In these verses we ascend the summit of John’s prologue. In it we hear echoes of God’s appearing on the mountain to Moses, who condescends once again, only now embodied in the Word. He comes in the fullness of his steadfast love and faithfulness for those who look to him out of the emptiness they feel within. And those that do will not be disappointed. 

Knowing the “Servant” of Isaiah 49 not only provides comfort during the difficulties of our “exile” experiences, but also compassion and courage to help those who need the Servant's redemption and reconciliation.

Everyone wants to belong—to become part of a circle of friends or a group where they will be accepted, valued and loved. But often the price of admittance is costly and one’s ongoing status is fragile. So what does the Word offer to those who feel like they do not belong or think they will not become anyone of value? 

A lecture from WSC's new Associate Professor of New Testament, Dr. Bradley J. Bitner

It is one thing to hear that the Word is eternality itself and is the fountain of life and is the light of the World. It is another thing altogether to acknowledge it—which is what most people are unwilling to do. 

The Lord's oath-bound deliverance of Israel and the world is surely coming.

Fear drives us to find security in the idols we make instead of the God who has made us, chosen us and redeemed us.  Isaiah 44 justifies trust in the God of Israel and displays the foolishness of trusting idols. 

The prologue of John states that the Word “was life, and the life was the light of men.” He gives what he is. For those who live in a world of darkness what truth could offer more hope than this? He who is “the light of life” intrudes himself upon the deepest shadows to bring a redemption no one else can.

In this episode, Office Hours talks to the newest faculty member at Westminster Seminary California, Dr. A. Craig Troxel. Dr. Troxel joins the faculty as Professor of Practical Theology.

God encourages his exiled people by assuring them of his presence through trials, reminding them of their value to him, and promising to re-gather them.