woman in childbirth labor, and they will look at each other in astonishment seeing their faces aflame [possible nuclear war depiction] (Isaiah 13:6-8). Yes, the LORD’s day is coming, “cruel, with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation (Isaiah 13:9).” The stars of heaven and their constellations will not flash forth their light, and the sun will be dark when it comes up in the sky. Nor will the moon shed its light at night. Thus, God will punish the whole world for its evil and the wicked for their iniquity. He will put an end to the arrogance of the proud and the haughtiness of the ruthless (Isaiah 13:10-11). Babylon will have fewer mortal men in it than pure gold as He makes the heavens tremble and the earth shaken from its place at His fury in the day of His burning anger. People will flee to their homelands, and any found will be annihilated. Not even the young or the pregnant will escape the torturous time (Isaiah 13:12-16). This has aspects of the Medo-Persian demolition, but undoubtedly there are some references here to the end of days on the earth and the great tribulation. Prophecy works like that often in Scripture with double meanings and varying levels of fulfillment. The Medes are mentioned explicitly in verse seventeen. They will come and conquer (which we know to be true in history) with no regard for silver or gold. They are a ruthless invader who do not consider the young or the pregnant. For the Babylonians, who had lifted themselves up in arrogant defiance of the Living God, their destruction was akin to the overthrow of Sodom and Gomorrah (Isaiah 13:18-19). Desolation is again prophesied from generation to generation as animals inhabit the land. This particular part of the prophecy was said of the LORD to be coming soon as the fateful time of Babylon with no prolonging of her days (Isaiah 13:20-22). The wonder of the world, which was Babylon in her glory, was indeed swept away with fascist action in a blitzkrieg of fury. *Application* Their example for us is in their highfaluting disdain for the LORD of the Universe. Anything or anyone who sets themselves up against God is doomed from the beginning even if it seems to be successful in the beginning stages. Only the fear of the LORD is the true beginning of knowledge and wisdom (Psalm 111:10, Proverbs 1:7; 9:10).

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 13:6

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 12

Isaiah 12

 

-The thanksgiving of God’s great work, which will happen “on that day” and “in that day”, is expressed in this brief and beneficial chapter of biblical prophecy. Notice that the LORD’s anger is turned away from His people of faith at this time. Notice that His comfort is tangible in the expression of raw and jubilant emotion with singing and praise. Notice that God is the source of salvation and that it is by trusting in Him without fear. Notice that His great Name is to be made known, along with His deeds, among all the peoples (ethnic groups, nations). This is the missionary effort, which is so vital to propagating His truth. This short little passage has it all! *Application* Our salvation through Jesus Christ is the means to all joy, hope, singing, and praise unto our good and great Heavenly Father. Express yourself to a world that is lost and dying, afraid of the future, and without a hope or destiny. You have the answer. Believe in the God that will turn away from His wrath against sin and save those who humbly come to Him in repentance. He is great in our midst. OOOOOO Praise the LORD!!!!

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 12:2

Kaleo Sermon Notes: John 17:24-26

[John 17:24-26 ESV] 24 Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you, I know you, and these know that you have sent me. 26 I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them."

The Messiah has a desire for us that we see in His words here. His desire for His disciples is to be where He is. Where exactly is this? If we look closely, we see that where He is is in relation to the Father. He knows the Father in perfect union by faithfulness and dependency. The world does not know Him, but Christ Jesus does and wants us to be like Him in this respect. Do you know that God sent His Son to seek you out and save you with His incredible loving sacrifice? He has and will continue to make this fact known for the purpose of love and unity.

*Life Point* Father God wants unity with us in an intimate relationship. Let Him be your influence, guide, friend, and savior. Jesus loves you! Christ in you is the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27)!

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 11

Isaiah 11

 

-Isaiah’s words from the LORD in chapter eleven reveal the coming of the Righteous Branch from the stem of Jesse that will bear fruit of the LORD’s Spirit, wisdom, understanding, counsel, strength, knowledge, fear (fear of the LORD, awe, reverence), proper judgment, fairness, righteousness, faithfulness, and recompense (Isaiah 11:1-5). This is a Messianic prophecy, which shows the heart of God’s Son as well as His mission to redeem the earth. This has already been initiated in part at the first incarnation, but will be totally accomplished at the return of Christ Jesus in consummation. In this completed future is when we will see the wolf dwelling with the lamb, the leopard lying down with the young goat, and the calves, lions, and fatlings together, etc... We will also see a change in the viciousness of animals towards humans as we see in this passage with colorful language depicting the scene in this new utopia. “They will not hurt or destroy in all My holy mountain. For the earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea (Isaiah 11:6-9).” In that day of Messiah’s reign the nations will resort to the Root of Jesse, who is a signal for the peoples, and His resting place (in Zion) will be glorious (Isaiah 11:10).

