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Several sections of the Book of Isaiah (in chapters 42-53) are sometimes called Servant Songs. Isaiah applied the term servant to the nation Israel. But he also used it to refer to Israel's promised Messiah. For today's passage, this second sense is clearly intended. One confirmation of this is that Matthew quotes it (in 12:18-21) while writing about Jesus as that Messiah.

Isaiah 42:1-7

1. What two roles did God say (v. 6) He had called His Servant to fill?
2. How, according to verse 1, was the Servant strengthened to perform God's calling?
3. How would traits of the Servant (in vv. 2- 3a) encourage marginalized people?
4. How might aspects of the Servant (in v. 3b) threaten powerful people?
5. What does verse 4 add about the importance of pursuing justice to God?
6. What about the Servant do you think caused God to express His pleasure?
7. As God's (small S) servants, how might similar involvements by us please Him?

Lord, like your chosen Servant, let me demonstrate gentleness, encouragement, justice, and truth where you have placed me.

1"Look at my servant, whom I strengthen. He is my chosen one, and I am pleased with him. I have put my Spirit upon him. He will reveal justice to the nations. 2He will be gentle—he will not shout or raise his voice in public. 3He will not crush those who are weak or quench the smallest hope. He will bring full justice to all who have been wronged.

4He will not stop until truth and righteousness prevail throughout the earth. Even distant lands beyond the sea will wait for his instruction." 5God, the LORD, created the heavens and stretched them out. He created the earth and everything in it. He gives breath and life to everyone in all the world. And it is he who says, 6"I, the LORD, have called you to demonstrate my righteousness. I will guard and support you, for I have given you to my people as the personal confirmation of my covenant with them. And you will be a light to guide all nations to me. 7You will open the eyes of the blind and free the captives from prison. You will release those who sit in dark dungeons."

Copyright © 2006 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.
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Prayer for the Week

Lord, You warned us about being flavorless salt or concealed light. Help us penetrate our communities with Your love and justice.

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