Stump Kingdom: Isaiah 6-12

by Dale Ralph Davis

Isaiah chapters 6-12 are overflowing with prediction, containing some of the most famous references in the Old Testament to the coming Messiah. Covering a time in Judah's history when it was being attacked and threatened on all sides, each chapter is full of rich biblical truths, revealing the character of Yahweh and His plan for His children. Although the remnant of His people would be reduced to a stump, a shoot would come forth - Immanuel, God with us.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Devotional

128 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2017

About the author

Dale Ralph Davis is Minister in Residence, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, South Carolina. Prior to that he was pastor of Woodland Presbyterian Church, Hattiesburg, Mississippi and Professor of Old Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi.

Reviews

[Jim Savastio · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clear and encouraging

David writes in a clear and engaging style. The central focus of the book is Isaiah 's prophesy of the Son of the virgin, Immanuel.

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Outstanding exposition of Isaiah 6-12. Davis’s defense of Isaiah 7:14 as an authentic prophecy of the virgin birth, in its historical context, is worth the price of the book.

[Hayden Mills · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a helpful little commentary on Isaiah 6-12.

[Michael Philliber · Rating 5 out of 5]

He does it every time! Dr. Dale Ralph Davis, Minister in Residence at First Presbyterian Church in Columbia, South Carolina, successfully hits another home-run with his newest 128 page paperback, "Stump Kingdom: Isaiah 6-12." This nifty little volume is easy to read, insightful, and usable for seminary trained ministers as well as disciples desiring to grow in their grasp of Scripture.

"Stump Kingdom" unfolds in eight chapters that systematically work through Isaiah chapters six through twelve. Davis draws from scholarly sources, Hebrew vocabulary, grammar and the canonical context of these chapters to give the reader a well-rounded presentation. Though the work is scholarly, it's not stuffy or stiff. Part of the author's aim was personal: he wanted to get at chapter 7.14 and workout how it fits into the thought of Isaiah. The result of his discussion on that chapter is full and fortifying.

But he doesn't stop there. He continues to guide us through the text with warmth and depth. Davis's observations and applications will lift the reader's hear and rouse their worship. For example, as the author tackles the messy role of Assyria in God's purposes, he observes, "God's covenant people throughout the world need to remember this - need to 're-realize' that our God is not merely over a few Christian ghettos scattered across the globe but that he is Lord of the nations. He is not just in charge of covenant matters but of cosmic matters" (89).

"Stump Kingdom" reads easy. When a person has completed the book they will definitely have a better comprehension of Isaiah 6-12. But they will also, most likely, walk away with a greater appreciation for who God is, what he has done and is doing for his people. This little manuscript would be ideal for a Bible study class. It has devotional qualities. And it will be a handy help for a preacher who desires to preach a series of messages through this section of Sacred Scripture. Hustle out and buy a copy for yourself and get one for your minister.

Thanks to Christian Focus for providing, upon my request, the free copy of the book used for this review. The assessments are mine given without restrictions or requirements (as per Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255).

[Phil Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet again DRD has written a great devotional Old Testament commentary. This time he covers Isaiah chapters 6-12. Great insights, encouraging and challenging application and his usual mix of illustrations make for a profitable read. Also useful for sermon preparation!

[Joel Nadel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A rich and edifying exposition of Isaiah

This was my first exposure to Ralph Davis’ work. I have read and studied Isaiah a number of times, with limited understanding of it. Davis understands the complex relationship between Isaiah’s prophecies and the grand historical context in which they take place. As he shares these, he deftly uncovers the lessons we gain from Isaiah’s teachings. These not only shed light on what was going on as Isaiah was prophesying, but they give us insight and understanding of the magnitude of God’s love and grace, as He sent a Messiah to save us.

[Lee Button · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dale Ralph Davis has great insight in his exposition. He translates the passages and connects each to the immediate historical and textual context. His illustrations are interesting and appropriate. This is the second of his books I have read and I will be sure to read more.

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful. Best I've seen explaining Isaiah 7 and prophecy of Virgin Birth. Great pre-Advent preparation too.

[Nathan DiBagno · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good exposition on Isaiah 6-12.

[Matt Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ready anything and everything by Dale Ralph Davis.

[Stephen Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

DRD is the man. Best devotional writer out there for my money. Really well organized on a nice selection from Isaiah.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with Davis' his other books, this one is full of good insights, spiritual wisdom and pastoral concern. And plenty of helpful anecdotes.
Though Davis' books have got shorter over the years - on Kindle they always seem to finish before you're expecting them to - they're still well worth the read. I'm going to give this another few weeks and I'll read it again.

2025 Didn't manage to read it again in a few weeks, but have now done so, and as always Davis offers clear insights and clarifies things that are difficult.