Isaiah and King Ahaz Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What was the emotional state of King Ahaz and his people when they heard about the invasion?

They felt invincible and confident.

They were fearful and agitated. (correct)

They were calm and collected.

They were indifferent to the situation.

What did God instruct Isaiah to tell King Ahaz?

To flee from the city.

To surrender to the invading forces.

To remain calm and not be afraid. (correct)

To prepare for battle.

What was God’s promise regarding the plans of Aram and Ephraim against Judah?

Their plans would fail. (correct)

God would not intervene.

Their plans would succeed.

They would receive help from other nations.

Why did King Ahaz refuse to ask for a sign from God?

He thought it would be a test of God's abilities. Signup and view all the answers

What relationship did Israel and Judah have at the time of King Ahaz?

They were separate kingdoms. Signup and view all the answers

Who accompanied Isaiah when he went to meet King Ahaz?

His son, Shir Jashub. Signup and view all the answers

What figurative language did God use to describe Rezan and the king of Aram?

Two stubs of smoldering firebrands. Signup and view all the answers

What was the geographical location where Isaiah was instructed to meet Ahaz?

The upper pool on the highway to the fuller's field. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Hebrew word 'Alma' refer to in the context?

A virgin Signup and view all the answers

What name is given to the child mentioned in the prophecy?

Emmanuel Signup and view all the answers

What do curds and honey symbolize in this context?

Poverty and humble beginnings Signup and view all the answers

Which scholars argue that the prophecy is only fulfilled in Jesus?

Charles Feinberg and Edward J. Young Signup and view all the answers

What do the names Meher Shalom Hashebaz and Emmanuel suggest about the nature of the two children?

One represents terror, and the other comfort Signup and view all the answers

What is a key element of the future kingdom described in Isaiah chapter 11?

Children will play with snakes safely Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'sevenfold spirit of wisdom' describe in relation to the child mentioned in Isaiah?

Spiritual wisdom and understanding Signup and view all the answers

Before what event does the prophecy indicate a certain child will arise?

The coming of the Assyrians Signup and view all the answers

How is the child referenced in Isaiah chapter 53 described?

As a root out of dry ground Signup and view all the answers

What is implied by the statement regarding the child knowing to refuse evil and choose good?

He will embody divine wisdom Signup and view all the answers

Why does the content emphasize word study and cross-reference?

To strengthen the accuracy of interpretations Signup and view all the answers

What does the reference to the Assyrians as purging instruments suggest?

They are symbols of divine anger Signup and view all the answers

What role does the 'child of Jesse' play in the context of Isaiah's prophecy?

A deliverer and ruler Signup and view all the answers

What does the analogy of the rapture symbolize in the context of promises made to individuals like Abraham and Jeremiah?

Hope in unfulfilled promises Signup and view all the answers

Which term is used in Matthew 1 to refer to the supernatural aspect of a child?

Parthenos Signup and view all the answers

What rationale do some liberal scholars use to interpret specific passages as referring to immediate fulfillments?

Literal and natural reading Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following reasons is given to argue against viewing a near child as the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy?

The fulfillment lacks supernatural qualities Signup and view all the answers

What should be carefully avoided when discussing the motives of scholars who disagree with certain interpretations?

Attributing wrong motives Signup and view all the answers

In the discussion about the fulfillment of prophecies, what is suggested about God's promises?

They can be realized later in history Signup and view all the answers

Which New Testament source is mentioned as supporting the interpretation of Isaiah's prophecy?

Matthew 1 Signup and view all the answers

What is a key criticism of believing in the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy through a near child?

It disregards broader scripture context Signup and view all the answers

How do some perceive the fulfillment of prophecies as irrelevant to the needs of Ahaz and his people?

By limiting future relevance Signup and view all the answers

What is one argument in favor of viewing the birth of Jesus as the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy?

It embodies a supernatural event Signup and view all the answers

What does the inclusion of hermeneutical principles in the discussion suggest about interpreting scripture?

A systematic approach is essential Signup and view all the answers

What common misconception may arise when evaluating prophecies related to near children like Meher Sheloah Hashbaz?

