Chapter Summary

The burden of Damascus, foretelling destruction of cities of Syria and Israel.

Discussion Questions for Isaiah, Chapter 17

1. Damascus was the capital of Syria which formed an alliance with Israel against Assyria. Assyria would defeat both Syria and Israel. What was the prophecy involving Damascus really condemning? Why was this significant?
2. Israel, Ephraim, and Jacob are synonymous with one of the another. How does the prophecy concerning Israel fit into the narrative of the redemption of God's people?
3. Isaiah 17:7 said that Israel will look to their Maker after everything is destroyed. Why is it in humankind's nature not to look toward God for help until after everything is destroyed?
4. What is the lesson to learn from the statement in Isaiah 17 that they forgot the God of their Salvation and the Rock of Refuge?
5. What are some possible reasons or sins that might have led to the impending judgment on Damascus as mentioned in Isaiah 17:1-5? What does this demonstrate about God's protection of Israel? How should people or other countries treat Israel?
6. Paul is saved on the road to Damascus in the New Testament. Damascus is still a city today. So it was not destroyed as the prophecies foretold in Isaiah 17. How might the fulfillment of this prophecy in history, or its potential fulfillment in the future, affect our understanding of the reliability and accuracy of biblical prophecy?
7. Isaiah 17:12-13 describe the loud roar of the nations and peoples coming against Israel. Who takes the responsibility to rebuke the nations? What does this teach the believer about relying on God for protection?
8. What do the verses in Isaiah 17:12-14 reveal about the limits of human power and the ultimate sovereignty of God? How does our power compare to the sovereignty of God? How can we live our lives in awe and respect of the power and sovereignty of God?
9. Isaiah 17:5-6 mentions that the remnants of the Northern Kingdom of Israel would be like the gleanings of a field. Gleanings are few of the fruit of the harvest is left in the field. What does this symbolize about Israel? How does this fulfill God's promise to Israel?
10. Isaiah 17 continues the prophecies against the nations that surround Israel. How have these prophecies affected today's geopolitical relationships in the region today?

Key Words/Phrase

Woe, v. 12.

Characters

God.

Strong Verse(s)

7, 8, 12, 13.