We have completed the oracles against specific nations. Isaiah 24-27 is more of a "bigger picture" of God's judgment on the world and the restoration that comes when they turn back to God.
In the previous 10 chapters we've focused on specifics but now we focus on the bigger picture.
Questions to focus on while reading.
1. How many times is the word "earth" used in this chapter? How does the frequency of this word affect the meaning of this chapter?
2. What kind of people will suffer this destruction? (v. 2)
3. Why do you think "happy" verses like vv. 14-15 are placed in such a destruction-filled chapter? What does that say about God's heart and plans?
The destruction of nations seems plausible especially since many of these ancient cities don't exist today. We have proof. But, the destruction of the earth? Is that even possible? And, even if - can't the earth regenerate itself? Well, God is over all of His creation. He defies all of the scientific laws that are in place. When God judges the earth, it is over. This wonderful, amazing, endless place can and will come to an end one day.
So, what's a person to do?
Many people live thinking that this world is all there is. Their future ends in the very earth, the dirt, the ground that they have built their fortunes, made their memories, run their races, etc. And you wonder.. is this all there is to life?
The answer is a resounding NO. There is so much more so that even when the earth is destroyed there is something to look forward to. God is saying - look deeper, farther, heavenward.
God is asking us to expand our vision, our thinking, our future...
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