1 Behold my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my Spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations.
2 He will not cry aloud or lift up his voice,
or make it heard in the street;
3 A bruised reed he will not break, and a faintly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice.
4 He will not grow faint or be discouraged
till he has established justice in the earth;
and the coastlands wait for his law.
5 Thus says God, the Lord, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it:
6 “I am the Lord; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations,”
7 to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.
8 I am the Lord; that is my name; my glory I give to no other, nor my praise to carved idols.
9 Behold, the former things have come to pass,
and new things I now declare;
before they spring forth
I tell you of them.”
10 Sing to the Lord a new song,
his praise from the end of the earth,
you who go down to the sea, and all that fills it,
the coastlands and their inhabitants.
11 Let the desert and its cities lift up their voice, the villages that Kedar inhabits; let the habitants of Sela sing for joy, let them shout from the top of the mountains.
12 Let them give glory to the Lord, and declare his praise in the coastlands.
13 The Lord goes out like a mighty man,
like a man of war he stirs up his zeal;
he cries out, he shouts aloud,
he shows himself mighty against his foes.
14 I have held my peace for a long time;
I have kept still and restrained myself;
now I will cry out like a woman in labor;
I will gasp and pant.
15 I will lay waste mountains and hills, and dry up all their vegetation; I will turn the rivers into islands, and dry up the pools.
16 And I will lead the blind in a way that they do not know, in paths that they have not known I will guide them. I will turn the darkness before them into light, the rough places into level ground. These are the things I do, and I do not forsake them.
17 They are turned back and utterly put to shame,
who trust in carved idols,
who say to metal images,
“You are our gods.”
18 Hear, you deaf, and look, you blind, that you may see!
19 Who is blind but my servant,
or deaf as my messenger whom I send?
Who is blind as my dedicated one,
or blind as the servant of the Lord?
20 You see many things, but do not observe them;
opening the ears, but he does not hear.
21 The Lord was pleased, for his righteousness’ sake, to magnify his law and make it glorious.
22 But this is a people plundered and looted;
they are all of them trapped in holes
and hidden in prisons;
they have become plunder with none to rescue,
spoil with none to say, “Restore!”
23 Who among you will give ear to this,
will attend and listen for the time to come?
24 Who gave up Jacob to the looter,
and Israel to the plunderers?
Was it not the Lord,
against whom we have sinned,
in whose ways they would not walk,
and whose law they would not obey?
25 So he poured on him the heat of his anger
and the might of battle;
it set him on fire all around,
but he did not understand;
it burned him up, but he did not take it to heart.
The True Meaning of Isaiah 42
The book of Isaiah was written by the prophet Isaiah, who lived during the reigns of several Judean kings in the 8th century BC. Isaiah was known for his powerful visions and messages from God, which often warned the people of Judah and Israel about the consequences of their disobedience and idolatry. Isaiah introduces a special servant of God who will bring justice and salvation to the world in this chapter. This servant will be a light to the nations, opening the eyes of the blind and freeing the captives. The chapter foreshadows the coming of the Messiah, who will fulfill these promises and establish God’s kingdom on earth.
We see echoes of this servant in other parts of the Bible, such as the suffering servant described in Isaiah 53 and the Son of Man in the Gospels. These passages point to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan for the redemption of humanity through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Isaiah 42:1-4
The passage in Isaiah 42:1-4 prophesies about the coming of the servant of the Lord. Identify the subject: “Let’s”
Rewritten sentence: Let’s delve deeper into the meaning and significance by breaking it down into sections.
Verse 1 begins with, “Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations.” This verse introduces the servant as one who has the full support and approval of God. The servant is described as the chosen one in whom God delights, indicating a special relationship between them. The verse also mentions the Spirit being put on the servant, which can be seen as a reference to the anointing and empowerment of the servant by God to carry out his mission of bringing justice to the nations. The section emphasizes the qualities and attributes of the servant who is to come. The mention of justice being brought to the nations reflects the universal scope of the servant’s mission. This idea of justice is a recurring theme in the Bible, highlighting the importance of righteousness and fairness in God’s eyes. Throughout the Old Testament, there are various instances where individuals are called to serve as agents of justice, such as prophets like Isaiah himself who spoke out against injustice and called for righteousness among the people.
