Publisher's Synopsis
Isaiah the Prophet (according to his prophecies) said more about Jesus, and what His mission would be than any other single prophet! And, in fact when Jesus began His three and half (3 1/2) year ministry in (Luke 4:14 through 4:30) He read one of many of Isaiah's prophecies (Isaiah Chapter 61) recorded about Him (Jesus). Now as we return to the time of Isaiah's prophecy, both nations (Israel; Samaria the Northern Kingdom) and (Judah; Jerusalem the Southern Kingdom) had replaced obedience to God with many other things; the most offensive to God being idols, and false god worship. They (the Nations) are caught up in idolatry and corruption, and there does not seem to be any indication of national repentance, and returning to the fear of God. This is the spiritual condition at the time, and God has judged the nations; even Israel's neighboring nations. Included of Isaiah's prophecy is that the sword (or war) shall be Israel's judgment. Even though God is not pleased with Israel, we also see that Isaiah's prophecies reveal the long term plans of God for deliverance and restoration of Israel. We have also learned, this deliverance is not for Israel alone, but for all of mankind through the finished work of the Son of God, Jesus. Isaiah's prophecy continued during the reign of four (4) kings in Judah, beginning sometime during the rule of Uzziah (or Azariah). Uzziah's reign started about 815 B.C.; lasted 52 years, and ended about 763 B.C. (2 Chron 26:1 through 26:3, 26:23; 2 Kings 14:21, 15:1 through 15:7). Hezekiah was the last king during Isaiah's prophecy. Hezekiah's reign was twenty nine (29) years, and ended about 700 B.C. (2 Kings 18:13, 20:6; Isaiah Chapters 36 through 39). King Jotham (2 Kings 15:32 and 33) and Ahaz (2 Chron 27:1, 2 Kings 16:1) ruled between the years of Uzziah and Hezekiah for sixteen (16) years each. The scriptures does not speak specifically of Isaiah's death, but there seems to be a consensus among some Bible teachers which says he was martyred by King Manasseh (reigned fifty five (55) years); son of Hezekiah. Whether this is factual or not, the (Book of Isaiah) does not mention any king of Israel beyond Hezekiah. In this attempt of our study of the Book of Isaiah, we have made comments available as we followed events; examine Isaiah's prophecies, and the influence(s) he had on the Kings of Israel for more than sixty (60) years!
