Isaiah Chapter 57 Summary
Further ethical instructions. Sins of the people denounced
Discussion Questions for Isaiah, Chapter 57
- Who is the audience for this chapter? How many negative descriptions of the audience can you find that God uses? Why do you think God uses such accusatory and harsh language toward the audience?
- What sinful practices are listed here? Why do you think that God focuses on these certain sins among the people? What significance do these sinful practices hold in Isaiah's time and in our time today?
- What impact does it have for God to say in verse 16, "I will not always be angry" (HCSB)? How does this express God's promises of redemption and salvation? How does this contrast with humans' ability to forgive?
- What does it say about God that He forgives His people even when we go back to our sinful ways of life? How does this help us understand God's character more?
- What does verse 13 teach us about the contrasting nature between idols and God's power? In what ways have you put hope and trust in the things of this world rather than in God? How have you seen idols in your life leave you unsatisfied?
- What is the result for those who repent of their sins and turn to God? What is the result for those who continue to live in their sin and wickedness? How have you seen the blessings and results of repentance in your own life?
- Why does God compare sinful people to a "storm-tossed" sea (HCSB)? How does the chaos of this imagery contribute to our understanding of those who choose to live in sin?
- What is the significance of God comparing the people's spiritual lives to adultery in verses 7-9? How does this continue the comparison of the relationship between God and His people as a marriage? Why is adultery such a deeply hurtful sin?
- Do you sometimes feel forgotten or ignored? What do verses 1-2 teach us about the "righteous one" (HCSB) and God's awareness of us?
- Do we sometimes believe that we can "hide" our sins from God? What is the result of our sin in the presence of God?
Key Words/Phrase
Wicked, v. 21
Characters
God
Strong Verse(s)
15, 21
