Isaiah, based on his vocabulary (among other things), was a well learned Bible Prophet. This reminds one of the erudite Moses as well! (Definition: “having or showing great knowledge or learning,” from the Latin “erudire” meaning “to instruct or train.”)
Isaiah was a married man with one Wife and two sons, all mentioned in his Book, his Writing. He lovingly calls her “the prophetess!” (Isaiah 8:3 … “And I went unto the prophetess; and she conceived, and bare a son. Then said the LORD to me, Call his name Mahershalalhashbaz.” By the way, this is the longest name in the Old Testament!)
He is mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, numerous times. But even in the Old Testament Book of Chronicles! “Now the rest of the acts of Uzziah, first and last, did Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, write.” And this is just one example, 2 Chronicles 26:22.
Isaiah’s Ministry centered largely on the Kingdom of Judah, the Monarchy, he being (in the truest sense of the word) a “court” Preacher. He knew King after King personally! He associated with Royalty!
Isaiah (best I can calculate) is quoted more in the New Testament than any other single Old Testament Prophet! Quite an honor! John, Paul, Matthew, Luke and Jesus … all use this great man’s Material, either verbalizing him directly or (at least) mentioning him by name.
Speaking of his name, Isaiah … it’s a blend of two short Hebrew words (“yasha” and “Jah”) … meaning “Jehovah saves!” In my honest opinion, “Jesus saves!”
Wow!
And Isaiah enjoyed a long, singularly blessed ministry! Under the reigns of four (4) Kings of Judah! See the first verse Isaiah ever wrote, introducing his Book: “The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.” Yes, this is Isaiah 1:1.
If ancient Jewish history is right, Isaiah died for his faith, too! He being the unnamed martyr mentioned in Hebrews 11: 37. “They were stoned, they were SAWN ASUNDER, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented.” Isaiah was “sawn asunder” (cut in half, into two pieces) by wicked King Manasseh!
He died a victor, then!
One reputable Bible teacher often called Isaiah (the Book, the whole Prophecy) … the “Romans” of the Old Testament!
Although the authorship of this great Book is currently under dispute … hence the false Dutero-Isaiah and Trito-Isaiah theories (terms just meaning two different “Isaiahs” and nowadays three different “Isaiahs”) … godly, fundamental Church men for hundreds of years have accepted this one man as a valid, literal character of history! And the only (under the inspiration of God the Holy Spirit) author of the Book bearing his name!
Lastly, the Book divides itself into two “halves.” Two “sections” I had better say. Because they are not completely equal in volume. Chapters 1-39 basically focus on judgment! While Isaiah chapters 40-66 basically concentrate on hope, on good news!
As has been taught by thousands … this reflects the two division of the whole Bible. The Old Testament (Books 1-39, Genesis through Malachi) have a general theme of judgment! While the New Testament (Books 40-66, Matthew through Revelation) have a general theme of Hope, Good News, of JESUS and salvation!
Wow!
One well-known Preacher aptly labels Isaiah chapters 1-39 … condemnation! Then he calls Isaiah chapters 40-66 … consolation!
Yes, Isaiah is an evangelist!
Now, if we can master these few facts about this great man of God … our upcoming chapter by chapter survey will be more meaningful. If you possibly can, read this Lesson another time or two.
Knowing the man (always) helps in knowing his message!
— Dr. Mike Bagwell