They represent immediate solutions Signup and view all the answers

What does the reference to 'fruit inspectors' imply about evaluating interpretations of prophecies?

Assess the actual results of beliefs Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested as a limitation of focusing solely on the near context when interpreting Isaiah's prophecy?

It overlooks future implications Signup and view all the answers

What term is used to describe the child mentioned in Isaiah who is believed to be more than just a man?

A God man Signup and view all the answers

Which title is NOT associated with the child prophecied in Isaiah 9?

The Judge of Nations Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Greek word 'Parthenos' in relation to the Virgin Mary?

It refers to her as a true virgin Signup and view all the answers

How is the context around the child in Isaiah contrasting with the near child Mehershal Al Hashbaz?

Isaiah’s child is viewed as an extraordinary sign Signup and view all the answers

What does the discussion about asking for signs in the context of Isaiah suggest?

Signs from God are expected to be extraordinary Signup and view all the answers

What was the name of the sign God provided to His people during a difficult time, as mentioned in the content?

The sundial Signup and view all the answers

What is the implication of the term 'Alma' in the context of the discussion around Isaiah 7?

It indicates a true virgin Signup and view all the answers

Which prophet's wife is proposed as a possible mother to Mehershal Al Hashbaz?

Isaiah's wife Signup and view all the answers

What assertion is made about Joseph's role in the birth of Jesus according to the discussion?

Joseph played no role in Jesus' conception Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of God's promises is highlighted in the matter of Ahaz and the prophecy?

Fulfillment is guaranteed regardless of timing Signup and view all the answers

Why is the virgin birth considered significant in Matthew 1?

To fulfill the prophecy from Isaiah Signup and view all the answers

In the discussion, how is the concept of hope related to God's promises?

It is tied to the certainty of future fulfillment Signup and view all the answers

What is the nature of the relationship between the Hebrew word 'Alma' and the Greek word 'Parthenos'?

They both refer to someone who is unmarried Signup and view all the answers

What does the discussion imply about the nature of divine signs?

They should exhibit extraordinary characteristics Signup and view all the answers

What does the open theism perspective suggest about God's knowledge?

God is unaware of certain events until they occur. Signup and view all the answers

How does the speaker interpret God's statement 'now I know' to Abraham?

It signifies a deeper relationship and acknowledgment from God. Signup and view all the answers

What does the speaker warn against when interpreting others’ motives in scripture interpretation?

Judging their intentions based on their interpretations. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the speaker's approach to differing interpretations of scripture?

Respectfully acknowledging differences and seeking understanding. Signup and view all the answers

What is one argument presented against the idea that the Abrahamic covenant was fully realized in 1 Kings 4:21?

It is contradicted by later prophetic writings. Signup and view all the answers

According to the discussion, which of the following is NOT presented as a future promise regarding Israel?

The establishment of the New Jerusalem. Signup and view all the answers

What criticism does the speaker raise about scholarly interpretations of biblical texts?

They can overlook later scripture that provides clarity. Signup and view all the answers

What does the speaker suggest is often the motive behind people's interpretations of scripture?

To support their pre-existing viewpoints. Signup and view all the answers

What principle does the speaker advocate for in scholarly discussions?

To value scholarly respect while discussing disagreements. Signup and view all the answers

What should be the approach towards discussing theological differences in a church setting?

Be careful and loving in reasoning with others. Signup and view all the answers

What is implied about the role of maturity when addressing theological debates?

Immaturity can lead to divisiveness within the church. Signup and view all the answers

Which scripture is cited as an example of a future promise related to Israel's land possession?

Jeremiah 31:33 Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'fruit inspectors' refer to in the context of scripture interpretation?

Individuals assessing the motives of scripture interpreters. Signup and view all the answers

What principle should govern the use of scripts and positions in theological discussions?

Focus on reasoning with God’s word carefully. Signup and view all the answers

What does the speaker imply about the responsibility of interpreting scripture accurately?

It can often lead to misunderstandings. Signup and view all the answers

What does compenetration in scriptural interpretation refer to?

Bringing together details that may unfold over centuries. Signup and view all the answers

How does the speaker believe individuals should approach disagreements with respected scholars?

