Isaiah - Introduction

The book of Isaiah is the first of the five 'Major Prophets' (so-called for the length of their books) It has 66 chapters and is divided into two major themes. In 1-39 the focus is primarily on the judgment God pronounces on Israel and the nations. In 40-66 the focus is on God's comfort and restoration of His people. Note: This parallels the Bible; 39 Old Testament books which give the LAW of God and Judgment and the 27 New Testament books which speak of God's GRACE and Salvation. Isaiah was called by God to proclaim His message of judgment and grace to His people. At various places, God's anointed (Holy One) is presented to the people as the only true way of salvation. Through Him, not only would sins be atoned for, but He would also be the One who would bring in the eternal kingdom of God. This foretold the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ in both His first and second comings.

Key Words: Salvation, the Holy One of Israel, holy, glory, judgment

Key Verses: 6:3, 40:1-5

Outline: (Consult a study Bible or commentary for outlines)

I.    Rebukes, Promises, and Calling 1-6
II.   Immanuel and His Kingdom  7-12
III.  Judgment Against the Nations 13-23
IV.   Judgment and Promises 24-27
V.    Six Woes on Israel and Assyria 28-33
VI.   Judgment and Promises 34-35
VII.  God's Dealings with Hezekiah 36-39
VIII. God's Comfort and Restoration of Israel 40-48
IX.   God's Servant and Israel's Restoration 49-57
X.    God's Glory through Everlasting Deliverance and Judgment 58-66 

or

I.   Judgment (poetry) 1-35
II.  Historical interlude (prose) 36-39
III. Salvation (poetry) 40-66
     (McGee)

or

I.   The Judgment of God 1-39
II.  The Deliverance of God 40-66
    A. The Supremacy of the Lord 40-48
    B. The Servant of the Lord 49-53
    C. The Future Plan of the Lord 54-66
     (C. Swindoll)