Divine Sovereignty and Assyrian Responsibility

Isaiah 10:5-34

Sermon Notes:

1) God uses evil instruments to judge His unfaithful people, 5-11

2) God sees the evil of His evil instruments, 12-19

3) As God judges His unfaithful people, God preserves a faithful remnant, 20-27

4) As God judges His unfaithful people, God also judges His evil instruments, 24-34

Reflection questions:

1. Read Habkkuk 1 (especially v.13) and Ps 73 (especially vv. 3-4, 13, 16-17). What question did Habakkuk and Asaph, the author of Ps 73, struggle with? What was their comfort?

2. Read Acts 2:23. Who killed Jesus? Whose plan was it? Who is held responsible or guilty for it? What is the solution or atonement for that guilt? (See Acts 2:36- 41.)

3. One of Isaiah’s sons (see Is 7:3) had a funny name, which meant, “A remnant shall return.” Some have pointed out that the word “return” could also be translated “repent.” Where is the comfort in knowing “a remnant shall return”? Where is the call for action in “a remnant shall repent”?