Isaiah 3:1-26 & 4:1
Q.1. What would God do to the leaders of Judah? How would this leave the people? Would God treat the whole nation that way? – (Isa.3:1-15)
Isaiah prophesied disaster for Judah and Jerusalem. God was going to frustrate their political and religious leaders, and those who crafted their idols (Isa.3:1-5). Conditions would be so grave, that no one would want to take up leadership (Isa.3:6-7). The reason? – For Jerusalem has stumbled and Judah has fallen, because their speech and their actions are against the Lord, to rebel against His glorious presence (Isa.3:8). They acted like Sodom. They oppressed both women and children, so brought God’s judgment on themselves (Isa.3:9,11-12). God was especially angry with the leadership of the nation – 14 The Lord enters into judgment with the elders and princes of His people, “It is you who have devoured the vineyard; The plunder of the poor is in your houses. 15 “What do you mean by crushing My people and grinding the face of the poor?” declares the Lord God of hosts (Isa.3:14-15). However, God sent a word of comfort to His own – Say to the righteous that it will go well with them, for they will eat the fruit of their actions (Isa.3:10).
Q.2. What was the spiritual condition of Judah’s women? How would God deal with these women? – (Isa.3:16-26)
God also singled out the women for His attention … Because the daughters of Zion are proud, and walk with heads held high and seductive eyes, and go along with mincing steps and tinkle the bangles on their feet (Isa.3:16). Isaiah could be easily describing people of today, whom God will judge – 18 In that day the Lord will take away the beauty of their anklets, headbands, crescent ornaments, 19 dangling earrings, bracelets, veils, 20 headdresses, ankle chains, sashes, perfume boxes, amulets, 21 finger rings, nose rings, 22 festal robes, outer tunics, cloaks, money purses, 23 hand mirrors, undergarments, turbans, and veils (Isa.3:18-23). The judgment would leave them utterly destitute (Isa.3:24-26 c.f. Isa.3:17). God would lay their shame bare for all to see.