-One other thing that Isaiah imparts here in the chapter is the fact that the restored remnant of God’s chosen people will again, for a second time with His Hand, be brought back from the various parts of the earth into their homeland of promise. “He will lift up a standard for the nations and assemble the banished ones of Israel and will gather the dispersed of Judah…(Isaiah 11:12)” Ephraim (the Northern Kingdom of Israel) at that point and time will no longer have animosity and jealousy toward their brother Judah, and Judah will no longer harass Ephraim. In other words there will then be complete unity and peace with God’s people. Together they will take care unresolved business with the Philistines in the west and the sons of Edom, Moab, and Ammon in the east. These peoples at that time will be subject to them as the LORD utter destroys the tongue of the Sea of Egypt and dries up the seven streams so that men can walk over it in the south, much like the days of the Exodus. Finally, a highway will be made from Assyria in the north to return for the remnant of the people left. God is gathering His people back from the four corners of the earth fulfilling His covenant promise to Abraham (Isaiah 11:11-16). *Application* Until Shiloh comes is the original word that was given to Judah for authority and dominion through the Righteous Branch, the Messiah, Jesus Christ (Genesis 49:10). These Names of God excite us who are faithful because we know that better times are coming and that as Gentiles we too can be grafted into His promise for the nations (Romans 9-11). He is restoring all things into Himself. The Kingdom of God rules!!!

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 11:9

Kaleo Sermon Notes: John 17:21-23

[John 17:21-23 ESV] 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.

The reason for this "oneness" that Jesus speaks of here to His disciples is to solidify a BOND in His Kingdom. The unity of heaven has now come to earth with the sacrificial death of the Savior and the sending of His Holy Spirit to indwell (or take up residence) in the believer. This union, simply put, is the glory (shining radiance) that God gives His children. If the lost world sees this fusion of God and fellow believers living together in love, it will lead them to believe in the goodness of God and awakening occurs. It goes along with the new commandment that Christ gave (John 13:34-35). This is how we become "perfectly one."

*Life Point* "When love is in the house, the house is packed"- Toby Mac

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CM9yodm0vWw

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 10

Isaiah 10

 

-God will not let His anger turn away nor will He let His Hand not be stretched out against Assyria as well because of their haughtiness and evil practices. This nation would shortly be cut down by the Babylonian Empire, never to be a world power again. The LORD used this nation as an instrument of His discipline upon His people and the surrounding nations, but their time of recompense would come for all to see. Woe is pronounced upon Israel and all who: enact evil statutes, constantly record unjust decisions, deprive the needy of justice, rob the poor of their rights, take spoil from widows, and plunder the orphans (Isaiah 10:1-2). These will have no place to leave their wealth in the day of punishment as their devastation comes from afar. They will have no one to flee to and they will abide with the captives or fall among the slain (Isaiah 10:3-4).

-God uses an excellent illustration to portray how He used the Assyrians and why they should never have become arrogant. The axe does not boast of what is has done to the one who chops with it, nor does the saw exalt itself over the one who wields (uses) it. That would be like a club wielding those who lift it or a rod of wood lifting the user of it (Isaiah 10:15). God exudes the fact that He is sovereign and how He will now prove His point with this prideful nation of Assyria. He will destroy them with a wasting disease in their stout warriors and show Israel who their true Savior is. Assyria’s downfall came in 612 B.C., long after their repentant revival in the time of Jonah, when Nineveh fell to an allied army composed of Medes, Persians, Chaldeans, Babylonians, Scythians, and Cimmerians who besieged and sacked it. Once Assyria’s army was destroyed, a remnant group of God’s people stopped relying on their earthly power and gravitated back to a supernatural source in their LORD. Although it was only a fraction of the people (see Isaiah 11:10-16) who returned to Judah, the LORD was with them keeping His covenant (Isaiah 10:20-27).

-The remaining verses map out basically the path that Assyria would take in invading the Holy Land when they took over the Northern Kingdom and threatened Jerusalem (Isaiah 10:28-34). *Application* God will eventually punish the fruit of anyone who has an arrogant and hard heart with self-absorbed pomp and splendor in haughtiness (Isaiah 10:12). Those who rely on the power of their own hands and their own worldly wisdom, who think they can rely on their own understanding so as to change things by their own way with evil intent and practices will be brought down in judgment by the King of the Universe who has all power and authority (Isaiah 10:13). You cannot outflank God. He rules, so be humble and submissive. His plans are the only ones that will succeed in the end, so join His side of things. You’ll find that He is good and His rewards last eternally. Count on this truth!

