Personal Prayer

BRBC Bible Notes

Week by week, we post notes based on the theme of the Sunday service, so that people can follow them in their own personal devotions, in prayer triplets, or in the church life groups.

 

Bible Study 7: Calling for Mission

Main Passage: Isaiah 6:1–10

Purpose of the Study
This study is designed to:
Encourage believers to respond to God’s call with readiness and humility.
Strengthen understanding of holiness, obedience, and God’s mission.
Challenge the church to embrace God’s sending, even when it involves difficulty or sacrifice.

Opening Prayer
“Lord, open our eyes to see Your glory and hear Your call. Give us courage to respond faithfully, humility to serve, and a willing heart for Your mission. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

1. Read the Passage
Invite a participant to read Isaiah 6:1–10 aloud. Ask the group to notice Isaiah’s vision, the holiness of God, and the commissioning that follows.

2. Context and Summary
Isaiah experiences a vision of the Lord enthroned in the temple. Overwhelmed by God’s holiness, he acknowledges his own sinfulness. A seraph touches his lips with a live coal, symbolising purification. God then calls Isaiah to be His prophet, sending him to a people who may resist his message. This passage illustrates the transformative encounter with God, the cleansing power of His presence, and the courage required to embrace God’s mission.

3. Key Themes and Reflections

A. Encountering God’s Holiness
Isaiah recognises God’s glory and holiness, which brings conviction of his own sin.
Reflection Question: How does encountering God’s holiness shape your life and priorities?
Quote: “A vision of God’s holiness brings humility and devotion.” — Unknown
Related Scripture:
Habakkuk 2:20 – The Lord is in His holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before Him.
Psalm 99:9 – Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His holy hill.

B. God’s Cleansing and Equipping
Isaiah’s lips are touched by a live coal, symbolising purification and readiness for service.
Reflection Question: What areas of your life need God’s cleansing before you can fully serve Him?
Quote: “God purifies those He calls so they can reflect His glory.” — Unknown
Related Scripture:
1 John 1:9 – If we confess our sins, He is faithful to cleanse us.
2 Timothy 2:21 – Those cleansed and consecrated will be instruments for honourable use. 
 
C. Responding to God’s Call
God commissions Isaiah despite knowing the difficulty of the mission ahead.
Reflection Question: Are we willing to respond to God’s call, even when it seems challenging or unpopular?
Quote: “To be sent by God is to walk boldly where He leads.” — Unknown
Related Scripture:
Isaiah 6:8 – Here I am; send me.
Matthew 28:19–20 – Go and make disciples of all nations.

D. Persevering Amid Resistance
God sends Isaiah to people who will resist his message, illustrating that obedience is not always about immediate success.
Reflection Question: How can we faithfully serve when our efforts may be met with rejection or indifference?
Quote: “Obedience is measured by faithfulness, not by results.” — Unknown
Related Scripture:
Galatians 6:9 – Let us not grow weary in doing good.
2 Corinthians 4:1–2 – Serve faithfully, even when faced with opposition.

4. A Word to the Church: Embracing God’s Mission
The church is called to be holy, purified, and ready to serve in God’s mission.
Challenge: Are we responding with courage and faith to God’s calling in our lives and communities?Group Discussion:
Share a time when God called you to step into something difficult or uncomfortable.
How can our church collectively prepare to embrace God’s mission locally and globally?

5. A Call to Action: Say “Here I Am”
Reflect on areas where God is calling you to serve or witness this week.
Pray for cleansing, courage, and willingness to obey God fully.

Closing Scripture Meditation
Romans 10:15 – “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

Final Prayer
“Lord, purify our hearts and equip us for Your mission. May we respond with readiness, faith, and courage to the work You call us to. Help us to serve faithfully, trusting in Your power and guidance. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

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