Synopsis: Isaiah is the first of four books referred to as the “major prophets.” The term ‘major’ refers to the length of the book and is in no way a term that diminishes the importance of the books of the minor prophets which are so termed because they are short in length. As is true with all the prophetic books, Isaiah pronounces God’s judgement upon both Israel and Judah that will result in both nations perishing and just a remnant surviving. This judgement could be avoided if the people and their leaders would repent and follow the LORD with their whole heart. This book contains many prophecies of Jesus Christ and His coming to earth as Lord and Savior.
Chapters 1-12 records Isaiah’s commission to warn his people regarding their sins and the resulting judgement to come.
Chapters 13-23 are about the future punishment of enemy nations.
Chapters 24-27 is a prediction of the return of a remnant people to their land.
Chapters 28-35 is about not relying upon the nation Egypt for deliverance from Assyria.
Chapters 36-39 deals with the Assyrian invasion of Judea.
Chapters 40-48 contain words of comfort for the people.
Chapters 49-57 are Messianic in nature referring to Jesus Christ as a suffering servant of God.
Chapters 58-66 is about a vision of a restored people under the Messiah.
Key Verses: Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. Isaiah 1:18-20
Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bare a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14