Moving on to verse 2, it states, “He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets.” This line paints a picture of the servant’s demeanor as one of gentleness and humility. Instead of using loud and forceful methods to make his presence known, the servant is portrayed as someone who conducts himself with peace and quiet strength. This attribute of meekness and humility is in line with the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, who often emphasized the value of humility and meekness in serving God and others.
Furthermore, in verse 3, it says, “A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. He will bring forth justice in faithfulness.” This imagery of a bruised reed and a smoldering wick symbolizes fragility and vulnerability. The servant is portrayed as someone who is compassionate and caring, showing mercy and grace towards those who are broken and weak. This shows that the servant’s mission is not just about enforcing justice, but also about showing love and compassion to those in need. This aligns with the overarching message of the Bible, where God’s love and mercy are extended to all, especially to the marginalized and oppressed.
Finally, verse 4 states, “He will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. The islands will put their hope in his teaching.” This verse emphasizes the servant’s unwavering commitment to his mission of establishing justice on earth. Despite facing challenges and obstacles, the servant will persevere without faltering or being discouraged. This resilience and determination are qualities that inspire hope and trust in the people, as indicated by the reference to the islands putting their hope in his teaching. This highlights the transformative power of the servant’s message, which brings hope and redemption to all who hear and believe. Isaiah 42:1-4 provides a profound insight into the characteristics and mission of the servant of the Lord. The passage not only foretells the coming of a righteous and compassionate leader but also reveals the universal scope of his mission to bring justice and hope to all nations. Through the servant’s example of humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice, the passage resonates with the timeless message of God’s love and mercy for all. It serves as a reminder for believers to embody these qualities in their own lives and to trust in the promise of ultimate justice and redemption through God’s chosen servant.
Isaiah 42:5-9
The passage in Isaiah 42:5-9 can be broken down into important sections that each carry significant messages within the context of the entire book of Isaiah. Let’s delve deeper into each of these sections to uncover their timeless meanings and implications.
We will delve deeper into each of these sections to uncover their timeless meanings and implications.
Verses 5-6 state, “This is what God the Lord says—the Creator of the heavens, who stretches them out, who spreads out the earth with all that springs from it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it: ‘I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.’”
This section portrays the majestic creation power of God, emphasizing His authority as the Creator of all things. The reference to “call you in righteousness” could be seen as a nod towards Christ, who would come to fulfill God’s righteous plan for salvation. The imagery of being a light for the Gentiles reflects the inclusive nature of God’s salvation, not limited to a specific group but open to all who believe in Him. This foreshadows the universal message of salvation that would later be fulfilled through Jesus Christ, as also mentioned in Isaiah 49:6, where God’s servant is appointed to bring salvation to the ends of the earth.
Moving on to verses 7-9, “I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols. See, the former things have taken place, and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you.”
These verses reinforce the exclusivity of God’s glory and the futility of idol worship. God declares His supremacy and warns against attributing His glory to any other deity. This message is consistent throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of worshipping the one true God and not turning to idols. The reference to declaring new things highlights God’s omniscience and sovereignty over time and events, underscoring His ability to bring about His plans before they even come to pass, as shown through various prophecies fulfilled in the Bible, including the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Isaiah 42:5-9 encapsulates themes of God’s creative power, righteousness, salvation for all peoples, and the preeminence of His glory. It sets the stage for the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan throughout the rest of the book of Isaiah and ultimately culminating in the fulfillment of these prophecies through Jesus Christ in the New Testament. The message of inclusivity, righteousness, and the sovereignty of God resonates through these verses, offering hope and assurance to believers in every generation.
Isaiah 42:10-13
The verse in Isaiah 42:10-13 can be broken down into distinct sections for a deeper understanding.
First, in verse 10, we see the call to action: “Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise from the end of the earth.” This summons for a new song is a symbolic representation of a fresh beginning or a new way of praising God. The call to sing from the end of the earth signifies that this praise should come from all corners of the world, emphasizing the universal nature of God’s reign. This verse highlights the importance of continuous praise and worship to God, regardless of circumstances. It encourages believers to express their gratitude to God in different ways and to remain faithful in their devotion.
