Studying the Prophet Isaiah - an Advent Series
At the start of 2021, the Rt. Rev. David Reed introduced the annual diocesan scripture theme from Luke 10:11 - “Nevertheless, the kingdom of God has come near.” “Sin embargo, el reino de Dios ya esta cerca.” Linked with this theme is the annual diocesan Bible Study about which Bishop Reed shared the following reflection.
In light of Bishop Reed’s recommendation to read the book of Isaiah, the Christian Formation Committee is releasing a second Isaiah study, this time exploring the Isaiah readings for each Sunday in Advent and for Christmas. This five-week study will provide historical context for the Book of Isaiah, as well as connect Advent readings from the New Testament readings the rich stories of homecoming and history found in Isaiah.
During Advent, churches reflect on the hope, peace and joy that the birth of Christ brings. As congregations prepare for the coming of the light that will help bring God’s kingdom to earth, the Christian Formation Committee shares, "As the people of God did in the Old Testament, we look to the words of the prophets to give us signs of hope, too. In this particular season of Advent, we look to the words of Isaiah, and their quotation and reinterpretation in Matthew's Gospel, as signs of the hope and light given to us through the birth of Jesus. We are following the prophets, who point the way to Bethlehem. Let us go and see this Christ child who will change the world."
This five-week lesson series can be used in November and December as an Advent and Christmas study, primarily for adults or older youth. If your church's formation takes a few Sundays off in December, consider starting this study in mid-November in order to use all the lessons. Alternatively, you may want to save the final Christmas lesson for a Sunday study between December 25 and January 6.
Questions may be directed to Suzanna Green, Bishop's Deputy for Christian Formation, and the Rev. Kendrah McDonald, Assistant Rector of St. Alban’s, Harlingen, the authors of this Advent study.
Click here to download "Studying the Prophet Isaiah - 2021 Advent Series" lesson plan PDF; you'll find it in your web browser's Downloads folder.
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