Study Questions - Bible Discovery [26]

Date: October 17, 2004
Passage: Isaiah 55:1-13
Message: An Invitation Too Good To Refuse
Series: Bible Discovery [26]

1. “Isaiah lived at the crossroads of the most turbulent and tragic time of Israel’s history. He saw his nation compromise their faith and put their confidence in political alliances and military might rather than in God.”

If you had the opportunity to speak as a prophet in Australia, what sorts of things would you address?

2. We are constantly being invited to buy something, do something, go somewhere, experience something.

What is so different about what God offers us in v1-2?
Discuss what it means.

Why is it so hard for God to convince us to give our time and energies to those things that will truly satisfy?
Do we set an example of ‘satisfied lives?’

3. Read v7-9

Describe what is involved in seeking the Lord.

George Barna says that –
“Nearly two-thirds of regular attendees say they have never experienced God's presence at a church service. 48% of regular church attendees have not experienced God's presence in the past year.” Discuss

Have we become accustomed to not encountering God?

What does it mean –
….seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.

4. It’s risky business taking God at His word.

Read v12. Sounds so simple. Christian Psychologist Paul Tournier was once asked how he helps his patients get rid of their fears
"Oh, I don't," he answered, "that which does not frighten does not have meaning. All the best things in life have an element of fear in them."

How do we balance our fears that come with acting in faith and the promise of joy and peace?