You drive a road you have known for years and see that the forest is gone, only the stumps of felled trees remain. That is exactly what Isaiah sees as he looks at the cut-down stump of David’s line, and exactly there he notices a tiny green shoot (Isaiah 11). This Advent sermon unfolds the promised king of justice and peace, under whom the wolf will lie down beside the lamb and the nations will gather round one banner instead of fighting. Listen in if you want to see why what looks like the end may only be the beginning.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Isaiah looks at a cut-down forest and the stump of Jesse, then notices a green shoot growing from it. What might this image from Isaiah 11:1-10 have meant to the people of Judah, threatened by Assyria and Babylon?
- What qualities of the coming king does Isaiah describe (the Spirit of the Lord, wisdom, knowledge, fear of the Lord, justice), and how did Jesus fulfill them when He came to the poor and oppressed?
- The sermon says the fear of the Lord is not dread but living according to God's word. How does that understanding change the way you relate to God and make everyday decisions?
- Levi Coffin sheltered escaped slaves because Jesus told us to feed the hungry and shelter those without a home. Who are the hurting people around you, and what does it mean for them that you serve the King of justice?
- A wolf lying down with a lamb is a peace that is impossible by natural means. Who do you fight with like cats and dogs, and how might Jesus, who transforms hearts, bring peace into that relationship?
- The prisoners in the camp knew the war was over even though the gates were still closed. How can knowing that Jesus has already won and will return change the way you face difficulties this week?
