Biblical Text: Isaiah 6:1-13
Introduction: In this sermon, we will address Isaiah’s prophetic vision, as described in chapter 6 of the book that bears his name. This passage reveals to us the glory and holiness of God, Isaiah’s consecration to divine service and the mission of bringing God’s message to the people of Israel. We will learn from this story the importance of seeking the presence of God, recognizing our own fragility and consecrating ourselves for divine service.
Ministry Body:
- The vision of God’s glory and holiness (Isaiah 6:1-4)
- Isaiah has an impactful vision of God’s throne, surrounded by seraphim who proclaim His holiness. This encounter reminds us that God is sovereign, holy and worthy of worship, and that our lives should be guided by seeking His presence and the desire to honor Him in everything we do.
- Isaiah’s repentance and purification (Isaiah 6:5-7)
- Upon realizing God’s holiness and his own impurity, Isaiah repents and confesses his sins. One of the seraphim touches his lips with a burning coal, symbolizing Isaiah’s purification and consecration to divine service. We learn here that, to serve God, it is necessary to recognize our own fragility and seek His purification.
- Isaiah’s calling and consecration (Isaiah 6:8-10)
- After purification, Isaiah hears the voice of God asking who would be sent to take His message to the people. Isaiah offers himself readily, demonstrating his willingness to serve God. This passage teaches us the importance of listening to God’s voice and responding to his call with obedience and dedication.
- Isaiah’s mission and the people’s resistance (Isaiah 6:9-13)
- God reveals to Isaiah that his mission will be difficult, as the people of Israel will resist the message and harden their hearts. However, Isaiah perseveres in his mission, trusting in God’s faithfulness and sovereignty. We learn here that although we face challenges and resistance in serving God, we must remain faithful to our calling and trust in His purpose.
Conclusion: The story of Isaiah’s vision of God and consecration teaches us the importance of seeking God’s presence, recognizing our own fragility and consecrating ourselves to divine service. As we do this, we will be prepared to hear God’s voice, respond to his call, and carry his message to others, regardless of the difficulties and resistance we may face. Thus, like Isaiah, we must seek holiness, obedience and fidelity in our relationship with God and in our mission to take the Word of God to the world.
