Passionate Service in a Discouraging World

Isaiah began his work in 740 B.C. Prophesied for 40 yearsDuring the reign of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezikiah

Uzziah “did right in the sight of the Lord” (2Chron 26:4 ) As he became more and more successful he relied less upon God (vs. 7) and more upon himself (vs. 15) He was struck with leprosy all the rest of his days

Jotham “did right in the sight of the Lord” (2Chron 27:2)“but the people continued acting corruptly.”

Ahaz “walked in the way of the kings of Israel; he also made molten images for the Baals. Moreover, he burned incense in the valley of Ben-hinnom and burned his sons in fire, according to the abominations of the nations...He sacrificed and burned incense on the high places, on the hills and under every green tree” (2Chron 28:2-4). He also made a covenant with Assyria, gave them utensils from the house of God, and closed the doors of the temple (2Chron 28:24)

Hezekiah was a great reformer but…He became filled with pride later in life and “gave no return for the benefit he received, because his heart was proud” 2Chron 32:25Seemingly set the stage for the wickedness of Mannasseh

“…sinful nation, people weighed down with iniquity, offspring of evil doers, sons

who act corruptly...” Isaiah 1:4

“I am weary of bearing them.”

Isaiah 1:14

“the Lord God of hosts is going to remove from

Jerusalem and Judah both supply and support, the

whole supply of bread and the whole supply of water...”

Isaiah 3:1

“The Lord arises to contend, and stands to judge the

people”Isaiah 3:13

“Whom shall I send and who will go for Us?”

Why would anyone answer this call?Isaiah saw God’s greatnessIsaiah had a proper appreciation for the gift which God offered.Isaiah saw his own responsibility

Recognizing the Greatness of God

Isaiah was able gain insight into the spiritual realm God was depicted as on His throne (in control) despite the chaos on earthThe transcendence of God fills the vision

Recognizing the Greatness of God

The Seraphim demonstrated shame and respect at His very presence“Holy, Holy, Holy” the repetition serves as a superlativeThe shaking of the foundation symbolizes coming judgment

Recognizing the Greatness of God

We should be awed by the witnesses to God’s greatness

God’s creation (Psalm 19:1).God’s word (Psalm 19:7-9).God’s love and grace (Psalm 130:3-4).God’s Judgment (2 Cor 5:10-11).

Recognizing the Greatness of God

How do we reverence God?Obedience to His will(Matthew 7:21-23)Worship with reverence (Psalm 89:7)Respect God’s Word (Nehemiah 8:1-8)

Appreciating what God Alone can Offer

Isaiah saw his failings in God’s perfect HolinessHis response to this realization is immediate repentance and confession of his sinsThe result of Isaiah’s plea was forgiveness of his sins

Seeing our own Responsibility

The holiness of God and the demonstration of grace left Isaiah humbled and gratefulThese events caused Isaiah to renew his commitment and recognize his responsibilityThe details could not diminish his resolve to serve

Passionate Service in a Discouraging World Requires:

Our all (Matthew 13:44-46)Willingness to put God before any other (Luke 14:26)A heart that has received grace, will express grace (2 Corinthians 8:1-5)