Loyalty is what God demands from Judah and Israel. They shouldn't get distracted by other gods, or by lust for cash or craving for power. It's closely tied in with obedience, but there's an element of fervor and love tying it all up. At the same time, God's loyalty to his people is also important. God keeps promising that he will, in the end, own up to all his promises. He will guide everyone to a state of peace—even if they kick and scream along the way. People are going to get rewarded for remaining loyal to him. So, you know, it's a two way street.
Questions About Loyalty
- Are their different forms that loyalty can take? If so, which forms? Does being loyal to God mean that someone needs to step out of their comfort zone? Or can that person remain loyal and still lead a relatively comfortable life? Why do you think so?
- How about Isaiah? How does he demonstrate his own loyalty?
- How does loyalty work out? Is it always rewarded or not?
- Does Ahaz think he's being loyal when he refuses to ask God for a sign? How do you know?
- How do the kings express their loyalty? Are Ahaz and Hezekiah loyal to different degrees?