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Isaiah takes up the conventions of wisdom literature to illustrate that the Lord of Hosts knew what he was doing in all the complex process of bringing about salvation through judgment.

A true disciple's condition is blessed because there is the expectation of mercy to help, unfettered communion with God, and an honored place in God's house.

That many people from all nations will be included in the census of the Lord's people is a truth already made known in the Old Testament.

Even to the scornful mockers, the message of grace is extended with an invitation to believe in the Lord's foundation stone, reinforced by a warning of the futility of all other refuges.

The disciples of Christ are blessed now, because although their qualities are a despised vulnerability in the world, their approaching inheritance will bring full satisfaction.

Even those who might consider themselves disadvantaged in some way (like the son of the foreigner or the eunuch) are invited to come and gather on God's holy mountain in blessedness.

The persistent Gospel invitation to rest had been rejected by Judah, even by the prophets and priests, with a contemptuous characterization of Isaiah's ministry.

From David's need for speedy deliverance rises a prayer that encompasses the whole church and the chief end of man.

Disciples with nothing to offer and much to lament are comforted and blessed in the kingdom of heaven.

A symphony of love and blessing concludes Ephesians with a renewed focus on Christ.

Over the backdrop of the Assyrian destruction of Samaria, Isaiah calls us from fading worldly glory to the lasting glory of the Lord as our crown and diadem.

Part of our privileged engagement in spiritual warfare in prayer for all saints is focused prayer for a faithful ministry--one that represents fully the Gospel of Christ in spite of whatever difficulties may be encountered.

In three movements of thought, Isaiah answers the question whether there is a difference between the church and the world, admonishes merely external members of the church, and provides reassurance of a glorious gathering to those who believe.

The many washings of the levitical ritual bore eloquent witness that humans are defiled by sin and stand in need of the cleansing that is only supplied by the blood and Spirit of Christ.

Prayer is an indispensable part of spiritual warfare, since it is by prayer that we are strong in the Lord, prayer is faith in the word of God coming to expression, and prayer is an outflow of the life of union to Christ and fullness in the Spirit.