Isaiah Chapter 63 Summary
Day of vengeance, and the fear and hope of the remnant of Israel.
Discussion Questions for Isaiah, Chapter 63
- The first part of Isaiah 63 describes God's judgment of Edom, the enemies of the Israelites. What imagery is used to depict the fierce judgment that came against the people of Edom? Why does God sometimes choose to judge severely and at other times be lenient or gracious to those who do evil? How would you respond to someone who said that God is unfair or unjust because of how He judges?
- Amid this indictment against the people of Edom, Isaiah writes the answer to the question, “Who is this...?” The answer is put in direct quotes and says, “It is I who speak in righteousness, mighty to save.” Why is God described in this way when He seems to be in the process of destroying and bringing this fierce judgment against them? What does this say about the character of God?
- What do verses 1-6 tell us about how God feels about those who come against His people and deal harshly and evilly with them? While this was God's choice of judgment, should we, as believers, wish the judgment of God upon others? Why or why not?
- Read verses 7-14 again. In these verses, we see praise and rejoicing at the remembrance of God's mercy toward Israel when He brought them back from exile after they had disobeyed and cursed God with little care for His presence, protection, and provision. How might you recall how God has been similarly gracious and merciful to you?
- Has there been a time when you (or someone close to you) turned your back on God (having already believed) and went astray? What did that time in your life (or their life) look like? Israel is often called, even commanded, to remember what God had done for them in their times of waywardness. How are God's mercies new for you every morning, even today?
- It is difficult sometimes to understand why God has done what He has done. In verse 14, it says, “...So you led Your people to make for Yourself a glorious name” (NASB1995). Does it seem strange that this verse says that at least part of God's motivation in saving and leading His people “is to make for [Himself] a glorious name”? Does this make God selfish or arrogant? Why not?
- Sometimes people feel that God hates them. Why might they think or feel this way? Read Isaiah 63:10 and Ephesians 4:30-32 and give some reasons why it can be a valid concern and what one might do to “fix” this thinking.
- What did it mean for the LORD God to be the “Father” of the Israelites? What does it mean for God to be your Father?
- We live in a day and age where father figures can sometimes not be the best people in our lives. How might we better understand what a father figure is supposed to be? If you are an adult male or even a father already, how can you work toward being a good father to your kids, or ones you may have in the future?
- Verse 18 says, “Your holy people possessed Your sanctuary for a little while; our adversaries have trodden it down” (NASB1995). The people were grieved that those who were coming against them were so antagonistic toward their God. How might we respond (both privately and publicly) when people are hostile toward God in our presence? How might we show them the love of Christ?
Key Words/Phrase
Day of vengeance, v. 4.
Characters
God, Christ, Holy Spirit, Moses, Abraham.
Strong Verse(s)
1
