Isaiah was a writer of considerable literary skill. The poetry of his book is magnificent in its sweep. A person of strong emotion and deep feelings, Isaiah also was a man of steadfast devotion to the Lord. His vision of God and His holiness in the Temple influenced his messages during his long ministry. Isaiah’s ministry extended from about 740 B.C. until at least 701 B.C. (Isaiah 37–39). His 40 years of preaching doom and promise did not turn the nation of Judah from its headlong rush toward destruction.