Isaiah 42:1

KJV

¶ Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, [in whom] my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.

KJV (with Strong's)

Behold my servant {H5650}, whom I uphold {H8551}; mine elect {H972}, in whom my soul {H5315} delighteth {H7521}; I have put {H5414} my spirit {H7307} upon him: he shall bring forth {H3318} judgment {H4941} to the Gentiles {H1471}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Here is my servant, whom I support, my chosen one, in whom I take pleasure. I have put my Spirit on him; he will bring justice to the Goyim.

Berean Standard Bible

“Here is My Servant, whom I uphold, My Chosen One, in whom My soul delights. I will put My Spirit on Him, and He will bring justice to the nations.

American Standard Version

Behold, my servant, whom I uphold; my chosen, in whom my soul delighteth: I have put my Spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the Gentiles.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 42:1 introduces the first of the pivotal "Servant Songs," unveiling a divinely chosen and uniquely empowered figure. This verse serves as a foundational description of the Servant's identity and mission, portraying him as one upheld by God, in whom God's soul delights, and upon whom the Spirit of God rests. His ultimate purpose is to extend God's righteous judgment and established order to the Gentile nations, signaling a universal scope for God's redemptive plan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 42:1 marks the beginning of the first of four distinct "Servant Songs" (chapters 42, 49, 50, and 52:13-53:12) within the book of Isaiah. These passages collectively portray a mysterious figure, the "Servant of the Lord," whose identity and mission are central to God's redemptive purposes. This section follows prophecies of Israel's spiritual blindness and impending judgment, particularly in the context of the Babylonian exile, and shifts the focus towards God's instrument for restoration and the establishment of true justice. It stands in contrast to the failures of Israel, who was also called God's servant (e.g., [Isaiah 41:8](/isaiah/41-8 "Isaiah 41:8 - Israel as God's Servant")), by presenting a perfect, obedient Servant.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecies in Isaiah, particularly chapters 40-55, are often understood against the backdrop of the Babylonian exile, offering hope and a vision of future deliverance and restoration. In ancient Near Eastern thought, a "servant" could range from a literal slave to a trusted royal official or an agent carrying out a king's will. The concept of "judgment" (Hebrew: *mishpat*) in this context is broader than mere condemnation; it encompasses justice, righteousness, established order, and the implementation of God's righteous rule. The "Gentiles" (Hebrew: *goyim*) refers to all the nations outside of Israel, highlighting God's universal concern and the expansive reach of His covenant promises, which began with the call of Abraham to be a blessing to [all the families of the earth](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - Abrahamic Covenant and Blessing All Nations").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully introduces several key theological and narrative themes that resonate throughout the Servant Songs and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Election and Affirmation**, emphasizing that the Servant is not self-appointed but specifically chosen ("mine elect") and affirmed by God ("in whom my soul delighteth"). Secondly, it highlights **Empowerment by the Spirit**, as God places His Spirit upon the Servant, signifying divine anointing and equipping for the task at hand, a theme central to prophetic and messianic expectations (e.g., [Isaiah 11:2](/isaiah/11-2 "Isaiah 11:2 - The Spirit of the Lord on the Messiah")). Thirdly, the verse reveals the **Universal Scope of God's Justice and Salvation**, as the Servant's mission extends beyond Israel to "bring forth judgment to the Gentiles," indicating that God's redemptive plan is for all humanity, not just one nation. This theme is further developed in passages like [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - The Servant as a Light to the Nations").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Servant (Hebrew, _ʻebed'_):** From H5650, this term denotes one who serves, ranging from a slave to a high-ranking official or an agent carrying out a king's will. In this context, it signifies a chosen and obedient agent of God, uniquely commissioned for a divine purpose. The Servant's identity is defined by his relationship to and service for the Lord.
