The Lord & His People – Isaiah 66:1–14

Theme

True worship is not about flattery, formality, or external show, but about humble hearts that tremble at God's Word. God will vindicate His true people and fulfill His promises in them.

Key Verse

Isaiah 66:2b – 'But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.'

Outline

1. God Cannot Be Flattered by Buildings (vv. 1–2)
   • God’s throne is heaven; His footstool is the earth.
   • He seeks not great structures, but hearts that fear His Word.
   
   II. God Cannot Be Deceived by Hypocrites (vv. 3–6)
   • Empty sacrifices offend God.
   • He sees through fake worship and will judge pretenders.
   • But He will comfort the humble who are cast out for His sake.
   
   III. God Will Not Be Frustrated in His Purposes (vv. 7–9)
   • God brings new life and a new people through miraculous means.
   • Echoes of the church’s birth at Pentecost.
   
   IV. God Will Fulfill His Promises to His People (vv. 10–14)
   • Joy, peace, and comfort will be poured out on God's true people.
   • He will nurture, heal, and rejoice over His children.

Gospel Connection

Jesus Christ is the One through whom God fulfills all His purposes. He is the true Temple, and those who come to Him in humility and faith are God’s true people. Pentecost was the sign of God’s faithfulness to birth a people by His Spirit.

Application

• Worship God with sincerity, not show.
  • Be among those who tremble at His Word.
  • Do not fear rejection for Christ’s sake—He will vindicate His people.
  • Trust that God will fulfill His promises through Christ alone.

Comprehension & Application Questions

1. What does Isaiah 66 teach us about the kind of worship God desires?
2. Why does God reject the religious sacrifices of the people in verses 3–4?
3. How does God respond to those who are cast out for His name's sake?
4. What is significant about the imagery of birth and new life in verses 7–9?
5. How does the prophecy in Isaiah 66 point us to the work of Jesus Christ?
6. What are some modern examples of trying to 'flatter God' with outward show?
7. In what ways can you cultivate a heart that trembles at God's Word?
8. How does this passage encourage you to respond to rejection or suffering for your faith?
9. What promises of God bring you the most comfort right now?
10. How can your worship and service to God reflect more humility and sincerity?