Isaiah 40: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Isaiah 40 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Yahweh commands comfort for His people, telling them to speak comfortably to Jerusalem. Her warfare is accomplished, and her iniquity is pardoned (vv. 1-2).

Key verse

“But those who wait for Yahweh will renew their strength. They will mount up with wings like eagles. They will run, and not be weary. They will walk, and not faint.”
Isaiah 40:31 (WEB)

Outline

Isaiah 40:1–2 Comfort for God's People
Isaiah 40:3–5 Preparation for God's Coming
Isaiah 40:6–8 Human Frailty and God's Eternal Word
Isaiah 40:9–11 Proclamation of God's Might
Isaiah 40:12–17 God's Sovereignty Over Creation
Isaiah 40:18–24 God's Uniqueness and Authority
Isaiah 40:25–31 Renewal for Those Who Wait

Discussion questions

In v2, what does it mean that 'her warfare is accomplished'?
What is meant by 'the voice of one who calls out' in v3?
The imagery in vv. 4-5: how do the mountains and valleys relate to God's glory?
In v27, what does Israel's claim that 'my way is hidden from Yahweh' indicate about their faith?
When have you felt like you needed to 'wait for Yahweh' as mentioned in v31?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Isaiah 40: 2 Corinthians 4, Philippians 4, Isaiah 41.

Before next time: read Isaiah 41.