Read Isaiah 40:2–26
The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God
stands forever.
Isaiah 40:8
The book of Isaiah can be called “a Bible in miniature.” The thirtynine chapters in the first part of Isaiah may be compared to the Old
Testament books, and both focus primarily on God’s judgment of sin.
The twenty-seven chapters of the second part may parallel the New
Testament, and both emphasize the grace of God.
The “New Testament” section of Isaiah opens with the ministry
of John the Baptist (Isa. 40:3–5; Mark 1:1–4) and closes with the
new heavens and the new earth (Isa. 65:17; 66:22). At the heart of
the “New Testament” section of Isaiah’s book is our Lord Jesus Christ
and His sacrifice on the cross for our sins (52:13–15; 53:1–12). No
wonder Isaiah has been called “the evangelical prophet.”
As you study Isaiah 40—66, keep in mind that it was originally
addressed to a group of discouraged Jewish refugees who faced a long
journey home and a difficult task when they got there. Note how
often God says to them, “Fear not!” and how frequently He assures
them of His pardon and His presence. It is no surprise that God’s
people for centuries have turned to these chapters to find assurance
and encouragement.
Something to Ponder
In what ways do you relate with people who are discouraged and have
difficult tasks?