Desire a Better Country

Isaiah 1:1, 10-20

Fellowship – Snacks or a Meal (10 minutes with snacks; longer, obviously, if there is a meal).

Gathering Time (5-10 minutes). In groups of two or three, respond to the following, “When is worship stale and unmoving for you? When does worship connect to your daily life as a Christian?”

Group Dialogue (Approximately 30 minutes). Read: Isaiah 1:1, 10-20.

• Why might the prophet Isaiah be using the titles Sodom and Gomorrah to refer to the leaders and people of Judah (v. 10)? [These are not compliments and indicate the seriousness of their situation.]
• Why does God no longer take delight in the sacrifices of the people?
• Why does God say God will no longer listen to their prayers (v. 15)?
• What does God through the prophet require the people to do (vv. 16-17)?
• What will the result be if the people are “willing and obedient” (v. 19)? What if they “refuse and rebel”?
• What does this passage indicate about worship that is acceptable to God? [Worship that connects with daily practices that seek justice. Note also verse 23.]
• (R) What does this passage tell us about God? What does this passage tell us about worship and the daily life of believers?

Prayer (10 minutes). Share prayer requests and respond appropriately.

Sending Forth (2 minutes). End by praying the following or a similar prayer:

God of justice, your compassion and concern extend to all. As followers of Christ, the body of Christ, as people of the covenant, you summon us to a life that reflects your character. Empower us to seek justice, defend the orphan, plea for the widow, hear those who are crying out in need, and be the people who are able to respond with your compassionate love. Amen.