Moving on to verse 11, we encounter a scene where the wilderness and its cities lift up their voices, along with the villages that Kedar inhabits. Kedar was a descendant of Ishmael, and his descendants were known for dwelling in the deserts and engaging in trade. This verse can be seen as a prophecy that even the most desolate and remote places will join in praising God. It illustrates the inclusivity of God’s kingdom, where no one is beyond the reach of His grace. This imagery portrays a powerful message of hope and redemption, emphasizing that God’s salvation is available to all, no matter their background or circumstances.
Verse 12 speaks of the inhabitants of the coastlands and their cities raising their voices in praise. The mention of the coastlands suggests far-off lands and distant nations. This depiction portrays a global gathering of worshipers coming together to exalt God. It signifies the expansion of God’s kingdom to encompass all peoples and nations, highlighting His sovereignty over the entire world. This verse reinforces the universal message of salvation found throughout the Bible, underscoring God’s desire for all people to come to know Him and worship Him.
Lastly, in verse 13, we see a declaration that God will go forth like a mighty man, stirring up zeal and displaying His power and might. This vivid imagery of God as a warrior showcases His strength and victorious nature. It conveys the idea that God will act decisively on behalf of His people, fighting for them and overcoming their enemies. This verse serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and His commitment to protect and deliver His chosen ones. It instills confidence in believers that God is a mighty protector who will not fail them in times of trouble. Isaiah 42:10-13 encapsulates themes of universal praise, inclusivity, global salvation, and God’s strength and protection. It conveys a message of hope, redemption, and victory, emphasizing the unwavering faithfulness and power of God. This passage serves as a reminder that God’s plan extends to all corners of the earth and that His purposes will ultimately prevail. It encourages believers to trust in God’s sovereignty and to join in the chorus of praise that resounds throughout creation.
Isaiah 42:14-17
The verse in Isaiah 42:14-17 can be broken down into a few key sections that are important to unpack in order to understand the deeper meaning within the text.
Starting with verse 14, “I have long time holden my peace; I have been still, and refrained myself: now will I cry like a travailing woman; I will destroy and devour at once.” This verse portrays God breaking his silence after an extended period of patience. The imagery of a travailing woman evokes a sense of intense labor and impending judgment. It signifies that God’s patience has a limit, and when that limit is reached, there will be swift and decisive action.
Moving on to verse 15, “I will make waste mountains and hills, and dry up all their herbs, and I will make the rivers islands, and I will dry up the pools.” Here, we see a description of the magnitude of God’s power and sovereignty over nature. The mention of mountains, hills, rivers, and pools being dried up signifies a complete upheaval and restructuring of the natural order by God’s hand. This reiterates the theme of God’s ability to bring about both destruction and renewal according to His will.
Continuing to verses 16 and 17, “And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them. They shall be turned back, they shall be greatly ashamed, that trust in graven images, that say to the molten images, Ye are our gods.” These verses highlight God’s promise to guide and lead His people, even in the midst of confusion and darkness. The contrast between those who trust in idols and those who trust in the one true God is evident here. God promises to bring those who are spiritually blind into the light of His truth, while those who cling to false idols will ultimately be put to shame.
The overarching theme of these verses in Isaiah 42 is one of God’s justice, power, and faithfulness. It serves as a reminder to the Israelites of God’s sovereignty and the consequences of turning away from Him. The imagery of destruction and renewal, as well as the promise of guidance and light, all point to the unchanging nature of God and His redemptive plan for His people. This passage also points towards the ultimate fulfillment of these promises through Jesus Christ, who is the light of the world (John 8:12) and the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). It underscores the significance of staying faithful to God and trusting in His guidance, even in the face of challenges and uncertainty.
Isaiah 42:18-20
The passage in Isaiah 42:18-20 begins with a call to attention, “Hear, you deaf; look, you blind, and see!”.” which sets the tone for a message directed at those who have turned away from God’s teachings and have closed their hearts and minds to His word. The imagery of being deaf and blind here is not just a physical impairment, but rather a metaphor for spiritual deafness and blindness, where people are not listening to God’s instructions and are not seeing His hand at work in their lives.
