During the reign of King Ahaz, the nations of Ephraim and Syria allied against Judah. As the king and all the people shook in fear, the LORD sent Isaiah to give His promise. The LORD would rescue His people from their enemies. King Ahaz did not need any foreign alliances for help. Instead, the king could simply wait quietly on the LORD. When Isaiah returned to Ahaz a second time, Ahaz chose faithlessness. Even though Ahaz refused the sign that the LORD freely offered, the LORD promised a sign nonetheless. The virgin birth of Immanuel proved to be judgment for Ahaz and all who were faithless in his day, both as Assyria brought great suffering to them and as they rejected the promised Messiah. Yet to all who believe, the birth of Jesus as the Savior who is God with us is the greatest promise.

Rev. Peter Ill, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Isaiah 7:1-17.

"The Fifth Evangelist” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through Isaiah 1-39. The prophet proclaims to the people of his day and throughout history that the Holy One of Israel alone is exalted. Those who put their trust in the strength of man will be brought low, but those who trust in the LORD will see that He is their Immanuel. Jesus is God with us who reigns over the kingdom of God forever and ever!

Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: [email protected]