Isaiah 41: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Isaiah 41 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Yahweh commands the nations to be silent and to renew their strength for judgment (vv. 1-2). He poses questions about His chosen one from the east, who is empowered to conquer nations (vv.

Key verse

“Don’t you be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Yes, I will help you. Yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.”
Isaiah 41:10 (WEB)

Outline

Isaiah 41:1–4 God Summons the Nations
Isaiah 41:5–7 Fear and Support Among Nations
Isaiah 41:8–10 God’s Assurance to Israel
Isaiah 41:11–14 Divine Defense Against Adversaries
Isaiah 41:15–20 Transformation of the Wilderness
Isaiah 41:21–24 Challenge to Idols
Isaiah 41:25–29 God’s Sovereignty Over Nations

Discussion questions

In v10, what does God promise to do for Israel?
What does God call Israel in v14?
God's statement in v25 about raising one from the north: who is this figure?
In v23, why does God challenge the nations to declare future events?
When have you felt like a 'worm' (v14) but received unexpected help?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Isaiah 41: Philippians 4, Isaiah 43, Joshua 1.

Before next time: read Isaiah 42.