Bible Study                                     Notes 2000

15 February 2000

Text: Isaiah 14:28-16 (Cf. Psalm 83) 

PROPHECIES AGAINST THE ENEMIES OF GOD'S PEOPLE

 

Philistia Isaiah 14:28-32 (Cf. Judges 14-16; 1 Sam 17)

1. In the reign of King Ahaz, Judah was a "rod" against the Philistines

2. On the death of Ahaz, Philistia's joy was at best a "shortlived" one

 

Moab Isaiah 15-16

1. The total destruction of Moab prophesied Isa 15

2. Reason for the destruction of Moab - Pride Isa 16:6

 

Syria Isaiah 17

1. Destruction prophesied

2. Reason for destruction of Syria - Idolatrous practices Isa 17;8

 

Ethiopia Isaiah 18

1. Downfall prophesied

2. Reason - Presumably "pride in power" because of the power of Ethiopians Isa 18:2

 

Egypt Isaiah 19

1. Downfall prophesied

2. Reasons

a) Idolatrous practices

b) Occultic practices (mediums, sorcerers Isa 19:3)

 

A PECULIAR/PUZZLING PROPHECY CONCERNING THREE NATIONS

 

Egypt     Isaiah 19:18-22

1. Though Egypt will be punished

2. Redemption will be given

3. In turn Egypt will be a blessing to Assyria

 

Assyria     Isaiah 19:23

1. Assyria will be allied to Egypt (they were sworn enemies at this time)

2. They will tie up with Israel and offer worship / service to God

 

Israel     Isaiah 19:24

1. Israel will be living in harmony with Egypt and Assyria

2. This is most likely a spiritual rather than a political alliance

 

AN ACTED-OUT PROPHECY         Isaiah 20

1. Isaiah as a "sign and wonder" Isa 20:3; Cf. Isa 8:18

2. Isaiah as a captured prisoner, paraded in shame Isa 20:3