Isaiah 9: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Isaiah 9 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The land of Zebulun and Naphtali, once in anguish, will see glory and light (vv. 1-2). The people rejoice greatly, like during a harvest, as Yahweh has broken their burdens (vv. 3-4). The prophecy announces a child to be born, who will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, and Prince of Peace, bringing an everlasting government (vv. 6-7). Yet, a word from the Lord is sent to Jacob and Israel, announcing judgment for their pride and arrogance (vv. 8-12). Despite the impending calamity, the people do not turn back to Yahweh, leading to severe consequences for their leaders and the people (vv. 13-17). Wickedness spreads like fire, consuming the land and its inhabitants, with conflicts arising among tribes (vv. 18-21).

Key verse

“For to us a child is born. To us a son is given; and the government will be on his shoulders. His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Isaiah 9:6 (WEB)

Outline

Isaiah 9:1–2 Hope for a Distressed Land
Isaiah 9:3–5 Joy and Deliverance
Isaiah 9:6–7 The Coming Child
Isaiah 9:8–12 A Word of Judgment
Isaiah 9:13–17 Rejection and Consequence
Isaiah 9:18–21 Wickedness and Devastation

Discussion questions

What does the word 'gloom' in v1 indicate about the people of Zebulun and Naphtali?
In v2, how is the 'great light' described and who sees it?
The phrase 'broken as in the day of Midian' in v4: what historical event does this reference suggest?
Why does Isaiah mention 'Ephraim' and 'Samaria' in vv. 9-10 in connection with pride?
When have you experienced a time of darkness and seen a 'great light'?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Isaiah 9: Luke 2, Matthew 4, John 1.

Before next time: read Isaiah 10.