The book of Isaiah contains some of the most beautiful imagery in all of Scripture, of the unfolding prophecy of a redeemed people. The message of salvation and hope to people at the ends of the Earth affirm the saving nature of our Heavenly Father. Except these words also serve as prelude to the imminent unravelling of Israel. It’s exile.

The Israelites had forgotten their true calling – the failed to look towards the one true God and failed to be a blessing to all the nations, in doing so, failed to reveal the creator of the Universe to all mankind and His heart for humanity. They had chosen idols over the one true God and chosen to serve the created order instead of God Almighty. God would hand them over to exile in Babylon as judgement and through their suffering, would renew Israel’s heart for God, and reveal the true God to the Babylonians.

Isaiah speaks of the harsh judgement and wrath of God Almighty, but not in a vindictive way, but rather, an exile that would be transformative, redeeming, and a renewing. Isaiah not only continues to serve as a warning for our nations today, but also the heart of God, who uses our suffering and exile purposefully and intentionally for all nations and peoples.

Join with the NewLife@Night service, as Lead Pastor Stuart Starr opens up the Scriptures.

[bible passage=”Isaiah 56:1-8″ heading=”h3″]

[bible passage=”Isaiah 60″ heading=”h3″]