Chapter Summary

Final redemption of Israel and punishment of oppressors.

Discussion Questions for Isaiah, Chapter 51

1. What is the significance of the author saying "Wake up!" (HCSB) multiple times? How does this relate to our spiritual lives today?
2. What does this passage teach about God's power and authority?
3. Can you find any instances of symbolism in the chapter? What are some examples? What is the purpose in using symbolism to express God's message?
4. Do you see a theme of forgiveness in verses 21-23? How does this compare to the descriptions of suffering mentioned throughout the chapter? What does this tell us about God's character?
5. How many times can you count the possessive pronoun "My" (HCSB) in the chapter? What is the significance of God claiming "ownership" of the different nouns that follow the word "My"?
6. In what year is Isaiah making this prophecy? What is happening that causes him to use the words "devastation and destruction" (HCSB) in verse 19? In what ways can we experience "devastation and destruction" in our own lives because of our disobedience?
7. Who or what is "Rahab" (HCSB) in verse 9? What is the significance of this reference? How does understanding God's supernatural power over creation bring comfort to our lives?
8. How do we see God as a Father in this passage? How do you see God's attributes as Father played out in your own life today?
9. Who is the primary audience for this passage? Why is it important to know to whom the chapter is being written?
10. Why do you think the word "joy" occurs repeatedly in this chapter? How does this help us think Biblically about our difficult circumstances?

Key Words/Phrase

Zion's comfort, vv. 3, 11.

Characters

God, Christ.

Strong Verse(s)

5, 7, 12, 13.