Isaiah 42:1

¶ 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.

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}.

"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.

“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.

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

Isaiah 42:1 introduces the first of the "Servant Songs" in the book of Isaiah, presenting a figure chosen and empowered by God for a special mission. This verse is a foundational description of the Servant's identity and purpose.

Context

This verse is the opening of the first of four key passages in Isaiah (chapters 42, 49, 50, 52-53) often referred to as the "Servant Songs." These passages describe a mysterious figure, the Servant of the Lord, whose role is central to God's plan for Israel and the nations. Following prophecies of judgment and promise, this section shifts focus to the instrument through whom God's restoration and justice will be achieved. Historically, these passages provided hope during or after the Babylonian exile, pointing towards a future deliverance.

Key Themes

  • The Chosen Servant: The verse emphasizes that the Servant is specifically selected ("mine elect") and upheld by God. This highlights a unique relationship and divine appointment.
  • God's Delight: The phrase "in whom my soul delighteth" signifies God's profound pleasure and approval of the Servant, indicating a perfect alignment with God's will.
  • Empowerment by the Spirit: God places His Spirit upon the Servant, equipping him for his task. This spiritual anointing is crucial for the Servant's effectiveness.
  • Mission to the Gentiles: The Servant's work extends beyond Israel; he is to "bring forth judgment [justice/righteousness] to the Gentiles," signifying the global scope of God's redemptive plan.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "servant" is ebed (עֶבֶד), a term that can range from a slave to a high-ranking official serving a king. Here, it denotes a chosen agent of God. The word translated "judgment" is mishpat (מִשְׁפָּט), which encompasses justice, righteousness, and the established order or law of God. It's not solely about condemnation but about establishing God's just rule and salvation.

Significance and Fulfillment

Christians traditionally interpret the Servant in Isaiah 42:1 as a prophecy pointing to Jesus Christ. The description aligns with Jesus' identity as God's chosen Son, God's declaration of delight in Him (echoed at His baptism), His anointing by the Holy Spirit (as stated in Luke 4:18), and His mission to bring God's salvation and justice to all nations (the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20).

Reflection

Isaiah 42:1 reminds us that God works through chosen instruments, perfectly equipped by His Spirit. It highlights God's proactive nature in bringing His justice and salvation to the world, extending His grace beyond a single nation. For believers, it underscores the importance of the Holy Spirit's work in empowering those God calls and points to the universal reach of the Gospel.

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Cross-References

  • Matthew 12:18 (33 votes)

    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 (33 votes)

    And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.

  • Luke 3:22 (25 votes)

    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 (19 votes)

    ¶ 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 (18 votes)

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

  • Philippians 2:7 (16 votes)

    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 (16 votes)

    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.