Problem: The way the critics flock to this passage, we might think that it was a central prophecy of the NT! In reality, it is cited only once—here in Matthew (Mt. 1:23). And yet, Matthew had good reason for citing it. Let’s consider a number of criticisms hurled against this passage.
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Problem: God tells Ahaz to ask for a sign to help confirm his faltering faith. However, Ahaz says, “I will not ask, nor will I test the Lord!” (Isa. 7:12) In addition to Ahaz’s statement, Deuteronomy 6:16 states, “You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.” However, Ahaz is considered to be a faithless king, and God gives him a sign anyhow (vv.13-14). Was Ahaz right or wrong in rejecting this sign? Is it right or wrong to ask for signs from God?
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Problem: Matthew writes, “This was to fulfill what was spoken through Isaiah the prophet: 15 ‘The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, by the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— 16 The people who were sitting in darkness saw a great Light, and those who were sitting in the land and shadow of death, upon them a Light dawned” (Mt. 4:14-16). Why does Matthew cite this passage, and how is fulfilled by Christ?
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Problem: Isaiah specifically says that he has “unclean lips” (Isa. 6:5). Why does he emphasize his lips and not some other feature on his body?
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Problem: Isaiah doesn’t get his calling until chapter six. Critics argue that this demonstrates that a redactor either added the first five chapters, or he inserted chapter six. Is this the case? Why else would Isaiah place his calling this far into the book?
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Problem: Isaiah says that the people will go to “Sheol” in judgment (pronounced SHE-ole). What is Sheol?
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Problem: Many Christians argue that consumption of alcohol is sinful. However, Paul specifically tells Timothy to drink alcohol. Should we drink alcohol or not?
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Problem: Isaiah deplores the women of Israel for wearing jewelry, perfume, and nice clothing in this section of his book. Does this mean that God forbids this for women universally today?
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Problem: Isaiah writes that the nation is being judged by having “women rule over them” (Isa. 3:12). What’s wrong with female leadership? Critics might argue that this demonstrates how the Bible is patriarchal. Is this the case?
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Problem: Isaiah writes, “Do not forgive them” (Isa. 2:9). How can we harmonize this statement with the NT teaching that we should “love our enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Mt. 5:44; c.f. Col. 3:13)?
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