How does Isaiah 42:6 reveal God's purpose for His chosen servant? Verse at a Glance “I, the LORD, have called You in righteousness; I will take hold of Your hand. I will keep You and make You to be a covenant for the people and a light for the nations.” (Isaiah 42:6) Four Purpose Statements in One Verse • Called in righteousness • Held and sustained by God • Made to be a covenant for the people • Appointed as a light for the nations Called in Righteousness: God’s Initiative and Moral Mission • The calling originates with God, not human effort (John 6:44). • “Righteousness” sets the tone: the Servant’s entire work lines up with God’s holy character (2 Corinthians 5:21). • Matthew 12:18–21 confirms Jesus as this righteous Servant, fulfilling Isaiah 42. Held and Kept: Divine Empowerment and Protection • “I will take hold of Your hand” pictures continuous guidance (Psalm 73:23). • “I will keep You” promises preservation through suffering (Isaiah 53:10–12; Luke 22:42–43). • The Father’s keeping ensures the mission cannot fail (John 10:29). Made a Covenant for the People: The Servant as Covenant Itself • Not merely a messenger of covenant, but the covenant personified (Hebrews 8:6). • At the Last Supper Jesus applies this directly: “This cup is the new covenant in My blood” (Luke 22:20). • Through His sacrifice, Jew and Gentile are reconciled in one body (Ephesians 2:13–16). A Light for the Nations: Global Salvation Agenda • The Servant shines truth beyond Israel’s borders (Isaiah 49:6; Acts 13:47). • Simeon echoes Isaiah: Christ is “a light for revelation to the Gentiles” (Luke 2:32). • This light dispels spiritual darkness, opening blind eyes and setting captives free (Isaiah 42:7; John 8:12). Unity of These Purposes in Jesus 1. His righteous life fulfills every demand of the law. 2. The Father empowered Him, vindicating Him through resurrection (Romans 1:4). 3. His atoning death and resurrection ratify the new covenant. 4. His gospel now illuminates the world, and one day every nation will walk by His light (Revelation 21:24). Implications for Everyday Discipleship • Rest in His finished covenant work; salvation is secure. • Lean on God’s sustaining hand for daily strength (Philippians 4:13). • Reflect His light by living “children of light” lives (Ephesians 5:8–9). • Join His mission: proclaim the covenant and the light to every nation (Matthew 28:19–20). |
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