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Isaiah-5

An Old Vineyard: A Devotional Study on Isaiah 5​

Introduction​

In the Old Testament, Isaiah is one of the most renowned prophets. His prophetic book contains consolation, warnings, and challenges. Chapters 1-39 are dominated by Judah's pronouncements of God's judgment on her iniquities, while chapters 40-66 deliver hope and comfort in light of the coming Babylonian exile. Today, we will explore Isaiah 5, its metaphors, and interpretation.

Section 1: The Old Vineyard (Isaiah 5:1-2)​

Devotional Thought: In this parable, Isaiah paints a picture of an old vineyard. The Lord of the vineyard waited expectantly for it to bear fruit. His expectations fell short. We can identify with this grape metaphor, reflecting on how we've failed to bear the desired fruit for God. Today, let's grapple with our role as God's vineyard and consider how we can bear fruit abundantly.

Reflection Questions:

  • What is expected of God's vineyard - us?
  • In what areas of our lives do we need to bloom spiritually and bear fruit?

Section 2: The Two Sons (Isaiah 5:2-7)​

Devotional Thought: The parable shifts, and we encounter two sons. One said, "I will not," while the other stated, "I am afraid." While the first son's actions disobeyed the father, the second son didn't obey implicitly. Today, consider the two sons' approach to the Father's work and how it affects our work for God.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do we respond to the Father's work and expectations?
  • How can we respond with authenticity in our work for God?

Section 3: The Blinded and Hardened Heart (Isaiah 5:8-13)​

Devotional Thought: Isaiah's parables end with the Father's heartache. His vineyard was spoiled, and the workers of the soil were traitors. The parable challenges our hearts with God's expectation and results. Today, let's consider the impact our hardheartedness has on God's work.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we mold our hearts to better respond to God's work and expectation?
  • In what ways does our hardheartedness impede God's work in our lives and ministry?

Section 4: The Solution (Isaiah 5:14-25)​

Devotional Thought: Isaiah rebukes Judah's asking and not obeying, their hearing and not understanding. The solution lays in wisdom (v14), obeyance (v16), and not lagging in following God's commands (vv18-20). Today, let's commit to wisdom, following God's commands, and not neglecting obedience.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we deepen our wisdom and discernment for God's will?
  • How can we actively follow God's commands and not lag in obedience?

Conclusion:​

Isaiah 5 delivers a poetic and transformative parable trilogy that forms an essential context to God's commandments. We are called to bear the desired fruit, respond with authenticity and heart, and deepen our wisdom and obedience. Today, let us draw inspiration from Isaiah's message and engage thoughtfully with God's design for us in light of the Old Vineyard.