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Scripture Guide

Isaiah 61:1-4;8-11

Author

Stuart R. Strachan, Jr.

Keywords (7)

Scripture (7)

Updated

Sep 8, 2021

AIM Commentary

Ancient lens

What's the historical context?

Living as Captives

Our text today matches, at least in part, last week’s lectionary passage (Isaiah 40). Just as in Isaiah 40, a message of comfort is given to a long-weary people living in exile. These people are described as the “poor, brokenhearted, the captives, the prisoners” (vs.1). Such a description fits well the situation of those who have been removed from their homeland, forced to work for a foreign king, regardless of their wishes.

Good News is Given

It is to these people that a proclamation of good news (gospel) is given. What is this good news? At its core it is a restoration of a community who will “rebuild the…

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Author

Stuart R. Strachan, Jr.

Founder and Executive Director, The Pastor's Workshop

Stuart is an ordained Presbyterian pastor and the founder and lead curator of The Pastor’s Workshop, a resource dedicated to equipping church leaders for effective ministry. Rooted in the vision of Ephesians 4, his greatest passion is empowering the saints for the work of the church. Stuart loves preaching, teaching, and helping congregations discover what it means to follow Jesus faithfully in the complexities of the 21st century.

Having grown up in diverse regions such as Boston, New York, Connecticut, and Southern California, Stuart brings a broad perspective to his ministry. He has served churches in various roles across California, Colorado, Pennsylvania, and Washington, enriching his understanding of ministry in different contexts.

Stuart is married to Colleen, who works as a Spiritual Formation Lead at Compassion International in Colorado Springs. Together, they have two children whom they cherish deeply.

In his free time, Stuart enjoys gardening, golf, diving into a good book, and rooting for his favorite baseball and basketball teams.

If you’re interested in inviting Stuart to speak at your conference, retreat, or event, please reach out to The Pastor’s Workshop for more details. His blend of wisdom, warmth, and practical insight will be a blessing to your gathering.