In chapters 1-5, the book of Isaiah focuses on how God’s people have become wicked. Things have become so bad that the author even likens them to Sodom, the city upon which God rained down fire and sulfur in Genesis 19. God’s people show no remorse either, as chapter 3 describes them as openly flaunting their sin. Chapter 6 marks a transition, however, and gives us hope. Not only do we learn about Isaiah’s call to ministry, but we also read one of the most beautiful descriptions in all of Scripture of what it’s like to have a personal encounter with God. Isaiah beholds the Lord’s glory and immediately understands how unworthy he is to stand before Him. In a remarkable twist, Isaiah receives cleansing from God and even offers himself in response to God’s question, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” God then explains what Isaiah’s commissioning is and how it will play out over time. Isaiah’s experience teaches us who God is and how we must evaluate ourselves in relation to Him. But we also learn the answer to a key question every Christian must ask: “When I encounter God, what should I do?” This text shows us that God’s glory and holiness should drive us to respond to Him in awe, reverent fear, and obedience. It also gives us three ways to do this:1. Reflect on your status before a holy God.

2. Receive and rejoice in God’s grace and forgiveness.

3. Respond with God-pleasing service and trust.

1. In Isaiah 6:2, we read that the seraphim “covered his face.” Verse 3 explains that another cried out, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” Why is it significant that even supernatural beings cover their face and call out in praise and worship of the Lord? In our modern culture and context, how can we follow this example in both thought and behavior?

2. Isaiah’s description of the Lord is limited to seeing Him “sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple.” Read John 1:14-18. What does this passage—coupled with Isaiah 6:1—teach us about Jesus and the glory of God? Specifically, what is unique about Jesus compared to other places in Scripture where God revealed Himself?

3. While we may never experience a vision like Isaiah’s, we can still encounter God. What are some practical ways that you can do this when you’re alone, with others, and within Northpoint’s ministries? What has helped you—and stopped you—from having the kind of awe and conviction that Isaiah demonstrates?

4. After Isaiah cries out, “Here I am! Send me,” we read the details of his commission from the Lord. These likely came as a surprise to Isaiah as he learns that his ministry will be marked by trials and rejection. Have you ever been excited to follow a call that God has placed on your life, only to learn that the experience was far different than you expected or even hoped? How did you respond? If you have never felt or followed a call from God, why do you think that is? (Note: This doesn’t need to be a “big” calling. It can be anything where you felt the Holy Spirit leading you.)