* **Delighteth (Hebrew, _râtsâh'_):** From H7521, this word means to be pleased with, to accept, or to have favor. When God's "soul" delights in the Servant, it conveys profound divine pleasure, approval, and acceptance, indicating a perfect alignment between the Servant's character and actions and God's will.
* **Spirit (Hebrew, _rûwach'_):** From H7307, this term refers to wind, breath, or a spiritual essence. Here, "my spirit" refers to the Spirit of God, indicating a divine anointing and empowerment. The Spirit's presence is the source of the Servant's ability and authority to fulfill his mission.
* **Judgment (Hebrew, _mishpâṭ'_):** From H4941, this word is rich in meaning, encompassing a verdict, a sentence, a formal decree, and abstractly, justice or righteousness. It refers not merely to condemnation but to the establishment of God's righteous order, His just rule, and the bringing of salvation and truth.
* **Gentiles (Hebrew, _gôwy'_):** From H1471, this term refers to foreign nations or non-Israelite peoples. The Servant's mission extends universally, indicating that God's plan of justice and salvation is intended for all humanity, transcending national boundaries.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Behold my servant":** This opening phrase is an imperative, a call to attention, signaling the introduction of a figure of immense significance. It immediately establishes a unique, possessive relationship between God and this Servant.
* **"whom I uphold":** This clause emphasizes God's active role in sustaining, supporting, and empowering the Servant. It speaks to divine providence and strength provided to the Servant for his arduous task.
* **"mine elect":** This highlights the Servant's divine selection and unique status. He is not self-appointed but chosen by God, setting him apart for a specific, sacred purpose.
* **"in whom my soul delighteth":** This expresses God's profound pleasure, approval, and affection for the Servant. It signifies a perfect harmony between the Servant's character and God's will, indicating a relationship of intimate communion and divine favor.
* **"I have put my spirit upon him":** This signifies a divine anointing and empowerment. The Holy Spirit is the source of the Servant's wisdom, strength, and ability to carry out his mission, marking him as divinely commissioned.
* **"he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles":** This declares the Servant's primary mission and its universal scope. "Judgment" here refers to the establishment of God's just and righteous order, His truth, and His salvation. This mission is not confined to Israel but extends to all nations, revealing God's global redemptive purpose.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 42:1 is rich in literary devices that enhance its prophetic power and theological depth. The opening word, **"Behold,"** functions as an exclamation or an imperative, drawing immediate attention to the profound revelation that follows and emphasizing the significance of the Servant. The verse is an example of a **Divine Monologue** or **Oracle**, as God Himself is the speaker, lending ultimate authority and weight to the description of His chosen one. There is a strong element of **Emphasis** through repetition of divine ownership and action ("my servant," "whom I uphold," "mine elect," "my soul delighteth," "my spirit"), underscoring God's intimate involvement with and affirmation of the Servant. The phrase "my soul delighteth" employs **Personification**, attributing human-like emotion to God to convey the depth of His pleasure. Furthermore, the verse serves as a powerful instance of **Prophecy** and **Thematic Foreshadowing**, setting the stage for the unfolding narrative of the Servant's mission, which will culminate in the establishment of God's just rule over all the earth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 42:1 stands as a profound theological statement, revealing God's character as sovereign, just, and merciful, actively working through a chosen agent to accomplish His universal purposes. The concept of divine election is central, demonstrating that God initiates and empowers those He calls. The anointing by the Spirit highlights the necessity of divine enablement for spiritual tasks, a principle seen throughout biblical history in prophets, priests, and kings. Most significantly, the Servant's mission to the Gentiles underscores the expansive nature of God's redemptive plan. From the covenant with Abraham, where all nations would be blessed through his offspring, to the New Testament's Great Commission, God's desire for all humanity to know His justice and salvation is a consistent theme. This verse asserts that God's righteous rule is not exclusive to one people but is destined to encompass the entire world, bringing order, truth, and salvation where there was once spiritual darkness and moral chaos.

