This week, we will continue through the first half of Isaiah, covering chapters 19 through 23. The chapters this week continue the pronouncements of  God’s coming judgment on the nations surrounding Judea and can be hard to follow.

Don’t forget to check out the Rooted Facebook page for a bit more discussion on each chapter.


Discussion Questions:

• What day is Isaiah 19:23-25 looking forward to?  What will the world be like then?

• Did God really have Isaiah go around naked for three years? (Isa. 20:2-3) What purpose did this serve?

• Why has Isaiah’s hope turned into fear? (Isa. 21:4) 2 Kings. 20:12-13 can help with this, along with this web page: https://www.worldhistory.org/article/745/the-mutual-destruction-of-sennacherib--babylon/ 

• Isaiah 22 is describing the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians. What does Isaiah 22:8-11 say about where the people of Jerusalem fell short in their defense?

• Isaiah 23 describes the destruction of the city of Tyre. Who is it that planned for this destruction? (Isa. 23:8-9)



Some Answers to Last Week's Questions:

• Who is being referenced in Isaiah 14:12-15? – While some see this as the fall of Satan, it is more likely, given the surrounding context, about the king of Babylon.

• Who is Moab? And what is their relationship to Israel? (Isa. 15:1, Gen. 19:36-37) – Moab descended from one of Lot’s (the nephew of Abraham) sons.

• What is going to happen to Moab? (Isa. 16:14) – They were facing imminent destruction. And there would be few survivors.

• What will happen on the day of judgment for Syria and Israel? (Isa. 17:7-8) – Their punishment will turn the few survivors back to the worship of God.

• Who is the subject of Isaiah 18:7? And what are they doing? – The subject of this verse is uncertain, but Assyria is the most likely candidate. Cush is also a possibility. Whoever it is, in the future, they will be bringing gifts to God at Jerusalem.



Prayer: Heavenly Father, as I read these chapters, they seem heavy, but they remind me that You see everything, and nothing escapes Your justice. Where I’ve relied on my own plans or strength, I give you permission to redirect me. Where I’ve been distracted or complacent, please wake me up. Give me a heart that takes You seriously—but also trusts You deeply. And help me anchor my hope in the future You’re bringing, where all people will know Your name.
Please help keep me grounded in You today. Amen.


Helpful Resources:


• Rooted Facebook Group for online sharing and further exploration 


• Bible Project Old Testament overview videos 

• Bible Gateway, a Bible app with many translations and some other free helps

• A Clay Jar Devotionals