Looking at Isaiah

Isaiah 42:1 -“Look at my servant, whom I strengthen. He is my chosen one, who pleases me. I have put my Spirit upon him. He will bring justice to the nations.”

            We saw John the Baptist’s entrance into scripture prophesied in Isaiah 40:3 & Malachi 3:1. Jesus the Messiah is first prophesied about in Genesis is spoken of numerous other times and is spoken of here in verse 1 of chapter 42 in the Book of Isaiah. This chapter is often referred to as “The Servant’s Song”. Jesus was God’s chosen servant to institute his plan for man’s salvation.

            “The nation (of Israel) was given a mission to serve God, to be custodian of his word and to be a light (to) the Gentile nations. Because of sin & rebellion, they failed. God sent his Son, Christ, the Messiah to fulfill that mission on earth.” [Note in the Life Application Study Bible.]   

                  In this chapter the Lord distinguishes himself from all others as he specifies that which he will do for and against all who serve him and all who turn from him. In verse 3b the Lord states “He will bring justice to all who have been wronged.” In verse 5 he says that he “created the earth and everything in it.” In verse 6 the Lord says he has called him (Christ) to demonstrate his righteousness and will give the Messiah to his people Israel as a symbol of his covenant to them and a light to guide the nations.

            The Lord makes it clear in verse 8 that he will NOT share his glory with anyone nor share praise with carved idols. There are purported to be many, many gods, but none of them can seem to prove themselves to be alive and able to do what their title implies. Perhaps men create their own gods, because in the deepest recesses of their own heart they realize they cannot live up to the standard God promotes. They don’t look at the big picture, but rather seek an immediate, more palatable solution. They want to find their own way, not realizing that no one can find the way to go without assistance from their Creator. Israel was forgiven and given another chance to get it right. This should be encouraging to those following Christ today. While I don’t believe God’s patience to be endless, based on his patience with Israel, I think it’s safe to say that perfection is not expected. We must allow ourselves to grow daily by whatever means God lays before us. We will next turn our attention to Chapter 45. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing!

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.