* [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - Servant as Light to the Nations")
* [Isaiah 61:1](/isaiah/61-1 "Isaiah 61:1 - Spirit Anointing for Proclamation")
* [Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - Abrahamic Covenant and Blessing All Nations")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 42:1 offers profound insights for personal reflection and practical application in the life of a believer. Understanding that God chooses, upholds, delights in, and empowers His Servant provides immense comfort and assurance. It reminds us that our effectiveness in God's kingdom is not dependent on our own strength or merit, but on His sovereign choice and the enabling power of His Spirit. Just as the Servant was equipped for a global mission, believers today are called to participate in God's universal plan, bringing His truth and justice to their spheres of influence, whether locally or globally. This verse challenges us to consider how we are allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us, to uphold God's righteous standards, and to extend His love and truth to those who do not yet know Him. It encourages us to find our delight in God, knowing that as we align with His will, He delights in us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's delight in His Servant shape your view of His character and His relationship with those He chooses?**
* **In what ways do you see the Holy Spirit empowering believers today to carry out God's purposes, especially in bringing justice and truth to the world?**
* **Considering the Servant's mission to the Gentiles, how does this verse challenge or affirm your understanding of the global reach of God's redemptive plan?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "Servant" in Isaiah 42:1?**

Answer: The identity of the "Servant" in Isaiah 42:1 has been a subject of theological discussion. Historically, interpretations have included: Israel as a nation (especially in its ideal form), a specific prophetic figure (like Isaiah himself), or a future messianic king. Within Christian theology, this verse, along with the other Servant Songs, is predominantly understood as a direct prophecy of Jesus Christ. The New Testament explicitly applies this passage to Jesus, as seen in [Matthew 12:18](/matthew/12-18 "Matthew 12:18 - Jesus as the Servant of Isaiah 42:1"), where He is identified as the very Servant described by Isaiah.

**What does "bring forth judgment to the Gentiles" mean?**

Answer: The Hebrew word for "judgment" is *mishpat* (H4941), which carries a broader meaning than mere condemnation. It refers to the establishment of God's righteous order, His justice, His truth, and His saving rule. Therefore, the Servant's mission is to bring God's just and righteous reign, His divine law, and His salvation to all the Gentile nations. It signifies the universal extension of God's covenant promises and the establishment of His kingdom throughout the earth, not simply a legal verdict of guilt.

**How does God "uphold" His Servant?**

Answer: God "upholds" His Servant through divine sustenance, active support, and continuous empowerment. This implies God's constant presence, protection, and provision, enabling the Servant to fulfill His divinely appointed mission despite challenges and opposition. It speaks to God's faithfulness in equipping and sustaining those He chooses for His purposes, ensuring their success in accordance with His will.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 42:1 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The description of the Servant as "my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth" is directly echoed in the New Testament accounts of Jesus' baptism, where a voice from heaven declares, "[This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased](/matthew/3-17 "Matthew 3:17 - God's Affirmation of Jesus")" (see also [Matthew 17:5](/matthew/17-5 "Matthew 17:5 - God's Affirmation at the Transfiguration")). Matthew explicitly quotes Isaiah 42:1, identifying Jesus as the Servant, stating, "[Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased](/matthew/12-18 "Matthew 12:18 - Jesus as the Servant of Isaiah 42:1")". Furthermore, the phrase "I have put my spirit upon him" is powerfully fulfilled in Jesus' anointing by the Holy Spirit at His baptism ([Luke 3:22](/luke/3-22 "Luke 3:22 - The Spirit Descending on Jesus")) and His subsequent ministry, which was characterized by the Spirit's power (e.g., [Luke 4:14](/luke/4-14 "Luke 4:14 - Jesus Returns in the Power of the Spirit")). Finally, the Servant's mission to "bring forth judgment to the Gentiles" is perfectly realized in Jesus' universal ministry and the global reach of the Gospel. Jesus is the [light to the Gentiles](/luke/2-32 "Luke 2:32 - Jesus, a Light for the Gentiles"), and His Great Commission commands His followers to [make disciples of all nations](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission"), extending God's righteous rule and saving truth to every corner of the earth. The "judgment" He brings is not merely condemnation, but the establishment of God's just kingdom, offering salvation and true righteousness to all who believe.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 12:18

Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles.

Matthew 12:21

And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.

Luke 3:22

And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.

Isaiah 61:1

¶ The Spirit of the Lord GOD [is] upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to [them that are] bound;

Isaiah 52:13

¶ Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high.

Philippians 2:7

But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

Isaiah 43:10

Ye [are] my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I [am] he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.