The Prophet and His Day: Isaiah 1-39 - Free Bible Commentary

ISAIAH 1PARAGRAPH DIVISIONS OF MODERN TRANSLATIONS*NASB NKJV NRSV TEV NJBRebellion of God’s People Superscription Title1:1-3 1:1 1:1 1:1 1:1(2-3) The Wickedness of Judah First Series of Oracles God Reprimands HisPeopleAgainst an UngratefulPeople1:2-4(2-3)1:2-31(2-3)1:2-3 1:2-9(2-9)1:4(4) (4) (4)1:4-61:5(5-6)1:5-9(5-6) (5-6)1:7-9(7-9) (7-9) (7-9)1:7-9God Has Had EnoughAgainst Hypocrisy1:10-15(10-15)1:10-17(10-11)(12-15)(10-17)1:10-14 1:10-20(10)1:15-17(11-17)1:16-17(16-17)(16-17)Let Us Reason1:18-20(18-20)1:18-20(18-20) (18-20)1:18-20(18-20)Zion Corrupted, To BeRedeemedThe Degenerate City The Sinful City Lament of Jerusalem1:21-23(21-23)1:21-23(21-23) (21-23)1:21-23 1:21-28(21)(22-23)1:24-26(24-26)1:24-31(24-26) (24-26)1:24-26(24)(25)(26)*Although not inspired, paragraph divisions are the key to understanding and following the original author’s intent. Each modern translation hasdivided and summarized the paragraph divisions as they understand them. Every paragraph has one central topic, truth or thought. Each version encapsulatesthat topic in its own way. As you read the text, which translation fits your understanding of the subject and verse divisions?In every chapter you must read the Bible first and try to identify its subjects (paragraphs). Then compare your understanding with the modern versions.Only when we understand the original author’s intent by following his logic and presentation at the paragraph level, can one truly understand the Bible.Only the original author was inspired—readers have no right to change or modify the message. Bible readers do have the responsibility to apply the inspiredtruth to their day and lives.Note that all technical terms and abbreviations are explained fully in Appendices One, Two and Three.10