Isaiah 24: Global Pollution
IS ECOLOGY JUST a field for freaks and romantics? Or is there something particularly appropriate for the believer in being concerned for the symphony of being between humanity and the environment? In a remarkable book inspired by this chapter of Isaiah, Clifford Hill, a British sociologist and theologian, examines the problems of pollution, war and materialism. Toward the end of The Day Comes he writes: "The time of the coming conflict is drawing near—very near! It will be in the lifetime of many now living. There is absolutely not the slightest doubt that these things will take place unless there is a radical and total change in our world-view."
Warming Up to God
If you can, spend your time with the Lord today outside—or look out a window. What do you see in God's creation that calls you to praise? Offer your thanks to him.
Read Isaiah 24. »
Discovering the Word
- What key words describe the Lord's devastation of the earth (vv. 1, 3-4)?
- What is the mood of verses 4-13?
- According to verses 4-13, why will the devastation of the earth take place?
- How do you account for the fragment of singing which bursts out in verses 14-16, only to be abruptly silenced by Isaiah's cry of pain in the latter part of verse 16?
- What additional aspects of God's judgment are revealed in verses 2-3?
Applying the Word
- These verses presuppose a close connection between the earth itself, the land and its inhabitants. In what ways can you see the godlessness of humanity taking its toll on the physical world today?
- As a Christian, what do you believe is your responsibility to the earth?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to teach you about your responsibility in caring for his creation.
For Further Study
The Care of Creation by R. J. Berry