Engage respectfully while presenting alternative views. Signup and view all the answers

What metaphor is used to describe a poor approach to enacting change in a church?

Like a bull in a china shop. Signup and view all the answers

How should one view their own knowledge when engaging with more experienced church members?

With humility, knowing there is much to learn. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of God’s character is emphasized when discussing His knowledge?

God’s knowledge is complete and unchanging. Signup and view all the answers

Which approach is suggested for discussing prophetic passages?

Identify details that may have varying timelines of fulfillment. Signup and view all the answers

What should be a key focus when interpreting scriptural passages?

Using proper hermeneutics and context. Signup and view all the answers

Why is word study important in scriptural interpretation?

It reveals the true meaning of the text. Signup and view all the answers

How should discussions of divisive topics within the church be approached?

With an aim to support and edify one another. Signup and view all the answers

What is implied about personal opinions in theological discussions?

They should be grounded in scriptural evidence. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic is highlighted as essential for engaging in meaningful theological dialogue?

Willingness to learn from others. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major risk associated with improperly using theological material?

Creating division and strife in the church. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it necessary to take various approaches when analyzing a scriptural passage?

To ensure a well-rounded interpretation. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Isaiah 7:14

Context: Judah threatened by Aram and Israel. King Ahaz's fear leads to asking for a sign from God.
Ahaz's response: Refuses to test God's patience.
God's response: Isaiah prophesies a sign: a virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, named Immanuel ("God with us").
Sign's nature: The child will eat curds and honey, emblems of poverty. This symbolizes a future ruler who will embrace poverty.
Timeline implication: Prophecies of a child are mentioned in various other chapters, suggesting multiple or possible interpretations regarding the child's significance and fulfillment.

Fulfillment of Immanuel

Disagreement: Different interpretations exist regarding the near or far fulfillment of the prophecy. Some believe Matthew 1 fulfilled the prophecy with Jesus. Others believe different figures could be the near fulfillment.
Support for Jesus: Scholars like Feinberg, Young, and Freeman support the fulfillment being Jesus.
Opposing interpretations: Other interpretations focus on a different figure or near fulfillment during Isaiah's time.
Word study importance: The significance of "Alma" and "Parthenos" (virgin) in Hebrew and Greek, respectively, is crucial in the debate, with some arguing that these words always refer to a virgin in the context.
Contextual relevance: The prophecy of a child, in varied contexts within Isaiah, suggests a unique significance potentially more than a simple man. Some scholars view this person as a God-man, fitting the name Immanuel (God with us).

Contextual Interpretation of Isaiah

Roundabout interpretation: The idea that there are several steps and explanations needed to understand interpretations from one passage may clash with alternative interpretations.
Literal interpretations: Some argue that to understand the meaning of a passage, one should follow a straightforward, literal approach and not look for alternative interpretations.
Analogies: The concept of the rapture and promises to Abraham and Jeremiah are used as analogies to illustrate that prophecies may not always be fulfilled immediately, but still have relevance.
Problems with simple interpretations: One problem with a "simple fulfillment now" view is sometimes contradicted by other passages given later that suggest a different fulfillment in the future.

Other Considerations

Hermeneutical principles: Good hermeneutics, including word study, grammar, near context, far context, the analogy of faith, clarity, etc., are crucial in understanding prophecy.
Methodology: The use of careful methods and balanced interpretation within various layers of scripture analysis and consideration is helpful.
Telescoping or compressing prophecy: Prophecies sometimes compress or compact details that may be fulfilled at various times or across extended periods.
Multiple fulfillments: Passages like Isaiah 61, Daniel 2, and Joel 2 demonstrate that prophecies can encompass details that are fulfilled in different eras. This can contribute to the understanding that a prophecy may have various layers or meanings throughout history.
The Importance of humility: When engaging with scripture or interpreting prophecy, humility and a willingness to reconsider interpretations are necessary.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the interactions between Isaiah and King Ahaz regarding the threats from Aram and Ephraim. This quiz covers the emotional state of Ahaz, God's instructions, and the political context of Israel and Judah during this time. Dive into the details of this significant biblical account.