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 10:20

Kaleo Sermon Notes: John 17:18-20

[John 17:18-20 ESV] 18 "As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. 20 "I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word,"

Yesterday we saw that it is the Word of God that sanctifies (sets apart) us in the truth of the fullness of God. Today we see that Jesus has "sent" His disciples, past, present, and future into the world with His good news. Jesus was consecrated (separated from profane things to be dedicated to God) for our sake that we may be able to... 1. be saved from the eternal punishment and wrath of God, and... 2. be sent out into the world with the gospel of His saving grace.

To be sent means that we have a sacred duty to impart truth and love to all those in which we come in contact through the course of our daily journey. Imagine if every Christian believer woke up every morning with the understanding that God was sending them into their day with a mission to further His Kingdom on this earth through their grace, mercy, love, self-control, gentleness, faithfulness, joy, and witness, etc. This is the heart of what Jesus speaks here. Because He has given up His life and set it apart for something extraordinary and special, we also have the privilege each day of laying down our lives at His feet and serving Him, wherever that may take us. We are "sent" at His direction and for His purposes.

*Life Point* Lord thank you for sending me into this world each day of my life with your awesome message of hope and deliverance. May I obey everything you send me to do for the sake of other people who need Your love and salvation.

Bible Study Notes in Isaiah- Chapter 9

Isaiah 9

 

-This is a powerful Messianic chapter depicting where the Messiah will minister and relating several of His Divine Names. He will serve in the lands of Naphtali and Zebulun, which had been treated with contempt by the LORD in earlier times, but from this Galilean region a Light would come to the people who walk in darkness. This Light will shine on them and reveal salvation. There will be multiplication of this nation (Kingdom), an increase in the people’s gladness, and an experiencing of the presence of the Almighty. It will be like a time of harvest where men rejoice with the sharing of the produce. The rod of oppression will break off of their shoulders and victory will be prominent (Isaiah 9:1-5). This child (which is the incarnation of Christ Jesus) will be born to His people Israel and the government will rest on His shoulders (future world domination). His Name will be called Wonderful Counselor (exceptional, distinguished, without equal in giving advice and comfort), Mighty God (Co-equal with the Father, He is Lord, all-powerful, Creator), Eternal Father (the “I Am,” self-existent, from forever past and forward to forever future, timeless), and Prince of Peace (Reigns with justice and shalom). There will be no end to His government once it is initiated, and He will sit on the throne of David in his eternal line (2 Samuel 7:16) over his kingdom. It will be upheld with justice and righteousness forevermore by the zeal of the LORD of hosts (Isaiah 9:6-7).

-God then sends a message against Jacob and Israel on account of their pride, which all the people know in their heart of hearts. Though their bricks fall down, they rebuild with smooth stones. Where there sycamores have been cut down, a replacement with cedars. In other words, they do not receive the LORD’s corrective disciple and continue to resist His ways. For more prophetic interpretation of this phrase see http://www.theharbinger-jonathancahn.com/ for an interesting application. God is coming against His people with enemies from Rezin, the Arameans of the east, and the Philistines on the western side. The phrase “His anger does not turn away and His hand is still stretched out” is repeated three times (a God number for completion) to relate the total unacceptance of the rebellious people that God is dealing with. They do not seek the LORD to turn back to Him. They listen to bad leadership and go astray. They are guided into confusion by them, which eventually takes God care away from them to teach them a valuable lesson. Every mouth speaks foolishness, and they are godless in their evildoing. War and violence will descend upon these as the fury of the LORD burns against them (Isaiah 9:8-21). *Application* God is always opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5). If God is trying to get your attention to correct your wayward actions, listen and obey. There is no good reason for you to keep His anger from turning away from you and His arm to keep stretching out against you. Repent and trust in Him. His grace will be sufficient. Jesus has given us everything we need for righteousness and peace in our lives. Join His eternal Kingdom under His authority.

 

Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 9:6

Kaleo Sermon Notes: John 17:17

"Sanctify them in the truth; Your Word is truth." - Jesus

Pastor Russell did a phenomenal job last Sunday explaining what it means to be sanctified, or set apart, as a special object of God's care and love. This set apart life is becoming more and more like Christ in every way. The way that we can do that, as we observe in this verse, is through His Word, spoken by Him directly in the Bible. Not only can we read His Word and meditate on it through the course of our days, but we will soon begin to recognize His Spirit's still-small voice in our fellowship with Him in our thoughts. If we are becoming thoroughly saturated in His Word, we will find that we are actually cultivating the "mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16)." This is a remarkable opportunity for the believer. He will lead us in the right path, the path of truth, as He sets us apart from the darkness of the world into His everlasting light.

*Life Point* Drench yourself in the Word so that you will be set apart in Christ to avoid being deceived in this world.