The passage goes on to highlight the relationship between God and His chosen people, the Israelites, who despite having been given the law and being called to be a light to the nations, have not listened or obeyed. The reference to being “robbed and plundered, trapped in pits or hidden away in prisons” can be seen as a consequence of the Israelites’ disobedience and departure from God’s ways. They have faced hardships and trials because of their own actions.
Throughout the history of the Israelites as depicted in the Bible, there is a recurring pattern of disobedience, punishment, repentance, and restoration. This cycle is seen in events such as the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness, their periods of captivity in Babylon, and their eventual return to the Promised Land. Despite their shortcomings, God always remained faithful to His covenant with them, offering them opportunities for redemption and renewal. God’s plea for His people to see and hear in this passage serves as a reminder of His constant presence and desire for them to return to Him. It reflects God’s mercy and patience, as He continues to reach out to His people even when they have strayed from His path. The call to “open the eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness” reflects God’s desire to bring about redemption and restoration for His people. We, as believers today, can also reflect on our own spiritual condition and consider whether we have been attentive to God’s voice in our lives. Are we truly listening to His guidance and following His commandments? This passage challenges us to examine our hearts and minds, to open ourselves to God’s truth, and to respond to His call with obedience and faithfulness. Through this, we can experience the freedom and renewal that comes from a restored relationship with God.
Isaiah 42:21-25
The passage in Isaiah 42:21-25 is divided into two main sections: verses 21-22 and verses 23-25.
Starting with verses 21-22, we see God emphasizing His righteousness by declaring that He was pleased for the sake of His righteousness to magnify the law and make it honorable. This underscores the importance of God’s righteous and just nature. The law, given to the Israelites as a guideline for living, was meant to set them apart as a holy people, reflecting the holiness of God. However, throughout the history of Israel, the people often strayed from following the law and turned to disobedience and idolatry. Despite this, God’s commitment to His righteousness remained steadfast.
The mentioning of Jacob and Israel in verse 24 brings attention to the collective identity of the chosen people of God. Jacob, who was later named Israel, was the father of the twelve tribes that formed the nation of Israel. Throughout their history, the Israelites experienced cycles of faithfulness and rebellion against God. This reference serves as a reminder of God’s enduring love and faithfulness to His chosen people, despite their shortcomings. It also emphasizes the accountability and responsibility that come with being part of the covenant community. The passage shifts to a tone of rebuke and judgment in verses 23-25. God laments that His people did not listen or pay attention to His guidance. They disregarded His law and did not walk in His ways. They faced the consequences of their disobedience. The mention of being plundered and trapped in holes conveys the idea of being in a state of distress and captivity due to their sins.
This section serves as a warning of the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God’s commands. It highlights the inevitable outcome of turning away from God and serving idols. The passage ultimately points to the need for repentance and a return to God. Throughout the Bible, there are numerous examples of God’s people facing the consequences of disobedience, yet also experiencing His forgiveness and restoration when they turned back to Him. One such example is the story of King David, who, despite his great sin with Bathsheba, found forgiveness and restoration when he repented before God (2 Samuel 12:13). Isaiah 42:21-25 emphasizes God’s righteousness, humanity’s accountability, the consequences of disobedience, and the call to repentance. It is a timeless message that resonates throughout the entire Bible, reminding us of God’s unwavering love, justice, and the need for obedience and faithfulness in our relationship with Him.
After Isaiah 42
The Lord had spoken, and His servant had listened. The people had been called to witness the coming of a new era, a time of justice and righteousness. Yet, as the chapter drew to a close, a sense of unease lingered. For the Lord had also declared that His servant would face opposition, that the path ahead would not be an easy one. But the faithful knew that the Lord’s purpose would prevail, and that His servant would be a light to the nations, guiding the world towards the fulfillment of His divine plan. The people would be called to stand firm in their faith, to support the servant of the Lord, and to witness the unfolding of a story that would shape the course of history as the next chapter unfolded.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.