Assyria conquered the Northern Kingdom and the question becomes “Will the Southern Kingdom of Judah be next?” King Hezekiah (of Judah) will be an example both of trusting in the LORD and falling into the same trap as Israel (i.e. Ephraim). Isaiah will continue to prophesy about judgement against those who have rejected the one true God for earthly treasure. This will lead into the narrative of King Hezekiah. The book of Hosea will end with more prophetic judgement against the spiritual adultery of Israel. However, God’s love and desire to redeem Israel is sprinkled in throughout the readings. The Big Picture reveals a voice crying out in the wilderness.
Each week, as you take in the Bible, find some friends to talk it out. You can follow this simple guide to help. First, R.E.A.D. and P.R.A.Y. on your own. Then, meet with friends to share what you've learned.
R - Repeated words
E - Examine and mark
A - Ask what you learn about God
D - Do if there is anything to do
P - Praise
R - Repent
A - Ask
Bible Plan Reading - Week 38
START IT.
We're reading the Bible together in 2024. Specifically, we're taking a journey into how the story of the Bible unfolded in the Old Testament. If we get the big picture, we get the story the Bible is trying to tell us. From Sunday's message or The Big Picture Bible Reading Plan this week in the book of Isaiah or Hosea, what is impacting you the most? Was there a word, phrase, Bible verse, or theme that impacted you?
STUDY IT.
Read Hosea 13:4-6,8. What was Israel’s (Ephraim’s) error against God?
Read Isaiah 31:1,3. What was so bad about the Israelites trusting in Egypt? Read Hosea 11:1 and 13:4. How is trusting in Egypt ironic?
Read Isaiah 37:1,20, 38:1-3. What did Hezekiah do when faced with national and personal catastrophe? What was his reasoning in Isaiah 37:20?
Read Isaiah 39:1-8. How does Hezekiah make the same error as Ephraim, while not with Egypt but Babylon? What was Hezekiah’s response to the future destruction of Jerusalem in Isaiah 39:8?
Read Isaiah 40:3, John 1:19-22, 29, and Matthew 3:4. Who was Isaiah prophesying about? Who was John announcing had come?
SHARE IT.
Read Hosea 14:8 and John 15:4. How is Jesus claiming to be God here? What does it mean to “abide” in God?
Read John 15:8-9. How does a Christian prove that they are really a disciple? Read James 2:17-18. How do these verses encourage or challenge you?
Read Isaiah 40:28-29. What behaviors, attitudes, actions start to come out when you are faint? What is the first red flag that might prompt you to quickly call out to the LORD for help?
Read Isaiah 40:12,17. How do these verse challenge or comfort you in light of the coming presidential election?
Read John 1:6-7. How does the way you steward your life bear witness about Jesus? Who has God sent you to that you might bear witness about Jesus?
FINAL THOUGHT
King Hezekiah is recorded in 3 different places in the Old Testament: Isaiah, 2 Kings, and 2 Chronicles. It must be an important story if referenced that many times. It is a turning point in Israel’s history. When it looks like King Hezekiah will lead the Southern Kingdom to endure, he falls to the temptation to trust in the security of the day. The more gold and military might a kingdom attained the more security it appeared to have. One of the worst realities was when King Hezekiah was told that judgement would come for lack of trust in the LORD. The king thought it was good because “there will be peace and security in my days.” He pretty much said, "Not my problem". What a contrast to the true King, Jesus. He made our problem His problem; sin. Jesus left security and became vulnerable. Jesus was crucified outside the gate of the city in order that we would have an eternal city. Jesus is working even today in the world to build His church until He comes back at the right time to establish His kingdom forever. I want a King like that.
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