Dec 11 – 3 Advent
Isaiah 35:1-10
The Return of the Redeemed to Zion

Background: The first 39 chapters of Isaiah are considered a unit, typically referred to as First Isaiah. In this section, Isaiah prophesies against the Israelites and lays out God’s complaint against God’s chosen people. The first five chapters primarily contain oracles or visions against the Israelites. In this, the prophet sets the stage for coming judgment against the people of Israel.

Theme: In this passage God promises and affirms that God is still sovereign even when it appears other, earthly rulers are in charge. This passage describes the true grandeur of God and provides assurances of restoration – most likely after the exile.

Questions to Ponder:
* Read Isaiah 35:1-10.
* Briefly describe the political, social, and religious situation in Israel for this passage.
* As you read the text describe the imagery used in the different sections of this passage; verses 1-2, verses 3-4, verses 5-7, verses 8-9, and verse 10.
* What do you think the message of those different sections is supposed to portray? How might this passage provide hope to Israel in their current situation (in exile)?
* Some scholars feel this chapter and the preceding chapter are out of place and should be the opening two chapters of Second Isaiah. Given what you understand about the messages of First and Second Isaiah (chapters 1-39 and chapters 40-55) why might this be the case? How might the placement be intentional? What difference does it make?
* What previous portion of the Old Testament does this section re-image or re-introduce? What differences are there between the former and the present sections?
* If this passage is supposed to evoke a remembrance of the Exodus, why do you think that remembrance would be important to Israel? What is the difference between the original Exodus story and this passage?
* Why might this passage convey that Israel is like a scared nation? Is there a reason for Israel to be afraid in their current situation? How might that be affected by the future?
* What is the theological implication of a journey in the wilderness?
* How might this message be a story or reflection of hope to the people of Israel in exile in Babylon?
* How does this passage translate into a message of hope for us today?
* What challenges do we face in making this story a reality for our church and society?