Great Expectations Leader Guide; Studies in Isaiah

Although a book of prophecy, Isaiah is also one of the most poetic books of the Bible. These texts from Isaiah are read by people throughout the world during the season of Advent. With imagery such as the lion and lamb laying down together, the holy mountain of God, and streams in the desert, the words of Isaiah are woven together with great expectations of the life to come.

This 4-session Bible study explores 4 word pictures in Isaiah and encourages participants to explore this book thoughtfully together:

Peace for God's People

Isaiah 2:1-5

Hope for God's People

Isaiah 11:1-10

Joy for God's People

Isaiah 35:1-10

Promise for God's People

Isaiah 7:10-16

Appropriate for year A, 1-4 Advent.

John O'Neal is an internationally acclaimed writer, performer, and director. He is founder and artistic director of Junebug Productions, the organizational successor to the Free Southern Theater, of which O Neal was also a cofounder and director. He was a field secretary of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and worked as National Field Program Director with the Committee for Racial Justice. O Neal has written eighteen plays, a musical comedy, and a substantial body of poetry and essays. He has numerous credits as an actor and has toured widely in the character of Junebug Jabbo Jones, a mythic figure who symbolizes the wisdom of common people. O Neal has been a leader in the field of artists working in community and for social justice. He has received many awards including the prestigious Ford Foundation s Leadership for a Changing World Award, the Award of Merit from the Association of Performing Arts Presenters, and the United States Artists Award.