Questions for Isaiah 7:1-14

Key verses 7:14

THE SIGN OF IMMANUEL

1. Who was Ahaz (1a)? How would you describe Judah’s situation based on the passages (1b, 5-6, 2 Kings 16:5-6)? How did Ahaz and his people feel emotionally in such circumstances (2)?
2. What words of encouragement did God give to Ahaz through the prophet Isaiah (3-4)? What promises and warnings did God give to Ahaz (7-9)? What might it mean for us today to stand firm during a crisis (9b)?
3. What offer did God make to Ahaz to help him (10-11)? Why do you think Ahaz chose to refuse God’s help (12, 2 Kings 16:7-9)? Despite this, why did God remain patient and continue to help the house of David (13, Rom 2:4)?
4. Even though Ahaz didn’t believe, what sign did the Lord Himself promise to give him (14)? How do you understand the role of a “sign” in this context? What does “Immanuel” mean (Mt 1:23)? What message do you think God is speaking to you and your community through this passage during this Christmas season?